Shiplap walls have come a long way from their rustic origins, moving beyond the walls of farmhouses and seaside cottages to become a stylish staple in modern home design. Once seen primarily in old barns or coastal homes, shiplap is now a go-to for interior designers looking to add warmth, texture, and character to a space.
The beauty of a shiplap wall bedroom lies in its ability to transform a space with minimal effort. It doesn’t just serve as a backdrop; it creates a mood and sets the tone for the room.
Whether you prefer something bold or understated, shiplap has the ability to suit your style without overwhelming the space.
The appeal of shiplap comes from its natural texture and the depth it brings to a room. Flat, plain walls can sometimes feel uninspired, lacking that visual interest that makes a space feel complete.
Shiplap, with its horizontal (or sometimes vertical) lines, immediately adds structure and texture to a wall, making it the perfect choice for an accent feature. In a bedroom shiplap accent wall, the material can add dimension, while still maintaining a clean and polished appearance.
It creates an inviting and visually appealing environment that enhances the comfort and style of any bedroom. Shiplap’s versatility is another reason it’s gained so much popularity.
It works equally well in modern, minimalist spaces as it does in more relaxed, boho-chic or coastal-inspired rooms. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek and sophisticated look or a relaxed, laid-back vibe, shiplap fits right in.
It can be painted to match your desired color palette, from dark and moody tones in a master bedroom with shiplap to light, airy hues for a more open feel. The adaptability of shiplap means it can blend seamlessly into almost any design style, adding character without overpowering the rest of the decor.
What is Shiplap?
Shiplap refers to a type of wooden board used in construction, traditionally in exterior siding or interior walls. The name comes from the way the boards overlap, creating a distinctive groove between each one.
This overlapping design was originally used for functional purposes, helping to keep water out in coastal homes or barns. However, its practical nature has evolved into a widely recognized decorative element, especially in interior design.
In traditional homes, particularly in farmhouses and cottages along the coast, shiplap was a common feature due to its durability and practicality. These homes used shiplap not for aesthetic reasons, but because it kept out the elements.
Fast forward to today, and shiplap has become a stylish feature in its own right. It brings a touch of rustic charm to any room but can also be adapted to feel modern and clean, depending on how it’s used.
Modern designers have embraced shiplap for its versatility. What was once associated with barns and rustic settings has found its way into contemporary interiors.
Designers are now using shiplap to create accent walls, infusing spaces with character without overwhelming them. While the material still nods to its humble beginnings, it has been reimagined in fresh ways to suit modern tastes.
Whether used as a single accent wall or as part of an entire room’s design, shiplap adds warmth and depth, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary styles. When it comes to different types of shiplap, homeowners and designers have a variety of options.
Traditional wooden boards remain popular, but modern materials like MDF or PVC are also used, especially in spaces prone to moisture, like bathrooms. Shiplap can be left natural for a more rustic look or painted to blend into the room’s color palette.
From light neutrals to bold darks, the choice of finish dramatically impacts the final look. Painted shiplap creates a smooth, cohesive surface, while natural wood adds an organic feel, giving homeowners plenty of options when designing their perfect space.
The Power of a Shiplap Accent Wall in Bedroom Design
Why Use an Accent Wall?
A bedroom shiplap wall is one of the easiest ways to create a striking focal point without overwhelming the space. Accent walls have long been a designer trick for breaking up the monotony of plain, all-white walls, and shiplap takes this concept a step further by adding both texture and interest.
In a room dominated by smooth surfaces, the gentle ridges of shiplap offer an architectural element that draws the eye. But the beauty of a shiplap accent wall lies in its subtlety—it creates a focal point that doesn’t compete with the rest of the decor but enhances it.
Whether painted in a soft neutral or bold, dark tones, a bedroom shiplap accent wall offers instant character, creating a balanced and harmonious atmosphere.
Transformative Impact of Texture
What truly sets shiplap apart is the texture it introduces into the room. Unlike wallpaper or painted walls, shiplap brings depth and dimension with its horizontal lines, making the room feel layered without adding clutter.
