10 Shiplap Bathroom Ideas: Transform Your Bathroom with 10 Creative Shiplap Design IdeasElena ChenJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Classic White for a Bright Retreat2. Horizontal Lines for Width3. Bold Color Accent Wall4. Mix with Marble5. Vertical Shiplap for Height6. Wrap the Tub Surround7. Two-Tone Shiplap8. Rustic Weathered Finish9. Minimalist Matte Black10. Shiplap Ceiling SurpriseFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEA few years ago, I had a client who swore that her dream bathroom should feel like “a seaside cottage where mermaids would hang out.” I laughed — and then somehow ended up installing shiplap on every wall. Turns out, that project changed how I think about small bathroom design: shiplap can be both charming and practical. Small spaces really do push us to think bigger. Today, I’m sharing 10 shiplap bathroom ideas from my years in residential design.1. Classic White for a Bright RetreatWhite shiplap reflects light beautifully, making a cramped bathroom feel open. I’ve used it in narrow powder rooms where tile would feel too heavy. Paired with warm wood accents, it’s timeless and airy. Tools like an online room planning mockup can help you visualize the space before lifting a hammer.save pin2. Horizontal Lines for WidthInstalling shiplap horizontally can trick the eye into thinking your walls are wider. I once did this in a windowless guest bath — it instantly felt less claustrophobic. Just be mindful: you’ll need precise measuring to avoid awkward gaps.save pin3. Bold Color Accent WallDeep navy or forest green shiplap can be the hero of your bathroom. It’s a great way to add mood without overwhelming the entire room. I love pairing it with brass fixtures for a cozy yet refined vibe.save pin4. Mix with MarbleI’m a sucker for a mixed-material look. Shiplap above a marble half-wall keeps the lower section splash-friendly while adding texture above. It’s the best of both worlds, though transitions need to be perfectly level to look high-end.save pin5. Vertical Shiplap for HeightWant your ceiling to look taller? Flip the boards. Vertical shiplap guides the eye upward, which worked wonders for a low-ceiling ensuite I revamped. It can be more time-consuming to install, but the visual payoff is huge.save pin6. Wrap the Tub SurroundThis is where shiplap gets fun. Wrapping it around a freestanding tub can create a focal point worthy of a magazine spread. I once used waterproof-treated boards for this — no mold issues yet. When planning, a digital bathroom layout draft can save you from costly mistakes.save pin7. Two-Tone ShiplapSplitting your wall color — darker on the bottom, lighter on top — adds depth without closing in the space. It’s budget-friendly too, since you can repaint only half when you want a refresh.save pin8. Rustic Weathered FinishI helped a couple in the countryside salvage old barn wood for bathroom shiplap. The result was pure character. Just seal it properly, unless you want your guests to leave with splinters.save pin9. Minimalist Matte BlackFor a modern twist, matte black shiplap against crisp white tiles makes a sleek statement. I’ve used this in city apartments where clients wanted “farmhouse meets industrial.” Visualizing the combination before buying materials is a lifesaver here.save pin10. Shiplap Ceiling SurpriseDon’t ignore the fifth wall! A shiplap ceiling can draw the eye up and add unexpected texture. In one remodel, this trick completely transformed an otherwise plain room.save pinFAQQ: Can shiplap work in a humid bathroom?A: Absolutely — just use moisture-resistant materials and proper sealing.Q: Is shiplap expensive?A: It can be affordable with MDF or pine, but costs rise with premium wood or finishes.Q: Can I DIY shiplap installation?A: Yes, with the right tools and patience. Always prep your walls and measure twice.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE