I’ll never forget the first time I walked into a friend’s newly renovated living room.
The walls were covered in these stunning vertical wood slats that seemed to stretch the room higher than it really was.
The warm tones of the wood glowed under the soft lighting, and for a moment, I couldn’t even focus on the furniture or decor.
The wood slat wall was the star of the show.
That’s when I knew I had to bring this look into my own home.
If you’re looking to add texture, warmth, or a modern edge to your space, wood slat walls are the way to go.
They’re versatile, timeless, and can fit into just about any aesthetic:
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Horizontal White Oak Wood Slats
If you’re after a clean, modern look, horizontal white oak wood slats are an excellent choice.
This style is all about simplicity and natural beauty.
The light, neutral tones of white oak make the slats feel airy and open, while the horizontal orientation adds a sense of width to the room.
You could feature these slats on an accent wall in your living room, behind your TV, or even as a backsplash in your kitchen.
The key to pulling off this look is to keep the spacing between the slats consistent.
A slight gap between each slat creates depth and shadow, which adds subtle texture without overwhelming the space.
Pairing these slats with white or neutral walls works really well.
It allows the wood to stand out without clashing with other elements in the room.
To keep the aesthetic cohesive, consider using furniture or decor with similar tones, like a white oak coffee table or light beige throw pillows.
The beauty of horizontal white oak slats is that they’re adaptable.
You can stain the wood darker for a cozier, more rustic vibe or leave it untreated for a minimalist Scandinavian feel.
If you’re into DIY projects, you can even install these yourself with pre-cut slats from your local hardware store.
Trust me, this idea is a win for anyone looking to add a touch of modern elegance to their home.
Chevron Pattern Black Stained Slats
Looking to make a bold statement?
Chevron pattern black stained slats are your answer.
This look is dramatic, modern, and undeniably chic.
The chevron design itself is eye-catching, with its angled slats forming a repeated “V” pattern that draws your gaze up and across the wall.
The black stain adds a layer of sophistication and edge, making it perfect for a feature wall in a bedroom or dining room.
The key to nailing this design is precision.
Each slat needs to be cut and positioned at just the right angle to create that seamless chevron effect.
If you’re not comfortable tackling this as a DIY, hiring a professional might be worth it.
The result will be worth every penny.
Black stained wood pairs beautifully with metallic accents, like gold or brass light fixtures, or even a large round mirror with a metallic frame.
For furniture, think rich jewel tones like emerald green or navy blue to balance out the boldness of the black.
This idea works especially well in spaces where you want to create contrast.
For example, if the rest of your room is light and neutral, a black chevron slat wall will pop without feeling too heavy.
Lighting is critical here.
Soft, warm lighting will highlight the texture of the wood and bring out the richness of the black stain.
This style isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you’re ready to go bold, a black chevron slat wall is unforgettable.
Wide Barnwood Panels
For a rustic, farmhouse-inspired look, wide barnwood panels are the way to go.
This design is all about embracing the charm and imperfections of reclaimed wood.
The wider slats give the wall a more substantial, grounded feel, making it a great choice for cozy spaces like a den or a bedroom.
What makes barnwood so special is its character.
Every panel tells a story, with knots, grain patterns, and even the occasional nail hole adding to the authenticity.
You can leave the wood raw for a truly rustic look, or sand and seal it for a slightly more polished finish.
Wide barnwood panels look amazing when paired with other natural elements, like stone fireplaces or leather furniture.
They also work well with neutral color palettes, allowing the wood’s texture and tones to take center stage.
One of the best things about this idea is its versatility.
You can install the panels horizontally for a more traditional look or vertically to add height to the room.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a diagonal installation for a unique twist.
This is another idea that’s perfect for DIY enthusiasts.
You can often find reclaimed barnwood at salvage yards or specialty stores, and the installation process is straightforward with the right tools.
Mixed Width Raw Wood Slats
If you’re looking for something modern yet a little more playful, mixed width raw wood slats are a fantastic option.
This design combines slats of varying widths to create a dynamic, textured look that feels both casual and sophisticated.
The raw wood finish keeps things natural and organic, making it a great fit for modern, bohemian, or even industrial interiors.
The key to this idea is balance.
You want to mix widths in a way that feels intentional rather than random.
For example, you could alternate between narrow, medium, and wide slats in a repeating pattern.
This creates visual interest while maintaining a sense of cohesion.
Mixed width slats work beautifully on large walls where you have plenty of space to play with the design.
