DecorQuarter · budget decor

Shiplap, Beadboard & Barn Doors

Shiplap, beadboard, and barn doors are the three architectural features that define modern farmhouse style — but they’re not equally worth the investment.

What Does Shiplap Actually Look Like?

Shiplap is the single feature most associated with modern farmhouse style, and for good reason. A 2025 Pinterest Trends report listed “shiplap wall” as a top-10 saved home decor search for the fourth consecutive year ( Pinterest Business Trends, 2025).

What Does Beadboard Look Like?

Beadboard is shiplap’s more traditional cousin. Where shiplap runs horizontal boards with a gap, beadboard uses narrow vertical planks with a rounded bead (the small ridge) between each plank.

What Do Barn Doors Look Like?

The barn door is the most functionally distinctive of the three features. The aesthetic is immediately recognizable.

Real Cost Breakdown: What Each Feature Actually Costs

Here’s where most inspiration content goes wrong. Pinterest boards show beautiful shiplap rooms without mentioning that installation costs vary by a factor of four depending on where you live and whether you hire out the work.

Rental-Friendly Versions of Each Feature

Renters can pull off convincing versions of all three features without damaging walls or violating lease terms. Here’s what actually works for each.

Our Ranking: Which Feature Has the Best ROI?

After testing all three approaches in staged spaces and reviewing reader feedback, here’s our honest ranking by visual impact per dollar spent.

The full plan

Shiplap, Beadboard & Barn Doors

Every idea, with prices and where to buy it, is in the full guide.