Shiplap has transcended its humble origins as practical siding to become one of the most sought-after design elements in modern homes, particularly in bathrooms. This horizontal planking adds texture, dimension, and undeniable character to any space. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal-inspired retreat, a rustic farmhouse sanctuary, or a sleek contemporary washroom, shiplap offers versatility that few other materials can match. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 30 innovative ways to incorporate shiplap into your bathroom design, transforming an ordinary space into a Pinterest-worthy oasis that balances timeless appeal with trending aesthetics.
1. Classic White Vertical Shiplap
The timeless appeal of vertical white shiplap creates an illusion of height, making even the smallest bathrooms feel more spacious and airy. This orientation breaks from traditional horizontal installation, drawing the eye upward and creating visual interest. Pair with matte black fixtures and minimalist decor for a clean, modern aesthetic that won’t overwhelm the senses. The brightness of white shiplap also maximizes natural light reflection, keeping the space feeling fresh and inviting year-round.
2. Moody Navy Accent Wall
Transform your bathroom with a striking navy blue shiplap accent wall that serves as a sophisticated focal point. The deep, rich tone creates dramatic contrast against white fixtures while the texture of shiplap adds dimension that flat paint simply cannot achieve. This approach works particularly well behind a freestanding tub or vanity. The horizontal lines of traditional shiplap installation provide a sense of width and expansiveness, preventing the dark color from making the space feel closed in.
3. Half-Wall Shiplap Wainscoting
Embrace the classic charm of wainscoting with a shiplap twist by installing boards halfway up your bathroom walls. This traditional approach creates architectural interest while remaining practical—protecting walls from splashes and humidity. Top with a simple chair rail for a defined transition to painted walls or wallpaper above. This balanced application works wonderfully in powder rooms and guest bathrooms, adding character without overwhelming limited square footage. Choose a semi-gloss finish for easier cleaning in high-moisture environments.
4. Ceiling Statement
Look up to discover untapped design potential with a shiplap ceiling installation that transforms your bathroom’s “fifth wall” into a stunning focal point. This unexpected application draws the eye upward, creating visual interest while maintaining clean wall space for fixtures and accessories. In bathrooms with standard height ceilings, painting shiplap the same color as the walls creates cohesion while still adding texture. For rooms with vaulted ceilings, shiplap accentuates architectural features and adds rustic warmth to what might otherwise feel like empty space.
5. Weathered Gray Coastal Vibes
Capture the essence of beachfront living with weathered gray shiplap that evokes driftwood washed ashore. This soft, muted finish brings natural tranquility to your bathroom retreat while providing a neutral backdrop that pairs beautifully with seafoam greens, sandy beiges, and ocean blues. The horizontal lines naturally reference the horizon, enhancing the coastal aesthetic. For authenticity, look for shiplap with subtle texture variations or consider distressing techniques that mimic years of gentle weathering by sea air and sunshine.
6. Mixed Material Harmony
Create visual complexity by pairing shiplap with complementary materials like marble, concrete, or subway tile. This juxtaposition of textures—smooth against grooved, polished against rustic—creates a multi-dimensional space with designer appeal. Consider installing shiplap above tile wainscoting in shower areas for practical moisture protection below with decorative interest above. The horizontal lines of traditional shiplap installation provide a pleasing contrast to the grid pattern of tile, creating a bathroom that feels thoughtfully composed rather than monotonous.
7. Curved Shower Surround
Challenge conventional rectangular installations by applying shiplap to curved shower surrounds. This unexpected application showcases the material’s versatility while creating a standout architectural feature. The continuous horizontal lines flowing around a curve create a sense of movement and organic flow. For practical considerations, ensure proper sealing for moisture protection and consider pre-fabricated curved panels for easier installation. This approach works particularly well in bathrooms with unique architectural elements or where you want to soften the typical angular bathroom features.
