10 Bathroom Shiplap Ideas I Swear By: Creative ways to add charm and texture to your bathroom walls

One time, a client asked me if we could cover their entire tiny bathroom in black shiplap… including the ceiling. I hesitated, imagining the space feeling like a submarine, but we tweaked it into something gorgeous — and much more breathable. That’s when I realized small bathrooms can push us to be more creative than we ever thought. In this post, I’m sharing 10 bathroom shiplap ideas I’ve actually tried (or seen work beautifully in real homes) that you can steal — whether your style is coastal, farmhouse, or totally modern.

1. Classic White Horizontal Boards

White horizontal shiplap instantly makes a bathroom feel larger and brighter. It’s the safest bet for small spaces, bouncing light around like a pro. The only downside? You’ll want to watch out for humidity build-up — good sealing is a must.

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2. Vertical Shiplap for Height

I’ve used vertical boards to give low-ceiling bathrooms a lofty feel. It draws the eye upward, and works especially well behind a vanity mirror for added drama — similar to how I’d map out accent walls with a detailed room plan mockup.

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3. Half-Wall Paneling

Installing shiplap halfway up the wall keeps the look airy but still textured. Above it, you can add paint, tile, or even wallpaper for a fun transition. Great for saving budget while still giving a tailored feel.

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4. Deep Navy for Bold Contrast

I once did a navy shiplap accent wall behind a freestanding tub — pure elegance. Dark colors add depth, but they’ll require better lighting to keep the room from feeling closed in.

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5. Rustic Reclaimed Wood

If you want instant warmth, reclaimed wooden shiplap will do it. I source boards from local salvage yards — they bring stories with their knots and weathered tones. Just be ready for a little extra prep to ensure they’re bathroom-ready and sealed against moisture.

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6. Diagonal Shiplap

Turning the boards on a diagonal creates movement and a modern edge. It’s more work to cut and fit, but incredibly impactful. I often plot these angles first in a precise floorplan tool so installation goes smoothly.

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7. Mix with Tile

Combining shiplap and tile in the same bathroom is magic — think shiplap walls with a tiled shower area. It gives you the best of texture and waterproofing without overcomplicating the style.

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8. Painted in Soft Pastels

For a vintage or cottage vibe, try mint, blush, or pale blue shiplap. I’ve seen it instantly soften harsh bathrooms, though be ready to refresh the paint every few years.

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9. Shiplap Ceiling

Don’t ignore the fifth wall. A shiplap ceiling can make even a plain white bathroom feel bespoke. Just make sure to plan ventilation carefully — I like to map vent placements like I would in a full bathroom design layout.

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10. Matte Black Drama

This one is for risk-takers. Black shiplap in a bathroom can look incredibly high-end, especially with warm brass or wood accents. Just be ready to balance it with mirrors and layered lighting.

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FAQ

Q: Is shiplap OK for humid bathrooms?

A: Yes, if you seal it properly and ensure good ventilation.

Q: Can I DIY shiplap in a weekend?

A: Absolutely, but prep and cutting angles can slow you down — plan for two days at least.