Bright White Shiplap Kitchen Backsplashes

White shiplap backsplashes are a charming addition to any kitchen. The rustic, textured look of overlapping wood planks creates vintage farmhouse style. Bright white shiplap reflects light beautifully, making small kitchens appear more open and airy.

Discover how to design, install, and style white shiplap backsplashes to complement your cabinets, counters, and decor.

The Benefits of a White Shiplap Backsplash

What makes white shiplap backsplashes so popular in today's kitchens? Here are some of the top reasons homeowners are embracing this trend:

• Rustic Charm: Interlocking wood planks with slightly uneven edges create old-world rustic charm.
• Reflects Light: The high-contrast white bounces light around, making kitchens feel open and airy.
• Easy Maintenance: An all-white palette is easy to keep clean compared to tile backsplashes.
• Budget-Friendly: Wood planks are an affordable alternative to higher-end metal or stone backsplashes.

Beyond the practical perks, a white shiplap backsplash infuses vintage personality into modern and transitional kitchen spaces.

The Difference Between Shiplap and Tongue and Groove

While shiplap and tongue and groove planks may look similar at first glance, they have distinct defines differences:

• Planks slightly overlap to create subtle shadow lines
• Gaps are visible between each board
• Farmhouse aesthetic

• Edges interlock for a flush fit
• No visible gaps between planks
• Cottage-style look

The Origins of Shiplap

Traditionally, shiplap siding was used to line the interior hulls of wooden ships. The purpose? Prevent water from seeping in at the seams. Today's kitchen shiplap carries on that rustic, utilitarian look in a stylish way.

Design Considerations for White Shiplap Backsplashes

The design options are endless with white shiplap backsplashes. Mix and match elements until you discover your perfect look:

Choosing White Paint Colors

Stick with bright or warm whites to keep the space feeling fresh and inviting:

• Bright White: Crisp and clean like white Subway tile backsplashes.
• Warm White: Softer tone with a hint of cream or greige.

Shiplap Board Orientation

Beyond basic horizontal planks, get creative with orientation:

• Vertical: Draws the eyes up to create height.
• Herringbone: Angled planks add visual interest.
• Geometric: Combine horizontal and vertical blocks.

Accent Colors

While white shiplap is the star, add pops of color for extra personality:

• Black: Black window frames, hardware, or shelves make white pop.
• Wood Tones: Warm wood counters, floors and buttery stools.
• Green Plants: Lush green foliage complements crisp whites.

Installing a DIY Shiplap Backsplash

Installing shiplap requires careful planning and precision, but is completely achievable as a DIY project. Here's an overview of the process:

Step 1: Gather Materials

You'll need:

• 3/4" x 6" pine shiplap boards
• Finish nails
• White paint + primer
• Painter's tape
• Stud finder
• Level

Step 2: Prepare the Walls

To ensure even installation:

• Mark stud locations with painter's tape
• Fill any holes or imperfections with spackle
• Sand until smooth and remove debris

Step 3: Measure, Cut & Install Shiplap Boards

Carefully measure and cut boards to fit your layout. Nail planks directly to wall studs for most secure attachment. Overlap boards and nail into place until the wall is fully covered.

Step 4: Caulk & Paint

Apply painter's caulk between each plank to seal gaps before painting with white primer and paint. Apply 2-3 thin coats for best coverage and durability.

Styling Tips for White Shiplap Backsplashes

Once installation is complete, have fun accessorizing your new white shiplap focal point:

Woven Baskets for Storage

Attach woven baskets right to the shiplap for pretty and functional open storage. Mini versions work nicely for utensil corralling.

S-Hooks for Towels and Utensils

Look for black iron S-hooks to match modern or industrial spaces. Vintage brass offers a fitting match for traditional decor.

Hanging Potted Plants

Strategically hung greenery boosts the welcoming appeal. Choose low-maintenance varieties like succulents or spider plants.

Caring for a White Shiplap Backsplash

With extra attention and care, your charming new white shiplap backsplash will maintain its freshly painted appeal for years to come:

Quick Touch-Ups

Keep white paint on hand for instant touch-ups when nicks or dings occur.

Gently Dust

Use a soft microfiber cloth to lift dust from crevices without scratching.

Deep Clean Annually

Once per year, clean thoroughly with a white vinegar and water solution to remove grime buildup.

Protect from Splashes

Add a clear acrylic shield behind cooktops to prevent staining and need for frequent repainting.

Shiplap Backsplash Ideas by Kitchen Style

While white shiplap backsplashes pair beautifully with multiple design aesthetics, some styles make an especially dynamic statement:

Modern Kitchens

The reclaimed wood texture elegantly contrasts sleek marble-look Quartz countertops and stainless steel in contemporary spaces.

Farmhouse Kitchens

No farmhouse kitchen is complete without a hefty dose of wood elements. Shiplap backsplashes complement butcher block islands perfectly.

Transitional Kitchens

Marrying modern and traditional, transitional kitchens artfully balance metal finishes, crisp cabinetry and aged wood accents.

Mixing Shiplap with Other Materials

Go beyond ordinary with creative mixes of white shiplap and eye-catching textures:

Shiplap + Brick

Aged red brick behind a stove nods to urban firehouses and industrial spaces.

Shiplap + Marble

Crisp white shiplap plays beautifully against the depth and elegance of marble's grey veins.

Shiplap + Black Tiles

For serious drama, contrast matte black subway tiles with glowing white reclaimed planks.

Adding Color to Shiplap Backsplashes

Ready for something beyond basic white? Incorporate soft hues or go bold with vivid backsplashes:

Pastel Shiplap

Low-contrast pastels like powder blue or blush pink impart airy charm.

Navy Blue Shiplap

From nautical to modern, rich navy blue makes a dramatic statement.

Sage Green Shiplap

Earthy green echoes the vibrancy of nature for a soothing, organic look.

Kitchen Islands with White Shiplap

Extend your shiplap feature onto nearby islands or carts for a cohesive look:

Shiplap Kitchen Carts

Use shiplap to transform the fronts of rolling metal carts into charming furniture pieces.

Floating Shiplap Islands

Line the base of soaring floating islands with shiplap planks for a light and airy feel.

Large Shiplap Islands

For sizable islands, cover one side entirely in mini-shiplap to define the dedicated dining space.

Small Kitchens with White Shiplap Backsplashes

Even the tiniest kitchens can benefit from strategic shiplap placement:

Backsplash-Only Shiplap

Using shiplap solely on the backsplash keeps the look clean and focused.

Mini Shiplap Islands

Tiny raw-wood islands provide a welcome perch for morning coffee surrounded by shiplap charm.

Shiplap Backsplash Alternatives

Love the reclaimed wood look but seeking options beyond shiplap? Consider these charming lookalikes:

Classic Beadboard

Horizontal beaded planks impart vintage charm reminiscent of old beach cottages.

Corrugated Tin Panels

The galvanized steel's weathered patina and playful horizontal lines exude rustic panache.

Reclaimed Wood Planks

For the authentic reclaimed barnwood look, piece together salvaged planks in creative patterns.

Weathered wood's enduring appeal shows no signs of slowing down. But it's more than a passing trend... white shiplap backsplashes usher in warmth and texture with effortless style.