8. Black and White Contrast
Create dramatic visual impact with the timeless contrast of bright white shiplap against matte black fixtures and accessories. This high-contrast approach brings instant sophistication to bathrooms of any size. The textured lines of shiplap prevent the space from feeling flat or two-dimensional despite the limited color palette. For maximum effect, incorporate black framed shower doors, mirrors, and lighting fixtures that pop against the white backdrop. Add warmth through natural wood accents in vanities or accessories to keep the space feeling inviting rather than stark.
9. Herringbone Pattern Innovation
Elevate traditional shiplap by arranging boards in a dynamic herringbone pattern that brings movement and artistic flair to your bathroom walls. This unexpected approach transforms simple boards into a statement of sophisticated design sensibility. The diagonal lines create visual energy while maintaining the textural benefits of classic shiplap. This technique works particularly well on accent walls or in powder rooms where the pattern can truly shine without overwhelming the space. Consider slightly wider boards than traditional shiplap to ensure the pattern is clearly visible.
10. Rustic Reclaimed Wood
Infuse authentic character and environmental consciousness into your bathroom with reclaimed wood shiplap that tells a story through every knot, nail hole, and weathered patch. These unique imperfections create a one-of-a-kind installation impossible to replicate with new materials. The varied coloration and patina developed over decades add depth and interest to bathroom walls. Seal thoroughly with waterproof finishes to protect the wood and ensure longevity in the humid bathroom environment. Pair with simple, modern fixtures for an appealing contrast of old and new.
11. Painted Pattern Play
Transform simple shiplap into a geometric showcase by painting creative patterns that highlight the unique texture of the boards. Consider ombré color transitions, color blocking, or even stenciled designs that use the shiplap grooves as guiding lines. This approach delivers maximum visual impact while maintaining the textural benefits of traditional installations. For bathrooms that need visual energy without permanent commitment, this technique allows for future updates with just a fresh coat of paint. Use semi-gloss or satin finishes for durability in moisture-rich environments.
12. Minimalist Thin Slat Design
Update traditional shiplap with ultra-thin boards for a contemporary, minimalist approach that maintains textural interest while feeling decidedly modern. The narrower grooves create a more subtle effect that works beautifully in contemporary spaces where traditional shiplap might feel too rustic. This refined interpretation pairs particularly well with floating vanities, wall-mounted fixtures, and frameless glass. The delicate horizontal lines create a sense of expansiveness without the heavy visual weight of wider boards, making this an excellent option for smaller bathrooms seeking contemporary character.
13. Integrated Storage Nooks
Combine functionality with style by incorporating built-in storage niches framed with shiplap for an architecturally cohesive look. These practical recesses provide perfect homes for toiletries or decorative items while maintaining the bathroom’s design integrity. Line the back of each niche with contrasting materials like tile or metal for added visual interest. This approach works particularly well in shower areas or above tubs where storage is needed without protruding shelves. The horizontal lines of surrounding shiplap naturally draw attention to these functional design elements.
14. Warm Wood Tones
Embrace the natural beauty of wood by selecting shiplap in warm honey, oak, or walnut tones that bring organic warmth to often cold-feeling bathrooms. This approach celebrates the material’s innate characteristics while adding rich color dimension. Clear protective sealants preserve the wood’s natural beauty while providing essential moisture protection. Pair with white fixtures for striking contrast or with brass and gold accents that complement the wood’s warm undertones. This treatment works particularly well in bathrooms with good ventilation where the natural material can truly shine.
15. Whitewashed Elegance
Achieve a delicate balance between raw wood texture and bright white with a whitewashed shiplap treatment that allows the grain pattern to subtly show through. This technique creates depth and character while maintaining a light, airy feel. The semi-transparent finish softens the look compared to solid paint, creating a gentle, diffused effect that works beautifully in spa-inspired bathrooms. This approach honors the natural beauty of wood while providing the light-reflective qualities of white surfaces. Pair with natural stone, linen textiles, and minimal accessories for a serene, sophisticated space.
