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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.

shiplap walls in bedroom

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:

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:

Use Neutral Shiplap as Art Backdrop

Crisp white or beige shiplap clears the stage for artwork attention. Inspiring approaches include:

Layer in Natural Textures

Enhance shiplap's organic vibe with tactile linens, rattans, and ceramics. Specific ideas:

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:

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.