The first time I painted shiplap grey instead of white, I worried it would make the room feel dull. It did the opposite.
The space felt calmer, warmer, and far more grown-up, like it finally had a personality beyond “farmhouse trend.” Grey shiplap has a way of softening a room while still adding texture and depth.
What makes grey shiplap so appealing is its versatility. It works in modern homes, cozy cottages, and even minimalist spaces without stealing attention from furniture or art.
Lighter greys keep things airy, while darker tones add drama without feeling heavy. So if white shiplap feels overdone, isn’t it time to let grey have its moment?
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1. Chevron Makes The Fireplace Feel Fresh
Image by amystormandco
Grey shiplap goes modern with a sharp chevron twist—proof that farmhouse textures can play in sleek spaces too. The tone-on-tone look keeps things cohesive, while the angled lines add just enough edge. Anchoring it all? That matte black herringbone firebox pulling double pattern duty. Skip the whitewash—this is shiplap with a grown-up agenda.
2. Gallery Wall Meets Grandma’s Hutch
Image by sweetriverdesigns
This matte grey shiplap wall sets the mood for a cozy, collected corner. Framed vintage art pops against the dark backdrop, while the ornate dresser softens the contrast with creamy tones and woven drawer fronts. Layered greenery and candlelight add texture without crowding the space. It’s cottagecore, but I made it curated.
3. Built-In Bench, But Make It Moody
Image by mydesigntouch
Shiplap goes dramatic in this dining nook, cloaked in a near-black tone that wraps the built-in bench and window wall. The oversized dome pendant plays into the mood, anchoring the soft-toned table below. Contrast comes courtesy of the mixed seating—black spindles on one side, upholstered comfort on the other. Who says farmhouse can’t flirt with modern noir?
4. Ceiling’s Got Main Character Energy
Image by ufpedge
Grey shiplap climbs off the walls and onto the ceiling in this bold move—framed perfectly by coffered beams for extra drama. It’s a rustic texture play that draws the eye up without overwhelming the room. Down below, neutral tones and classic shapes keep things grounded. Call it farmhouse elegance with a surprise overhead.
5. Corner Nook With Classic Charm
Image by sherwinwilliams
Vertical shiplap paneling gives this breakfast corner a tailored, old-school feel. The slim planks and soft neutral tone keep things light, even as the wood table adds warmth and history. A black pendant and spindle chairs ground the palette just enough. It’s the kind of spot that makes your morning coffee taste better.
6. Make Space For The Mixer
Image by farmhouse.charm
This corner kitchen nails the balance of polish and practicality. Soft grey cabinetry feels timeless, while glossy stacked subway tiles bounce light in all the right ways. Open wood shelves warm things up and keep the essentials within arm’s reach. Bonus: the tucked-in stand mixer station that proves every inch can be both pretty and purposeful.
7. Soft Blues, Even Softer Bedding
Image by jordanyeattshome
Vertical paneling in a muted blue-grey brings just enough color to this serene bedroom. The tone keeps the walls feeling fresh but not cold—perfect against those warm, creamy layers on the bed. Texture does the heavy lifting here, from the ribbed quilt to the boucle chair in the corner. Nothing shouts, everything soothes.
8. Shelfie Moment Meets Moody Wall
Image by decormonday
Grey shiplap gives this bedroom wall just the right amount of edge—sophisticated but not stuffy. The matte finish keeps things modern, while the horizontal lines add quiet movement behind the bed. Instead of art directly on the wall, a floating picture ledge softens the look and lets the frames casually lean. Bonus: no commitment gallery wall.
9. Velvet, Brass, And A Bold Backdrop
Image by nativehousephotography
Grey shiplap sets a moody stage here, but it’s the styling that steals the scene. Jewel-toned velvet pillows pop against the deep wall, pulling in warmth without dimming the drama. Brass accents and a sculptural gold vase add just enough glam to keep things elevated. Tip: when your wall’s this bold, let your textures do the talking.
10. Playroom Meets Coastal Cool
Image by ll.design.co
Vertical grey shiplap brings just enough structure to keep this kid-friendly nook feeling pulled together. The soft taupe undertone keeps things warm, not stark—a perfect backdrop for sky blues and nautical pennants. A potted fiddle leaf adds a splash of life (and height) without clutter. Proof that playful doesn’t have to mean chaotic.
11. Shiplap Frames The Fireplace Moment
Image by willowbloomhome
Grey shiplap above the mantel gives this fireplace just enough contrast without stealing the spotlight. The wide planks feel clean and intentional, letting the round mirror and mini village scene do the storytelling. Moody trim around the surround adds depth, while cozy textures pull the whole corner together. It’s polished, but still ready for hot cocoa season.
12. Fireplace Wall, But Make It Sleek
Image by clintspalding
A linear shiplap treatment around the fireplace adds subtle texture without stealing focus. In this tone-on-tone setup, it’s all about clean lines and quiet contrast—the perfect backdrop for modern furnishings and monochrome art. Matte finishes keep things soft, not sterile. It’s minimalism, warmed up just enough.
13. Mudroom, But Make It Moody Sage
Image by katehomedesignandfindsnash
Vertical paneling in a dusty sage brings a tailored calm to this hardworking mudroom. The matching built-ins and bench keep the palette cohesive, while the matte black door adds just enough contrast to ground the space. Gold hardware and patterned tile sneak in a little polish. It’s utility, dressed like a boutique hotel.
14. Farmhouse Flirt In Full Bloom
Image by notafarmhousetexas
Soft grey shiplap gives this bedroom just enough structure to balance all the ruffles and florals. The horizontal lines ground the romantic palette, keeping it sweet but not saccharine. Whitewashed furniture and tied-back curtains lean full farmhouse, while the oversized drum pendant adds a rustic twist. It’s like a love letter in room form.
