Whether you’re aiming for a rustic-chic vibe, a breezy coastal feel, or a bold modern statement, a shiplap ceiling can completely transform a room’s character. Ready for some inspiration? Dive into these 10 stunning shiplap ceiling ideas that will have you looking up in awe.

1. The Classic Crisp White Farmhouse Ceiling

You can’t go wrong with the classics. A crisp white shiplap ceiling is timeless, bright, and incredibly versatile. It instantly makes any room feel larger, brighter, and more open by bouncing light around. This look is the cornerstone of modern farmhouse design but works beautifully in traditional, transitional, and even coastal homes, adding subtle texture without overwhelming the space.

2. Warm and Rustic Natural Wood Shiplap

For a cozier, more organic feel, embrace the natural beauty of wood. A natural wood shiplap ceiling, whether it’s pine, cedar, or reclaimed barn wood, infuses a space with warmth and rustic charm. It’s the perfect choice for creating a snug cabin-like retreat in a master bedroom, den, or a home with exposed beams.

3. Moody & Modern: The Bold Black Shiplap Ceiling

Ready to make a dramatic statement? A black or charcoal gray shiplap ceiling is a bold move that pays off in spades. Far from making a room feel small, a dark ceiling can create a sophisticated, intimate, and cozy atmosphere. It’s particularly effective in spaces with high ceilings or ample natural light, where it can define the area and add a touch of modern drama.

4. Breezy Coastal Charm with a Pop of Color

Capture the essence of a seaside retreat by painting your shiplap ceiling in a soft, coastal-inspired hue. A pale blue, like the sky on a clear day, or a gentle seafoam green can create a light, airy, and relaxing ambiance. This idea is perfect for sunrooms, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or covered porches to bring that vacation vibe home.

5. Intricate Artistry: The Herringbone Shiplap Ceiling

Elevate your shiplap from simple to show-stopping by installing it in a herringbone pattern. This intricate design adds a layer of custom craftsmanship and visual interest that feels both classic and contemporary. It acts as an architectural feature, drawing the eye upward and adding a sense of luxury and dynamic movement to the room.

6. Rustic Meets Refined: Shiplap with Exposed Beams

Combine two beloved architectural elements for a look that’s rich in character. Nestling crisp white or natural wood shiplap between rustic exposed beams creates a stunning contrast in both color and texture. This combination adds depth, dimension, and a powerful design statement perfect for great rooms with vaulted ceilings.

7. Subtly Rustic: The Whitewashed Shiplap Ceiling

If solid white feels too stark but you still want a light and bright feel, a whitewashed finish is the perfect compromise. Whitewashing, or ‘pickling,’ involves applying a thin layer of watered-down paint, which allows the natural wood grain and knots to show through. The result is a soft, subtly rustic, and beautifully textured ceiling with an aged, lived-in charm.

8. Sleek and Reflective: High-Gloss Shiplap

Add a touch of unexpected glamour by painting your shiplap ceiling with a high-gloss finish. This treatment works wonders in both white and bold colors, like navy or emerald green. The glossy surface reflects light beautifully, making the space feel more expansive and lending a sleek, polished, and contemporary edge to the traditional material.

9. Custom Character with Varying Plank Widths

Who says all shiplap planks have to be the same size? Create a truly custom look by installing a pattern of varying plank widths. Alternating between narrow and wide boards adds a unique rhythm and visual texture to the ceiling, breaking up the monotony and giving the room a bespoke, thoughtfully designed appearance.

10. Dynamic & Different: The Diagonal Shiplap Ceiling

Break from the horizontal and vertical norms by installing your shiplap planks on a diagonal. This simple shift in orientation has a major impact, creating a sense of movement and energy in the room. A diagonal installation can also be a clever design trick to make a small or narrow space feel wider and more expansive.