Wainscoting is a beautiful and timeless way to add character and charm to any room, including the bedroom.
But with so many different opinions and guidelines out there, it can be hard to know exactly how high to install it.
Should it be one-third of the wall height? Two-thirds? And what about rooms with lower ceilings?
In this article, we’ll explore the different options and help you determine the perfect height for wainscoting in your bedroom.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of wainscoting!
How High Should Wainscoting Be In A Bedroom
When it comes to wainscoting in a bedroom, there are a few things to consider before deciding on the height.
Firstly, it’s important to note that wainscoting is typically installed on the lower portion of the wall. This not only adds visual interest and texture to the room, but it also protects the walls from scuffs and scratches.
The standard height for wainscoting is one-third of the wall height. So if you have 9-foot ceilings, the wainscoting should be around 36 inches high. For rooms with 8-foot ceilings, aim for around 32 inches.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that these are just guidelines and may not work for every bedroom. Factors such as window height, ceiling angles, and room size can all play a role in determining the perfect height for your wainscoting.
If you have lower ceilings, you may want to consider scaling down the height of the wainscoting to avoid overwhelming the space. In this case, aim for a height closer to 25-30 inches.
On the other hand, if you have higher ceilings or want to make a statement with your wainscoting, you can consider going higher than one-third of the wall height. Two-thirds of the wall height can create a dramatic effect and add even more visual interest to the room.
Ultimately, the height of your wainscoting should be based on what looks best in your specific bedroom. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different heights and see what works best for your space.
What Is Wainscoting And Why Is It Popular In Bedrooms?
Wainscoting is a decorative wood paneling that is typically installed on the lower portion of the wall. It not only adds visual interest and texture to a room but also protects the walls from scuffs and scratches. Traditional wainscoting from 18th century England was made from quarter sawn Oak and finished with an oil turpentine protective coating. Today, most wainscoting is being painted solid colors, but some people still prefer a stained wood look.
Wainscoting has become increasingly popular in bedrooms as it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space. It can also create a cozy and warm atmosphere, making it the perfect addition to a bedroom. Additionally, wainscoting can be customized to fit any design style, from traditional to modern.
In bedrooms, wainscoting is often installed at a height of one-third of the wall height. However, as mentioned earlier, the height can vary depending on the specific bedroom and its features. Wainscoting can also be painted or stained in various colors to match the room’s decor.
How To Measure Wall Height For Wainscoting
To measure the wall height for wainscoting, start by measuring the height of your walls. This will give you a baseline for determining the appropriate height for your wainscoting.
Next, decide on the height you want your wainscoting to be. As mentioned earlier, the standard height is one-third of the wall height, but this can vary depending on your specific bedroom and personal preferences.
Use a pencil to mark the height of your desired wainscoting on each wall. It’s important to make sure these marks are level and consistent throughout the room.
To ensure that your wainscoting is properly secured, use a stud finder to locate the studs in your walls. Mark these locations with a pencil so that you know where to nail in the wainscoting.
Keep in mind that other factors, such as window height and ceiling angles, may affect the final height of your wainscoting. Be sure to consider these factors when determining the appropriate height for your bedroom’s wainscoting.
One-Third Wall Height: The Classic Wainscoting Height
The classic height for wainscoting is one-third of the wall height. This means that the wainscoting will typically be installed on the lower portion of the wall, with the height being around 36 inches for rooms with 9-foot ceilings and around 32 inches for rooms with 8-foot ceilings.
This height is a universally flattering height that works with nearly every design style, from farmhouse to industrial. However, it’s important to note that this is just a guideline and may not work for every bedroom. Factors such as window height, ceiling angles, and room size can all play a role in determining the perfect height for your wainscoting.
If you have lower ceilings, you may want to consider scaling down the height of the wainscoting to avoid overwhelming the space. In this case, aim for a height closer to 25-30 inches.
On the other hand, if you have higher ceilings or want to make a statement with your wainscoting, you can consider going higher than one-third of the wall height. Two-thirds of the wall height can create a dramatic effect and add even more visual interest to the room.
It’s important to remember that wainscoting not only adds visual interest and texture to a room but also protects the walls from scuffs and scratches. Therefore, it’s important to choose a height that not only looks great but also serves a practical purpose.
Two-Thirds Wall Height: A Modern Twist On Wainscoting
For those looking to add a modern twist to their bedroom wainscoting, consider going higher than the standard one-third wall height. Two-thirds wall height can create a unique and dramatic effect that adds even more visual interest to the room.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this height may not work for every bedroom. Rooms with lower ceilings may feel overwhelmed by taller wainscoting, while rooms with high ceilings can benefit from the added height.
If you do decide to go for a two-thirds wall height, consider adding a plate rail to cap off the wainscoting. This can create a more cohesive look and prevent the wainscoting from feeling too overpowering.
As always, the height of your wainscoting should ultimately be based on what looks best in your specific bedroom. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different heights and styles to find the perfect fit for your space.
Adjusting Wainscoting Height For Low Ceilings
If you have a bedroom with low ceilings, it’s important to adjust the height of your wainscoting accordingly. The standard height of one-third of the wall height may not work for your space and could make the room feel even smaller.
Instead, aim for a height closer to 25-30 inches. This will still provide the benefits of wainscoting without overwhelming the space. You can also consider using a thinner paneling material to create a more subtle effect.
Another option for low ceilings is to install wainscoting on only a portion of the wall. For example, you can install it on just the bottom one-fourth or one-fifth of the wall. This will still add visual interest and protection to the walls without taking up too much vertical space.
When adjusting the height of your wainscoting, it’s also important to consider the spacing between the wainscoting and any windows in the room. You want to make sure there is enough space between them to avoid a cramped look.
Choosing The Right Wainscoting Style For Your Bedroom
Once you’ve determined the height of your wainscoting, it’s time to consider what style will work best in your bedroom.
For a classic and traditional look, raised panel wainscoting is a great option. It adds depth and texture to the walls, and can be painted in a variety of colors to match your bedroom decor.
Beadboard wainscoting is another popular option, especially for those going for a more cottage or coastal vibe in their bedroom. It’s easy to install and can be painted in a variety of colors or left natural for a rustic look.
If you want to add some visual interest to your bedroom walls, consider using a combination of wainscoting styles. For example, you could install raised panel wainscoting on the lower portion of the wall and then use beadboard on the upper portion.
When it comes to color, white is a classic choice for wainscoting in a bedroom. It adds brightness and lightness to the space, and pairs well with a variety of other colors.
However, if you want to add some drama or make a statement with your wainscoting, consider using a bold color such as navy blue or forest green.
Ultimately, the style and color of your wainscoting should reflect your personal taste and complement the overall design of your bedroom. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try something new!