Looking to elevate those long, empty walls in your new home? Dunhill DIY has you covered! Board and batten is one of the easiest DIY projects that delivers major payoff for minimal effort. Whether you’re enhancing a narrow hallway or adding dimension to your staircase landing, this timeless wall treatment creates texture, depth, and a truly custom look.
And the best part? It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and renter-friendly (if installed properly for removal)!
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
- MDF boards or pine lattice strips (1×2” or 1×3” depending on desired look)
- Wood glue or construction adhesive
- Nail gun or brad nails
- Level
- Tape measure
- Caulk
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper
- Paint (typically the same color as the trim or wall for a modern look)
✍️ Step-by-Step: How We Did It
1️⃣ Plan Your Layout
- Decide on your board spacing—common options are 12”, 16”, or 24” apart.
- For staircases, measure along the angle of the banister and mark placement points.
2️⃣ Attach the Battens
- Attach a horizontal top board (optional for a framed look).
- Use a level to ensure each vertical board is perfectly straight before nailing or gluing.
- For stair walls, angle cut the ends to align with the incline.
3️⃣ Fill & Caulk
- Fill nail holes with wood filler.
- Caulk all edges where boards meet the wall to create a seamless look.
4️⃣ Paint
- For maximum drama, paint the entire wall (boards and drywall) in the same color.
- Try a satin or semi-gloss finish for a clean, durable surface.
🎨 Paint Color Ideas (Trending for 2025)
- Sherwin-Williams “Upward” – a soft, serene blue
- Benjamin Moore “White Dove” – a classic creamy white
- Behr “Cracked Pepper” – a bold, sophisticated charcoal
- Sherwin-Williams “Silver Strand” – a calming gray with a hint of green
💡 Why We Love It for Hallways & Stairs
- Adds luxury builder-level detail without the price tag
- Makes narrow hallways feel designed rather than forgotten
- Stairs get an elevated look without cluttering the walls
- Easy weekend project with lasting impact
🛍️ Shop the Look:
📸 See How We Styled It
Check out how we incorporated this beautiful detail in our Skyview model home!
Ready to try it?
Tag us in your photos @DunhillHomes or visit a Dunhill model home near you for more design inspiration.
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