15. Chevron Stripes, Meet Coastal Calm
Image by robbin_stubbert_photographer
Pale grey shiplap sets a breezy tone in this sun-drenched bedroom. The soft hue plays nicely with natural light, letting bold zigzag pillows and black metal accents take center stage. A woven chandelier adds just enough texture to keep things beachy, not basic. It’s modern cottage vibes, minus the seashells.
16. Look Up: Spa Feels, Cabin Mood
Image by ufpedge
Look Up: Spa Feels, Cabin Mood
A wood-look shiplap ceiling gives this sleek bathroom an unexpected dose of warmth. It draws the eye upward and balances the crisp whites and marble with a hint of rustic texture. The visual thread continues into the bedroom, tying both spaces together without feeling matchy. Who knew serenity could come from above?
17. Pantry’s Dressed For Drama
Image by realsestatenantucket
Matte charcoal shiplap gives this pantry-meets-laundry zone a surprisingly elegant edge. Paired with marble counters and brass hardware, it feels more like a tucked-away cocktail bar than utility space. That bold mustard jacket? A style moment in disguise. Proof that moody walls belong beyond the living room.
18. A Nursery That Doesn’t Play It Safe
Image by duncan_downhome
A deep charcoal shiplap wall gives this baby’s room a bold, grown-up edge—proof that nurseries don’t have to be pastel palaces. The crisp white crib and dresser pop against the moody backdrop, keeping the palette clean and graphic. Minimal decor and a sleek ceiling fan dial up the modern vibe. It’s baby’s first lesson in good design.
19. Cabin Wall Goes Gallery Mode
Image by pretty.little.interior
Charred wood shiplap brings rustic drama, setting a moody tone that’s more artful than outdoorsy. The wall’s inky texture makes every frame pop, especially the nature-themed prints that echo the palette without blending in. Earthy accents like the worn milk jug and olive branches keep it grounded. Feels like a modern lodge that reads Kinfolk on weekends.
20. Half-Wall, Full Impact
Image by tickle_interiors
This two-tone bathroom nails balance with soft grey shiplap wrapping just the lower half. It breaks up the white walls without crowding the space, giving the room subtle texture and polish. Pale wood cabinetry adds warmth, while chrome accents keep it crisp. Classic, calm, and quietly clever.
21. Fireplace Gets A Soft Industrial Twist
Image by jennreda
Olive-toned vertical shiplap adds calm contrast behind the rough concrete fireplace, softening the industrial edge with a touch of polish. The simple basket-as-art moment keeps things casual, while layered neutrals and natural wood tones pull the room together. It’s a mix of grit and grace—without trying too hard.
22. Where Laundry Looks Effortlessly Fresh
Image by brookewagnerdesign
Soft grey shiplap walls keep this utility space feeling bright but not bland. Paired with classic white cabinetry and patterned tile underfoot, the room reads crisp and collected. A bold Roman shade adds a hit of personality without overpowering the calm. It’s laundry day, leveled up.
23. Tidy Bench, Hidden Storage Win
Image by glucksteinhome
Vertical shiplap keeps this mudroom nook feeling crisp and classic—just enough texture to make all that white cabinetry feel warm, not sterile. Built-ins maximize every inch, from under-bench drawers to labeled bins up top. A mirror adds depth and bounce, while the striped pillow and straw hat bring just the right amount of personality. Quietly organized, but never boring.
24. Chevron Door Steals The Scene
Image by barndoor.hardware
This sliding barn door doesn’t just separate rooms—it shows off. The chevron pattern adds movement and bold geometry, breaking up the horizontal shiplap on the adjacent wall without clashing. Matte black hardware gives it that modern edge, while the muted blue-grey hue keeps it calm. A functional piece turned full-on focal point.
25. Sage Shelves, Styled To The Max
Image by homeonharbor
Built-ins and beadboard get a fresh update in this soft sage hue, adding instant calm and character to the workspace. The vertical paneling behind the desk subtly contrasts the grid of shelves, keeping the eye moving without overwhelming the scene. Warm wood, blush ceramics, and a globe or two make it feel layered and lived-in. Cozy, curated, and Zoom-ready.
FAQ’s About Grey Shiplap
Q: What is grey shiplap and why is it popular?
A: Grey shiplap is a wall treatment made of horizontal wooden planks painted or stained in shades of grey. It is popular because it adds texture and depth while still feeling neutral and modern. Grey works well with many design styles, including farmhouse, coastal, modern, and rustic interiors.
Q: Where can grey shiplap be used in a home?
A: Grey shiplap can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, entryways, and even kitchens. It works especially well as an accent wall or behind beds, sofas, and fireplaces. In bathrooms, moisture-resistant materials should be used to prevent warping.
Q: What shades of grey work best for shiplap?
A: Light grey shades create an airy and clean look, making small spaces feel larger. Medium greys add warmth and contrast without overpowering the room. Dark grey shiplap makes a bold statement and works best in well-lit spaces or as a feature wall.
Q: Is grey shiplap suitable for modern interiors?
A: Yes, grey shiplap fits well in modern spaces when paired with clean lines and minimal décor. Choosing a smooth finish and subtle grey tone helps avoid a rustic look. It pairs nicely with black accents, metal fixtures, and neutral furnishings.
Q: How do you maintain and clean grey shiplap walls?
A: Grey shiplap is easy to maintain with regular dusting or light vacuuming along the grooves. For painted shiplap, a damp cloth with mild soap can remove marks or stains. Avoid excess water, especially on wood-based shiplap, to prevent damage over time.
