Material Focus ~ Beadboard

cococozy.com

What do you think about beadboard? I have a few designer friends and clients who wouldn't be caught dead with beadboard in their homes, but I rather like it. It reminds me of Nantucket summers - which feel so far away right about now - and makes me think of the ocean. After researching this post, I realized just how versatile it is.  Not to be confused with wainscoting, which is raised paneling that forms the shape of a square, it can be purchased and installed inexpensively, making it a quick and easy design element that can transform a space in a pinch.

There are countless uses. It is a great choice for bathrooms because it is durable and can be painted any color. If you use exterior paint, you could run it up behind a sink rather than having a tile or stone backsplash. I like how in the following bathroom images, you can see how the texture translates across different design styles- from cottage to Victorian.

Whitten Architecture

Buckingham Interiors

Supple Homes Inc.

Seth Benn Photography

Using a dark stained wainscoting on the ceiling adds drama and warmth to a space.

Fluidesign Studio

Be sure to pay attention to the height when using beadboard in place of wainscoting. 36", 48" or 60" are good heights, depending on the look you are going for.

Witt Construction

Having the boards run horizontally across a wall is a great way to make a room feel large. The boards lead your eye across the space. I like the blend of traditional and modern in this study nook below.

Erica Bierman Photography

Another fun idea if to paint beadboard in a high gloss. It amplifies it's texture and pushes natural light further into a room.

Tiffany Eastman Interiors

Used in a more traditional application, beadboard accentuates the notion of a summer home.

Houseandhome.com

Houzz

Finally, you could use beadboard to back shelving or cabinetry for a subtle definition between a built in and a wall.

makingitlovely.com

Do you have any creative uses for this adaptable texture?