5 Living Room Ideas with Shiplap: Practical, stylish shiplap strategies I’ve used to transform cramped living rooms into cozy showstoppers

I once had a client insist on shiplap behind every TV—floor to ceiling, ceiling to floor—because she thought it would make her tiny living room look like a beach cottage. I had to gently steer her toward balance, but that little panic moment taught me how shiplap can be wildly flexible. If you want to see a quick design mockup to test proportions before committing, I often start there to avoid a costly redo.design mockup

1. Classic Horizontal Shiplap — Calm and Timeless

I use horizontal shiplap when clients want that cozy, coastal vibe without being cheesy. Painted white or soft gray, it brightens walls and hides imperfect plaster, which is perfect for older homes. The downside is it can look generic if overused, so I recommend anchoring it with textured rugs or bold art to add personality.

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2. Vertical Shiplap or Board-and-Batten — Height Illusion

Vertical planks instantly make ceilings feel taller, a trick I rely on in low-ceiling living rooms. It pairs beautifully with narrow rooms and works as an accent wall behind a sofa or fireplace. Installing vertical shiplap can be slightly trickier at joints, but a thoughtful trim detail solves most gaps.

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3. Shiplap Ceiling — Warmth Above

Putting shiplap on the ceiling is one of my favorite small-studio moves: it wraps the room in texture without stealing wall real estate. It’s especially lovely painted a soft cream or left in whitewash for warmth. Do consider lighting placement early, because recessed lights and planks need coordination.

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4. Painted Ombre or Two-Tone Shiplap — Modern Twist

For clients who want modern flair, I’ve done two-tone shiplap—darker hues below and lighter above—to ground seating areas while keeping the room airy. An ombre fade up a wall can add drama without clutter. The only catch is prep work: color transitions demand clean, steady painting or staining, which raises labor a bit.

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5. Reclaimed Wood Shiplap with Built-ins — Rustic and Functional

Reclaimed shiplap brings instant depth and story; I once used it with built-in shelving to hide wires and create seamless storage. It’s fantastic for adding character but can be pricier and needs sealing if it’s untreated. If you’re unsure about scale, run a quick 3D walkthrough to preview how texture reads in different lights, or try mixing reclaimed planks with painted boards for a balanced look.

Bonus tip: pair shiplap with simple moldings and hidden storage to keep the look clean. For clients who want fast concept options, I sometimes feed their photos into a tool for AI design suggestions to explore several directions before the first demo board.AI design suggestions

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FAQ

1. Is shiplap suitable for modern living rooms?

I use shiplap in modern spaces by keeping lines clean and colors neutral; it works well as an accent rather than covering every wall. Combining it with sleek furniture prevents the look from feeling rustic-only.

2. Can shiplap be painted any color?

Yes—paint is the easiest way to update shiplap. Lighter hues open space while deep tones add coziness, but darker paint may show dust and need more maintenance.

3. Is shiplap expensive to install?

Costs vary by material and labor; painted pine is budget-friendly while reclaimed wood costs more. Expect higher labor for ceilings or complex cuts, but the visual payoff is often worth it.

4. How does shiplap hold up in humid rooms?

Shiplap must be properly primed and sealed in high-humidity areas to prevent warping and mold. This Old House recommends using moisture-resistant materials and proper ventilation (see This Old House, thisoldhouse.com).

5. Can I install shiplap myself?

Handy homeowners can install horizontal shiplap with a nail gun and level, but tricky cuts and ensuring even gaps can be time-consuming. I advise hiring a pro for ceilings or irregular walls to avoid frustration.

6. Does shiplap reduce noise?

Shiplap adds a small amount of acoustic dampening by introducing texture, but it’s not a substitute for dedicated soundproofing solutions. Combine with rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture for better results.

7. How do I style a shiplap accent wall?

Keep styling simple: one large piece of art or a floating shelf looks fresher than a gallery wall on shiplap. I often mount a slim media unit or plant shelf to add function without clutter.

8. What maintenance does shiplap need?

Painted shiplap needs occasional dusting and touch-up paint for scuffs; natural or reclaimed wood may need resealing every few years. Regular checks for gaps or swelling help you catch issues early.

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