Wainscoting
Wainscoting is decorative panelling that covers the lower part of a wall, usually from the floor up to about a third or half of the wall height. It began as a practical way to protect plaster walls from damage and damp, and today it is mostly used to add texture, character and a sense of structure to a room.
There are several common styles. Raised-panel wainscoting has framed panels with a raised centre, a traditional formal look. Flat-panel (also called recessed-panel or Shaker-style) is simpler and suits modern and transitional homes. Board-and-batten uses vertical boards with narrow strips covering the joints. Beadboard uses narrow vertical boards with a small groove, giving a cottage or farmhouse feel.
A cap rail, or chair rail, finishes the top, and a baseboard finishes the bottom. Materials include solid wood, MDF for painted panels, and plywood. Painted finishes are the most common and are a good way to protect busy walls like entries, dining rooms, stairways and hallways.
Wainscoting is a type of millwork, built to fit your walls and match your other trim. Planning details include the height, how the panels line up with windows, outlets and stairs, and how corners are handled. Custom-built wainscoting is sized to your wall, so the panels are evenly spaced.
Interested in panelling or built-ins to go with it? See our built-ins and closets.