16. Floor-to-Ceiling Shower Application
Create a showstopping walk-in shower by cladding interior walls with properly sealed shiplap from floor to ceiling. This unexpected application transforms a utilitarian space into a design feature while providing textural interest within the shower enclosure. With proper waterproofing treatments and specialized sealants, shiplap can withstand shower conditions while creating a uniquely textured bathing experience. The horizontal lines visually expand the shower space and create a cohesive connection to shiplap used elsewhere in the bathroom. Choose light colors to prevent the enclosed space from feeling too dark.
17. Two-Tone Color Blocking
Embrace contemporary color blocking by using shiplap in two distinct colors, divided horizontally to create visual interest and definition. This modern approach maintains the textural benefits of shiplap while introducing playful color relationships. Consider pairing muted sage green below with soft white above, or navy below with pale gray above. The natural horizontal line created by the color transition highlights architectural features and can visually correct room proportions. This technique works particularly well in bathrooms with high ceilings where the color division can create more intimate proportions.
18. Extra-Wide Plank Statement
Make a bold architectural statement with extra-wide shiplap planks that showcase the material on a grander scale. These oversized boards create striking shadow lines and substantial texture that becomes the room’s focal point. The exaggerated scale works particularly well in larger bathrooms where standard-width boards might feel too busy or delicate. This approach delivers maximum impact with minimal fuss, allowing the material itself to be the design feature. Consider a matte finish to highlight the dramatic shadow lines created by the deeper overlaps.
19. Diagonal Installation Drama
Break from traditional horizontal or vertical applications by installing shiplap diagonally for unexpected visual energy. This dynamic approach transforms walls into artistic statements while creating the illusion of expanded space. The diagonal lines lead the eye across the room, making smaller bathrooms feel larger and more interesting. This technique requires more precise cutting and installation but delivers unmistakable designer flair. For maximum impact, maintain a consistent angle throughout the space rather than changing directions on different walls.
20. Shiplap-Framed Mirror
Elevate a standard bathroom mirror by surrounding it with a custom shiplap frame that ties into the room’s overall design language. This architectural detail transforms a functional necessity into a featured design element while creating visual cohesion. The textured frame adds dimension and interest compared to flat trim alternatives. For a built-in look, extend the shiplap across the entire wall, cutting out the mirror opening. This approach works beautifully with round, oval, or rectangular mirrors, creating a custom look that enhances the bathroom’s overall design scheme.
21. Shiplap Vanity Facade
Transform a basic vanity into a custom piece by applying shiplap to drawer fronts and cabinet doors. This unexpected application brings textural interest to what is often the bathroom’s largest furniture piece while creating design continuity with wall treatments. The horizontal lines add visual width to narrow vanities while providing a distinctive alternative to flat panel or shaker styles. This approach works with both floating and floor-mounted vanities, bringing custom character to even budget-friendly cabinet bases. Ensure proper sealing to protect from daily water exposure.
22. Lime-Washed Ethereal Effect
Create a softly weathered, European-inspired finish with lime-washed shiplap that possesses ethereal depth and subtle color variation. This centuries-old technique brings historical authenticity and artisanal character to modern bathrooms. The slightly mottled, chalky finish softens the room with a gentle patina that feels both timeless and on-trend. Unlike flat paint, lime wash interacts uniquely with each wood grain, creating natural variation across the surface. This technique works beautifully with earthy accessories, unlacquered brass fixtures, and natural stone for a bathroom that feels curated rather than newly constructed.
23. Hidden Door Integration
Seamlessly incorporate storage by disguising closet or linen cabinet doors within continuous shiplap wall treatment. This clever application maintains visual cleanliness while maximizing functionality in often-cramped bathroom spaces. When properly executed, these hidden doors disappear into the wall treatment, revealing themselves only through subtle hardware or push-latch mechanisms. This technique works particularly well in minimalist bathrooms where visual clutter is kept to a minimum. The continuous horizontal lines create a sense of spaciousness uninterrupted by obvious door frames.
