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Adding board and batten walls, plus extra millwork around the doors, gives this plain foyer a much-needed update.
Most blog posts about board and batten walls focus on how to install them…but this one is a little different. Since we aren’t the handiest homeowners, we hired this project out to someone who knew exactly what to do. While we can manage small DIY projects, this one was definitely beyond our skill level. Instead of a tutorial, I’m sharing how this update added character, a touch of color, and some much-needed personality to a very plain foyer.
The images above and below show where we started. Plain walls, no color, and definitely no charm. After gathering ideas and inspiration, I decided that a board and batten wall treatment would be the best way to add color, architectural interest, our personality, and our style. Rather than just adding a board and batten accent wall, I definitely wanted the wall treatment to include the entire space.
Choose A Style That Fits Your Space
There are many different styles of board and batten, so it’s worth taking some time to decide what will work best in your home. A little research goes a long way. Google, Instagram, and Pinterest are all great sources of inspiration. The style can be very simple or more detailed, like the board and batten wainscoting we added to the dining room at the Sutton Place house. Since the foyer in this house is a smaller space, I wanted a cleaner, simpler look. We also planned to add millwork above the doors, which would bring in extra height and visual interest.
Determine The Right Height
The height of the top board was based on two things: the antique dresser that lives in the space, and the lamps I wanted to display. I didn’t want the lamps to be taller than the board and batten, so that helped guide the placement. We settled on 60 inches, then added a small ledge, which brought the final height to 61 inches. Instead of a full shelf, we chose a narrow ledge for a cleaner look…and I’m so happy with how it turned out.
Plan The Batten Spacing
Figuring out the spacing between the vertical battens can be a little tricky, but my handyman got it just right. I knew I wanted boards placed at the ends and in the corners, so we used simple math to work out the layout. Instead of covering the wall with MDF, we used the existing drywall as the base. Since our walls are smooth with no texture, skipping that extra step made sense.
Measurements At A Glance
- Space between battens: 14.5 inches
- Vertical batten board size: 1×4 inches
- Top horizontal board: 1×5 inches
- Top trim piece: 1×2 inches
Add More Architectural Interest
To add even more interest to our small foyer, we attached extra millwork to the space above the three doors. You can see in the image above exactly how the trim pieces are stacked. Paintable caulk filled in all the gaps for a seamless look. This was a very simple and budget-friendly way to add interest and style to our foyer.
Installation Tips
We didn’t have to worry about installing the battens around electrical outlets because, much to my dismay, there aren’t any. I thought one could be installed, but we ran into several obstacles, so that idea was shelved! We did have to figure out how to work around the light switches, but in the end, that was very simple.
To maintain continuity throughout the house, I felt strongly about keeping the existing baseboards. To make that work, the baseboards were removed, and a horizontal piece of the batten wood was installed behind the baseboards. The baseboards were then reattached. This extended the baseboards out just enough so the vertical battens rest correctly on top.
Choosing The Paint Color
The biggest decision when it came to paint was whether to match the board and batten to the white trim throughout the house or go with a complimentary color. I’ve always loved the look of white board and batten paired with a dark, rich wall color above, but that wasn’t an option since the foyer opens directly to the living room. The two spaces share a wall, so the color needed to work in both rooms. I chose Sherwin Williams Modern Gray for the board and batten, doors, and all the trim. It’s the same color we used in the guest bedrooms, and it leans more greige than gray. It blends beautifully with the other neutral tones in our home.
Adding Personality With Accessories
To make the room feel more personal, a plate wall above the antique dresser was an easy choice. It also gave me a chance to bring in another accent color. The plates pick up the navy blue in the rug and help the colors flow naturally from the entry into the surrounding rooms. The best part was that I already had everything I needed, so there was no extra cost. One small challenge was the doorbell on the long wall. Like the missing electrical outlet, moving it would have been more trouble than it was worth. We painted it the same color as the wall, and it blends right in.