They’re also a great choice for smaller spaces, like an entryway or hallway, where the texture can make the space feel more inviting.
To complement the raw wood, stick with neutral or earthy tones in your decor.
Think linen textiles, jute rugs, or terracotta accents.
Lighting also plays a big role in enhancing the look of raw wood.
Natural light brings out the grain and texture, while warm artificial lighting adds a cozy glow.
This idea is perfect for anyone who loves a slightly unconventional yet timeless design.
The mix of widths adds a sense of movement and energy to the room, while the raw wood keeps things grounded and approachable.
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Vertical Shiplap Douglas Fir
Shiplap has been a design favorite for years, but have you considered using Douglas fir for a vertical twist?
This idea takes the classic look of shiplap and gives it a modern update by orienting the planks vertically.
The result is a clean, streamlined look that adds height and sophistication to any room.
Douglas fir is an excellent choice for this design because of its beautiful grain and warm tones.
The vertical orientation draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller and more spacious.
This makes it a great option for smaller spaces or rooms with low ceilings.
One of the best things about vertical shiplap is its versatility.
You can paint it white for a classic farmhouse look or leave it natural to showcase the beauty of the wood.
If you’re feeling bold, consider staining it a darker color for a dramatic effect.
This style pairs well with a variety of decor styles, from traditional to modern.
For a cohesive look, try incorporating Douglas fir into other elements of the room, like a beam, mantel, or shelving.
Installing vertical shiplap takes a bit more effort than horizontal, but the impact is well worth it.
The clean lines and natural texture create a backdrop that feels both timeless and fresh.
This is one idea you’ll never get tired of.
Minimalist Slatted Teak Wood
When it comes to a sleek, modern aesthetic, minimalist slatted teak wood is hard to beat.
Teak is known for its rich, golden tones and durability, making it a fantastic choice for a sophisticated, high-end look.
The slats are typically narrow and evenly spaced, creating a wall that feels both structured and understated.
This design works beautifully in spaces where you want to highlight simplicity and elegance.
For example, a slatted teak wall behind your bed can double as a headboard and an accent wall.
Pairing this style with minimalist furniture and decor is key.
Think clean lines, neutral colors, and a “less is more” approach.
The natural beauty of teak shines brightest when it’s not competing with too many other elements.
Teak slats also work well in bathrooms, where their moisture-resistant properties come in handy.
Imagine a slatted teak wall behind a freestanding tub or as a backdrop for a floating vanity.
The warm tones of the wood create a spa-like atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.
Lighting plays a big role in enhancing the look of teak.
Soft, diffused lighting will bring out the wood’s natural glow, while directional lighting can emphasize the texture and shadows.
This idea is perfect for anyone who loves modern design with a touch of warmth.
Minimalist slatted teak wood is timeless, elegant, and guaranteed to elevate any space.
Intricately Overlapping Small Slats
Make a captivating accent wall using very thin overlapping wood slats.
Cut one-inch-wide boards from pine, cedar, or poplar into various lengths.
Then arrange them in an intricate overlapping pattern, alternating between vertical and diagonal.
The small slats and complex shape create lots of lines, texture, and visual interest.
Stain the wood in similar neutral tones to keep the look cohesive, or use varying stains for a patchwork effect.
A matte polyurethine finish enhances the colors and unique mosaic design.
In a bedroom, dining room, or entryway, this wood slat arrangement adds subtle rustic ambiance and becomes a work of art.
The intricate details invite lingering looks while maintaining a light and airy feel.
Herringbone Pattern Slatted Wall
The classic herringbone pattern brings order and sophistication to a slatted accent wall.
Cut thin boards from ash, beech, or poplar into short slats around four to six inches long.
Arrange them in a precise herringbone design.
Using a light wood stain in a neutral tone allows the crisscross pattern to stand out.
A gloss finish illuminates the diagonal zigzag effect.
For a more bold graphic look, staining the slats black or white makes the shape highly defined.
This pixilated wood wall works well in modern dining rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
The interconnected geometric pattern feels visually organized and elegant against existing décor and colors.
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Rustic Wooden Ladder Accent
Make a big impact by repurposing a wooden ladder as a rustic wall accent.
A classic A-frame ladder works well, or try incorporating two or more smaller ladders.
Keep it casual by simply mounting the ladder directly on wood studs with heavy duty screws or anchors.
For a cleaner look, remove the rails and mount the sides over a smooth board backing using wood glue and nails.
Leave vintage wooden ladders unstained to showcase natural aging and character marks.
Or apply stains from light maple to ebony depending on the look you want to achieve.
