I love the charm a shiplap ceiling can bring to a living room. It’s an easy way to make your space feel cozy, inviting, and full of style.
Shiplap is one of those design trends that never seems to go out of style, and for good reason.
If you’ve been thinking about adding a shiplap ceiling to your home, you’re in the right place!
In this blog, I’ll share design ideas for a living room shiplap ceiling that anyone can try.
From simple white shiplap to darker, more dramatic colors, I’ll cover a variety of styles that can fit any living room.
I’ll also offer tips on how to install shiplap ceilings in your space.
Adding a shiplap ceiling doesn’t have to be complicated, and with these ideas, you’ll see how easy it can be to make a big impact.
What is Shiplap?
Shiplap is a type of wooden board traditionally used in construction.
The name “shiplap” comes from its use in shipbuilding, where it was used to seal ships. Today, it’s a popular design choice for both walls and ceilings in home decor.
The boards have a distinct groove along the edges that allows them to fit together neatly, creating a seamless look.
The texture of the shiplap gives spaces an added warmth and character, making it a great addition to a living room ceiling.
How Does Shiplap Work?
Shiplap works by interlocking the boards through a tongue-and-groove system.
The “groove” is the indentation on the edge of each board, and the “tongue” is the raised portion that fits into the groove of the next board.
This interlocking design helps keep the boards in place while allowing them to expand and contract slightly with changes in temperature and humidity.
The result is a solid, secure fit that gives your ceiling a clean, consistent appearance.
Some of My Favorite Shiplap Ceiling Design Ideas
1. Classic White Shiplap Ceiling
A white shiplap ceiling is a timeless choice.
It works well with any decor style and can make your living room feel fresh and bright.
It’s a great option if you have a lot of natural light or want to create a more airy, open feeling in your space.
White also makes a small living room feel bigger and more spacious.
2. Bold Black Shiplap Ceiling
If you’re looking to make a statement, a black shiplap ceiling is a bold option.
Dark colors can add drama and a sense of luxury to your living room.
Pair a black ceiling with lighter walls and furniture to create a striking contrast that feels modern and stylish.
3. Natural Wood Finish
If you love a more rustic or farmhouse look, consider a natural wood shiplap ceiling.
The rich, warm tones of the wood bring a cozy, earthy feel to the room.
This is a great option for a more traditional living room or a space with a lot of natural wood elements.
4. Grey Shiplap Ceiling
For a softer, more subtle look, a grey shiplap ceiling is a perfect choice.
It’s still neutral but with a modern twist. Grey pairs well with light and dark furniture, making it a versatile option for different living room styles.
It can give your space a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
5. Painted Shiplap in Soft Pastels
Pastel colors, like soft blues, pinks, or mint green, can make your living room feel cheerful and light.
A pastel-painted shiplap ceiling adds a fun, playful touch to your space. It’s perfect for a coastal or cottage-style room.
The soft hues create a peaceful, welcoming vibe.
6. Two-Tone Shiplap Ceiling
A two-tone shiplap ceiling adds visual interest without being too overwhelming.
You can choose two complementary colors, like white and grey or light blue and white, to create a balanced, dynamic look.
This is a great option if you want to add depth and dimension to your ceiling.
7. Shiplap with Wood Beams
If you want to enhance the rustic feel of your living room, adding exposed wooden beams to a shiplap ceiling can be a stunning design choice.
The combination of wood textures creates a warm, cozy atmosphere that is perfect for a farmhouse-style living room.
8. Shiplap Ceiling with LED Lighting
Shiplap ceilings can be complemented with lighting to create a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Consider adding LED strip lights along the edges or installing recessed lighting between the planks.
This adds a soft glow that makes the room feel warmer and more welcoming in the evening.
9. Shiplap with a Chevron Pattern
For something a little more unique, a chevron-patterned shiplap ceiling can make your living room stand out.
The sharp angles of the pattern create a striking, modern look.
You can choose light or dark wood for the chevron pattern, depending on the atmosphere you want to create.
10. Herringbone Shiplap Ceiling
Another pattern option is the herringbone design.
Herringbone adds a classic, elegant touch to your shiplap ceiling.
The V-shaped pattern can create movement and interest, making the ceiling feel like a piece of art. This works well in both traditional and modern living rooms.
11. Shiplap Ceiling with a Glossy Finish
If you want to give your shiplap ceiling a more polished, refined look, consider using a glossy finish.
The glossy surface reflects light, which can make your living room feel brighter and more spacious.
It also gives the room a sleek, modern touch.
12. Vertical Shiplap Ceiling
Instead of the typical horizontal shiplap, try installing the boards vertically.
This can make your ceiling feel taller, which is great for rooms with low ceilings.
Vertical shiplap creates a fresh, modern look and can also make the room feel more open.
13. Shiplap Ceiling with Built-in Shelves
Add extra storage to your living room by installing built-in shelves along the edges of your shiplap ceiling.
This is a clever way to make use of your vertical space while keeping the look clean and modern.
The shelves can hold books, decor items, or plants, giving the room extra charm and function.
14. Shiplap Ceiling with Accent Lighting
If you want to create a more dramatic effect, use accent lighting to highlight your shiplap ceiling.
You can install track lighting, spotlights, or pendant lights to cast shadows and add a touch of elegance.
This works especially well with darker shiplap ceilings.
15. Shiplap with Skylights
Bring more natural light into your living room by adding skylights to your shiplap ceiling.
