Decorating a den with knotty pine paneling starts with plans for the walls, ceilings, and floors. Select the size of the paneling, layout patterns, install, and finish with stain, clear coat, or stain with a clear coat. Move on to the colors, furnishings, and decorations for a complete and special den.

Decorate a knotty pine den by balancing the warm wood with cool colors (blues, greens), adding texture with fabrics (quilts, rugs, drapes). Keep wall decor minimal with simple frames or large statement art, and choosing furniture in solid, complementary neutrals or bold colors to break up the brown, creating a cozy, rustic, or updated vibe.

Knotty Pine Paneling Walls

Dens are generally more relaxed and less formal rooms than a living room or great room. Knotty pine paneling is an excellent choice for the walls rather than painted drywall or wallpaper. Knotty pine is available in 4”, 5”, 6”, and 8” widths and in varying lengths. All sizes can be purchased in a pre-finished condition.

Favorite layouts include horizontal, vertical, diagonal, unique design, or a combination of them. Walls can be fully paneled, wainscoted, or accented to any pattern you choose. Tongue and groove paneling with the end-matching design is the fastest and easiest to install on wall framing. The nail heads are hidden from view to create a bit more sophisticated look. Explore the gorgeous decorating ideas in this article.

Knotty Pine Paneling For Ceilings

Favorite den ceilings include knotty pine paneling and painted drywall. Installing pine paneling in your choice of layouts is faster and easier than installing and finishing awkward, large sheets of drywall. The ceiling color can match or contrast with the walls, such as applying whitewash stain.

Vaulted and cathedral ceilings also look smashing with knotty pine paneling. Exposed beams and pine wood trusses stand out when they fit into your plans. Add your favorite lighting fixtures and decorations, and you have a grand den for fun and relaxation.

“Decorating a den with knotty pine paneling starts with plans for the walls, ceilings, and floors.”

Decorations: Color Palette, Furniture, Art, And Lighting

Here’s where the interior decorating begins with color palette, furniture, walls, décor, lighting, and texture. All the following should complement your walls and ceilings:

  • Complement with Colors: Use blues, greens (sage, country), reds, taupes, or earthy yellows to contrast the warm wood.
  • Neutral Foundation: Pair with neutral furniture (beige, gray) for a calm look, or add pops of color with accent chairs or pillows.
  • Solid Upholstery: Opt for solid colors in large furniture pieces (sofas, chairs) to avoid overwhelming patterns.
  • Art: Keep it simple; choose a few impactful pieces like landscapes, family portraits, or abstract art with simple black frames to stand out.
  • Fabric: Break up large wood expanses with textured wall hangings, quilts, tapestries, or full-length drapes.
  • Minimize Clutter: Don’t overcrowd walls or surfaces; let the wood shine by keeping decor curated.
  • Lighting: Use lighting to highlight the wood’s natural features.
  • Add Texture: Incorporate natural textures like rattan, woven shades, or soft textiles (wool, linen) for depth.
  • Whitewash: Consider whitewashing the wall or ceiling panels for a brighter, modern look that still shows the wood grain.
  • New Layouts: Install new paneling horizontally or diagonally for a contemporary feel, or try herringbone/chevron patterns.

Knotty Pine Flooring And Rugs

What type of flooring complements knotty pine paneling walls and ceilings? A favorite material is knotty pine tongue and groove (T&G) end-matched flooring stained in a complementary color. Unfinished boards are available in 4”, 5”, and 6” widths in various lengths, while pre-finished boards are available in 6” widths.

Use your creativity to lay out the flooring pattern with pieces the same width or some rows with different widths. Varying the lengths of the boards adds variety and a special touch. You can choose from among dozens of stain colors, or use a clear coat only finish.

Rugs that fit into a den’s décor include area and throw rugs. For wood floors, the best rug types are durable, soft materials like wool, breathable natural fibers such as jute, sisal, or cotton, microfiber, and budget-friendly synthetic options. Always pair them with a proper felt or natural rubber rug pad to prevent damage, slippage, and add comfort, while avoiding any backing that can harm finishes. Many patterns and colors are available to add your personality and touch.

Quality Knotty Pine Paneling And Trims

When decorating a den with knotty pine paneling, keep in mind that quality makes a difference. Knots may loosen in inferior floor and trims, the wood may buckle in places, or some of it may shrink. Paneling, flooring, and trims from The WoodWorkers Shoppe are kiln-dried to the correct moisture content for stability and staining. Each piece is hand-inspected for defect-free quality you will be pleased with for decades.

Decorating a den with knotty pine paneling is a rewarding project, whether for a newly built home or a remodeling project.

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