Best DIY Black Accent Wall Ideas: Shiplap, Slat Wall, or Board & Batten?

DIY Wood Paneling Accent Walls Black

Bold, black accent walls are taking the world of DIY home improvement by storm. But with so many ways to bring this dramatic look into your home, how do you know which style is best for your space? Our team is here to help! We’ve compared three of our top-selling black wood wall panelingShiplap, Slat Wall, and Board & Batten Wainscoting Kits—so you can make an informed decision based on your design needs and aesthetic goals.

1. Shiplap

DIY Black Shiplap Wall

Our Noir Black Shiplap is where we started our black accent wall journey, and it continues to gain momentum with our customers. Known for its rustic wood charm, this product combines the texture of natural wood with the richness of a deep black stain. The wide horizontal planks give your room a cozy, organic feel while still maintaining a modern, sleek edge with the perfect black shiplap wall.

Why Choose Shiplap?

  • Best for: A casual, warm atmosphere. If you love the look of horizontal lines and want to bring in natural wood textures, Shiplap is your go-to.
  • Perfect for: Living rooms, bedrooms, or any space where you want a balance between rustic and modern.
  • Pro Tip: For ease of installation, our wood shiplap is 72” long and 4" wide and can be installed with or without a nickel gap, using boards that are 3/8" thick. These are DIY installations, so feel free to flip these panels to create a vertical shiplap project. One box contains 10 pieces of wood shiplap, covering 20 square feet. For installation tips on how to install shiplap, check out our blog post on, 8 Tips & Tricks To Installing Shiplap Paneling!

2. Slat Wall

Slatted Wall Black

Looking to make a modern, sleek statement? Our newest addition to the Noir Black product line, the Noir Black Slat Wall, is a must-have for those wanting vertical accents. The vertical slats create movement and depth, transforming any wall into an architectural feature. Plus, the easy-to-install panel design allows for a quick and clean application.

Why Choose Slat Wall?

  • Best for: A bold, modern look. The vertical lines bring height and dimension, making it perfect for contemporary spaces.
  • Perfect for: Dining rooms, offices, or any room where you want to create a sophisticated focal point.
  • Pro Tip: Slat walls come in a range of sizes from 24” to 94”, and each box covers 10-14 square feet, depending on the panel length. This makes it easy to adapt to various room sizes. For installation tips, check out our blog post on, How to Install Slat Wall Wood Panels!

3. Board & Batten Wainscoting Kits

Board and Batten Wood Paneling Black

Our Board & Batten Wainscoting Kits continue to be our best-selling product! Designed for DIYers, these kits allow you to create a chic accent wall without the hassle of extra cutting and measuring. This product brings a polished, upscale vibe to any room. With all the pieces included, installation is straightforward and flexible. Whether you follow the step-by-step instructions or modify them to fit your wall, this kit offers a modern look with timeless appeal.

Why Choose Board & Batten?
  • Best for: A clean, architectural design. Board & Batten creates symmetry and adds depth, perfect for elevating any room.
  • Perfect for: Entryways, hallways, and bedrooms where you want a classic yet modern look.
  • Pro Tip: The wainscoting kits take the guesswork out of the equation—just sand, nail, and paint or stain to achieve that sophisticated Board & Batten look. We also have a Primed Board & Batten Wainscoting Kit to make your project even easier. Primed boards are paint-ready for the paint color that fits your style. For installation tips, check out our 90-second video on How to Install Board & Batten Kit.

So, which Black Accent Wall is Best for You?

  • Go with Shiplap if you’re drawn to a more rustic, cozy feel with the beauty of horizontal lines and natural wood.
  • Choose Slat Wall if modern, vertical lines and sleek finishes are more your style—ideal for spaces where you want to make a bold statement.
  • Pick Board & Batten if you’re aiming for a timeless, elegant design with architectural depth and want an easy DIY solution with pre-cut materials.

No matter which you choose, you can’t go wrong with the sleek, bold look of a black accent wall. Each of these products brings something unique to the table, helping you transform your space into something extraordinary! Looking for other accent wall options? Check out all our accent wall paneling options!

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.