So you keep scrolling past gorgeous shiplap kitchens and think, “Okay, but would this actually look good in my space?” Totally fair question. Shiplap can feel risky if you only know it from TV makeovers and perfectly staged photos.
Here’s the thing: shiplap backsplashes work in way more kitchens than people realize tiny galley spaces, dark rentals, modern new builds, all of it. With the right color, layout, and styling, shiplap can either whisper “soft texture” or yell “wow, this kitchen has character.” Ever wanted a simple change that makes your whole kitchen feel intentional instead of thrown together? That’s where these 15 kitchen shiplap backsplash ideas come in.
Think of this as your shortcut guide. You pick the vibe coastal, modern farmhouse, rustic, or clean and minimal and then just plug in the shiplap version that fits. By the end, you won’t just like shiplap; you’ll have at least three ideas you want to try ASAP.
Classic White Shiplap with Dark Cabinets
You know what never gets old? A crisp white shiplap backsplash paired with rich, dark wood cabinets. The contrast is chef’s kiss—it makes both elements pop without fighting for attention. I love this combo because it brings brightness to your workspace while the dark cabinets ground everything and hide those inevitable coffee stains.
The white shiplap bounces light around like nobody’s business, which is perfect if your kitchen doesn’t get tons of natural light. Plus, it gives you that timeless farmhouse feel without looking like you’re trying too hard. Trust me, this pairing works whether your style leans traditional or you’re more into modern minimalism.
Vertical Shiplap for Visual Height
Here’s a trick most people don’t think about: flipping your shiplap vertical instead of horizontal. It instantly makes your ceilings look taller, which is clutch if you’re working with a smaller kitchen. The vertical lines draw your eye upward, creating this illusion of space that horizontal planks just can’t match.
I tried this in my own kitchen, and holy moly, the difference was noticeable. My 8-foot ceilings suddenly felt way more spacious. FYI, this works especially well if you’ve got upper cabinets that don’t quite reach the ceiling—the vertical shiplap fills that awkward gap beautifully.
Painted Shiplap in Bold Colors
Who says shiplap has to be white? Break the rules a little 🙂 Painting your shiplap backsplash in sage green, navy blue, or even black can completely transform your kitchen’s personality. I’ve seen sage green shiplap paired with brass fixtures, and it’s giving major sophisticated-but-approachable vibes.
Bold colored shiplap makes a statement without overwhelming your space. The texture of the planks keeps things interesting even when you go monochromatic. Just make sure your color choice complements your countertops and cabinets—you want cohesion, not chaos.
Shiplap Combined with Subway Tiles
Can’t decide between shiplap and subway tile? Plot twist: use both. This combination creates serious visual interest by mixing textures and patterns. Typically, you’d use shiplap on the upper portion of your backsplash and subway tiles on the lower section near your countertops.
This pairing gives you the best of both worlds—the warmth and character of shiplap up top, with the easy-to-clean practicality of tile where you actually cook. The subway tiles handle grease splashes like a champ, while the shiplap adds that cozy architectural detail above. Smart, right?
Coastal Vibes with White Shiplap
Want your kitchen to feel like a beach house without actually living near water? White shiplap backsplash plus woven pendant lights equals instant coastal charm. Throw in some light wood floors and a white island, and you’ve basically transported yourself to the shore.
The shiplap creates that fresh, breezy atmosphere that coastal kitchens are known for. I’d recommend pairing it with blues and sandy neutrals in your decor to really commit to the theme. And honestly, who doesn’t want to feel like they’re on vacation while cooking dinner?
Rustic Shiplap with Open Shelving
Here’s where things get really good: shiplap backsplash paired with floating wooden shelves. The combination creates this layered, dimensional look that adds serious character to your kitchen. The shelves break up the shiplap lines while giving you practical storage for dishes, jars, or that collection of vintage cookbooks you definitely read :/
This setup works especially well in farmhouse or cottage-style kitchens. You can display your prettiest dishes and kitchen tools, turning functional storage into decor. Just remember—open shelving means everything’s on display, so maybe skip storing your mismatched Tupperware collection there.
Shiplap with Exposed Brick Elements
Mixing materials is where kitchen design gets interesting. Combining shiplap with exposed brick creates this beautiful rustic-meets-refined aesthetic. The smooth lines of the shiplap play nicely against the rough texture of brick, giving your kitchen tons of visual depth.
I’ve seen this done where the brick surrounds the range area while shiplap covers the rest of the backsplash. It creates a natural focal point around your stove and adds that old-world charm everyone’s after. Plus, brick is heat-resistant, so it’s actually practical near cooking surfaces. Win-win.
Gray Shiplap for Modern Farmhouse
White shiplap is great, but gray shiplap? That’s where modern farmhouse truly lives. A soft gray painted shiplap brings sophistication while keeping that cozy farmhouse feel. It’s less stark than white and hides imperfections better (because let’s be real, kitchens get messy).
