A modular wall paneling system includes at least two plates. Each plate defines a longitudinal length, and each plate has a plurality of fixture apertures disposed through the plate along the longitudinal length. Each plate has a plurality of panel apertures disposed through plate along the longitudinal length. The plurality of fixture apertures are generally parallel to the plurality of panel apertures. Included are a plurality of panels, each panel having a panel substrate and each panel having at least two hooks disposed on a backside of the panel substrate. Each of the at least two hooks are configured to removably lock into the panel apertures of the at least two plates.