When it comes to accent walls, two styles consistently top the popularity charts: board and batten and shiplap. Both are beautiful, both add character to a room, but they create very different looks. If you’re trying to decide between the two for your home, this guide will help you make the right choice.
What is Board and Batten?
Board and batten is a wall treatment featuring vertical strips (battens) placed at regular intervals over a flat surface. The result is clean, vertical lines that add height, depth, and architectural interest to any wall. It’s one of the most versatile accent wall styles, working beautifully in modern, traditional, and farmhouse interiors.
At Modern Wall Studio, our board and batten installations start at $12–18 per square foot, making it one of our most affordable options.
What is Shiplap?
Shiplap consists of horizontal planks installed with a slight gap or overlap between each board. Originally used in barn construction, shiplap has become a popular interior design choice thanks to its casual, coastal, and farmhouse appeal. It creates horizontal lines that make rooms feel wider.
Key Differences
Visual Effect
Board and batten emphasizes height with its vertical lines, making ceilings appear taller and rooms feel more grand. Shiplap creates a wider, more relaxed feel with its horizontal orientation. Both add texture, but the mood they create is quite different.
Cost Comparison
Board and batten typically costs $12–18/sq ft installed, while shiplap tends to run $14–22/sq ft depending on the wood species and finish. Board and batten is generally the more budget-friendly option.
Installation Time
Both styles can be installed in 1–2 days for a standard accent wall. Board and batten tends to be slightly faster since it involves fewer individual pieces.
Style Versatility
Board and batten is the more versatile choice — it works equally well in modern, traditional, transitional, and farmhouse spaces. Shiplap leans more toward coastal, farmhouse, and casual aesthetics.
Best for Florida Homes
For homes in the Tampa Bay area, both styles work well. However, board and batten’s cleaner lines tend to complement Florida’s popular contemporary and coastal-modern interiors particularly well.
Our Recommendation
Can’t decide? That’s exactly why we offer a free 3D visualization service. We’ll create previews of both styles on your actual wall so you can see exactly how each would look in your space. Just send us a photo of your wall via WhatsApp, and we’ll help you choose the perfect style.