Drywall doesn’t have a monopoly on good-looking walls. In fact, some of the most eye-catching interiors skip it entirely.
Think polished plaster that glows in the light, raw plywood that adds warmth and edge, or even exposed brick that wears its history proudly. These alternatives don’t just replace drywall—they shift the mood of a room entirely.
If your space is craving more texture, more character, or just something a little less expected, these 18 ideas are ready to break the mold.
1. Shiplap Panels
Farmhouse chic comes alive with these horizontal wooden boards that overlap slightly for that distinctive shadow line effect. Originally used in shipbuilding, shiplap has sailed into interior design with style.
The clean lines create visual interest without overwhelming a space. Perfect for accent walls, entryways, or entire rooms when you want that cozy yet sophisticated vibe Joanna Gaines made famous.
2. Tongue and Groove Boards
Unlike their cousin shiplap, these boards fit snugly together with a projection on one edge sliding into a groove on the adjacent board. This creates a seamless, tight-fitting surface with minimal gaps.
When installed vertically, they make your ceiling appear higher. Horizontally, they make rooms feel wider. Available in various wood types, they can be painted, stained, or left natural for versatile design options.
3. Reclaimed Wood Planks
Every knot and weathered mark tells a story in these salvaged treasures. Sourced from old barns, factories, and other structures, reclaimed wood brings history and character into modern spaces.
No two planks look exactly alike, creating a one-of-a-kind wall that becomes an instant conversation piece. The varied patina and rich coloration add warmth and texture that new materials simply can’t replicate.
4. Beadboard
Channeling coastal charm, these vertical panels feature evenly spaced grooves and a rounded edge detail or “bead.” They’ve been adding character to homes since the Victorian era.
Typically installed from floor to chair-rail height, beadboard creates a cottage-like atmosphere in bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways. The repetitive pattern is visually pleasing without being overwhelming, making spaces feel both refined and relaxed.
5. Exposed Brick
Nothing says urban sophistication quite like the rugged texture of brick walls. Whether you’re lucky enough to uncover original brickwork or install thin brick veneer, the result is undeniably charming. Each brick varies slightly in color and texture, creating a naturally interesting visual rhythm.
The earthy reds, oranges, and browns add warmth to any space, while the irregular surface creates beautiful shadow play as lighting changes throughout the day.
6. Concrete Walls
Industrial meets elegant with this surprisingly versatile material. Modern concrete walls can be smooth, textured, polished, or even stamped with patterns for visual interest.
The subtle color variations and cool gray tones create a perfect neutral backdrop for colorful art and furniture. Concrete also offers excellent thermal mass, helping regulate indoor temperatures while providing that coveted urban loft aesthetic many homeowners crave.
7. Stone Veneer
Bringing the outdoors in has never been easier with these thin slices of real stone or manufactured replicas. From rugged fieldstone to sleek stacked slate, stone veneer adds instant texture and natural beauty.
Much lighter than solid stone, these panels can be installed almost anywhere without structural reinforcement. The varied colors and textures create a focal point that anchors the room, working particularly well around fireplaces or in entryways.
8. Plaster Walls
Long before drywall existed, skilled artisans created smooth, luminous walls with this time-tested material. Modern plaster finishes range from glass-smooth to intentionally textured for that old-world Mediterranean feel.
Unlike paint on drywall, plaster has depth and subtle variations that catch light beautifully. The material is also naturally mold-resistant and can be tinted with pigments for a colored finish that won’t chip or peel like paint.
9. Corrugated Metal
From barn roofs to chic interiors, this wavy metal sheeting brings unexpected industrial flair to residential spaces. The rhythmic ridges create interesting shadows and reflections throughout the day.
Available in various metals from galvanized steel to copper, each develops its own unique patina over time. While naturally reflective, corrugated metal can also be painted for a pop of color, making it versatile for many design styles from rustic to ultra-modern.
10. Faux Brick Panels
Craving that brick look without the demolition or heavy installation? These lightweight panels mimic the appearance of real brick at a fraction of the weight and cost.
Made from polyurethane or other materials, today’s faux brick is surprisingly realistic, complete with texture and color variations. Easy to cut and install, these panels allow DIY enthusiasts to achieve that coveted brick wall look in just a weekend.
11. Fabric Wall Coverings
Imagine walls that feel as good as they look! Fabric wall treatments add acoustic benefits while bringing color, pattern, and softness to any room. From structured upholstered panels to stretched fabric installations, the options are endless.
Perfect for bedrooms and media rooms where sound absorption matters, fabric walls also provide insulation benefits and can be changed more easily than many other wall treatments when you’re ready for a new look.
12. Wood Slat Walls
Vertical wooden strips installed with small gaps between them create a rhythmic, architectural effect that’s both modern and warm. The linear pattern draws the eye upward, making ceilings appear higher. Beyond aesthetics, these slats can cleverly conceal imperfections or utilities while still allowing airflow.
The gaps between slats also create interesting shadow patterns as light changes throughout the day, adding visual dimension to otherwise flat walls.
13. Tile Walls
Moving beyond the bathroom, ceramic and porcelain tiles are making stunning statements throughout the home. From glossy subway tiles to handmade Moroccan zellige, the options for color, texture, and pattern are virtually limitless.
Naturally waterproof and incredibly durable, tile walls work beautifully in high-traffic areas. The reflective quality of glazed tiles can also help brighten spaces, while textured or matte finishes add subtle sophistication to any room.
14. Mirrored Panels
Small spaces feel instantly larger with these light-reflecting surfaces. Whether using traditional mirrors or smoked glass for a more subtle effect, mirrored walls create the illusion of expanded space. Modern installations often feature geometric patterns or antiqued finishes for visual interest.
Beyond making rooms feel bigger, mirrored panels multiply natural light, making them perfect for dark corners or windowless rooms that need brightening.
15. Corkboard Walls
Warm, sustainable, and naturally sound-absorbing, cork brings organic texture to any space. The tiny variations in this natural material create subtle visual interest that synthetic materials can’t match.
Perfect for home offices or children’s rooms, cork walls can serve as functional pin-up boards while still looking sophisticated and intentional in your design.
16. Wall Murals
Why settle for plain walls when you can have a story? From hand-painted masterpieces to modern peel-and-stick options, wall murals make bold statements in any room.
Choose from nature scenes, abstract designs, or custom artwork that reflects your personality. Unlike small artwork, murals transform entire walls into immersive experiences, creating depth and interest that standard paint simply can’t achieve.
17. Metal Sheeting
Sleek and reflective, flat metal panels bring industrial edge to residential spaces. From stainless steel to copper and brass, each metal offers distinct color and patina possibilities.
The reflective quality adds brightness to rooms, while the cool surface creates interesting contrast when paired with warmer materials like wood or fabric.
18. Venetian Plaster
Centuries-old Italian craftsmanship meets modern homes with this luxurious wall finish. Made from marble dust and lime putty, authentic Venetian plaster creates a surface with remarkable depth and luminosity.
The multi-layered application process results in subtle color variations and a polished finish that can resemble marble. When properly sealed, these walls develop a beautiful patina over time that only enhances their old-world elegance and tactile appeal.