Wall panels for the kitchen (65 photos): types and solutions

In the process of cooking, surfaces in the kitchen are faced with the usual challenges – temperature differences and high humidity. Based on this, it is important to choose a coating that will not only be attractive in appearance, but also versatile in practical terms. Wall panels correspond to both of these parameters. Wide possibilities of selection of materials and colors make such surfaces an optimal solution for interiors of any type..

Characteristics and features

Wall paneling is an excellent solution for the kitchen. The reliability and practicality of the material allows it to maintain its status as one of the most popular ways to design an apron. Let’s consider in more detail the main advantages and disadvantages of this type of cladding:

– The overwhelming majority of the panels are notable for their low cost, which is acceptable for almost every consumer – varieties of the middle price category are no less attractive than the same tile products, but at the same time they are much cheaper;

– Products are made from strong hardened raw materials, which guarantees its strength and reliability. Such cladding will not collapse from contact with furniture and pans;

– A pleasant bonus is insulation and sound insulation, which is very important for an apartment in a multi-storey building;

– Select products based on how easy it will be to install, many panels will not cause you any difficulties and unnecessary headaches about this;

– Surfaces are easy to clean and maintain, even with aggressive cleaning agents, and this is a real necessity for the kitchen.

As for the shortcomings, several points can be identified for certain materials: plastic wall panels are easily damaged, and MDF panels can deteriorate from constant contact with water, so it is undesirable to use them as an apron.

Types of wall panels for the kitchen

Wall panels differ in the form of manufacture, characteristics and materials from which they are made. Let’s talk about the first two positions! Heat-resistant products will not ignite in a fire and will not deteriorate if they are installed close to the stove. Moisture resistant options can be mounted near the sink. Self-adhesive panels are PVC and MDF panels with a layer of glue on the back side, they are quite easy to install.

Based on the shape of the structure, the following varieties are distinguished:

– Sheet panels are large enough, which simplifies the installation process, and it can be carried out in a fairly short time. They can be performed in a variety of color variations, which expands the possibilities for decorating various types of premises..

– Tile products, as a rule, have a square shape, and the standard size of each side is 30 cm.Panels with a wood pattern, installed at different levels and at an angle, look quite interesting, especially if they are illuminated by LED lamps.

– The rack structure is typical for surfaces with a length of 2.5 m and a width of 30 cm. Such panels are easy to install – they just need to be fixed to the crate with self-tapping screws or brackets. Coverings located horizontally will visually enlarge the room in breadth, and vertically – in length. If you add a light shade to this, then the effect of visual enlargement will increase many times..

Materials for kitchen wall panels

The selection of materials for lining kitchen surfaces should be based on their visual appeal, quality indicators, resistance to temperature effects and pollution, as well as the possibility of cleaning with aggressive agents that remove complex stains. Based on this, be guided by the following materials.

MDF panels are an option that is adapted to the conditions of the kitchen. It will withstand contact with a humid environment and liquids, all kinds of physical influences, stress. Ease of maintenance and installation are the advantages for which, together with the possibilities of sound insulation, this material is appreciated.

Wood surfaces will create an atmosphere for the whole room, use them in a modern Scandinavian country style. Durability and strength will provide a reliable investment of financial resources, although such panels may not be very budgetary (for example, oak or cedar).

Plastic coatings are versatile, manufacturers offer a wide range of different shades and textures. At the same time, the products are easy to install and practical to use. Many people think that plastic panels are cheap and low-quality material, but some models look very impressive. Say white surfaces can create a beautiful contrast to rough brickwork..

Glass panels are not at the lowest cost, but they do not have to be used on all kitchen surfaces. It is enough to equip a kitchen apron with their help. Some variations of such panels do not look very aesthetically pleasing and stylish – colorful flowers, fruits, a night city, however, you can pick up very attractive models – monochrome, matte, corrugated or just with a nice unobtrusive pattern. Correctly selected glass will bring lightness and airiness to the room.

Some interiors will harmoniously fit panels made of non-standard materials: natural stone, metal, plaster, leather. This is not the most practical solution for the kitchen, but if you do not often spend time cooking, this option has a right to exist. At the same time, some types of stone are very practical and do not require complex maintenance, but they bring notes of restrained chic to the standard kitchen. A non-trivial image of the room can be created using gypsum panels with a three-dimensional effect.

Color solutions

The widest range of colors is offered by panels made of plastic and glass, and some surfaces should not be deprived of their natural color..

White wall panels for the kitchen

Shades of white are versatile and will fit into any interior. As you know, such tones expand the space, and also go well with all color combinations. Surfaces made of any material can be white. They will create an atmosphere of freshness and cleanliness. It is worth worrying about regular cleaning of the planes, but this will not be a big problem for you, because modern cleaning products can easily cope with this task..

Dark wall panels for the kitchen

Black, dark gray and dark brown surfaces look very stylish and discreet. They will not look boring and monotonous if, for example, you choose a kitchen set in a contrasting white shade, and you can reduce the cold-gloomy effect with wood motifs or other warm tones. Moreover, if you want to create a dark, black kitchen, but the size of the room does not allow this, limit yourself to a light base as a background, and decorate one wall or apron with the desired dark.

Blue wall panels for the kitchen

Blue, blue tones reproduce in memory the wonderful moments of relaxation on the shore of the sea or lake, they also duplicate the shades of a clear sky, and therefore evoke tranquility and peace of mind. These are cold shades, and therefore their use should be limited, in rooms where the windows are facing the sunny side, or diluted with warm colors. For example, add beige, milky, cream, cream, sandy, and wood – these combinations are most beneficial for all variations of blue..

Yellow wall panels for kitchen

A cheerful palette is very relevant for areas with long winters – it neutralizes the lack of sunlight. At the same time, the range of yellow is distinguished by its variety – choose a lemon, mustard, canary, vanilla, banana, dandelion tone, based on your own taste, parameters and style of the room.

Wall panels for the kitchen in woody shades

The tree is especially popular and loved by decorators. The decor with wood details looks cozy and fresh, and is also suitable for all modern styles. Try to keep and emphasize the natural color, together with light tones, it will bring notes of naturalness and natural attractiveness.

Installation of wall panels

There are several basic ways to install panels. Skinali are easiest to fix with liquid nails. But before the process itself, you need to level the base, and also make sure that it is clean and dry. Metal profiles will help in installation on an uneven surface. First, the metal profile is mounted, and then the panels are fixed directly on it. Another option is to install the batten and attach the panels to it using a stapler or staples..

You can also use a wooden crate – fix the rectangular wooden blocks with screws so that they are parallel. The level will help to do this work efficiently, accurately and evenly..

As mentioned above, the easiest installation is applicable to MDF products. Make markings for correct positioning of the battens. Assemble a frame from them, calculating their length and number. Cut the planks with a hacksaw and screw them to the wall surface with a puncher. For a flat framing base, pull and screw the jumpers.

At the last stage, sheathe the frame with panels, screwing them to the slats. Be sure to secure the finished surface around the perimeter with skirting boards.

Wall panels for the kitchen – photo

You will find even more interesting ideas for decorating kitchen surfaces with wall panels in our photo gallery. We wish you inspiration and enjoyable viewing!