In a small space, the lines can elongate the wall, making the room appear larger, while in a larger bedroom, it adds warmth and coziness. The texture is especially effective when paired with modern furniture, where the sleekness of the pieces contrasts with the subtle ridges of the shiplap, creating a sophisticated and well-balanced design.
This combination of texture and clean lines makes shiplap an ideal choice for anyone looking to refresh their space without completely remodeling.
Color Choices for Shiplap Walls
Bold, Dark Shiplap Walls
For those looking to create a dramatic impact, bold and dark shiplap walls are an excellent option. Deep tones like navy or emerald green introduce an intimate, sophisticated feel to the bedroom.
These rich colors work especially well in modern designs, where the contrast between the dark wall and lighter furniture makes each piece pop. The horizontal lines of the shiplap break up the intensity of the dark color, ensuring the wall feels dynamic rather than flat.
A dark accent wall in the bedroom can add depth, making the space feel grounded and cozy without being overpowering. When considering shiplap ideas for the bedroom, don’t shy away from darker shades, especially if you want to introduce a bold statement that feels both elegant and comfortable.
Light and Airy Shiplap
On the opposite end of the spectrum, lighter shiplap tones like soft blush or taupe are ideal for creating an open, airy feel in a bedroom. These colors are perfect for rooms with plenty of natural light, as they enhance the brightness and make the space feel even more expansive.
Light shiplap provides subtle texture that adds depth to the walls without distracting from other design elements. A white shiplap bedroom wall can achieve the same effect, offering a timeless, versatile backdrop that works with virtually any decor.
Whether you’re aiming for a coastal-inspired room or a minimalist retreat, light-colored shiplap can provide a soft, calming atmosphere while maintaining the architectural interest of the horizontal lines.
Earthy Tones
For those who prefer a more natural look, earthy tones like warm beige or sage green are excellent choices. These colors bring the outdoors in, creating a bedroom that feels grounded and connected to nature.
Earthy tones in shiplap are particularly effective in creating a peaceful, balanced environment. A bedroom shiplap wall in soft green or beige pairs beautifully with natural wood furniture, woven textures, and organic decor.
This choice works well in both traditional and contemporary settings, adding warmth and character to the room without overwhelming the senses. If you’re looking to create a restful, nature-inspired bedroom, earthy tones in shiplap are an ideal choice.
Pairing Shiplap with Different Interior Design Styles
Shiplap’s adaptability allows it to enhance a wide range of interior design styles, from modern farmhouse to minimalist and even mid-century modern. Its timeless appeal comes from the balance it strikes between texture and simplicity, making it the perfect element to tie together different aesthetics.
Let’s explore how shiplap fits seamlessly into a variety of design styles.
Modern Farmhouse
Shiplap’s roots are in traditional farmhouse architecture, but it has been reimagined for modern interiors. A shiplap in a master bedroom designed in the modern farmhouse style incorporates elements of rustic charm with contemporary upgrades.
White shiplap or taupe-colored boards paired with natural wood furniture create a warm, inviting space that still feels clean and updated. The use of earthy tones, woven textures, and rustic decor—such as macramé wall art—helps maintain the farmhouse aesthetic while avoiding an overly traditional look.
For example, a modern farmhouse bedroom might feature shiplap behind the bed in soft neutral tones, contrasted with natural wood furniture like oak nightstands or a distressed wood dresser. The simplicity of the shiplap wall combined with tactile elements like a cozy knit throw and layered bedding evokes the relaxed, welcoming vibe that defines this style.
Mid-Century Modern
Shiplap can also lend itself to a more retro, mid-century modern aesthetic, especially when used in darker shades. Dark green or teal shiplap pairs beautifully with sleek, minimalist furniture, such as walnut dressers or low-profile platform beds.
These rich colors add depth and a touch of drama while still maintaining the crisp, geometric lines typical of mid-century modern design. For instance, a dark green shiplap wall behind the bed can create a stunning focal point when paired with neutral-toned linens, bold accent pillows, and sculptural light fixtures.
The natural grain of the wood combined with the deep hue of the shiplap introduces a refined, retro vibe that feels both nostalgic and current. When considering shiplap wall ideas for the bedroom, the use of darker tones and minimalist furniture can bring a fresh, sophisticated twist to mid-century design.
