8 Kitchen Shiplap Backsplash Ideas

Published on Oct. 29, 2024

These shiplap backsplash ideas will inspire you to ditch the tile for this more affordable product.

Now Trending

Choosing the right backsplash for your kitchen is crucial. The backsplash not only protects your walls from cooking splashes, but is also a big contributing factor to the kitchen’s overall style. And while tile backsplashes can be stunning, don’t overlook an alternative material—like shiplap!

Shiplap is affordable, DIY-friendly, and aesthetically charming. We spoke to interior designer Magda Callery to guide you through these kitchen shiplap backsplash ideas; to find out when shiplap is the right way to go, and how to successfully execute this versatile wall paneling.

1 / 8

Classic Shiplap Backsplash
Courtesy @thewickercottage/Instagram

Classic Shiplap Backsplash

This classic shiplap backsplash from @thewickercottage is what most people imagine when thinking about shiplap. The white, horizontal shiplap has a rustic style that works perfectly with the farmhouse accessories in this cottage style kitchen. Bonus points for that cute peg rail!

What We Like About It: “Classic white shiplap is like the little black dress of kitchen design—clean, simple, and it goes with everything! Orientation matters, too—horizontal shiplap gives you a more traditional, homey feel,” says Callery.

2 / 8

Vertical Shiplap Backsplash
Courtesy @barndobuild/Instagram

Vertical Shiplap Backsplash

For a more modern take on shiplap, consider a vertical orientation. In this modern cottage style kitchen from @barndobuild, the vertical lines give the backsplash a sleek finish. The creamy white color provides a nice contrast to the black countertops and range hood.

What We Like About It: Although not as durable as tile, you can use shiplap behind the stove top as seen here, if you take the proper precautions. “With the right finish (i.e., moisture-resistant paint), it can hold up against the occasional spaghetti sauce splash or enthusiastic dishwashing session,” says Callery.

3 / 8

Sophisticated Shiplap Backsplash
Courtesy @englishoneighteen/Instagram

Sophisticated Shiplap Backsplash

Shiplap is traditionally a more casual farmhouse or cottage style material, but it can be sophisticated too. In this pantry from @englishoneighteen, the vertical shiplap feels elevated; giving the space texture without overpowering the design.

What We Like About It: By using a creamy beige color on both the cabinets and the shiplap, the room looks cohesive and luxurious; while the earthy accents and vintage-style dishware delivers the cozy factor.

4 / 8

Diy Shiplap Backsplash
Courtesy @crystelmontenegrohome/Instagram

DIY Shiplap Backsplash

Although you’d never guess it, the shiplap backsplash in this gorgeous kitchen by @crystelmontenegrohome was actually a DIY project! She recommends buying pre-primed shiplap; then painting each piece your chosen color prior to installation, using cabinet-grade paint. The color seen here is Accessible Beige by Sherwin Williams.

What We Like About It: This kitchen looks expensive, but shiplap is budget-friendly! “A shiplap backsplash can cost anywhere from $6 to $13 per square foot, making it a wallet-conscious alternative to high-end tile,” says Callery.

5 / 8
@simplymrsedwards Gave the kitchen a little refresh after the holidays ✨#diyhome #fixerupper #transitionaldecor #shiplap ♬ flower day – jeanie

Green Shiplap Backsplash

White shiplap is always a safe choice, but don’t be afraid of color! The backsplash is the perfect opportunity to have a little fun. The beautiful gray-green color (Meadow Sage by Sherwin Williams) of this kitchen shiplap by @simplymrsedwards adds dimension and makes the kitchen decor on the shelves stand out.

What We Like About It: Vertical shiplap installed all the way to ceiling draws the eye up and makes the ceilings feel taller.

6 / 8
@savannah_blythe transforming this blank wall in our kitchen — love how this project turned out✨🤍 #kitchenrenovation #diyrenovation #diyshiplap #shiplapwall #kitchenreno ♬ Build Me Up Buttercup – The Foundations

Shiplap Backsplash Accent Wall

Choosing just one kitchen wall for shiplap works as a great accent to the overall design. Watch as @savannah_blythe transforms a blank wall with shiplap, open shelving, and sconce lighting. Shiplap pairs well with open shelving because it adds another layer of texture without adding too much visual clutter.

What We Like About It: “Want to get really creative? Mix it up by using a shiplap on just a feature wall while keeping the rest of the kitchen sleek and simple,” says Callery.

7 / 8
@elaperona_ 🌿🥰 we used the underrated Bodarp Fronts from Ikea and created a panel wall which we painted in the same color 🎨 I absolutely love the vibe of the room, always feels like a little summer vacation 🌿 #kitchen #kitchendesign #ikea #ikeakitchen #bodarp #ikeabodarp #homedesign #interior #interiordesign #scandinavianinterior ♬ Città vuota – Mina

Matching Shiplap Backsplash

Matching the shiplap color to your cabinets, as seen here in this kitchen from @elaperona_, creates a bold and elegant look. The dark green color feels sophisticated, and makes the small kitchen more cohesive. A peg rail along the entire wall adds functional storage and a cute style element.

What We Like About It: “Darker shiplap can add visual texture without overpowering the sleek or edgy design,” says Callery.

8 / 8
@jsmwoodworksllc Kitchen transformation!!! Shiplap backplash painted with @sherwinwilliams Dockside Blue ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ #foryoupage #fyp #carpenter #carpentry #trending #diy #homerenovation #homeremodel ♬ MONACO – Bad Bunny

Blue Shiplap Backsplash

How stunning is this blue shiplap backsplash by @jsmwoodworksllc? The muted blue (Dockside Blue by Sherwin Williams) pairs nicely with the navy cabinets, creating an interesting color story that still looks sophisticated. Shades of blue are a nice choice for kitchens because the color is soothing and airy.

What We Like About It: Speaking of blue, “Shiplap in the kitchen is like the perfect pair of blue jeans—stylish, comfortable, and works with almost anything!” says Callery.

About the Expert

  • Magda Callery is an interior designer and founder of Style by Magda with over 15 years of experience. Magda offers both residential and commercial design, and is known for seamlessly blending timeless elegance with modern trends.