Gray shiplap pairs beautifully with stainless steel appliances and creates a more contemporary vibe. It also works as a fantastic neutral backdrop that lets your countertops, cabinets, and decor shine. IMO, if you want farmhouse style with a grown-up twist, gray shiplap is your move.
Natural Wood Shiplap Backsplash
Why paint at all? Natural wood shiplap brings warmth and organic texture that painted versions just can’t match. The wood grain adds visual interest, and each plank has its own character. This works incredibly well in kitchens aiming for that lived-in, rustic cottage aesthetic.
Just seal it properly—kitchens mean moisture and grease, and you don’t want your beautiful wood backsplash getting damaged. When done right, natural wood shiplap creates an inviting, earthy atmosphere that makes your kitchen feel like the heart of your home. Plus, those wood tones pair gorgeously with copper cookware and accessories.
Shiplap Accent Wall Behind Open Shelves
Instead of doing your entire backsplash in shiplap, consider creating an accent wall behind floating shelves. This approach gives you the shiplap look without committing to it everywhere. The planks peek through your displayed items, adding texture and visual interest.
This works particularly well if you have a small kitchen where too much shiplap might feel overwhelming. You get the style points without sacrificing the openness of your space. Plus, it’s more budget-friendly if you’re DIYing—less material to buy and install.
Two-Tone Shiplap Design
Ever thought about using two different shiplap colors in your kitchen? Hear me out—a two-tone shiplap backsplash creates dimension and defines different zones in your kitchen. You might use white shiplap on most walls and a darker shade behind your cooking area.
This technique adds architectural interest without introducing completely different materials. It’s subtle enough to feel cohesive but distinct enough to create visual separation. I think it’s perfect for open-concept kitchens where you want to define the cooking zone from the eating area.
Shiplap with Industrial Elements
Mixing shiplap with industrial touches creates an unexpectedly cool aesthetic. Think black metal shelves mounted on white shiplap, or iron light fixtures hanging above a shiplap backsplash. The contrast between the cozy farmhouse texture and edgy industrial hardware is really striking.
Black countertops amp up this look even more. The dark surfaces make everything else pop while the industrial elements add that urban loft vibe. This combo proves shiplap isn’t just for country kitchens—it can totally work in more contemporary, industrial spaces too.
Shiplap in Small Spaces and Nooks
Got a coffee bar nook or wet bar area? Shiplap backsplash is perfect for these smaller spaces. It adds texture and interest without overwhelming a compact area. In a wet bar setup, shiplap creates a clean backdrop that lets your glassware and bottles become the focal point.
The horizontal lines of shiplap can actually make narrow spaces feel wider, which is helpful in tight spots. Plus, since you’re covering less square footage, it’s an affordable way to test out the shiplap trend before committing to your entire kitchen.
Whitewashed Shiplap for Subtle Texture
If full-on white feels too bright and natural wood feels too dark, whitewashing gives you the perfect in-between. This technique lets the wood grain show through a thin layer of white paint, creating soft, subtle texture. It’s less stark than solid white but brighter than bare wood.
Whitewashed shiplap brings a relaxed, beachy vibe that’s super forgiving. It hides imperfections well and works with pretty much any color scheme. This finish is great if you want the shiplap look but worry that solid white might show every little scuff and mark.
Shiplap with Vintage Lighting Fixtures
The backsplash is only part of the equation—your lighting makes or breaks the whole look. Pairing shiplap with vintage-style lights creates this cohesive, curated aesthetic. Think Edison bulbs, barn lights, or those cool cage pendants that look like they came from an old factory.
The clean lines of shiplap provide the perfect backdrop to showcase interesting light fixtures. Your lights become jewelry for your kitchen, and the shiplap keeps things from feeling too busy or cluttered. This combination works whether you’re going full farmhouse or mixing in some industrial edge.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
So Now before you rip down your current backsplash, let’s cover the practical stuff. Shiplap installation is pretty DIY-friendly if you’re handy, but there are considerations. You’ll want to seal your shiplap properly, especially near the sink and stove where moisture and grease are issues.
For maintenance, shiplap is surprisingly easy. A damp cloth handles most cleaning, though you might need degreaser near cooking areas. The grooves between planks can collect dust and grime, so a soft brush helps get in there. Honestly, it’s way easier to maintain than I expected—much simpler than cleaning grout lines in tile backsplashes.
If you’re painting your shiplap, use semi-gloss or satin finish paint. These finishes wipe clean easier than flat paint and hold up better in kitchen environments. And here’s a pro tip: apply a clear protective topcoat over painted shiplap in high-splash zones. Your future self will thank you.
That’s it There is 15 ways to rock a shiplap backsplash in your kitchen. Whether you go classic white farmhouse or mix it up with bold colors and industrial hardware, shiplap brings texture, character, and that lived-in charm everyone’s craving right now. The best part? It works with basically any style if you just adjust the colors and accessories around it.
Ready to grab some planks and transform your kitchen? Just remember: measure twice, cut once, and don’t stress about perfection. Those little imperfections actually add to the charm—that’s kind of the whole point of the farmhouse aesthetic anyway, right?