31 Shiplap Backsplash Ideas to Upgrade Your Kitchen

Are you looking to add character and charm to your kitchen without a complete renovation? A shiplap backsplash offers the perfect blend of rustic warmth and contemporary style.

This versatile wooden treatment, with its distinctive horizontal or vertical planks, has become a sought-after design element for kitchen renovation.

Perfect for farmhouse, coastal, or modern interiors, shiplap creates visual interest without overpowering your space.

Whether painted crisp white, left natural, or given a bold color treatment, shiplap backsplashes uplift your kitchen’s look.

This blog covers unique shiplap backsplash ideas, ranging from classic to creative.

1. Classic White Horizontal Shiplap

White horizontal shiplap creates a timeless farmhouse look that pairs beautifully with rustic accessories and wooden countertops for a cozy kitchen vibe.

Horizontal shiplap is the most traditional choice for backsplashes. It offers clean lines and a simple look that works well in kitchens with neutral or warm tones, blending seamlessly with farmhouse-inspired decor.

2. Vertical White Shiplap

Looking to mix things up? Vertical shiplap might just be the perfect choice for your kitchen. It creates the illusion of taller walls, which is great for making a space feel more open.

This design adds a modern twist while maintaining its rustic charm. For a bold contrast, try pairing it with black countertops or hardware.

3. Green Shiplap Accent

Green shiplap offers a bold yet quiet option for adding color to your kitchen. Shades like sage or olive can create a calm, earthy style that brings the outdoors in.

This idea is perfect for homeowners looking to break away from traditional white. Green tones bring an earthy feel that complements natural wood finishes and open shelving.

4. Shiplap Accent Wall

Change one wall into a shiplap feature for added texture. This works especially well behind open shelving or as a backdrop for lighting fixtures.

Accent walls create focal points in kitchens without overpowering the space. Pair shiplap with contrasting cabinetry or countertops to make the design stand out.

5. Two-Tone Shiplap

Combine two colors of shiplap, such as black and white, for a bold statement. This design adds graphic appeal to modern farmhouse kitchens.

Two-tone backsplashes work well in kitchens with minimalist decor. They add visual interest without cluttering the space. Use this idea to highlight specific areas like the stove or sink.

6. Natural Wood Shiplap

If you’re after a cozy vibe, unpainted wood shiplap is the way to go. It brings so much warmth and texture to an all-white kitchen, which is perfect for creating that simple yet welcoming feel.

It also pairs well with brass fixtures and stone countertops, creating a beautiful balance of rustic and modern. This design is perfect for smaller spaces, such as a butler’s pantry or even a tiny kitchen nook.

7. Black Shiplap

Black shiplap is a game-changer if you want to add drama to your kitchen. When paired with light-colored countertops and walls, it creates a striking contrast.

This look works great for modern or industrial-style kitchens, where boldness is appreciated. It’s also perfect for accent walls, especially behind open shelving or vintage appliances.

8. DIY Painted Shiplap

Paint your shiplap backsplash in custom colors for a personalized touch. This affordable DIY project can change your kitchen’s look instantly.

Choose bright colors like teal or coral to energize the space, or muted tones like taupe for understated the look. Painted shiplap is versatile and easy to update over time.

9. Shiplap + Floating Shelves

Shiplap and floating shelves are a match made in heaven! This combo looks better and provides extra storage space without compromising on style.

Wooden floating shelves add warmth, and the open shelving gives you a chance to display plants or your favorite cookware. It’s practical and pretty, all in one.

10. Quartz + Shiplap Combo

Mix quartz countertops with white shiplap walls for a modern farmhouse twist. Add a narrow stone edge between finishes for definition.

This combination blends durability with visual appeal, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens. The contrast between smooth stone and textured wood upgrades the visual interest.

11. Cottage Kitchen Shiplap

For that charming cottage vibe, combine dark wood flooring and ceilings with classic white shiplap walls. Throw in some vintage lighting or rustic wooden beams, and you’ve got yourself a cozy kitchen straight out of a storybook.

Cottage-style kitchens benefit from the simplicity of white shiplap paired with rustic elements like wooden beams or antique lighting fixtures.

12. Taupe Shiplap

Taupe-colored shiplap creates subtle look in kitchens with open shelving and brass accents. It complements dark stone countertops beautifully.

This design is perfect for homeowners seeking neutral tones without sacrificing style. Taupe adds depth while remaining versatile enough to match various decor styles.

13. Horizontal Off-White Shiplap

Off-white horizontal shiplap pairs nicely with stained wood countertops and crown molding details on ceilings.

This idea works well in kitchens aiming for understated visual while maintaining farmhouse charm. The off-white tone softens the overall look compared to stark white finishes.

14. Small Shiplap Backsplash

Mini beaded shiplap is a great way to add charm without taking over the space—especially in smaller spots like above the sink or under a window.

It brings just the right amount of texture and pairs effortlessly with things like quartz counters and classic shaker cabinets. It’s those little touches that make a big difference in compact kitchens.

15. Limewashed Ceiling + Shiplap Walls

There’s something effortlessly charming about limewashed ceilings meeting vertical shiplap. It’s a smart design choice for attic kitchens or awkward layouts where you want visual flow and character without adding clutter.

This idea suits spaces requiring smart design solutions, such as sloped roofs or irregular layouts, creating visual harmony throughout the room.

16. Navy Blue Shiplap

Navy blue shiplap adds a dramatic touch to modern kitchens that pairs well with white marble countertops and gold fixtures for a simple look.