Minimalist and Contemporary Bedrooms
In minimalist and contemporary settings, shiplap takes on a softer, more understated role. Instead of stealing the spotlight, light-colored shiplap (such as blush pink or pale grey) serves as a backdrop for clean-lined furniture and simple decor.
This design approach works especially well in bedrooms where the goal is to create a calming, peaceful environment. A minimalist bedroom with shiplap behind the bed often features neutral-toned bedding and carefully curated accents, allowing the texture of the shiplap to add interest without overpowering the space.
The soft tones enhance the room’s sense of simplicity and airiness, making the space feel more open and tranquil. By integrating subtle lighting fixtures and keeping decor to a minimum, the shiplap becomes a quiet but powerful feature that adds texture and warmth to an otherwise restrained design.
The Role of Lighting with Shiplap Walls
Lighting plays a key role in how shiplap walls are perceived, especially when used in a bedroom setting. Whether through ambient light or direct fixtures, the right lighting can bring out the best in the texture and color of the shiplap, further elevating the overall aesthetic of the room.
Pendant Lights and Sconces
One of the most effective ways to highlight shiplap’s texture is through the use of pendant lights or wall sconces. Mounted directly onto the shiplap, these lighting fixtures not only provide functional light but also enhance the natural grain and lines of the wood.
For example, brass sconces or modern pendants with exposed bulbs can cast soft, warm light across a dark shiplap wall, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. This technique works particularly well when the shiplap is painted in deeper tones, like navy or emerald green.
The light helps to soften the bold color and adds dimension to the wall, making the room feel intimate and comfortable. Sconces mounted on either side of the bed can also frame the shiplap accent wall, drawing attention to its texture while serving as a practical feature for reading or relaxing in bed.
Natural Light
Natural light is another crucial element that enhances the beauty of shiplap. Large windows or glass doors can brighten up a room with shiplap, especially when the wall is painted in darker tones.
The sunlight reflects off the horizontal lines of the shiplap, creating subtle shadows that add to the room’s depth and texture. In bedrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, the interplay between the natural light and the shiplap wall creates a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape.
In rooms with white shiplap walls, natural light amplifies the brightness, making the space feel open and airy. Lighter tones like soft blush or taupe also benefit from natural light, as the subtle shadows cast by the shiplap lines create a warm, welcoming glow.
The combination of shiplap and natural light ensures that the room feels both fresh and comfortable, whether you’re opting for dark, moody hues or soft, neutral tones.
Furniture Pairings for Shiplap Bedrooms
When incorporating shiplap into your bedroom design, the choice of furniture plays a crucial role in balancing the texture and visual weight that shiplap introduces. Whether you opt for dark, bold walls or light, airy tones, the right furniture can enhance the overall look, reinforcing the style while adding layers of interest.
Mid-Century Modern Pieces
For those aiming for a modern look with a nod to the past, mid-century modern furniture pairs beautifully with shiplap. A black shiplap accent wall bedroom, for example, can be complemented by clean-lined walnut dressers and floating shelves.
The rich tones of walnut contrast with the deep hue of the shiplap, providing warmth while maintaining the sleek, minimalist aesthetic that mid-century design is known for. Floating shelves, especially when made from the same wood as the dresser, not only provide functionality but also help to keep the room visually light.
They add a modern touch to the shiplap for bedroom walls, offering a practical solution for displaying books or decor without cluttering the space. The simplicity of mid-century modern pieces, with their straight lines and organic shapes, allows the shiplap to remain a focal point, while the wood elements tie the room together in a cohesive design.
Natural Wood Tones and Rustic Pieces
For a more natural or rustic vibe, pairing shiplap with furniture made from light oak or weathered wood can create a grounded, earthy feel. In a bedroom with white shiplap accent wall, for example, a light oak nightstand or weathered wood bed frame complements the soft, neutral tones of the wall, reinforcing a connection to nature.
The natural grain and texture of the wood pieces work harmoniously with the horizontal lines of the shiplap, enhancing the overall look of the room without overwhelming it. Rustic furniture, with its raw edges and natural finishes, adds warmth and character to a space, especially when set against the clean lines of a shiplap wall.
