Introduction
A kitchen backsplash does much more than protect the wall from spills and splashes—it’s a key design element that sets the tone for the entire space. While tiles, stone, and glass remain popular choices, shiplap backsplashes have steadily risen as a favorite for homeowners who love warmth, texture, and character in their kitchen.
Shiplap, originally used as exterior siding in coastal homes, has found its way into modern interiors and become a hallmark of farmhouse style. But today, shiplap is not just rustic—it can be painted, stained, installed in unique patterns, or paired with other finishes to fit both traditional and contemporary kitchens.
In this guide, we’ll explore 27 creative shiplap backsplash ideas that will refresh your kitchen style. From classic white finishes to bold dark stains, from minimalist modern layouts to rustic reclaimed wood designs, these ideas will inspire you to think beyond tiles and embrace the timeless charm of shiplap.
1. Classic White Shiplap Backsplash
When people think of shiplap, the first image that comes to mind is often crisp, white planks. A classic white shiplap backsplash offers a fresh, airy backdrop that blends seamlessly with nearly any kitchen style—from farmhouse to coastal to modern minimalist.
The horizontal lines add subtle texture without overwhelming the space, making it versatile enough for both small and large kitchens. Pair it with butcher block countertops for a rustic look or with marble for a sophisticated touch. White shiplap also reflects natural light beautifully, making your kitchen appear larger and brighter.
2. Dark Shiplap for a Bold Statement
If you want to go beyond the safe zone of white, consider dark shiplap. Shades like charcoal, navy, or even black create a bold focal point that contrasts beautifully with light cabinetry and countertops.
Dark shiplap lends a dramatic, moody vibe that works well in industrial, modern, or even transitional kitchens. Pair it with brass or gold hardware for a luxurious touch, or with matte black finishes for a sleek, contemporary feel.
3. Weathered Gray Shiplap
For a cozy and rustic look, weathered gray shiplap is the perfect choice. The distressed finish gives your kitchen a lived-in feel, ideal for farmhouse or cottage-inspired interiors.
Weathered gray pairs well with natural wood accents, white cabinetry, and vintage lighting fixtures. It adds texture and character without overpowering the overall design, creating a kitchen that feels warm, inviting, and full of charm.
4. Vertical Shiplap Backsplash
While horizontal shiplap is the standard, vertical installation can create an entirely different effect. Vertical planks draw the eye upward, making ceilings appear taller and adding a modern twist to a traditional material.
This is a particularly good option for small kitchens or galley layouts, where maximizing the sense of height is crucial. Choose crisp white vertical planks for a clean look or darker shades for an edgier feel.
5. Two-Toned Shiplap Design
Why settle for one color when you can combine two? A two-toned shiplap backsplash introduces depth and visual interest to your kitchen.
You can experiment by painting the lower half of the backsplash in a dark shade and the upper half in a light color, or by alternating contrasting planks. This approach not only highlights the structure of the shiplap but also allows you to showcase your personal creativity.
6. Shiplap with Open Shelving
Pairing shiplap backsplashes with open shelving is both stylish and functional. The shiplap creates a textured backdrop, while the shelves give you a space to display dishes, cookbooks, or decorative items.
This look works well in kitchens where you want a balance of practicality and personality. To keep it cohesive, paint or stain the shelves in a finish that complements your shiplap color.
7. Shiplap Around the Range Hood
Instead of stopping at the backsplash line, extend the shiplap around your range hood for a seamless and integrated look. This design trick ties together the upper and lower portions of the kitchen, making the cooking zone a focal point.
Pair it with a statement hood in metal or wood for extra visual impact. This idea works equally well in farmhouse kitchens and sleek modern spaces.
8. Painted Shiplap Backsplash
Shiplap doesn’t have to stay neutral—paint it in any color you love. Whether you choose a bold jewel tone, a calming pastel, or a moody deep shade, painted shiplap allows you to personalize your kitchen backsplash.
For a farmhouse kitchen, try sage green or dusty blue. For a contemporary vibe, experiment with matte black or dramatic navy. Painted shiplap gives you the flexibility to refresh your kitchen style without replacing the planks entirely.
9. Shiplap with Subway Tiles
Mixing shiplap with subway tiles offers the best of both worlds—warmth and texture from wood, plus sleek durability from tiles. For example, you might frame your stove area with glossy subway tiles while running shiplap on the rest of the backsplash.
This layered design adds depth and contrast, making the backsplash more dynamic and interesting. It’s also a great way to balance rustic and modern influences.
10. Herringbone Shiplap Pattern
Instead of traditional straight planks, try arranging your shiplap in a herringbone pattern. The angled lines introduce a sense of movement and sophistication, turning the backsplash into a focal design element.
A herringbone shiplap backsplash works particularly well behind the stove or sink, where it can shine as a feature wall. Pair it with neutral cabinetry to let the pattern take center stage.
11. Stained Wood Shiplap
If you love natural wood, a stained shiplap backsplash showcases its rich tones and beautiful grain. Depending on the stain, you can achieve very different looks—light stains for Scandinavian-inspired kitchens, medium stains for rustic spaces, and dark stains for traditional or lodge-style kitchens.
Stained wood adds warmth and a timeless appeal, making your kitchen feel grounded and welcoming.
12. Reclaimed Wood Shiplap
Eco-conscious homeowners often prefer reclaimed wood shiplap. Each plank carries a history, with unique marks, textures, and tones that can’t be replicated.
