As an architect or interior designer one of the questions you'll often hear from clients is:
"Can we install the wall panelling ourselves to reduce costs?"
The answer is yes - in many residential projects, absolutely.
One of the advantages of real wood wall panelling is that, unlike many complex joinery installations, it doesn't always require specialist installers. With good planning from the design team and the correct preparation many homeowners or general tradespeople can achieve an excellent result.
For designers, this creates an opportunity to specify premium natural materials while helping clients manage their overall project budget.
Why DIY Installation Appeals to Clients
Labour often represents a significant portion of any renovation budget.
Many homeowners are comfortable decorating, fitting kitchens or laying flooring and increasingly they're looking for projects they can confidently complete themselves.
Real wood wall panelling fits well into this approach because it offers:
- Straightforward installation
- No specialist machinery required
- Flexible layout possibilities
- Immediate visual transformation
- Reduced installation costs
This makes it particularly attractive for feature walls, home offices, bedrooms, media walls and garden rooms.
For larger commercial projects, however, installation is typically carried out by experienced contractors to ensure consistency and programme efficiency.
What Should Designers Consider Before Recommending DIY Installation?
While installation is relatively straightforward, successful projects begin long before the first panel reaches the wall.
Clients should understand that timber is a natural material which deserves proper preparation.
The three most important stages are:
- acclimatisation
- wall preparation
- correct adhesive selection
Getting these right helps ensure a professional finish.
Why Is Acclimatisation Important?
Because every panel is made from genuine wood, it naturally responds to its environment.
Before installation, panels should be unpacked and left inside the room for 24 - 48 hours. This allows the timber to adjust to the room's temperature and humidity before being fixed to the wall.
Skipping this step can increase the likelihood of unwanted movement after installation.
Why Does Adhesive Selection Matter?
This is one of the most important aspects of installation.
We recommend using our own wall panelling adhesive, as it has been selected specifically for installing real wood wall panelling.
If an alternative product is used, it must be:
- water-free
- polymer-based
- flexible mounting adhesive
Water-based (dispersion) adhesives should never be used.
Because wood naturally absorbs moisture, water-based adhesives can introduce unnecessary moisture into the panels and may contribute to deformation.
Using the correct adhesive helps ensure:
- strong long-term adhesion
- flexibility as timber naturally moves
- cleaner installation
- reduced installation risks
How Should the Wall Be Prepared?
Successful installation starts with a suitable surface.
The wall should be:
- reasonably flat
- dry
- clean
- dust free
- structurally sound
Uneven surfaces may affect the finished appearance, so any significant imperfections should be corrected before installation begins.
Real wood panels are designed for rooms with a relative humidity of approximately 40–60%.
Because they are manufactured from natural timber, installation is generally not recommended in permanently high-humidity environments.
How Are the Panels Installed?
Installation is remarkably straightforward.
The adhesive is applied directly to the rear of each panel following the manufacturer's recommendations.
Particular attention should be given to the edges and corners to ensure consistent adhesion across the entire panel.
Each panel is then positioned and pressed firmly against the prepared wall.
Unlike many decorative systems, no complicated fixing methods are required for most interior applications.
Can Clients Create Their Own Layout?
Absolutely.
One of the biggest design advantages of real wood panelling is its flexibility.
Panels may be installed:
- vertically
- horizontally
- diagonally
- in bespoke geometric layouts
This allows designers to create unique feature walls tailored to each project rather than repeating identical installations.
Some collections naturally lend themselves to more structured arrangements, while others celebrate a more organic appearance.
Why Designers Appreciate DIY-Friendly Products
A product doesn't have to be technically difficult to create a premium result.
Being DIY-friendly offers several advantages for both designers and clients:
- reduced labour costs
- greater flexibility during renovation
- faster project completion
- easier specification for residential work
- broader appeal to homeowners
Designers can confidently specify premium materials while giving clients the option of completing installation themselves or instructing a trusted local carpenter, decorator or general builder.
Example: Selectio Reclaimed Wood Collection
Our Selectio Collection demonstrates how premium reclaimed timber can remain simple to install.
Manufactured from extensively brushed reclaimed wood, it offers:
- authentic reclaimed timber from carefully selected sources
- richly textured surfaces that highlight the natural grain
- distinctive 3D appearance
- suitability for feature walls
- installation suitable for competent DIY enthusiasts or general tradespeople
Its visual impact comes from the craftsmanship of the material—not from a complicated installation process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can homeowners install real wood wall panelling themselves?
Yes. Many residential clients successfully install real wood wall panelling themselves, provided they follow the installation guidance and use the correct adhesive.
What adhesive should be used?
We recommend using our own specialist wall panelling adhesive. If an alternative is selected, it should be a water-free, polymer-based flexible mounting adhesive suitable for timber wall panels.
Can any builder install the panels?
Yes. Most competent carpenters, decorators, builders and experienced DIY users can install the panels without specialist training.
Do the panels need to acclimatise first?
Yes. Panels should be unpacked and allowed to acclimatise in the room for 24–48 hours before installation.
Can panels be installed in bathrooms?
Because the panels are manufactured from natural wood, they are generally not recommended for permanently high-humidity environments unless the project has been carefully assessed and appropriate specifications are followed.
Can the layout be customised?
Yes. Panels can be installed vertically, horizontally, diagonally or in bespoke arrangements to suit the overall design concept.
Helping Clients Reduce Costs Without Compromising Design
For architects and interior designers, specifying materials that balance aesthetics, practicality and budget is an important part of every project.
Real wood wall panelling offers an excellent example of this balance.
Clients benefit from the warmth, texture and authenticity of genuine timber, while the relatively straightforward installation process means many residential projects can be completed by the homeowner or a trusted local tradesperson. This can reduce labour costs without sacrificing the quality or visual impact of the finished space.
At Audrini Living, we recommend following our installation guidance carefully and using our specialist wall panelling adhesive to achieve the best possible long-term performance. With proper preparation and planning, real wood wall panelling remains one of the most accessible ways to create distinctive, character-filled interiors.