Boazeria

Boazeria is a wall covering made of wooden panels that are attached to interior walls. The panels are typically arranged vertically or horizontally and joined by mouldings to create a continuous decorative surface. Boazeria can help hide uneven plaster or brickwork and can add insulation and modest acoustic benefits. It is usually fixed to the wall with nails or screws, either directly to studs or over furring strips, and can be removed or replaced when updating interiors.

Historically, boazeria has been common in Poland and other parts of Central and Eastern Europe. It gained widespread use in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a relatively affordable, durable finish for living rooms, corridors, and offices. Styles range from simple, unornamented boards to more elaborate paneling with mouldings or framed sections that reflect regional tastes and architectural trends of the period.

Materials and varieties vary. Traditional boazeria uses solid wood panels or wood veneer, often with profiles that create framed sections and decorative grooves. Modern equivalents include plywood or MDF panels with wood finishes, as well as plastic or PVC paneling designed to imitate wood and to resist moisture in kitchens or bathrooms. Panel sizes and patterns range from plain flat boards to deeper profiled frames and skirting details.

Maintenance and care: Panels are typically cleaned with a soft cloth. Wooden boazeria may be varnished, oiled, or painted to protect against wear and moisture. Proper installation and adequate ventilation help prevent warping, rot, and mold, especially in spaces with higher humidity.