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Your Shiplap Is Outdated—Here's How to Freshen It Up

The modern farmhouse style, popularized in 2015 by Chip and Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper, brought shiplap into widespread home design. This aesthetic is characterized by a neutral palette, incorporating black, white, and natural wood textures, and clean lines reminiscent of traditional American farmhouses. Shiplap panels, known for the small gap between boards, add visual texture, commonly appearing in bright white. Alternatives like peel-and-stick shiplap wallpaper offer flexibility for various rooms, from mudrooms to kitchens. However, as home design evolves to include more color and character, the popularity of white shiplap has begun to decline. Instead of complete removal, there are expert-recommended methods to refresh these panels. Design experts agree that shiplap itself is not inherently problematic; rather, its excessive or singular use presents a challenge in contemporary home decorating. Ross Blackwood from The Wood Veneer Hub points out that a significant drawback of shiplap is its tendency to limit homeowners to a farmhouse or coastal aesthetic, making it difficult to transition styles over time. Joey Conicella, president of SOCO Interiors, suggests that while certain elements of modern farmhouse style, including shiplap, may not always be current, they can maintain a timeless quality if executed thoughtfully. Conicella emphasizes that removing shiplap walls is unnecessary; instead, updating them is key. Kelly Devlin of Details + Design and Layne Povey, principal designer at Lynden Lane Co., concur, viewing shiplap as a classic and enduring material. They assert that the impact of shiplap lies in how it is accessorized, styled, and painted. Povey advises that by refreshing accessories and art, shiplap can smoothly transition with changing trends. Refreshing existing shiplap can be achieved through paint and styling techniques. Conicella notes that the traditional white or cream of shiplap panels can make rooms appear dated. To modernize, consider using darker, earthier tones, moving towards a moodier aesthetic. If repainting the entire space is not desired, Devlin recommends updating other materials within the room, such as swapping old hardware for new and introducing textures like leather and woven fabrics to add sophistication. Povey suggests removing outdated signage or art and replacing rustic decor with classic art in gold frames. Creating a gallery wall can also divert attention from the shiplap itself, offering a refreshed look. For those considering new shiplap installations, Blackwood advises careful consideration of the finish, wood type, and color. Additionally, plank size is crucial for a modern appearance. He suggests opting for thinner planks instead of the traditional wider ones, as they complement styles such as Japandi, traditional Scandinavian, and mid-century modern, providing a minimalist and sophisticated touch. Furthermore, while shiplap is typically installed horizontally, vertical placement can make a room feel larger and more contemporary. #Shiplap #HomeDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #ModernFarmhouse #HomeDecorating #DesignTips #HomeRenovation #InteriorStyling #DecoratingAdvice #Shiplap #HomeDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #ModernFarmhouse #HomeDecorating #DesignTips #HomeRenovation #InteriorStyling #DecoratingAdvice

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