Reclaimed wood pairs beautifully with stone countertops, farmhouse sinks, and vintage lighting. Not only does it add rustic charm, but it also promotes sustainability by reusing materials.
13. Mixed Width Shiplap
Uniform planks aren’t your only option—mixed width shiplap introduces variety and visual interest. Using boards of different widths creates a more casual, eclectic look.
This design works well in kitchens aiming for a cozy, handcrafted feel. It’s also a clever way to highlight the natural beauty of the wood and break away from overly uniform styles.
14. Shiplap with Metallic Accents
Give your shiplap backsplash a modern-industrial edge by incorporating metallic accents. Think visible screws, brackets, or even thin metallic strips between the planks.
This small detail creates contrast and elevates the look, especially when paired with stainless steel appliances or modern fixtures. It’s a subtle but impactful way to refresh a classic design.
15. Shiplap in Earthy Tones
Instead of white or gray, try painting your shiplap in earthy tones like taupe, clay, or olive green. These shades bring a sense of calm and connection to nature.
Earthy tones pair well with natural stone countertops, wooden cabinetry, and organic textures like rattan or linen. The result is a grounded, harmonious kitchen that feels warm and inviting.
16. Shiplap with Beadboard
Combine shiplap and beadboard for a layered, textured backsplash. The vertical grooves of beadboard complement the horizontal lines of shiplap, creating depth and visual rhythm.
This pairing works especially well in cottage or coastal kitchens, where charming details make all the difference. Consider painting them both the same color for a cohesive look or contrasting shades for added drama.
17. Shiplap with a Glossy Finish
A glossy finish on shiplap adds modern flair while also making the surface easier to clean. The reflective quality brightens the room, bouncing light around and making the kitchen feel larger.
Glossy finishes are great for contemporary or transitional kitchens where you want the warmth of shiplap but the sleekness of modern materials.
18. Chevron Shiplap Pattern
Like herringbone, the chevron pattern uses angled planks, but here they meet in precise points, forming continuous V-shapes. This design is bold and geometric, instantly drawing attention.
A chevron shiplap backsplash is ideal for those who want their kitchen to stand out. It pairs beautifully with minimal cabinetry, allowing the pattern to shine.
19. Shiplap with a Built-In Chalkboard
Add function and fun by incorporating a chalkboard panel into your shiplap backsplash. This feature is perfect for writing recipes, grocery lists, or inspirational quotes.
Families especially love this interactive element, as it gives children a space to doodle while adults cook. It’s a playful yet practical twist on traditional shiplap.
20. Wallpaper-Backed Shiplap
Layer your design by adding wallpaper behind shiplap panels. Cutouts or partial installations reveal pops of pattern and color through the wood planks.
This approach allows endless creativity, as you can match the wallpaper to seasonal trends or your personal style. It’s a great option for eclectic or artistic interiors.
21. Shiplap with Backlit Panels
For a modern, high-end look, install backlighting behind shiplap panels. The subtle glow highlights the texture of the wood while creating a cozy ambiance in the kitchen.
This idea works best on accent walls or behind floating shelves, where the lighting effect can be showcased without being overpowered.
22. Diagonal Shiplap Backsplash
Break away from tradition with a diagonal shiplap backsplash. The slanted lines add energy and movement, making your kitchen feel dynamic and stylish.
Diagonal installation works particularly well in modern or transitional kitchens, especially when paired with bold cabinetry colors.
23. Chalk-Painted Shiplap
Unlike traditional paint, chalk paint creates a matte, velvety finish on shiplap. You can even write directly on it, turning your backsplash into a creative surface.
This design idea suits farmhouse or rustic kitchens, where charm and functionality go hand-in-hand. The chalk-painted surface can be refreshed easily with a new coat whenever you want a change.
24. Shiplap with Contrasting Grout Lines
Emphasize the structure of your shiplap by using contrasting grout or caulk between planks. For example, white boards with black lines create a graphic, modern look.
This technique draws attention to the individual planks and gives the backsplash a more architectural, structured feel.
25. Shiplap Surrounding Windows
Finally, consider extending shiplap beyond the backsplash line to surround your kitchen windows. This creates a continuous, integrated design that frames outdoor views beautifully.
It’s a great way to bring cohesion to the space and highlight both the architecture and the surrounding landscape.
26. Half-Height Shiplap Backsplash
Instead of running shiplap all the way up the wall, consider a half-height installation that stops midway. This creates a charming wainscoting effect while still leaving space for painted walls, wallpaper, or open shelving above.
It’s an excellent way to add texture without overwhelming smaller kitchens. Pair half-height shiplap with patterned wallpaper or a bold paint color for a stylish contrast.
27. Shiplap with Marble Accents
For a luxurious twist, combine shiplap with marble accents. For instance, install shiplap across most of the backsplash but frame the stove or sink area with marble slabs.
This pairing strikes a balance between rustic charm and upscale elegance. The natural veining of marble contrasts beautifully with the clean lines of shiplap, making it a sophisticated option for transitional or modern farmhouse kitchens.
Conclusion
Incorporating shiplap into your kitchen backsplash is a simple yet powerful way to infuse character, warmth, and style into your home. Whether you prefer the clean look of white planks, the rustic charm of reclaimed wood, or the bold statement of dark hues and geometric patterns, shiplap offers endless versatility.
Unlike tiles, shiplap can be painted, stained, or arranged in unique layouts, giving you creative freedom to tailor it to your personality. It pairs effortlessly with other materials like subway tiles, stone, or metal, making it suitable for both traditional and modern spaces.
