Is Wall Panelling Expensive? A Mornington Homeowner’s Guide to Costs & ValueIs Wall Panelling Expensive? A Mornington Homeowner’s Guide to Costs & Value
When considering interior renovations, one question often arises: is wall panelling expensive? For homeowners in Mornington, Australia, the answer depends on a blend of factors—from materials and labour to the size of your space and the style you choose. Whether you’re modernising a beachside cottage in Mount Martha or upgrading a family home near Main Street, wall panelling can be both a design asset and an investment.
With Leona Rodriguesi of Mornington Cabinet Makers, we’ll break down the real costs of wall panelling, explain key considerations, and explore how locals in the Mornington Peninsula are using this design trend to elevate their interiors.
What Is Wall Panelling?
Wall panelling refers to decorative or protective coverings applied to walls. Once considered a classic or even outdated design feature, it’s now made a strong comeback—especially with the popularity of Hamptons-style interiors, coastal aesthetics, and modern farmhouse looks.
Types of popular wall panels include:
- VJ panelling (Vertical Joint)
- Wainscoting
- Board and batten
- Shiplap
- Beadboard
- Textured MDF panels
- Timber slats or battens
Each option varies in style, material, and of course—price.
How Much Does Wall Panelling Cost in Mornington?
Let’s get straight to the heart of the matter: how much does it actually cost?
Costs in Mornington can range widely depending on the following:
1. Material Type
Different materials carry different price tags:
| Material Type | Average Cost (AUD/m²) |
|---|---|
| MDF or decorative panels | $45 – $75 |
| Timber (pine, hardwood) | $80 – $150 |
| PVC or composite options | $50 – $100 |
| Custom joinery finishes | $120 – $250+ |
MDF is popular for cost-effective wall panels, while timber panels—particularly Australian hardwoods—offer a premium finish at a higher price.
2. Installation Costs
Labour in Mornington generally ranges from $50 to $90 per hour. For a medium-sized room (approx. 15m² of wall space), expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 in installation fees, depending on complexity.
Highly detailed finishes like wainscoting or custom-trimmed shiplap panels will cost more due to increased labour time.
3. Room Size & Complexity
Larger rooms or those with irregular walls (e.g., sloped ceilings or bay windows) require more time and custom cutting, which raises the overall cost.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Wall panelling offers more than just aesthetics. In Mornington’s real estate market, design-forward finishes like panelling can add perceived value and charm—especially in coastal suburbs where buyers seek a premium, relaxed lifestyle vibe.
Here’s why it might be worth the cost:
✅ Insulation & Acoustics
Certain panels—especially timber or acoustic-rated options—add a layer of insulation, helping reduce energy costs and noise transfer.
✅ Durability & Wall Protection
Wall panels are a great shield against everyday wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, or children’s bedrooms.
✅ Design Cohesion
From Mount Eliza to Dromana, many Mornington homes lean into cohesive design themes. Wall panelling complements Hamptons, Scandinavian, and modern coastal styles beautifully.
✅ Increased Property Appeal
In a competitive market like Mornington Peninsula, unique interior finishes can differentiate your home, attracting design-savvy buyers.
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Tips to Keep Wall Panelling Affordable
Want the look without the steep price tag? Try these local-savvy strategies:
1. DIY Where Possible
If you’re handy with a level and a nail gun, installing simple MDF panelling or VJ boards yourself can save you thousands. Local hardware stores like Bunnings Mornington and Mitre 10 Hastings often stock panelling kits.
2. Panel a Feature Wall
Rather than panelling an entire room, create a feature wall behind a bed or in a dining area. This reduces material and labour costs while still delivering strong visual impact.
3. Go Half-Wall or Dado Height
Wainscoting at chair-rail height (about 900mm) uses less material but still adds elegance. Perfect for Edwardian homes or new builds seeking classic character.
4. Choose Pre-Primed or Paint-Grade Panels
Opt for panels that don’t require custom painting or finishing. Pre-primed MDF can be installed and painted the same day, reducing labour time.
Popular Styles in Mornington Homes
Certain wall panelling styles are trending across Mornington Peninsula homes:
- Hamptons-style VJ panelling, often in crisp white or soft greys
- Modern vertical timber battens in natural oak tones
- Textured panels painted deep navy or olive green, adding drama
- Shiplap in bathrooms (sealed correctly) for coastal appeal
These styles align with both modern renovations and period home restorations, making them versatile across Mornington’s mixed housing stock.
Local Case Study: A Mornington Renovation
Emily and David, homeowners in Tanti Avenue, recently updated their 1980s brick veneer home with MDF VJ wall panelling in their entryway and master bedroom.
“We wanted something coastal without looking like every other reno on Instagram,” says Emily. “Wall panelling gave us that timeless feel—like it belonged. And it was surprisingly affordable. All up, we spent about $2,300 for two rooms.”
Their builder sourced materials locally and completed installation over a weekend. The result? A brighter, more curated home aesthetic—without a full gut renovation.
Final Verdict: Is Wall Panelling Expensive?
In Mornington, wall panelling doesn’t have to be cost-prohibitive. Entry-level materials like MDF and smart choices like feature wall installs can deliver a high-end look without busting your budget. And when you consider the added insulation, durability, and resale appeal, wall panelling quickly proves its value.
So, is wall panelling expensive? It can be—but with the right approach, it’s one of the most cost-effective ways to transform your space. Whether you’re updating a holiday home in Rosebud or renovating an investment property in Frankston South, wall panelling could be the design upgrade that pays dividends—both now and in the future.
Quick Cost Summary (Mornington 2025):
- Basic MDF Panelling (DIY): $45–$75/m²
- Professional Installation: $600–$1,200 per room
- Premium Timber Panels: $100–$250/m²
- Typical Total Room Cost: $1,200–$3,500
Need a local quote? Contact a trusted Mornington carpenter or check with local interior designers familiar with Hamptons and coastal home upgrades. Wall panelling is not just a trend—it’s a smart, value-adding design decision.
🙄 Looks like your walls just got jealous of your ceiling. Time to even the playing field with a panel or two. 😏💬