Why wall panelling is so popular and worth it

The rise in popularity of features like wainscoting, now accounts for almost half of joiner Jason Alexander’s work at Living Walls Joinery & Decor. And while he admits he doesn’t keep up with what’s on trend or watch shows like The Block, he says wall panelling will always add a classic and expensive look to any home. Having done his apprenticeship in the UK, working on countless heritage homes, Jason knows what a difference the sum of all the little details make.

Jason says many choose to install wall panelling in the common areas only, and this is enough to really improve the look and character of their home: “It completely changes.”

While panelling accounts for around half of Living Walls’ jobs, they’re also seeing a rise in popularity of things like fire surrounds for modern gas fireplaces, coffered ceilings and custom wine racks. In terms of adding value for resale, Jason says there’s no question that having things like beautiful panelling, skirting blocks and cornices will achieve that.

“Spending say $25,000 on doing all of those things beautifully could easily take a house that’s not quite worth a million to $1.1million because people will walk in and feel it has that X-factor.” When your life’s as crazy as Roxy Jacenko’s, it’s perhaps no surprise the PR queen likes things to be calm and minimal at home, and the renovation of her new…