Boost Small Bedroom Style with Shiplap Walls
Looking to add some rustic charm to a cramped bedroom while visually expanding the space? Get ready to fall head-over-heels for shiplap wall treatments! This on-trend look delivers texture, brightness, and cozy vibes perfect for making snug sleeping quarters stylishly inviting.
Read on for a full primer on maximizing shiplap's potential in small bedrooms of every shape and style.
What is Shiplap and Why Use It in Bedrooms?
Shiplap refers to wide, gently milled wooden planks installed horizontally to form a subtly uneven wall surface. The name comes from the lip created on each board, enabling them to nest tightly together.

While shiplap exudes old-world cottage charm, it works beautifully in bedrooms of varying aesthetics. The key reasons it's a fantastic small bedroom choice include:
- Adds natural texture and visual interest
- Brightens dark, narrow rooms
- Conceals less-than-pretty wall areas or storage spaces
Installing shiplap vertically rather than horizontally can make low-ceilinged rooms appear taller. A mixed layout combines directions for added dimension.
Nail Down the Design Plan
Doing some homework before hammer hits nail will ensure your shiplap project checks all the boxes. Here's an overview of key planning considerations:
Choose Material and Style
Pine or cedar offer budget-friendly options for an authentic reclaimed look. Oak and higher-end woods add modern refinement. Determine widths based on the vibe you want - wider boards for dramatic presence or narrow strips for cottage charm.
Select a Color Strategy
Bright white shiplap energizes small spaces with sunlight. Light blues or grays promote tranquility, while charcoal black makes a bold, cozy statement. Remember, vibrant dark or light paint colors can feel expansive.
Accentuate Architectural Details
Enhance visual flow with trim between walls and ceiling. For added depth, install color-contrasting boards perpendicular behind bed or include subtle backlighting.
Styling Tips for Small Shiplap Bedrooms
When working with limited square footage, leveraging shiplap for maximum style impact takes strategic decor decisions. We've outlined top small bedroom styling tips to inspire you!
Create Dimension and Cozy Atmosphere
Shiplap stained in darker, moodier hues instantly establishes an enveloping, cocoon-like mood. For extra snugness:
- Accent with pendant lights, plush bedding, and lumbar pillows
- Paint ceiling and trim same color as walls
- Add woven textures like chunky knits and faux fur
Use Neutral Shiplap as Art Backdrop
Crisp white or beige shiplap clears the stage for artwork attention. Inspiring approaches include:
- Salon-style gallery wall over bed
- Symmetry with two large framed prints
- Black and white photography for contrast
Layer in Natural Textures
Enhance shiplap's organic vibe with tactile linens, rattans, and ceramics. Specific ideas:
- Woven throw blankets at foot of bed
- Rattan bedside tables and storage trunks
- Textured vases, trays, and ceramics
Divide Space Visually with Mixed Orientations
Strategically switching up horizontal and vertical plank direction tricks the eye, making a small space appear larger. Clever plans include:
- Horizontal planks to widen, vertical to slim
- Contrasting colors meeting at corner "faux wall"
- Vertical behind bed, horizontal on adjacent accent wall
Small Shiplap Bedrooms: Design Ideas and Inspiration
Seeing shiplap dorm rooms, casita hideaways, and micro-apartment sleeping nooks visualized brings clever layouts and styling combinations to life! Here we showcase some favorite small bedroom makeovers featuring inspiring shiplap.
Breezy Bohemian Beach House Bedroom
Crisp white shiplap paired with rattan nightstands, woven textures, and salvaged wood creates a light and relaxed vibe in this coastal bedroom oasis. Punchy pillows and cerulean accents conjure beachy vibes.
Rustic Farmhouse Attic Retreat
Angled ceilings meet contrasting horizontal and vertical wood planks in this cozy, cottage-style sleeping space. Floral bedding, pendant lighting, and a tufted headboard lean feminine and romantic.
Moody Scandinavian-Inspired Hideaway
Dark, dramatic walls and bedding allows other elements to pop in this stylish, moody retreat. Macrame wall hangings, greenery, and natural woven textures balance the intensity.
Crisp white shiplap keeps this compact guest room/kids' bunk room bright and beachy. Coastal maps, model sailboats, and pops of red, white and blue carry the maritime theme home.