What Are Fluted Panels? The Stylish Design Trend Transforming Homes
Fluted panels add texture, depth, and elegance to any space. From fluted wood walls and furniture to glass doors and dividers, fluted wall panels enhance modern and classic interiors.
Fluted panels add depth and texture. Photo via IG @mazeconcept
If you've been scrolling through interior design inspiration lately, you've probably noticed a growing trend—fluted panels. This one is definitely an interior design trend to watch in 2025!
These ridged, textured surfaces are popping up everywhere, from modern kitchens to luxurious hotel lobbies. I've noticed that spaces with fluted panels (wood, plastic, or wood veneer) look much more interesting!
Fluted wall panels may be a design trend at the moment, but fluting is really a timeless design element. This resurgence of fluted architecture and style is a seamless blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.
But what exactly are fluted panels, and why are they so popular?
In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about fluted panels: what they are, common materials used for them (fluted wood panels vs. fluted plastic sheets), why they’re trending, and how to incorporate them into your home's interior design for a stylish, high-end look.
What Are Fluted Panels?
Fluted panels are decorative surfaces featuring vertical or horizontal grooves (or even diagonal, like those in the bedroom featuring PVC panels pictured above) that add texture, depth, and visual interest to walls, furniture, and architectural elements. They come in a variety of materials, including:
- Wood – Panels made of fluted wood are natural and warm, perfect for Scandinavian and Japandi styles. Some styles may feature fluted wood veneer rather than being made of solid wood.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) – Fluted wall panels made using MDF are more affordable than other styles and easy to paint for a custom look.
- PVC or Plastic Sheets – Ideal for bathrooms or kitchens, fluted plastic sheets made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PS (polystyrene), are popular for moisture-prone areas in the home because they are waterproof.
- Metal – A sleek, industrial option for a bold statement.
- Stone & Concrete – For ultra-modern or luxurious designs.
Fluted designs have been used in architecture for centuries, from classical Greek columns to Art Deco interiors. Today, they’re making a comeback in modern homes, balancing minimalism and sophistication.
Depending on the materials you choose, installing fluted panels could turn out to be a bit of an investment. Only you can decide whether they're worth it, but if you want to make your space feel effortlessly stylish and sophisticated, it seems like a no-brainer: a timeless upgrade you won't regret!
Why Are Fluted Panels Trending?
Fluted panels have experienced a notable resurgence in interior design over the past few years. This revival began gaining momentum around 2023 and has continued to grow in popularity through 2025.
Designers and homeowners have embraced fluted panels for their ability to add depth, texture, and a touch of timeless elegance to various spaces. This trend reflects a broader movement towards incorporating classic design elements into contemporary interiors, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
- Adds Texture & Depth – Fluted panels break up plain walls and surfaces, giving spaces a more dynamic, high-end look. I love the vibe of the kitchen cabinets below; fluted panels make the room look less plain.
- Works with Any Style – Whether your home is modern, traditional, or eclectic, fluted panels can be customized to match. Depending on the style, you may be able to paint or stain them.
- Functional & Stylish – Besides aesthetics, they offer acoustic benefits by absorbing sound, making them great for open spaces or media rooms. Talk about stylish sound absorption for podcasters and musicians.
- Enhances Small Spaces – Vertical fluted panels create the illusion of height, while horizontal ones make rooms appear wider.
- Sustainable Options Available – Many brands such as Nortwood and 1 Smart Design offer eco-friendly fluted panels made from reclaimed wood or recycled materials, such as WPC (wood plastic composite).
How to Use Fluted Panels in Your Home
Fluted panels are incredibly versatile, making it easy to incorporate them into any space, whether you want a subtle touch of texture or a bold statement feature. You don't have to use them for an entire wall. From accent walls to furniture and even kitchen islands, these grooved designs can elevate your home with depth, dimension, and a high-end feel.
Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or something more classic and decorative, there’s a way to make fluted panels work for your style. Here are some of the best ways to integrate this trend into your home.
1. Statement Walls
Want to give your space a designer touch? A fluted accent wall can instantly elevate any room. Whether you do the entire wall or a small portion, fluting can make a super fun statement!
- Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and entryways.
- Pro Tips: Opt for neutral-toned wood for a Scandinavian feel or deep, moody colors for a luxe, dramatic effect. I love the neutral design below. In addition to Scandinavian style, it would be perfect for coastal, modern farmhouse, French country, or Japandi-style home.
2. Kitchen & Dining Area
Fluted panels can make your kitchen feel custom and high-end without a complete renovation. This can also be a fun way to try out the fluted panel trend on a smaller scale.
- Best for: Kitchen islands, cabinet fronts, dining room walls.
