Shiplap has become a timeless design element, and when it comes to kitchen makeovers, it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy farmhouse vibe or a sleek modern aesthetic, a shiplap backsplash can transform your kitchen into a space that feels both stylish and functional. From classic white shiplap to bold painted designs, the versatility of this material allows you to create a look that’s uniquely yours. Over the years, I’ve seen how shiplap can elevate kitchens of all sizes and styles, and I’m excited to share some of the most inspiring ideas to help you bring your vision to life. Ready to explore 30 shiplap backsplash ideas that could redefine your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

1. White Shiplap Backsplash

A classic white shiplap backsplash brings a clean, fresh look to any kitchen. Its simple lines and bright color create a timeless aesthetic that pairs well with both modern and traditional styles. The white backdrop reflects light, making the kitchen feel larger and more open. Pair it with light-colored cabinetry for a coastal-inspired feel or contrast it with darker cabinets for a more contemporary look.
2. Reclaimed Wood Shiplap

For a rustic, farmhouse vibe, a reclaimed wood shiplap backsplash adds character and warmth to the kitchen. The weathered, uneven texture of the wood brings a unique charm that works well with neutral tones and natural materials. Whether left in its natural state or given a light finish, reclaimed wood offers a beautiful contrast to sleek countertops and stainless steel appliances.
3. Grey Shiplap Backsplash

Grey shiplap adds a modern twist to the traditional shiplap style. It’s a versatile color that works well in both contemporary and farmhouse kitchens. The subtle grey hue adds depth and sophistication without overpowering the space. Pair it with white or black cabinets for a striking contrast, or keep it neutral with matching grey tones throughout the kitchen.
4. Vertical Shiplap

Switch up the traditional horizontal shiplap by installing vertical planks as a backsplash. This unexpected direction elongates the walls, making the kitchen appear taller and more spacious. Vertical shiplap works well in both modern and rustic kitchens, offering a fresh take on a classic design element. Choose a light or neutral color to keep the look clean and bright.
5. Blue Shiplap Backsplash

A blue shiplap backsplash brings a pop of color while maintaining the cozy, coastal charm that shiplap offers. Soft pastel blues evoke a calming seaside atmosphere, while deeper blues add boldness and depth. Pair this with white cabinets and light wood accents for a beachy, breezy kitchen vibe.
6. Dark Shiplap Backsplash

For a bold and dramatic look, opt for dark shiplap. Deep charcoal, navy, or black planks create a striking contrast against light countertops and cabinetry. Dark shiplap can bring a modern, industrial edge to the kitchen while maintaining the warmth and texture that shiplap provides. Balance the dark tones with metallic accents or natural wood to soften the overall look.
7. Shiplap with Open Shelving

Pairing a shiplap backsplash with open shelving creates a beautiful display space in the kitchen. The shiplap adds texture and warmth to the wall, while the open shelves provide storage and allow for easy styling with dishes, plants, or decor. This combination works particularly well in farmhouse or coastal-style kitchens, offering both functionality and charm.
8. Shiplap with Marble Countertops

Combining shiplap with luxurious marble countertops offers a sophisticated balance of textures. The simplicity of shiplap contrasts beautifully with the veining and shine of marble, creating a stunning, upscale look. This pairing works especially well in neutral kitchens where both elements can shine without competing for attention.
9. Whitewashed Shiplap

Whitewashed shiplap adds a subtle, weathered look to the kitchen, offering a vintage, coastal feel. The slightly faded, soft tones evoke a sense of history and charm while still keeping the space light and airy. This look is perfect for creating a relaxed, lived-in kitchen that feels both cozy and stylish.
10. Shiplap with Subway Tiles

Mixing shiplap with classic subway tiles can create an interesting contrast of textures and lines. Use shiplap on the upper portion of the wall and subway tiles on the lower half for a layered effect. This pairing offers a blend of modern and traditional styles, giving your kitchen a fresh and dynamic look while keeping it simple and timeless.
11. Distressed Shiplap

For a more rustic look, distressed shiplap can add charm and character to your kitchen. The worn, weathered appearance gives the kitchen a farmhouse feel, perfect for those who love vintage-inspired designs. The distressed finish pairs beautifully with natural wood, metal accents, and antique-style fixtures, enhancing the overall cozy and inviting atmosphere.
12. Black Shiplap Backsplash

A black shiplap backsplash makes a bold, modern statement in the kitchen. The deep, rich color adds drama and contrast, especially when paired with lighter cabinetry and countertops. Black shiplap works well in contemporary or industrial-style kitchens, offering a sleek, edgy alternative to more traditional backsplash options.
13. Two-Toned Shiplap

For a creative twist, opt for a two-toned shiplap backsplash by painting the top and bottom planks different colors. This adds a playful element to the kitchen design and allows you to incorporate multiple colors into the space. Choose complementary colors like white and grey or more daring combinations like navy and green for a unique, personalized look.
14. Shiplap Behind a Range Hood

Installing shiplap behind a range hood creates a focal point in the kitchen. The natural texture of shiplap draws the eye to this central area, making it a standout feature. Whether left natural or painted, the shiplap adds a rustic or contemporary feel depending on the style of the kitchen. This look works well with both wood and metal range hoods.
15. Shiplap with Brass Fixtures

