10 Bathroom Ideas with Shiplap: Cozy, Stylish, and Practical Ways to Use Shiplap in Your Bathroom

One time, I had a client who insisted we cover the entire bathroom—yes, even the ceiling—with shiplap. At first, I thought it might end up looking like a rustic sauna gone wrong. But it turned out surprisingly chic, and it reminded me that small spaces really can inspire big creativity. Today, I’m sharing my 10 favorite bathroom ideas with shiplap, all based on real projects and lessons learned over the years.

1. Classic White Shiplap Walls

White shiplap instantly makes a bathroom feel brighter and more spacious. It’s also a great canvas if you like changing accessories often. I’ve used this style in a narrow guest bath and paired it with vintage brass fixtures for warmth. Sometimes I plan it out with a visual layout tool first, to see how the boards balance with tile.

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2. Half-Height Shiplap

If you’re worried about shiplap overpowering the room, consider installing it halfway up the wall, with paint or wallpaper above. It adds character without making the space feel busy, and it’s perfect for those who want to experiment without committing top to bottom.

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3. Vertical Shiplap for Height

Turning your boards vertically can completely change the vibe. In a powder room with low ceilings, I used vertical shiplap to draw the eye upward. It’s a subtle illusion that makes a room feel taller—a trick I learned after one project went wrong with horizontal boards.

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4. Color-Washed Shiplap

Instead of painting solid colors, try a color wash that lets the wood grain peek through. Soft blues or grays can create a coastal spa feel. The key is sealing it well for bathroom humidity, something I always specify to contractors.

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5. Shiplap with Contrasting Tile

Mixing textures keeps a bathroom from feeling flat. I love pairing shiplap with hexagon floor tiles—the contrast between warm wood and cool tile catches the eye. Sometimes I map the combination digitally using a floor plan creator before implementation.

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6. Dark and Moody Shiplap

Everyone thinks shiplap has to be white, but deep navy or charcoal can make a small bathroom downright luxurious. I used this once in a bachelor apartment and paired it with matte black hardware—it was bold but so stylish.

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7. Shiplap Ceiling Feature

The ceiling often gets ignored, but adding shiplap overhead can bring instant coziness. In a windowless bath, I used whitewashed boards on the ceiling to reflect light and soften the atmosphere.

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8. Minimalist Modern Shiplap

Go for wider planks and tight seams to get a sleeker take on shiplap. This works beautifully in contemporary bathrooms where you want texture without farmhouse vibes.

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9. Shiplap in the Shower Alcove

Yes, you can use shiplap in the shower—if you choose the right water-resistant material or PVC. I once did this in a beach house renovation, and it gave the space a breezy, vacation feel. I planned the drainage and air flow carefully with a bathroom layout planner before final install.

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10. Two-Tone Shiplap

Split the wall horizontally and use two colors—say, white on top, moss green on bottom—for a grounded yet airy look. This works great in family bathrooms where you want some durability but still care about aesthetics.

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FAQ

Q: Can shiplap handle bathroom moisture?

Yes—if you use moisture-resistant materials and proper sealing. Always ventilate the space well.

Q: Can I DIY shiplap in my bathroom?

Absolutely. Just measure carefully, pre-seal boards, and use corrosion-resistant nails or screws.