Foyer Makeover: Board-and-Batten Entryway Reveal

We’ve always admired homes with a defined entryway—somewhere to pause, drop your keys, and make a good first impression. Our own entryways have historically been nothing more than a door that opens directly into a room, so Jenna Sue’s foyer transformation caught our attention. Her simple, well-executed changes show how a few thoughtful updates can turn an awkward entry into a warm, welcoming space.

Jenna wrote to share the details of her recent project. The old foyer featured outdated white faux-marble tile, metallic floral wallpaper, and a dated light fixture. The overall look felt tired and didn’t showcase the potential of the space.

Her renovation focused on a few key elements: replacing the floor, installing board-and-batten wainscoting, adding functional coat hooks, refreshing the paint, and updating the lighting. For the floor, she chose travertine-style porcelain tile that gives the entry a durable, classic look without the upkeep of natural stone. The new flooring immediately grounds the space and sets a neutral, elegant foundation for the rest of the design.

One of the most impactful changes is the DIY board-and-batten treatment along the lower portion of the walls. Board-and-batten adds architectural interest, visual height, and a sense of craftsmanship without a large budget. Jenna incorporated coat hooks directly into the band of trim, creating a neat, practical spot for jackets and bags that keeps the entry organized and visually cohesive.

A fresh coat of paint brightened the whole area, and the new rustic light fixture brings warmth and character. These finishing touches—paint color, lighting, and accessories—helped transform the foyer into a cheery, inviting threshold that better reflects the home’s personality.

Jenna designed a piece of artwork to hang above the console area, completing the look and tying together the colors and textures in the space. The result is an open, airy entry that feels like a breath of fresh air every time you walk in.

She concluded by saying how pleased they are with the change and how excited they are about upcoming updates—like adding open shelving in the kitchen. It’s a great reminder that focused, budget-friendly improvements can dramatically improve everyday living spaces.

Many homeowners will find inspiration in Jenna’s approach: start with durable, attractive flooring; add architectural detail like board-and-batten for instant personality; prioritize functional elements like hooks; and finish with paint, lighting, and a signature piece of art. The combination creates a foyer that’s both practical and beautiful—an entryway that feels like a true welcome.

— Jenna Sue