How to Transform Your Space with Board and Batten Accent Walls

Are you tired of looking at plain, boring walls in your home? Fear not, because board and batten is here to save the day! This timeless wall feature has been a favorite since the Victorian era, and it still looks fresh in homes of all styles—from traditional to rustic to modern. Board and batten walls consist of two components: wide boards and narrow wooden strips known as battens. When combined, they create a visually striking look that instantly adds character and depth to any space. If you’re ready to add some texture and personality to your walls, keep reading for 15 board and batten wall ideas that are sure to inspire your own DIY project.

Exploring Different Board and Batten Wall Designs

Tone-On-Tone Picture Frame Molding

If you’re new to board and batten and want to start with a classic option, consider picture frame molding. Picture frames are slim, rectangular pieces of molding that can create a sophisticated look. In a bathroom designed by House Sprucing, interior designer Heather Fujikawa chose tone-on-tone molding in a barely-there beige to add subtle but stunning architectural interest. According to Fujikawa, adding carpentry detailing to a bathroom can elevate the space and make it feel custom.

Rows of Square Board and Batten

For a relatively simple yet impactful DIY project, consider creating rows of square board and batten like the one showcased by A Beautiful Mess. Whether you choose to feature an accent wall or cover all four walls in board and batten, this geometric design can instantly transform a bedroom from boring to beautiful. To make painting easier, consider using a spray paint instead of a brush to cover all the boards.

Subtle Picture Frames in a Stairway

Stairway spaces can be challenging to decorate, but a gallery wall or wallpaper can always enhance the area. To emphasize height and airiness in a stairway, consider adding a board and batten wall treatment. According to Heather Fujikawa, incorporating carpentry in an entryway can elevate the space and set the tone for the rest of the home.

Tall Batten Boards in a Beige Room

In a coastal Florida living room designed by Design West, tall white batten picture frames were layered on top of beige-painted walls to accentuate the room’s height and draw the eye up to the ceiling beams and chandelier.

An Emerald Green Accent Wall

For a bold punch of personality, take inspiration from a home office in a Miami Beach residence designed by House of One. The board and batten accent wall painted in a dramatic emerald green adds a stunning focal point to the space.

A Welcoming Entryway

Rather than having an entryway cluttered with muddy boots and coats, consider creating an organized drop zone like Instagrammer @simplybeautifulbyangela did. By adding board and batten to each side of a bench with hooks, baskets, and shiplap, you can create a welcoming and functional entryway space.

Floor-to-Ceiling Vertical Batten Boards

To create an expansive feel in a room with simple walls, consider adding vertical batten boards that run wall-to-wall around the space. This design not only adds visual interest but also makes the room appear taller, making it ideal for cramped spaces with low ceilings.

Geometric Millwork in a Primary Bedroom

In a primary bedroom designed by House Sprucing, a bold criss-cross design board and batten accent wall in rich forest green helps to add movement and interest to the space while contrasting against the remaining white walls.

A Neutral Board and Batten Bathroom

A board and batten wall can work wonders in a bathroom, as seen in a design by DIYer Erin Vitale. The pale pink board and batten wall complement the checkerboard floor and vanity with cane doors, creating a classic and cool design.

Three-Quarter Accent Wall

For a traditional yet modern look, consider a three-quarter height board and batten wall like the one created by Instagrammer @pipshome in her 18th-century cottage living room. This design allows for the installation of a shelf on top for displaying artwork and decor objects.

A Pretty Pink Bathroom

For a simple DIY project, consider a pale pink board and batten wall in a bathroom like the one showcased by @hillviewhomestyle. This design allows brass hooks and patterned floor tile to stand out while creating a serene and stylish space.

Diamond-Shaped Board and Batten

For advanced DIYers who enjoy a challenge, a diamond-shaped board and batten wall like the one created by Handmade Haven can add a dynamic touch to any room. For an extra pop of style, consider painting the trim a different color from the walls for added contrast.

A Neutral Entryway

An entryway is the perfect place to start with a board and batten wall DIY project, as shown by @asimplystylednest. By adding a board and batten wall in the entryway, you can showcase your DIY skills and create a welcoming and stylish space for guests.

Half Wall Board and Batten with Wallpaper

If you’re hesitant about using bold wallpaper in your space, balance it out with a half wall of board and batten like @theoregonfarmhouse did. This design grounds the space while allowing the wallpaper to add a pop of color and pattern. Adding a subtle ledge atop the board and batten wall can create a polished finish to the design.

Old World Charm in a New Build

DIYer Lindsay Lark added personality and charm to her new build home by incorporating vintage elements like a mantel, built-ins, board and batten, and wallpaper. Each element works together to create a timeless and stylish space with old world charm.

Conclusion

Board and batten accent walls are a versatile and stylish way to add texture, depth, and character to any room in your home. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer looking for a new project or a beginner wanting to try your hand at carpentry, there’s a board and batten design for every style and skill level. So say goodbye to boring walls and hello to the endless possibilities of board and batten!