Whether you choose a simple wooden bed frame or a statement dresser, the balance of wood and shiplap creates a relaxed, inviting environment that feels timeless.
Upholstered Beds and Textured Bedding
When working with a bold shiplap wall, such as dark green or black, an upholstered headboard can provide softness and balance. Upholstered beds, particularly those in neutral tones like beige or light grey, act as a counterpoint to the texture and color of the shiplap.
The fabric introduces a tactile element that contrasts beautifully with the wood, adding depth without competing with the wall’s texture. To complete the look, neutral bedding works well with darker shiplap tones.
Simple linens in soft hues like cream, taupe, or white create a calming atmosphere, while adding depth through layering. The use of textured throws and plush pillows provides a cozy feel, helping to soften the overall look of the room.
By pairing an upholstered bed with a bold shiplap wall, you achieve a balance between comfort and style, making the bedroom both visually interesting and inviting.
Adding Decor and Personal Touches to Shiplap Walls
While shiplap brings character to any space, the way you accessorize it can take the design to the next level. Adding personal touches and decor allows you to further enhance the texture and mood of the room, creating a space that feels uniquely yours.
Artwork on Shiplap
Minimalist or abstract art pairs beautifully with shiplap walls, offering a clean, modern contrast to the texture of the wood. For example, in a black shiplap accent wall bedroom, black-framed artwork featuring simple, abstract designs creates a sharp, bold contrast that draws the eye.
The frames and artwork provide structure while still allowing the shiplap to remain the star of the room. This approach works well in minimalist settings, where each piece is carefully chosen to enhance the overall aesthetic without overwhelming it.
When working with lighter shiplap, such as white or pale blush, opting for soft-line art in neutral tones ensures that the decor complements rather than competes with the shiplap. The result is a clean, balanced look that feels cohesive and stylish, enhancing the texture of the shiplap without detracting from it.
Natural Elements
Incorporating natural elements into the decor is another effective way to complement shiplap walls. Items like woven baskets, macramé, or potted plants add texture and warmth, providing a contrast to the structured lines of the shiplap.
For instance, hanging a macramé piece above the bed in a room with white shiplap introduces a boho-chic touch, while maintaining the relaxed, organic feel of the space. Decorating with natural materials like ceramic vases or wooden sculptures further reinforces an earthy, grounded vibe.
Placing these items on a dresser or floating shelves can add personal flair to the room while also bringing in elements of nature. The key is to use soft, organic decor to balance the linear nature of the shiplap, creating a well-rounded and thoughtfully designed space.
By carefully choosing the right furniture and decor, you can elevate the look of any shiplap bedroom, whether you’re going for modern, rustic, or minimalist styles.
Flooring and Rugs: The Finishing Touches
When designing a bedroom with shiplap, choosing the right flooring and rugs is essential to achieve a balanced, cohesive look. Shiplap walls offer a strong visual presence, so selecting flooring and rugs that complement rather than compete with the wall design ensures a harmonious space.
Choosing the Right Flooring
Natural wood floors are a popular choice to pair with both light and dark shiplap walls. Wood floors, with their organic grain and warm tones, bring a grounded element to the room, mirroring the natural texture of the shiplap.
Whether the shiplap is a bold dark color or a soft neutral, wood flooring creates a seamless transition, tying the entire room together. In a bedroom with shiplap wall, matching or contrasting the wood tones in the floor with those in the furniture can further enhance the space’s cohesiveness.
For example, pairing a dark green shiplap wall with light oak floors creates a striking contrast that keeps the room feeling open and airy, while darker wood floors paired with light shiplap create a rich, sophisticated ambiance. Alternatively, in a farmhouse shiplap bedroom, reclaimed wood floors or weathered finishes can amplify the rustic charm.
The natural imperfections in the wood align perfectly with the relaxed, cozy feel of farmhouse style, complementing the shiplap walls with authenticity and character.
Textured Rugs
Rugs are an excellent way to add softness, warmth, and texture to a room dominated by wood and shiplap. In spaces with natural wood floors, a neutral-toned rug in earthy textures—like woven jute or plush wool—balances out the harder surfaces of the floor and walls, softening the overall look.
