Slatted wall panels are an incredible way to add texture, warmth, and sophistication to any room. You've likely seen them in design magazines or on social media. Now you're ready to make a choice but which style is right for you: Classic or Flat?
This decision goes beyond just picking a color; it’s about choosing an aesthetic. Classic Style offers dimensional depth and subtle shadows, while Flat Style is sleek and minimalist. Both can transform your space, but the right choice depends on the vibe you're going for.
Let’s break down the differences to help you make the best decision for your home.
What Defines the Look of Slatted Panels?
Before comparing styles, it’s important to understand the key elements that make up a slatted panel.
Slat Width
This is how wide each slat is. It affects the pattern and rhythm of the wall. Most decorative panels have slats between 1/2 to 2 inches wide.
Slat Depth (Profile)
The depth of the slat determines the shadow lines. A deeper slat creates a more dramatic texture, while a shallower profile gives a cleaner, more integrated look.
Spacing
The gap between each slat influences how the wall feels. Wider spacing creates an airy effect, while narrower spacing gives a denser, more continuous look.
These elements combine to shape the room’s atmosphere. For example, vertical slats make ceilings feel higher, while horizontal slats can make a room feel wider.
The Classic Style: Timeless Charm with Dimensional Depth
The Classic Style panel is all about depth. It adds character to the space with its pronounced texture and soft shadows. This style works well in rooms where you want to highlight architectural detail and bring in warmth.
Our Classic Style Nogal Natural panels feature slats that are 0.94 inches wide, with a deep profile that casts elegant shadows. This subtle interplay of light and dark is what gives Classic Style its timeless look.
Best For:
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Modern Classic & Transitional Interiors: Bridges traditional and contemporary styles.
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Warm Contemporary Spaces: Adds texture to prevent minimalist rooms from feeling cold.
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Focal Points: Perfect for a media wall, headboard, or entryway to create a sophisticated statement.
Classic Style creates a handcrafted, permanent feel in any room.
The Flat Style: Sleek Sophistication and Minimalist Lines
The Flat Style panel offers a sleek, modern look. With a shallower profile, it delivers clean, minimalist lines and a smooth, unified surface. This style is ideal for spaces where you want texture without visual weight.
Flat Style panels excel at creating calm, organized spaces. They are perfect when you want a cohesive design rather than a focal point.
Best For:
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Minimalist & Scandinavian Designs: Matches perfectly with “less is more” approaches.
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Industrial & Corporate Spaces: Adds warmth to concrete or glass environments while maintaining a professional look.
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Small Rooms: The continuous lines help visually expand smaller spaces without adding clutter.
If you want a refined and modern aesthetic, Flat Style is the right choice.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:
|
Feature |
Classic Style |
Flat Style |
|
Slat Profile |
Deeper, more pronounced depth |
Shallower, more integrated look |
|
Visual Impact |
Rich texture and shadow lines |
Clean, sleek lines and subtle texture |
|
Perceived Depth |
Adds dimension and layering |
Creates a smooth, continuous surface |
|
Ideal Styles |
Modern Classic, Transitional, Warm Contemporary |
Minimalist, Scandinavian, Industrial |
|
Best For |
Creating a warm focal point |
Enhancing space with texture without visual weight |
|
Our Pick |
Classic Style Nogal Natural panels |
Our Flat Style panel collection |
Key Questions to Help You Decide
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What mood do you want to create? For a "cozy" or "elegant" vibe, choose Classic. For "calm" or "streamlined," go with Flat.
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How important are shadow lines? Classic Style embraces shadow lines, while Flat Style minimizes them.
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Is the panel a standout feature? If you want your wall to be the focal point, choose Classic. For a more subtle background texture, go with Flat.
Functional Considerations
In addition to looks, consider these practical factors:
Acoustic Performance
Slatted panels help improve room acoustics. Both Classic and Flat styles, when paired with acoustic felt backing, absorb sound and reduce echo. The deeper profile of the Classic Style may provide an extra edge in sound diffusion, but both styles will enhance the acoustics of your space.
Durability
Both panel styles are designed for longevity. They resist warping and wear, making them a durable investment for any space.
Installation
Both panels are easy to install, whether you’re a DIYer or working with a professional. Their modular system simplifies the process. You can read our complete installation guide for all the details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will slatted walls look dated?
No, they’re timeless! Classic Style draws on traditional principles like paneling, while Flat Style embraces minimalist clean lines, which have been staples in modern design for years.
Q: Which style is better for acoustics?
Both are excellent. The sound-absorbing felt backing improves the acoustics, and the Classic Style's depth can enhance sound diffusion.
Q: Can I install these myself?
Yes! Our panels are lightweight and easy to install. You can read the installation guide for step-by-step instructions.
Your Vision, Your Choice
Ultimately, choosing between Classic Style and Flat Style comes down to your vision for the space. Do you prefer the dimensional depth of the Classic, or the sleek, minimalist lines of the Flat?
You have all the information you need to make an informed decision. To truly experience how these panels will work in your space, we highly recommend you order a sample kit today.
Ready to see the difference? Explore our full range of decorative wall panels and imagine how your space could transform.