Three real-life ways I’d try it:
-
Covering a whole wall in plywood, then adding shapes (also plywood) on top as frames for mirrors or storage. This is something I’ve already done and I love it.
-
Layering pieces of plywood into an art wall, another project I did in my office. More people need a funky plywood wall in their homes!
- Using plywood perpendicular to a surface as opposed to laying it flat. It would look amazing on a large wall.
It looks great with…bright pops of unexpected color, color-blocking, varied textures, nontraditional and industrial styles, and steel or black finishes.
If money, time, and space were no object, I’d…custom-build an entire room out of plywood—all the surfaces and furniture, all handmade—with a couple splashes of color to really highlight its beauty.
My shopping criteria: Choose a wood species, whether maple, pine, etc., and stick with it. I personally love maple because I’m from New Hampshire; I like to showcase local lumber. And never buy a piece if you don’t like the grain!
My elevator pitch to skeptics: Try removing any inherent bias you have toward the material. It has so much more to offer than just its budget cost—I’ve seen it transform spaces with such minimal effort.
How I see it evolving: Plywood will become more and more popular due to the rising costs of materials in general. I do my best to help popularize it with DIY ideas on social media, and I see other creators doing the same.
