10 Shiplap Bathroom Ideas: Fresh Ways to Style a Shiplap Bathroom Like a Pro

One of my quirkiest projects ever started because a client told me, “I want my tiny bathroom to look like a cozy beach cabin but with a modern twist… and it must have shiplap.” At first, I thought shiplap in such a small, damp space was a recipe for trouble. But after sealing it properly and playing with colors, the result was stunning — and it reminded me that small bathrooms invite the biggest creativity. In this post, I’m sharing 10 shiplap bathroom ideas that have actually worked in my projects, so you can pick what fits your style.

1. Classic White Vertical Shiplap

Turning shiplap boards vertically can instantly make a low-ceiling bathroom feel taller. I’ve used it in a powder room makeover where we paired it with warm brass fixtures, creating a clean yet inviting vibe. The only hiccup? Every seam needs to be perfectly aligned, or you’ll notice it every time you walk in — trust me, my laser level has saved many walls.

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2. Matte Black Accent Wall

For clients who think shiplap is only for farmhouse styles, I like to surprise them with a matte black feature wall. Against crisp white tiles, it adds drama without overwhelming the space. The key is to balance it with lighter elements, like a floating vanity or open shelving, similar to techniques I’ve discussed in small bathroom layout planning.

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3. Half-Height Shiplap Wainscoting

This is a budget-friendly trick: just cover the bottom half of the wall with shiplap and leave the top painted. Not only does it use less material, but it’s also easier to protect from splashes. I once did this in a kids’ bathroom in ocean blue — it looked cute and was easy to repaint after the inevitable crayon art.

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4. Weathered Gray Finish

For a rustic but refined feel, I love using a weathered gray stain on shiplap. It pairs naturally with stone countertops and matte black taps. The challenge here is finding the right tone — too dark and it can make the room cave-like, which is why I sometimes pair it with a lighter ceiling.

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5. Painted in a Soft Pastel

Mint, blush, or pale sky blue shiplap can make a small bathroom feel light and cheerful. I once used blush pink for a bachelorette pad, and it had the charm of a boutique hotel. Just make sure to use moisture-resistant paint so you’re not repainting in a year, like I had to after an early experiment without primer.

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6. Chevron Pattern Shiplap

If you’re bored of the standard horizontal layout, chevron adds a subtle sense of movement. It’s more labor-intensive since every cut needs precision, but the payoff is that it becomes a real conversation starter — especially in a guest bathroom. This approach is perfect for those working from a detailed bathroom planning mockup before renovations.

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7. Ceiling-to-Floor Moody Tones

Deep navy or forest green shiplap from floor to ceiling creates a cocooning effect. I love adding brass sconces against these tones — they pop beautifully. The slight downside is that it can make small spaces darker, so add a big mirror to bounce light around.

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8. Mix with Tile Accents

Combining shiplap with patterned floor or wall tiles keeps the look fresh. In one spa-style remodel, we did half the wall in white shiplap and the shower in Moroccan tile. It created zones without needing separate rooms and looked straight out of a magazine.

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9. Skinny Plank Modern Shiplap

Using slimmer boards than the traditional 6-inch width gives shiplap a more modern, less rustic feel. Painted in crisp white and paired with minimalist fixtures, it works beautifully in contemporary condos. Plan ahead so all board joints line up at natural breaks like corners or under vanities, an approach I often map out using a bathroom design visualization.

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10. All-Over White with Natural Wood Accents

This is the safe bet that never fails: white shiplap walls with warm, natural wood vanities and shelving. It’s airy, timeless, and forgiving when you change accessories seasonally. Just watch out for over-sterility — I like to add plants or woven baskets for texture.

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FAQ

Q: Can I use shiplap in a shower area?

A: Not directly in the wet zone, unless it’s a faux shiplap tile or properly sealed PVC version.

Q: How do I protect shiplap in a bathroom?

A: Use moisture-resistant paint or sealant and ensure good ventilation.

Q: Is shiplap expensive to install?

A: It depends on material type — MDF is cheaper but less durable than solid wood or PVC boards.