Finish With Thoughtful Details
The final touches to our small foyer renovation are the new and beautiful crystal doorknobs, along with a new handle set on the entry door. These were definitely a splurge, but I was determined to make the budget stretch to include them. Updating door hardware is a simple way to add charm and polish to a space, and it makes a big impact for something so small. Quality hardware also holds up better over time, making it a smart long-term investment.
Try Rechargeable Light Bulbs
Since there’s no electrical outlet in the foyer, I had to get creative with the lamps. I found rechargeable light bulbs that work perfectly. They charge in a regular lamp and come with a remote. I don’t plan to turn the foyer lamps on every night, so they won’t need charged very often. During the day, I swap the bulbs into our living room lamps to charge them. The charge lasts about 8 hours, and in the evening, the lamps cast a soft glow that makes the space feel warm and welcoming. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference.
Shop + Source
- Navy + ivory tufted rug
- Lamps
- Rechargeable light bulbs
- My favorite plate hangers: for 8 in. to 10 in. plates, for 5.5 in. to 8 in. plates
- Navy patterned salad plates
- Vintage blue + white platters on eBay
- Baldwin satin nickel passage doorknob
- Baldwin satin nickel dummy doorknob
- Ceiling light – no longer available. HERE is something very similar.
- Small pitcher + bowl are vintage, found on eBay.
This project was something I pictured from the very first day I saw this house. It took some time to bring it to life, and there were a few hiccups along the way, but now that it’s finished, I can honestly say it was worth every bit of the effort. The board and batten added exactly the kind of charm and character I hoped for. It feels welcoming, pulled together, and most importantly, it feels like home.
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Beautiful foyer, Ann. The board and batten is perfect for the space. Love the addition of the trim above the doors.
What a beautiful renovation of your foyer. How clever of you to think of those additions. Absolutely gorgeous!
I love the foyer and the color. I was interested in your plates hangers you used? I have many speciality plates that should be displayed. Thanks for sharing your new place. I still miss your former garden.
The timing of this article couldn’t be more perfect. I’ve lived in my new home for 6 months and I was toying with the idea of board and batten on the one solid wall in my entry way. Instead of the little shelf with hooks for coats, I want the hooks directly on the wall with a shelf that runs the length (approximately 8 ft). Thank you for all of the great information.
I did not see it mentioned anywhere in the post or the comments, but what are the dimensions used for the board and batten? Thank you!
Hi Corey: I added the measurements to the post, but here they are. Space between battens: 14.5 inches – Vertical batten board: 1×4 inches – Top horizontal board: 1×5 inches
Top trim piece: 1×2 inches. Thanks!
What’s the color of the paint?
I included the paint color in the post…it’s Sherwin Williams Modern Gray.
The board and batten look amazing. It really dressed up the foyer. How clever to find rechargeable light bulbs. Great decisions on this beautiful entry.
Karen B.
Your foyer is lovely. The Board and Barren really makes it special.
The board and batten update in your foyer is beautiful! I’m currently doing this in our little powder bath and let me tell you, I am definitely wishing I’d let my husband pay to have someone do the whole room! Removing 20+ year old wallpaper and trying to prep the walls for painting has been a bear! Stenciled one wall (never done that before) and glad to say it looks great. I’m now to the point of board placement and it is hard! I’m hoping to have this thing finished this weekend – we will see. Have a great weekend!
I just LOVE what you did with the Entry! You do such a Complete, beautiful job on all your projects. It’s been fun getting to “know” you through the years!
Happy Holidays!
I love the foyer and the tip on the rechargeable light bulbs!
i want to do this in my foyer right now!! Lol!
The foyer is beautiful. I would like to try this on one wall in my bathroom.
So beautiful!
Great job !! Looks like it was done by a professional.
Well done! Your foyer looks amazing. I especially love your plate wall. A+ on all levels!
This adds so much to the foyer! Beautiful!
The foyer is lovely!
Such a beautiful and classic addition! I love it!
Wow! That is amazing! Love the color choice. & that dummy doorknob! I have old glass knobs on my closet doors, gives our bedroom a bit of old world flair.