Pairing shiplap with brass fixtures brings a touch of luxury and warmth to the kitchen. The neutral tones of the shiplap provide the perfect backdrop for gleaming brass hardware, faucets, and light fixtures. This combination elevates the kitchen, blending rustic charm with elegant details for a sophisticated yet approachable space.
16. Painted Shiplap Backsplash

A painted shiplap backsplash allows for complete customization in color, letting you tailor the look to fit your kitchen’s design. Whether you choose a bold, bright color or a soft neutral, painted shiplap offers a simple way to introduce color and texture. This approach works well in both modern and traditional kitchens, offering flexibility and personalization.
17. Natural Wood Shiplap

Natural wood shiplap adds a warm, organic element to the kitchen. The wood’s rich tones and texture create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for farmhouse or rustic kitchen designs. Pairing natural wood shiplap with white or cream cabinets creates a beautiful contrast, while maintaining a warm, welcoming vibe.
18. Shiplap in a Galley Kitchen

In a narrow galley kitchen, shiplap can create the illusion of more space by adding texture and interest to the walls without cluttering the area. Horizontal shiplap helps visually widen the space, while vertical planks elongate the room, making it feel taller. Choose light, neutral colors to keep the space open and airy.
19. Shiplap Backsplash with a Farmhouse Sink

A shiplap backsplash perfectly complements the timeless look of a farmhouse sink. The combination of the two creates a cozy, rustic feel that’s perfect for a farmhouse or country-style kitchen. The clean lines of the shiplap balance the curves of the sink, offering a harmonious and inviting kitchen design.
20. Chevron Shiplap Backsplash

For a modern twist, arrange your shiplap planks in a chevron pattern to create a unique, eye-catching backsplash. The angled lines add movement and interest to the kitchen, making it a focal point. This geometric approach works well in contemporary kitchens, offering a fresh take on traditional shiplap designs.
21. Shiplap with Quartz Countertops

Pairing shiplap with quartz countertops creates a beautiful contrast between sleek and textured surfaces. The clean, polished finish of quartz complements the rustic charm of shiplap, resulting in a balanced and stylish kitchen design. This combination works particularly well in modern farmhouse kitchens where both elegance and comfort are key.
22. Shiplap in a Small Kitchen

In a smaller kitchen, shiplap can add character without overwhelming the space. Opt for lighter colors like white or grey to keep the room feeling open and airy. Shiplap’s linear design can help elongate the walls, making the space feel larger than it actually is, while adding a touch of style and texture.
23. Shiplap with Bold Cabinet Colors

If you love bold, colorful cabinetry, a neutral shiplap backsplash is the perfect way to balance the design. The subtle texture of the shiplap provides interest without competing with the vibrant hues of your cabinets. This combination allows you to embrace color while keeping the overall look cohesive and stylish.
24. Beadboard Shiplap Backsplash

For a more detailed and refined look, opt for beadboard shiplap. The additional grooves in the panels add an extra layer of texture and visual interest to the kitchen. This style works well in traditional or cottage-inspired kitchens, where it adds charm and a sense of history to the space.
25. Shiplap with Stainless Steel Appliances

Shiplap provides a warm, textured contrast to the sleekness of stainless steel appliances. Whether your kitchen has a modern or rustic style, the combination of these two materials adds depth and character. The organic feel of shiplap balances the industrial look of stainless steel, creating a harmonious and welcoming kitchen design.
26. Shiplap Backsplash with Floating Shelves

Shiplap paired with floating shelves adds both style and functionality to the kitchen. The shiplap backdrop enhances the clean lines of the shelves while providing texture and interest. This combination allows for easy styling with dishware, plants, or other kitchen essentials, giving the space a polished, curated feel.
27. Shiplap in a Modern Kitchen

Shiplap can be adapted to fit a sleek, modern kitchen design by opting for clean lines and minimalistic accents. Choose a smooth, painted
finish in a neutral color like white or grey to keep the look contemporary. Pair it with streamlined cabinets and modern fixtures to create a fresh, updated kitchen space.
28. Vertical and Horizontal Shiplap Combination

For a unique look, combine both vertical and horizontal shiplap in your backsplash design. This mix of directions adds visual interest and can help define different areas of the kitchen, such as the cooking and prep spaces. This approach works well in modern or transitional kitchens, adding texture without overwhelming the design.
29. Shiplap with Matte Finishes

Incorporating matte finishes in your kitchen alongside a shiplap backsplash creates a chic, understated look. Matte cabinets, fixtures, and hardware offer a sleek, contemporary vibe that contrasts beautifully with the texture of shiplap. This pairing feels modern and fresh, perfect for those who prefer a subtle, refined style.
30. Shiplap Backsplash with Colorful Tile Accents

Mix shiplap with colorful tile accents to add personality and flair to your kitchen. Use the shiplap as the primary backdrop, and add a row or two of bold tiles behind the stove or sink for a pop of color. This combination allows you to enjoy the timeless appeal of shiplap while incorporating vibrant, eye-catching details into your kitchen design.
Conclusion
A shiplap backsplash is more than just a design trend—it’s a way to infuse personality and charm into your kitchen. Whether you opt for the rustic appeal of reclaimed wood, the modern edge of a dark shiplap, or the timeless elegance of whitewashed panels, the possibilities are endless. Each of these 30 ideas offers a unique way to incorporate shiplap into your kitchen makeover, ensuring your space reflects your style and meets your needs. With so many creative options, your dream kitchen is just a shiplap backsplash away. Which idea will you choose to bring your vision to life?
Leave a Reply