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Add a sense of drama and intrigue in a living space with bang-on-trend battens.

No longer reserved for fastenings and functionality, battens are a bold design statement. Paired with vibrant Resene paints, they give a room a designer look and lift dull, two-dimensional looking spaces. Walls are transformed into pieces of art and rooms into grand spaces with this simple addition.

Battens are thin strips of wood or metal that are attached to a wall in a decorative pattern. They're a versatile design element used by designers to create a variety of looks, be it rustic or contemporary. Board and batten was historically used on the exterior of homes to keep cold out with strips of wood laid over wall joints. The process made its way inside and is now a popular style addition rather than a functional one.

This living room is deep and daring with moody blue Resene Carpe Noctem on the walls. It offers a soothing cocooning effect, perfect particularly for the colder months. The room is heightened design-wise with its batten look on the back wall, inviting the eye to the right side of the living room and making it appear wider.

The richness of Resene Carpe Noctem is the backdrop to the batten effect in varying shades of blue. Resene Epic, Resene Ocean Waves, Resene Boost and Resene Lakeside pop against Resene Carpe Noctem as they complement each other. Resene Epic is a pale blue that has a calming and soothing effect, adding a serene touch. Resene Ocean Waves is a deeper, more saturated blue with a hint of green in it. Resene Boost is a bold blue that adds energy and vibrancy to the space, while Resene Lakeside is soft and muted with a vintage feel.

The contrast between Resene Carpe Noctem on the back wall and the lighter blue battens creates a stunning visual effect. It feels contemporary and sophisticated – battens are a subtle design feature that add a modern art touch but never overwhelm a room.

The versatility of battens means you can create a variety of patterns and designs depending on your style and preference. Use them to create a simple grid pattern, for example, or create a more complex pattern diagonally that adds interest and texture to your living room.

As a bonus, they’re a fantastic way to hide imperfections on your walls. Any pesky cracks or dents in your walls? Battens can be used to cover them up. It’s something to consider especially in older homes or houses that have been renovated.

Battens can easily be attached to walls using screws before painting or to avoid the hassle of filling nail holes simply use construction glue.

How to set up a batten wall:

1. Measure the wall you want to install your design on: You want its length and height. This will help you determine how many battens you'll need.

2. Choose your wood: Choose the type of wood you want to use for your battens, something light is good. You'll also need to decide on their width and thickness.

3. Mark the wall: Use a level and pencil to mark where you want to install your battens.

4. Finish the wood: Sand the wood to remove any rough edges or splinters.

5. To recreate this look, paint battens in alternating colours Resene Epic, Resene Ocean Waves, Resene Boost, Resene Lakeside.

6. Install the battens: Use a nail gun or screws to attach the battens to the wall. Make sure they are level and evenly spaced.

You can paint the battens before or after installation depending how you are fixing them. If you glue them painting them first can be easiest. If you have screw heads that will need covering, you are usually best to attach the battens first, then fill the holes, prime and paint for a smooth finish.

Complete the look by painting a coffee table in Resene Epic or any colour painted on your batten feature. Keep your colour scheme cohesive for a modern and put-together feel.

Colours and products mentioned in this article

Styling by Megan Harrison-Turner. Photography by Bryce Carleton. 2022