Lovely upgrades!
Wow, Ann, it looks amazing! I love the finished product. And who knew? Rechargeable lights bulbs!
I love the board and batten look! Adds so much to a room! Thanks for sharing!
Love your board and batten style for your foyer. I actually didn’t know what that was until I read on down about your foyer and seen then pic.
Hi Ann,
Your finishing touches to your foyer renovations are beautiful! Because of you, I felt confident to add a beadboard and beams to our new addition ceiling that is starting in 2 weeks! Your photos show the beauty of the texture added to the space. And with texture comes comfort. Thank you for your help!
We did something similar to that in our entry of our home.
I simply love the board and batten walls in your foyer! My husband and I having been making plans to do similar down our hallway but haven’t yet decided on height of top ledge, now I think I’ve decided. I like your style and can always learn something new when I read your blog, it’s my favorite!! I also like blue, it’s in every room of my house and I have plates hanging in my home too.
Enjoy the rest of your summer.
Love, love your foyer!!
Love this design and color.
I have always loved that chest and this makes it even more lovely!
I have always loved your choice of blue and white in your home. So classic.
I’m enjoying watching the transformation of your new home and making it definitely your style.
I actually didn’t know what that was until I read on down about your foyer and seen then pic. Love your board and batten style for your foyer.
I just love, love your redo on your front foyer. It just makes me want to enter your lovely home! Enjoy!
I would love to do this in my dinning room. How elegant!
Always love your extra details that add so much without being over the top!
I did board and batten in my guest bathroom. It’s such a transformation the little ledge on top just finishes it off.
Installing is so easy.
A lot of bang for your buck!
The board and batten and extra trim in your foyer make such an elegant statement. I added Sherwin Williams Modern Gray to my Pinterest file with paint colors, as I like the soft contrast with white that it provides.
I just love your entrance foyer!!
You have beautiful taste!
The foyer is beautiful. I’m definitely considering it for my foyer that needs a refresh.
Architecture makes such a difference
Gorgeous! I’ve been thinking of doing this in our dining room.
Absolutely beautiful. Would love this in my home!
I gave fallen I love with your blue and white lamp. The board and batten on the entryway ways really adds some nice character to an otherwise ok space, but the French doors are lovely also!
Your Board and Batten walls have absolutely transformed your foyer! Your blue and white plates are a stunning focal point. I am a big fan of blue and white and it runs as a theme through a good bit of our home. I just signed up for your emails and I look forward to them.
That board and batten! Love the tips for the woodwork also. Ann, you always seem to know what I need.
Love, love, love your foyer! The rechargeable bulbs are brilliant! But…what do you do with lamp cord? Just cut off?
Ann,
You’ve created such a warm and welcoming entryway. It is perfect!
This is beautiful! And the rechargeable bulbs…omg I am getting those soonest!
Ann, I don’t recall the marble top on the vintage chest, it looks nice! Those lamps are perfect with the right touch of blue. Great presentation!
Love the blue and white lamps.
The transition of your foyet was beautifully done! Thank you so much for your step-by-step process and tips especially the one about extending the baseboard. I am planning on a board and batten project and this gave me all sorts of ideas. I am pumped to get it started. As I read the article and noticed the finished product I kept thinking how is she plugging in those lamps? I had no idea there are rechargeable lightbulbs!!!! Who knew? All these wonderful tips helps so much as I try to create a comfortable and beautiful home like yours.
This is a must have in our next build…thank you!
I love, love, love the part of this article talking about your updated foyer and also how your son and daughterinlaw used crystal door knobs on her office doors. And then when I read about the rechargeable light bells I almost fell off my chair … I never heard of these and am so grateful! Will definitely make a point of researching these! And also thank you for the tip of recharging from the lamps that you don’t use during the sunlit days.
I have followed your blog and posts for a very long time and rarely comment due to time constraints.
Your posts have always blessed me and encouraged me. Thank you for ALL you share!