This bold color choice is ideal for kitchens aiming to make a statement. Navy blue shiplap works beautifully with minimalist decor, creating a striking contrast that uplift the space.

17. Shiplap with Brick Accent

Combine shiplap with exposed brick for a rustic yet modern appeal. This design adds texture and visual interest to any kitchen.

Brick and shiplap create a harmonious blend of old and new, making it perfect for loft conversions or historic homes. Use this combination to highlight specific areas like the cooking zone.

18. LED Lighting Under Shiplap

Adding LED lights under your shiplap is a small move with big impact. It highlights the wood’s texture while setting the mood—great for kitchens that double as cozy hangout spots or tech-savvy spaces.

LED lighting is versatile and can be programmed to change colors, making it ideal for kitchens with smart home features. It uplifts the visual appeal of shiplap, especially in darker spaces.

19. Textured Wood Shiplap

Use textured wood shiplap to add warmth and depth to your kitchen. It pairs beautifully with natural stone countertops and earthy tones.

Textured wood shiplap is perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in farmhouse-style kitchens. It complements rustic decor elements like wooden beams or vintage appliances.

20. Shiplap with Metal Accents

Combine shiplap with metal accents like copper or stainless steel for a modern industrial look. This design adds a sleek touch to kitchens with exposed ductwork.

Metal accents introduce contrasting textures, enhancing the visual appeal of shiplap. This combination in kitchens with minimalist decor creates an industrial vibe.

21. Vertical Shiplap with Open Shelving

Pair vertical shiplap with open shelving for a modern farmhouse look. This design maximizes storage while maintaining visual appeal.

Vertical shiplap elongates the walls, making the kitchen feel taller. Open shelving adds functionality and allows for decorative displays, balancing form and function.

22. Beaded Shiplap Backsplash

There’s something timeless about beaded shiplap. With its delicate grooves, it brings a soft vintage charm to any kitchen setup.

Beaded shiplap is ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere that complements traditional decor elements like vintage lighting fixtures or antique hardware.

23. Shiplap with Glass Tile Accent

Combine shiplap with glass tile accents for a modern twist. This design adds a touch of grace and visual interest to any kitchen.

Glass tile accents reflect light, revealing the space’s brightness. Use this combination to highlight specific areas like the sink or stove.

24. Shiplap with Natural Stone

If you’re going for a high-end yet grounded look, shiplap and natural stone make a beautiful team. The wood adds warmth, while the stone keeps things sleek and solid. It’s a balance of rustic charm that suits almost any style.

Natural stone adds durability and visual appeal to kitchens. Shiplap complements the organic feel of stone, making it perfect for high-end designs.

25. Shiplap with Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood shiplap has character you just can’t fake. Every plank tells a story, and when used in the kitchen, it instantly adds soul to the space.

Reclaimed wood shiplap is ideal for farmhouse-style kitchens or historic renovations and complements rustic decor elements like exposed beams or vintage appliances.

26. Shiplap with Subway Tile

Mixing shiplap with classic subway tile is a no-fail combo. You get that clean, structured look from the tile and the cozy texture from the wood—best of both worlds.

Subway tile and shiplap create a harmonious blend of textures and styles. Use this combination to highlight specific areas like the cooking zone or sink.

27. Shiplap with Mosaic Accents

Mixing shiplap with mosaic tiles instantly brings color and character to your kitchen. If you go for glossy blues, metallics, or something earthy, mosaics add that bit of sparkle and personality.

They’re perfect for drawing attention to a stove backsplash or even a coffee nook. The texture play between the wood and tile really makes the space feel layered and custom.

28. Shiplap with Woven Lighting

There’s something special about the combo of woven light fixtures and shiplap walls—it just feels warm and homey. The natural textures from the lighting soften the crisp lines of shiplap and create a super relaxed, cozy vibe.

Woven lighting complements the rustic charm of shiplap, making it perfect for farmhouse-style kitchens, which creates a welcoming atmosphere and adds visual interest.

29. Shiplap with Industrial Lighting

Combine shiplap with industrial lighting fixtures for a modern industrial look. This design adds a sleek touch to kitchens with exposed ductwork.

Industrial lighting upgrades the visual appeal of shiplap by introducing contrasting textures. Use this combination in kitchens with minimalist decor to create a simple industrial vibe.

30. Shiplap with Natural Fiber Rugs

Bringing in a natural fiber rug, like jute or sisal, is such an easy way to warm up a kitchen with shiplap walls. These rugs add texture underfoot and complement the rustic charm of the wood.

Plus, they’re super practical—tough enough to handle busy kitchens while still looking stylish. Together, the natural textures make the space feel grounded and relaxed.

31. Shiplap with Living Green Walls

Adding a living green wall next to your shiplap feature totally change your kitchen into a fresh, eco-friendly retreat. The lush greenery breaks up the wood texture beautifully, offering a pop of life and color.

It’s perfect if you love a modern, wellness-inspired look. Bonus: herbs or small plants double as decor and dinner ingredients!

Wrapping it Up

Shiplap backsplashes offer a remarkable way to turn your kitchen with minimal effort and investment.

From classic white horizontal planks to colorful vertical arrangements, shiplap complements any kitchen style while adding textural interest and visual dimension.

This versatile material creates a focal point that draws the eye while providing practical wall protection. With proper sealing, your shiplap backsplash will remain beautiful for years to come.

Ready to bring this timeless material into your kitchen? Start planning your shiplap backsplash project today, and watch your space come alive with character and charm!