Whether you love it or hate it, fluting has been popping up all over the design world. The vertical decorative grooves, with roots in Greek and Roman architecture, are often used on kitchen islands, cabinets, accent tables and even bathroom vanities. But fluted walls? Design pros say enough is enough.
“Fluted is out and it became a trend so quickly. We saw it everywhere, from walls, to cabinets, table legs and even glassware,” says Brieanna Cunningham of C & C Partners.
And she wasn’t the only one who felt strongly about saying goodbye to this trend. “There has been so much fluting and channeling going on, and it’s making rooms feel anxious and unsettled,” says Peter Spalding, CCO and co-founder of designer marketplace Daniel House Club.
While designer Meridith Baer acknowledges that fluted panels are a “timeless design element,” she’s quick to note the style is a victim of too much of a good thing, and can make homes all “look the same.”
“In the past few years, we’ve seen them in almost every new construction home,” Baer says. “Due to their popularity, fluted designs now appear everywhere — from home facades to interiors, and in every material type, ranging from the most luxurious to the most budget-friendly.”
Interior designer Robin Wilson raises another point some homeowners might not have considered — fluted walls can possibly put a damper on your cleaning routine. “Most people do not realize that walls are actually the largest surface in your home. Smooth walls are hard enough to keep dusted and clean, and fluted walls simply add to the challenge. With the sometimes deep crevices, there is only an increase in the surface area where dust can collect, thus triggering asthma and allergic reactions. Plus, it can also be a hiding place for insects.”
So what’s replacing fluted walls? “There’s something to be said about fluted walls — it’s texture,” says Cunningham. “But we’re seeing it more with walls that embrace Roman Clay and/or limestone, grasscloth wallpapers or dimensional tile. You can run your fingers on the surface and feel what the eye sees.”
Designer Sarah Storms thinks homeowners are open to design choices that fit more formal living setups these days, as well. “While fluted wall panels are on the way out, they are morphing into more elaborate crown molding, tall baseboards and wall molding treatments. There is going to be a real juxtaposition happening with elaborate molding and clean slab cabinetry in beautiful wood grains like walnut. The mixing of old and new is creating warmth and depth. Think about channeling Parisian apartments.”
Wainscoting, board and batten and shiplap are the way to go for a more “lived-in sort of feel,” says Samantha Stathis Lynch, interior designer, Marshalls and TJ Maxx home style expert. “All three look absolutely beautiful painted in rich greens, vibrant blues and muddy pinks.”
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.”