Ann,
Just love your beautifully done entry. That lamp is to die for and the extra touch of those plates is such a nice touch as well. But I have been hankering for your chest since I saw it years ago in so many of your pictures. I am on the lookout (and have been) for one just like it! Love your style. Thanks for all your posts!
I love the board and batten! I would love to add it to my dining room! Thanks for the tutorial!
It looks beautiful !
Very classic…and thanks for the instructions on how to do it. Looks great, really makes the space.
I just started a board and batten in my bedroom your information was very helpful.
Wow! What a difference that board and batten made. Brought out so much beauty. I so love all the rooms.
love how welcoming & cozy the new foyer looks
What an amazing transformation Ann! You nailed it and I love it! And what a clever idea for the lamp. I am definitely using that idea!
Linda
Perfect timing, I’m re-doing my guest bath downstairs and my husband will use your email as our inspiration. Thinking of doing the board & batten about 8 feet with either a wall color or wallpaper above similar to your living room.
love the look! thanks for sharing some of the work around tips.
I love it. It gives the walls so much character.
Something I would like to try somewhere in my home someday!!
Your style is beautiful and you inspire me! Every time I see your emails in my inbox, I get excited!! :) You’re awesomeness on a cracker!
Your foyer turned out beautifully Ann. Job well done!
I just love all your remodel projects. The foyer is stunning! I’d like to tackle our little downstairs bathroom and brighten it up and you’ve given me plenty of ideas to make a start of my project. First thing is the ugly 50s brown wall tile!!!
Ann, The board and batten adds so much interest to your entry. I”m especially taken with the lovely blue swirl lamps on the chest.
I hope you are enjoying your new home and putting your personal touch on it.
Mildred
Really enjoy your Wednesday posts. Excited to learn about rechargeable light bulbs. Didn’t know such things existed! Thanks for that info.
I’m putting board and batten in several places in my home soon.
Your foyer is very pretty. You have done so many things to your home in a short amount of time. Thanks for the heads up regarding rechargeable light bulbs. I have a lamp in the great room that can’t be used because there isn’t an outlet. You have made my lamp useable again. Thank you. Oh, and thanks for the delicious recipes too.
Your foyer is just beautiful!
The rechargeable light bulbs are such a great idea! I think we all have nooks where we want a lamp, but there is no outlet.
Ann it is all so beautiful. Loved the extra touches of the door knobs.I grew up in an old Victorian home. We had several doors with crystal door knobs. Oh how I wish I had one. I need to check out those lightbulbs. I don’t have an outlet in my foyer. I would love to have a lamp on my console instead of always depending on my chandelier.
The renovation looks amazing. The board and batten would have been a wonderful and charming improvement; however, adding the architectural element has elevated the foyer to an even more desirable room. Very well thought out.
It goes with out saying that you have always shown impeccable instincts for design. And the foyer decor does not disappoint. Brava!
I LOVE the board and batten you used on the walls. The treatment over the doors takes it over the top! It is absolutely beautiful!
Impressive!
Love your foyer update! So beautifully done!
Beautiful!
I enjoyed this post so much. We have a smaller foyer but I can use some of your ideas. Love the ceiling light, light bulbs, and the rug! Your taste is exceptional and I appreciate your sharing where to buy them. Thank you!
Your entryway came out absolutely stunningly gorgeous! I especially love the detail of the doorways. I love the marble-topped chest you added. The details are just so beautiful!
Ann,
Your entry is absolutely beautiful. I love it! I love board and batten and the additional molding above the doors all make your entry look so classy. I love the architectural interest.
Your home is lovely.
I really like the transformation of your foyer. It’s very elegant! Thank you for sharing your resources. You’ve inspired me to make some changes in my space.
The foyer is beautiful and what a difference it makes adding the extra trim to the doors!! 👏
I love it!!!!!!!!!!!! You had a marvelous vision and it just fits the space. Good for you. I have a colonial style and I wonder if it would be out of place for me to try board and batten.
I loved reading about your foyer remodel including the snaffos you dealt with. It really came together beautifully and you must be so overjoyed with the results!
