schaafwanden

Schaafwanden is a Dutch term for interior walls finished with planed wooden boards. The name derives from schaaf, the Dutch word for plane, and describes surfaces created by planing boards to a smooth plane, often exposing the wood’s grain. The finish can be left bare for a natural look or covered with paint or plaster to suit the room and climate. The technique emphasizes the texture of the wood rather than smooth plaster.

Construction typically uses wooden boards or planks fixed to a timber frame, with boards aligned horizontally or vertically. Surfaces are planed to a uniform thickness, producing a smooth but visibly wooden finish. Joints may be plain butt joints or grooved to improve stability. In some cases, a plaster or clay layer was applied over the boards for additional rigidity or insulation.

Historically, schaafwanden are associated with vernacular architecture in the Low Countries, especially in rural Netherlands and Flemish regions. They emerged as an economical wall finish in homes, barns, and outbuildings before widespread plastering. The approach allowed rapid construction and simple maintenance, while providing a warm, durable interior surface that could be repaired by replacing individual boards.

In modern practice, schaafwanden are preserved as part of architectural heritage and might be restored to reflect historical appearance. Restoration focuses on stabilizing wood, treating decay, and resecuring panels. Contemporary renovations may recreate the look with new planed boards or engineered panels designed to imitate traditional planing depths and grain.