A well-chosen rug introduces visual warmth and makes the room feel cozier, creating a welcoming retreat. In a shiplap accent wall bedroom, layering rugs can also bring dimension to the space.
For instance, a textured area rug in a subtle pattern can add an extra layer of design without overwhelming the eye. The combination of a plush rug with natural flooring allows for a mix of tactile experiences that complement the structural lines of the shiplap and the sturdiness of the wood.
Case Study: Shiplap Walls in Different Bedroom Settings
Dark Shiplap for Dramatic Effect
A bold shiplap accent wall bedroom can create an instant statement, particularly when painted in deep, rich colors like dark green, navy, or charcoal. In a mid-century modern bedroom, pairing dark shiplap with sleek wooden furniture and brass accents results in a space that feels sophisticated and timeless.
The depth of the dark shiplap provides a moody backdrop, while the clean lines of mid-century furniture keep the room feeling polished and modern. The combination of brass sconces and minimalist decor against the dark wall adds a touch of elegance without detracting from the shiplap’s striking texture.
This setup proves that dark shiplap can be as versatile as lighter tones, especially when paired with the right furnishings.
Light Shiplap for a Calming Space
For those who prefer a brighter, airier feel, light shiplap is the ideal choice. A bedroom with shiplap wall in soft white or taupe creates a tranquil atmosphere, especially when paired with natural wood elements.
This design is perfect for coastal-inspired spaces or modern minimalism, where the goal is to keep the room open, breathable, and relaxing. In a coastal-style bedroom, light shiplap combined with rattan furniture and sheer linens enhances the breezy, seaside feel.
The shiplap’s texture adds just enough interest to keep the space from feeling stark while still allowing natural light to reflect off the walls. For a more minimalist take, the same light shiplap, paired with simple furniture and neutral-toned bedding, creates a clean and calming environment that’s perfect for unwinding.
Boho Chic with Earthy Shiplap
Shiplap also fits seamlessly into bohemian interiors, where natural elements and cozy textures are key. A boho-inspired bedroom featuring earthy-toned shiplap—such as beige or soft olive green—creates a warm, inviting backdrop for woven decor, macramé wall hangings, and eclectic furniture.
The neutral shiplap works as a foundation, allowing the layers of rugs, cushions, and natural materials to take center stage without clashing with the walls. For instance, a beige shiplap wall paired with a vintage-inspired bed frame, layered rugs, and hanging plants transforms the bedroom into a cozy boho retreat.
The subtle texture of the shiplap adds depth to the room without overpowering the decorative elements, making it the perfect backdrop for a relaxed, lived-in vibe.
Conclusion: Why Shiplap is the Perfect Bedroom Upgrade
Shiplap walls offer one of the most straightforward yet transformative ways to refresh your bedroom design. The beauty of shiplap lies in its incredible versatility—it works seamlessly across a range of styles, from modern minimalist to rustic farmhouse.
Whether you’re aiming for a cozy retreat with natural wood tones or a sleek, contemporary space with bold, dark walls, shiplap can easily adapt to your design vision. Its ability to add texture and depth to a room makes it an ideal choice for both subtle and statement looks.
With so many shiplap bedroom wall ideas to explore, it’s no wonder this trend has become a favorite among designers and homeowners alike. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, shiplap is a practical and cost-effective solution for anyone looking to upgrade their space.
Installing shiplap is relatively simple and doesn’t require extensive remodeling, making it an accessible option for a quick yet impactful transformation. From DIY enthusiasts to those hiring professionals, the ease of installation combined with the immediate visual upgrade means you can achieve a polished look without the hassle of more invasive renovations.
A bedroom wall with shiplap can be installed in a weekend but leave a lasting impression for years.
The beauty of shiplap is in its flexibility—you can experiment with different colors, finishes, and decor pairings to create a space that’s uniquely yours. Whether you’re drawn to the crisp, clean look of a white shiplap wall bedroom or prefer the warmth of natural wood, shiplap allows you to customize your bedroom in countless ways.
Don’t hesitate to try bold colors for an accent wall, or keep it neutral for a calming atmosphere. With so many possibilities, shiplap invites you to get creative and tailor your bedroom to suit your personal style, all while adding a touch of charm and sophistication.