Use a matte sealant so the wood grain and texture show through.
The reimagined ladder leaning against the wall makes a focal point full of farmhouse flair.
Hang lights or artwork from the rungs to complete the look.
Use it to display favorite photos or mementos for a personalized touch.
Gray Washed Wood Plank Wall
Washed wood walls have an elegant, coastal vibe with undertones of the original wood grain still showing through.
Use pine, oak, or birch boards for the planks.
Apply a diluted whitewash stain or paint and immediately wipe off the excess.
This technique results in subtle streaks of gray with natural wood tones peeking through.
The color remains light instead of fully obscuring the grain.
Use wide planks around six inches for fewer seams and a clean nautical look.
Install boards horizontally and leave a half-inch gap between them to embrace the weathered style.
The washed out wood wall gives a breezy, relaxed feel to bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.
Displaying driftwood, shells, and ocean-themed art enhances the coastal design.
Modern White Slatted Fireplace Accent
Transform a basic fireplace into the sleek focal point of a room with a white slat accent wall.
Use thin poplar or birch slats with a painted white finish for a contemporary look.
Arrange the slats in a herringbone, vertical, or diagonal pattern.
Paint the wood planks in semi-gloss or high-gloss white paint for a bright, fresh feel.
For soft contrast, try using slats with naturally light wood grains like ash or maple, then whitewashing instead of fully painting them.
Keep decor around the fireplace simple to let the graphic slat design stand out.
Add metal or marble accents in black, gold, or silver for modern flair.
The light wood wall provides warmth and texture above any style of fireplace.
Rustic X-Support Cladded Wall
An easy way to create a rustic wood plank wall is by cladding plywood with boards in an X-shape.
Cut 1×4 and 1×6 boards from pine, cedar, or redwood.
Attach the plywood securely to studs, then nail the boards horizontally across it with small gaps between them.
Next, nail longer vertical boards over the seams between horizontal rows.
This joins the rows together while concealing the plywood behind an attractive shiplap pattern.
The cross-boards serve as supports, allowing the use of thinner planks for cost savings.
Let the natural wood tones shine through, or use stains ranging from espresso to maple.
Matte sealant protects the rustic wall while maintaining its natural appeal.
The cladded wood planks suit farmhouse, industrial, cabin, and lodge spaces.
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Mirrored Wood Wall Art
Wood slat walls get an extra glam makeover paired with mirrors.
Arrange small square or rectangular mirrors in linear rows among real wood planks.
The mirrors reflect light, creating depth and the illusion of a larger space.
Use raw, grey washed, or whitewashed natural wood slats and match the mirror frames to the tones.
The reflective accents mimic the shape of the boards for a coordinated look.
Leave at least a few inches between mirrors to let the wood details show through.
When installing, make sure mirrors don’t span across boards or plywood seams so weight is properly supported.
The mirrors mix elegance with the warmth of wood for showstopping accent walls in dining rooms, bedrooms, and living areas.
Woven Cane Inset Wall
An intricately woven wall instantly becomes a conversation piece.
Cut out even sections of drywall and insert panels of woven wood cane between the studs.
Natural unfinished cane has a creamy blonde tone complemented by white painted walls.
For a darker look, choose espresso stained cane panels to vividly contrast with the surround.
Paying homage to rattan furniture, this adds unusual texture and craftsmanship to any room.
Use woven cane inserts sparingly between wood boards or paneled walls for tropical flair with a touch of boho chic.
The intricately crisscrossed cane makes a stunning backdrop for plants, artwork, shelves, and more.
Wood Crate Accent Wall
Wood shipping crates get a new life showcased in a fun accent wall design.
Look for sturdy rectangular crates with attractive logos, stenciling, and patinas from age.
Arrange the crates in a grid pattern attaching directly to the studs.
Leave vintage crates tarnished and unaltered to display their worn character.
The naturally weathered wood mixed with painted logos and lettering make each crate unique.
Fill some with decor items like books, candles, or flowers for extra dimension.
The crates’ varying original colors combine for an abstract mosaic look.
Their imperfect finishes and textures add to the charm.
The repurposed crate wall imparts industrial flair to dens, offices, recreation rooms, and restaurants.
Wood slat walls continue to top accent wall trends with endless possibilities for customization using different plank styles, stains, arrangements, and wood species.
Which wood slat wall is your favorite?
Use these wood slat accent wall ideas as inspiration to create your own beautiful statement wall.
With some planning and DIY handiwork, you can transform any space.