Skylights can help make the room feel brighter and more connected to the outdoors. They also create a unique, open feel.
Pair skylights with a light-colored shiplap ceiling for a bright and airy living room.
16. Shiplap with a Rustic Finish
A rustic finish on your shiplap ceiling can give your living room a timeless, natural look.
You can choose a distressed wood or reclaimed wood finish for a more authentic, weathered feel.
This is perfect for a country cottage or rustic farmhouse-style living room.
17. Shiplap Ceiling with Colorful Accents
To add a fun pop of color to your living room, consider using colorful accents with your shiplap ceiling.
You can paint certain sections of the shiplap in a bright hue, like mustard yellow or navy blue, to create a playful and energetic atmosphere.
This adds a personal touch to your space.
18. Shiplap with a Matte Finish
If you prefer a more subtle, understated look, go for a matte finish on your shiplap ceiling.
This finish gives your living room a soft, muted feel, and it works especially well with neutral colors.
Matte finishes can make the room feel calm and peaceful.
19. Shiplap Ceiling with Textured Walls
Pair your shiplap ceiling with textured walls for a more layered, dynamic look.
You can mix shiplap with stone, brick, or even textured paint to create contrast and depth.
This works well in living rooms that have a lot of natural light, as the textures will reflect light in interesting ways.
20. Shiplap with a Weathered Look
If you want a beachy, coastal vibe, a weathered shiplap ceiling is a great choice.
The worn, faded finish looks like it’s been kissed by the sun and gives the room a relaxed, laid-back feel.
Pair it with light furniture and natural decor for a complete coastal-inspired look.
21. Shiplap Ceiling with a Pop of Metallic
For a more glamorous touch, consider adding metallic accents to your shiplap ceiling.
You can incorporate gold, silver, or copper strips along the edges or create a metallic highlight on a few planks.
This adds a touch of luxury to the rustic charm of shiplap.
How to Install a Shiplap Ceiling
Installing a shiplap ceiling is not as difficult as it may sound. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:
- Measure and Prepare the Ceiling: Start by measuring the size of your ceiling to determine how much shiplap you’ll need. Make sure the ceiling is clean and free of dust or debris.
- Cut the Boards: Cut the shiplap boards to fit your ceiling if needed. You can use a saw to make the cuts as precise as possible.
- Install the First Board: Begin by installing the first row of shiplap along one wall. Secure it using nails or screws.
- Continue Adding Boards: Work your way across the ceiling, making sure each board interlocks with the next. Use a level to keep everything aligned.
- Finish the Edges: Once all the boards are in place, trim the edges for a neat finish.
How Much Does It Cost to Shiplap a Ceiling?
The cost of installing a shiplap ceiling can vary depending on the material you choose and the size of the room.
On average, you can expect to pay between $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot for shiplap boards.
If you hire a professional to install it, the cost may increase to $5 to $10 per square foot.
Consider whether you want to do a DIY or hire a professional, as doing it yourself can save money on labor costs.
However, make sure you have the right tools and experience before taking on a DIY project.
How Long Does It Take to Shiplap a Ceiling?
The time it takes to install a shiplap ceiling depends on the size of the room and your experience level.
On average, it can take anywhere from 1 to 2 days for a small room and up to 3 or 4 days for larger spaces.
If you’re hiring a professional, the process may take less time since they have the necessary skills and tools.
Benefits of a Shiplap Ceiling
Shiplap ceilings offer many benefits, both in terms of design and function. Here are a few reasons why they might be the perfect choice for your living room:
- Adds texture: Shiplap gives your ceiling an interesting texture that can help break up plain or flat walls.
- Versatile: Shiplap works well in traditional and modern homes, making it a flexible design choice.
- Cozy ambiance: Wood’s natural warmth helps create a comfortable, inviting atmosphere, especially in living rooms where you want to relax and unwind.
- Increases home value: A well-done shiplap ceiling can boost your home’s value, giving it a stylish, modern upgrade that appeals to many buyers.
Conclusion
A shiplap ceiling is a simple yet stylish way to transform your living room.
With so many design ideas to choose from, you can easily find one that fits your style and space.
You can play around with different colors, patterns, and finishes to create a ceiling that fits your style perfectly.
Adding shiplap doesn’t just improve the look of your room, but it also makes the space feel warmer and more inviting.
If you prefer a subtle white finish, a bold black statement, or something in between, shiplap offers endless possibilities.
I hope these ideas inspire you to take your living room ceiling to the next level.
Have fun experimenting with different styles, and enjoy the cozy, welcoming atmosphere that a shiplap ceiling brings to your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a shiplap ceiling?
A shiplap ceiling can instantly enhance the look of your living room. It adds warmth, texture, and a rustic charm, making the room feel cozy and inviting. It’s a stylish way to update a plain ceiling.
Is the shiplap ceiling durable?
Shiplap ceilings are durable and last long with proper installation and care. Regular cleaning and sealing help maintain the wood’s condition.
How do I maintain a shiplap ceiling?
Simply dust or wipe down the wood regularly. Check for damage and reseal if necessary to keep it looking fresh.
What are the best colors for a shiplap ceiling?
Classic white is timeless, while bold colors like black create a statement. Natural wood tones or gray shades offer warmth without being overwhelming.
Can shiplap be used in modern homes?
Yes, shiplap fits well in modern homes with minimalist decor and neutral colors, giving a contemporary twist.