- Pro Tips: A fluted kitchen island in rich walnut or sleek matte black adds an elegant, modern touch. Moisture-resistant materials may be preferable in the kitchen, especially if you decide to try a fluted backsplash or cabinets that may get wet. Avoid using untreated fluted wood panels near sinks or cooking areas.
3. Bedrooms: Elevate Your Headboard Game
If you like a traditional headboard, that's great. If not, there are tons of creative headboard ideas, and TBH—fluted panels are one of the coolest. They can turn your bed area into a full-blown statement feature.
- Best for: Headboards, full wall paneling, closet doors.
- Pro Tips: Use vertical slats behind your bed to make your room feel taller and more polished. You can also use upholstered fluted panels in fabric or velvet for a super cozy look. In the bedroom especially, try using soft lighting to accentuate the fluted details; pendant lights, wall sconces, and LED lights are all fun bedroom lighting options.
4. Fluted Furniture & Built-Ins
Not ready for a complete wall makeover? Start small with furniture or other small DIY projects. The good thing about this is that you can DIY furniture that you already have or cheap secondhand furniture, or you can buy a piece of already-fluted furniture to enhance the style in your space.
- Best for: Sideboards, media consoles, dressers, home office desks.
- Pro Tip: If you love DIY projects, add fluted paneling to a thrifted piece of furniture for a high-end, custom look. Bookshselves, entertainment units, and mudroom storage can all benefit from vertical fluting on drawer and door fronts. Soft matte paint in colors like white, taupe, or navy can help create an upscale modern vibe in your space.
5. Bathrooms & Powder Rooms
Fluted wall panels can make even a tiny bathroom feel like a five-star retreat. Bathrooms can easily be plain and boring, but it feels almost spa-like to walk into a bathroom that is beautifully styled. You want to go for that feeling, don't you?!
- Best for: Vanities, accent walls, even shower dividers (if using waterproof materials).
- Pro Tip: Opt for PVC fluted panels to prevent moisture damage in humid environments. Treated MDF and sealed wood can also withstand humidity in bathrooms. Fluted panels behind a freestanding tub, vanity, or toilet can make the bathroom feel more spa-like. Light wood tones feel organic, while deep green, navy, or black can make the space feel more dramatic.
6. Doors & Room Dividers
Fluted panels can add texture to otherwise plain doors and room partitions. Wooden or glass panels and partitions can be stylish and offer a greater sense of privacy in home and office spaces–without blocking the light. Win-win!
- Best for: Sliding doors, closet doors, room dividers.
- Pro Tip: Use fluted glass panels for a subtle, semi-transparent effect that allows light to flow through. The vertical lines of fluted doors and dividers often look best when paired with rounded furniture for balance. Think curved sofas, rounded tables, or even arched mirrors.
How to Choose the Right Fluted Panels for Your Space
All that to say... depending on your space and the aesthetic you're going for, there are different fluted panels that would work best for your project. So, how do you choose? To summarize previous sections:
✅ Material Matters: Wood for warmth, MDF for affordability, PVC for durability in humid areas.
✅ Color Choice: Natural wood for an organic feel, painted panels for a bold statement.
✅ Installation Style: Vertical slats create height, and horizontal slats add width and modernity.
Where to Buy Fluted Panels
You can find fluted panels at many home improvement stores, specialty decor retailers, and online shops. Some brands even offer peel-and-stick versions for easy DIY upgrades! If you know a skilled carpenter or DIY-er, you can probably save a lot of money by asking them for help with your project.
Popular retailers:
- Wayfair – Budget-friendly MDF and wood panels.
- Home Depot & Lowe’s – Various materials, including DIY-friendly options.
- Etsy – Handmade, custom, and unique fluted panel designs.
- Local Woodworkers – Great for getting custom-cut panels in premium materials.
Fluted panels are more than just a passing trend—they’re a timeless, stylish, and functional design element that can instantly transform your home. Whether you go all-in with a fluted feature wall or start small with a piece of furniture, this trend is a great way to add depth, character, and sophistication to any space.
Are you planning to incorporate fluted panels into your home? Don't forget to check out Spoken's fun selection of fluted furniture and home decor. If you have design questions or want to show us how you've styled your fluted panels, send an e-mail to us at [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you!
Jen Buckner
Writer at Spoken
Jen is a furniture content aficionado at Spoken. She is a Delaware native living on Tulsa time with her husband Blake and three super-cool kids. Jen enjoys using her words to inspire people to make the world—and their worlds—better. When she's not writing, she's driving her kids around, picking out something cute to wear, or volunteering for a local nonprofit. Oh! And she'd always rather be at the beach (with a bucket of fries).
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