I love your foyer! A couple of years ago I decided my foyer needed an update. I would have loved to add board and batten, but I opted for something I could do myself. I bought a large stencil and added a bit of neutral color right over the existing color. I think of it as a trellis pattern and it’s subtle enough that it doesn’t compete with the art on the wall and the painted Bombay chest. I considered my efforts a success when my son asked me when I’d added wallpaper! I recently changed out the plain 1963 doors in my interior. I choose the same door style you have in your house. I also updated my front door for one with a window at the top. My foyer has a dropped ceiling so changing from a solid door to one with a window added a lot of light to the entry. Thank you for the continuing inspiration to make changes to my home!
It’s just beautiful Ann! I actually like the contrast from the wall color to the board and batten color…….something different from the usual white you see on all the trim work. You are motivating me to give this a try in my own home. Thanks for the detailed post.
Deciding on how high to make the board and batten go up the wall is difficult. I think yours looks perfect. I’ve saved this as we have plans to add detail above our plain jane doors soon and our entry takes a beating when our pups come and go as they seem to swipe the walls somehow?! Looks great Ann!
Your foyer is beautiful! I especially like the French doors, the plate wall, and the tip about rechargeable light bulbs.
I absolutely love the way the board and batten came out and especially the trim above the doors. It looks so stately! Love the color too!!
LOVE your entry, can you say charming !! All the details are beautiful.
Thank you for inspiring me to hang platters on the wall.
The foyer looks perfect! As everything you’ve done to make the house yours. I never was a “blue” person until I started following you. Now I love it!
Your foyer is an inspiration!
Thank you for these beautiful and refreshing ideas
Lovely!
It is absolutely beautiful Anne.
I love board & battens. It like the finishing touch. Your crystal knobs are perfect.
Did you get them at Restoration Hardware?
You must be enjoying your new home.
Rose
Hi Rose…I ordered the knobs from Overstock. I believe they are also available on build.com. Thanks!
I love custom millwork! The board and batten is lovely and adds so much character.
The change is just stunning!
I LOVE your new entry!! Everything you did is amazing!
Your new home is being transformed beautifully. I am very curious about the battery-charged light bulbs, as I have the same problem in my foyer. Can you explain what you have to do to keep it charged? Must the bulb be moved to another functioning lamp each day for charging? Do you keep a lamp in reserve as a charging station? Any other suggestions as to how you make this solution work easily would be appreciated.
Hi Janice…I added an “update” to the post so check it out!
I love the renovation of your foyer. The blue and white accents add just color to make the area feel warm and welcoming. I enjoy your blog. It provides simple ideas that anyone can accomplish, and your recipes are always yummy. Thank you.
You have a unique gift of envisioning change. Love the board & batten addition! And the crystal door knob reminds me of the house I grew up in! Thanks for the lightbulb tip. Lovely details in everything! I see a beautiful Christmas tree there in the future!
I think one of the truly amazing things about your decorating is that so many things are “you.” If I had seen those lamps somewhere I would have said to myself that they look like something you would have in your home.
The crystal knobs are also so you.
You have a unique style and I wonder how many people out there “copy” you. I absolutely love those lamps and the price appears to be reasonable.
This was a great job and makes your home so welcoming when one walks through the door.
So lovely! It really added to the space, but so did your decorating 😊.
It’s perfect! You did a great job planning every little detail. Thanks for sharing. It’s gorgeous!
That made a huge difference in personality and presence. Love the paint color you chose for the trim too and the Crystal knobs. I can’t believe a builder would not have put an outlet in an entryway! And then to put the doorbell box in such an odd location. Crazy! Is that a stairway to your basement there off the entryway?
Stunning Ann, your vision was right on bringing some of “you” into the space. I had to look twice to see your doorbell so you did well! Technology constantly amazes me, I had no idea there were rechargeable light bulbs, but I do now! 😃
Beautiful foyer. It is such a challenge when the rooms open up to each other. It becomes a destination!
What a dramatic difference in your foyer. Love what you’ve done.