Beadboard decor ideas

Beadboard is a series of narrow wooden planks lined up vertically (sometimes horizontally) on the wall. Between each plank of wood is a small indentation or crest – also known as a “pearl”.

Standard beadboard is available in 1.5″ and 3″ widths. The size is determined by the width of the flat area between the beads. You can also have custom widths created. Beadboard is usually installed vertically, although some people install it horizontally to get a different look. Beadboard provides a stable wall or ceiling surface and insulates a wall. Beadboard can be used for ceilings, walls and cabinets. It can cover an entire wall or be used as a panel covering only the lower part of the wall. Beadboard adds visual interest to any distant blank wall. It is relatively durable, an inexpensive alternative to tile, can be painted any color and installed at any height.

While you’ll often see it in traditional or rustic settings, beadboard doesn’t have to have a cute country feel. it can be positively slim and cool. You can often see beadboards in bedrooms, entryways, kitchens (see our beadboard backsplash roundup), bathrooms, and other spaces to give them a cool, cozy, and slightly vintage feel. Such decor goes with literally any style, not just rustic or farmhouse – you can incorporate it into modern, minimalist, contemporary, industrial and many other styles by choosing the right colors and sizes. Check out some ideas we have collected for you and get inspired to use them in your home too.