Is Shiplap Out Of Style? An Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

It’s one of those types of wooden boards that has a groove cut into the top and bottom edges, which is what makes the boards fit together tightly.

This design creates a characteristic horizontal seam between the boards, adding texture and interest to a wall or ceiling.

Shiplap has been around for centuries, with people originally using it in construction and maritime settings.

It wasn’t until recently that shiplap became a popular choice for interior design.

The farmhouse style, which incorporates rustic elements with modern touches, helped shiplap gain traction in the design world.

Home renovation shows like Fixer Upper and Property Brothers also played a role in making shiplap a household name.

Is Shiplap Out Of Style?

It’s one of those types of wooden boards that has a groove cut into the top and bottom edges.

And this is exactly what makes the boards fit together so tight.

This design creates a characteristic horizontal seam between the boards, adding texture and interest to a wall or ceiling.

Shiplap has been around for centuries. People first used it in construction and maritime settings.

So, it wasn’t until recently that shiplap became a popular choice for interior design.

The ‘farmhouse’ style, that is the mix of rustic elements with modern touches, helped shiplap become popular in the design world.

Home renovation shows like Fixer Upper also played a role in making it famous.

Criticisms About Shiplap

As someone who has seen shiplap’s become popular, I cannot ignore the criticisms about it.

While some still see shiplap as a stylish and versatile design choice, others argue that it’s become overused and outdated.

One criticism of shiplap is that it can make a space look too busy or cluttered.

Shiplap’s characteristic horizontal seams can create a lot of texture on a wall or ceiling.

In turn, this can be overwhelming if you don’t use it sparingly.

Moreover, some argue that the wood grain can be distracting or clash with other elements in a room.

Another issue with shiplap is the maintenance that comes with it. Because it’s made of wood, it can be prone to warping, cracking, and insect damage.

This can be costly and time-consuming to fix, especially when the shiplap is in hard-to-reach areas like high ceilings.

Arguments For Shiplap Remaining In Style

In contrast to the above criticisms, there are still valid arguments in favor of shiplap.

One major reason is the timeless aesthetic appeal that shiplap provides.

It has been around for centuries and people have been using it in many design styles.

Shiplap is a classic choice that gives a room a warm and inviting feel.

And that is one reason why its popularity has not waned despite recent trends.

Another reason for shiplap’s continued popularity is its versatility. You can paint it or leave it natural. Either way, its texture adds depth and interest to walls without being too busy or too much.

But shiplap is not limited to walls; you can use it on ceilings and even as a backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom. The design possibilities are endless, and shiplap can work in a variety of spaces and styles.

Furthermore, shiplap is a durable and long-lasting material. It can withstand wear and tear and is not likely to go out of style or become outdated quickly.

Unlike other design trends that come and go, shiplap has stood the test of time and will continue to do so.

Finally, shiplap is a popular choice for those who want to add character and charm to their home.

Whether it’s a modern farmhouse or a coastal cottage, shiplap can add a unique and personal touch to a space.

Not to mention that it can also be a great way to add value to a home, as it is a desirable feature for many homebuyers!

Shiplap Alternatives

Are you still looking for something different?

Luckily, there are plenty of shiplap alternatives to consider.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Board And Batten

Board and batten is a vertical siding option that has been around for centuries. It has alternating wide boards and narrow battens that create a simple, clean look.

While most people use it on the exterior of their home, board and batten is also a fine option for interior walls.

Moreover, you can also use it as an accent wall, or to cover an entire room for a cohesive look.

Beadboard

Beadboard is a classic paneling option that has been around since the 1800s. It has narrow, tongue-and-groove boards with a beaded edge that makes a space more elegant.

People use it in bathrooms and kitchens. But, you can also use it in living spaces or bedrooms for a cozy, cottage-like feel.

Plaster Walls

If you’re looking for a more modern and minimalistic alternative, plaster walls are it. Plaster walls are smooth and seamless and you can paint or left unpainted for a natural look.

Yet, plaster walls can be more expensive than other options. Still, though, they can add a sleek and sophisticated look to any space.

Stacked Stone

If you’re looking for a more rustic or natural look, stacked stone might be the alternative for you.

Stacked stone is made up of irregularly shaped stones that are stacked on top of each other to create a textured, natural look. You can use it as an accent wall or to cover an entire room for a cozy, cabin-like feel.

Concrete

Finally, if you’re looking for something unique, consider using concrete on your walls. You can use concrete in a variety of finishes, from smooth and polished to rough and textured.

You can paint it or leave it unpainted. But you can also create a sleek, industrial look or a warm, natural feel depending on how it’s used.