24. Jewel-Toned Luxury
Elevate shiplap beyond its rustic roots by painting it in luxurious jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or amethyst purple. This unexpected color application transforms the humble material into a statement of bold sophistication. The textured surface adds dimension to rich colors, creating depth and interest as light plays across the grooved surface. This approach works particularly well in powder rooms or master baths where distinctive design statements set the space apart. Pair with metallic fixtures in gold or brass that complement the richness of the chosen jewel tone.
25. Integrated Lighting Features
Incorporate LED strip lighting into shiplap installations to add ambient glow that highlights the material’s textured beauty. Place lighting strips in recessed channels between boards or behind floating sections to create dramatic wall-washing effects. This technique transforms basic wall cladding into an architectural lighting feature that enhances the bathroom’s overall atmosphere. The horizontal grooves naturally create shadows and highlights, which become even more pronounced with strategic lighting. This approach works particularly well for night lighting or creating spa-like ambiance for relaxing baths.
26. Checkerboard Pattern Play
Create visual intrigue by alternating the direction of shiplap boards in a checkerboard pattern that transforms walls into artistic features. This advanced installation technique delivers maximum texture and dimensional interest while showcasing craftsman-level woodworking. The alternating horizontal and vertical sections catch light differently throughout the day, creating subtle variation in an otherwise monochromatic application. This approach works especially well when painted in a single color to let the textural pattern become the focal point. Consider this technique for accent walls or powder rooms where the detailed work can be fully appreciated.
27. Curved Ceiling Application
Follow the gentle curve of barrel-vaulted or arched bathroom ceilings with flexible shiplap applications that highlight architectural features. This sophisticated technique transforms standard ceilings into showstopping features that draw the eye upward. The continuous horizontal lines flowing over curves create a sense of movement and organic flow that flat ceilings cannot achieve. This application requires specialized installation but delivers undeniable architectural impact. For enhanced effect, consider adding cove lighting that illuminates the curved surface, highlighting the textural quality of the shiplap boards.
28. Integrated Shelf Design
Build functional floating shelves using the same shiplap material as surrounding walls for a seamlessly integrated storage solution. This cohesive approach maintains design continuity while adding practical display and storage space. The shelves appear to emerge naturally from the wall rather than being added as afterthoughts. This technique works particularly well for showcasing decorative items, plants, or neatly rolled towels. For a truly custom look, design the shelf depth to align perfectly with the thickness of surrounding shiplap boards, creating clean transitions and architectural integrity.
29. Gold-Accented Groove Lines
Elevate simple shiplap with metallic detailing by painting thin gold lines within the natural grooves between boards. This luxurious detail transforms basic installation into a custom, high-end feature with minimal effort. The metallic accents catch light throughout the day, creating subtle sparkle and dimension. This technique works particularly well with matte painted shiplap where the contrast between flat wall surface and metallic groove creates maximum impact. Consider this approach for accent walls or in powder rooms where guests can appreciate the detailed craftsmanship.
30. Indoor-Outdoor Connection
Extend the same shiplap treatment from indoor bathroom walls to connected outdoor shower spaces for seamless transition between environments. This architectural continuity blurs the boundary between interior and exterior, creating a cohesive design language. Choose appropriate marine-grade or cedar shiplap for exterior applications that can withstand full weather exposure. This technique works particularly well in warm climates where indoor-outdoor bathrooms are practical year-round. The horizontal lines naturally guide the eye from one space to the next, creating visual flow between connected areas.
Final Thoughts
Shiplap has proven itself to be far more than a passing trend—it’s a versatile design element with staying power that brings texture, character, and timeless appeal to bathroom spaces of every size and style. Whether you embrace its traditional farmhouse roots or reinterpret it through a contemporary lens, shiplap offers endless possibilities for personalization. The beauty of these 30 ideas lies in their adaptability; they can be scaled, combined, or modified to suit your specific space, budget, and aesthetic preferences. As you plan your bathroom renovation, consider how shiplap might transform your everyday routine into an experience that feels both special and deeply personal—worthy of being pinned, shared, and, most importantly, enjoyed for years to come.
