Are you tired of how your laundry room looks? I was, too. Like many people, I wanted a simple way to make the space feel neater and more organized, without spending a lot.
That’s why I put this article together. I’ll show you how to use shiplap, a wooden wall panel, to add character and structure to your laundry room.
I’ve included smart layout tips, easy color ideas, and practical storage solutions. Whether you want a modern or rustic vibe, you’ll find ideas here that fit your style.
You don’t need to be a pro. I explain each step straightforwardly, so it’s easy to follow. My goal is simple: to help you turn a basic laundry room into a space that works better and feels better to use.
This guide is based on real design trends and practical ideas that I’ve found helpful.
What Is Shiplap?
Shiplap is a type of wooden board commonly used to cover interior walls.
Each board has a small groove that allows them to fit together tightly, creating clean, straight lines with a smooth appearance.
This material is often painted in light shades like white, cream, or soft gray. These tones help brighten a space and can make smaller rooms feel more open and airy.
The wooden surface introduces a subtle texture that adds warmth and charm to the room. That’s why shiplap is frequently found in farmhouse and cottage-inspired interiors.
You can install shiplap horizontally or vertically based on the visual effect you prefer. Horizontal boards tend to make a room appear wider, while vertical boards can draw the eye upward, creating the impression of a taller ceiling.
Shiplap is a great choice for spaces like laundry rooms because it’s simple, tidy, and easy to maintain.
It’s a practical way to bring character into a room without extensive effort or high cost.
Benefits of Shiplap in Laundry Rooms
Shiplap is a practical and attractive choice for laundry rooms. It improves the room’s appearance and contributes to a tidy, well-organized feel.
- Easy to Clean: Laundry areas can become messy. Shiplap features a smooth surface that’s easy to wipe down. Dust and dirt don’t cling easily, so maintenance is quick, often just a cloth or sponge is all you need.
- Enhances Light: Shiplap is often painted in soft tones like white or light gray. These colors reflect light well, helping to make the space feel more open.
- Brings a Finished Look: Shiplap gives the room a clean and structured appearance. The subtle lines from the boards add texture in a gentle, balanced way. The result is a timeless design that complements many interior styles.
Shiplap Laundry Room Design Ideas
Shiplap offers a simple way to improve the appearance of your laundry room. The direction of the boards, vertical or horizontal, also affects the overall impression. Each layout brings its own sense of proportion and balance.
1. Full Wall Shiplap
This approach covers every wall in the laundry room. It creates a uniform and complete look. The lines align neatly, and the surface appears consistent.
Full wall shiplap can also help conceal minor imperfections in the wall beneath. It’s a good option if you prefer a clean, orderly style.
2. Accent Wall
Using shiplap on a single wall creates a strong visual focus. This design works especially well behind washers and dryers or open shelving.
It adds interest without being overwhelming. This method is also cost-effective and easier to install if you’re working with a limited budget.
3. Vertical Shiplap
With this layout, the boards are installed from floor to ceiling. Vertical lines help draw the eye upward, making the ceiling feel higher.
I find vertical shiplap to be helpful in rooms with limited height. The look is simple and current, and it gives the space a bright, uncluttered feel.
4. Horizontal Shiplap
This is the most familiar way to install shiplap, with boards running left to right. Horizontal lines can make a narrow room feel broader.
This layout is widely used and blends well with different interior styles. Choose this format if you want a straightforward, lasting appearance.
Shiplap Laundry Room Color Choices
Selecting the right color for your shiplap can make a noticeable difference in how your laundry room looks and feels. Certain shades can help brighten the space, while others create a sense of calm or warmth.
White: Clean and Open
White is a timeless option for shiplap. It helps smaller spaces appear larger and reflects natural and artificial light well.
Because white goes with nearly any other finish or accent, it’s a flexible choice for decor. If your laundry area feels dim, white paint can help improve that.
Gray: Sleek and Balanced
Gray offers a smooth, neutral look. It suits both compact and spacious laundry rooms. Lighter shades of gray soften the space, while deeper tones add contrast.
Gray is also practical. It’s less likely to show minor smudges or marks, and it pairs well with finishes like wood, black, metal, or white.
Blue or Green: Subtle Color Boost
Blues and greens can make your laundry room feel calm and natural. Light blue creates a cool, relaxed tone, while green adds a touch of the outdoors, contributing to a fresh atmosphere.
These colors work nicely with wood, white, or soft metallic accents and bring variety without being too strong.
Adding Storage
Laundry rooms, especially smaller ones, can feel tight quickly. That’s why smart storage solutions are essential. With a few thoughtful changes, you can keep the room tidy and improve how it functions.
1. Shelves
Install shelves above the washer and dryer. They’re useful for holding baskets, towels, or laundry supplies.
Open shelving makes it easy to grab what you need and helps you keep track of your items.
Choose wood or metal materials that fit the look of your space. Keep shelves organized and avoid crowding them.
2. Cabinets
Cabinets are helpful for keeping clutter out of sight. I use them to store cleaning products, dryer sheets, and pet-related supplies.
Go for models with doors to help the room stay visually clean.
Soft-close hinges reduce noise and wear. For a cohesive style, paint the cabinets to match or complement your shiplap walls.
3. Hooks
Hooks are useful for holding small or frequently used items. To save space, mount them on walls or behind doors.
They’re perfect for hanging bags, laundry baskets, or damp clothes. Look for durable options that can support some weight without shifting or breaking.
Decor Tips
Thoughtful decor can make your laundry room feel more welcoming. A few simple touches can help the space feel more organized and pleasant to use.
Baskets: Organize with Ease
Baskets, both woven and wire, work well for holding laundry, cleaning products, or extra items and for reducing clutter on shelves and counters.
Choose baskets with handles so you can move them easily. Adding labels can also make it quicker to find what you need.
Plants: Bring in Some Greenery
Plants can soften the room’s look and add a more natural feel. A small potted plant on a shelf or a hanging vine in the corner can make the space feel more balanced.
If the room gets natural light, real plants are a good option. If not, quality artificial plants can still add the right touch. Choose greenery that blends well with your color scheme.
Signs: Add Personality
Simple signs with short phrases or labels can give your laundry room a light, cheerful touch. Something like “Laundry Time” or “Wash, Dry, Fold” works well.
You can use wood signs, framed prints, or even DIY designs. These details add interest and help the space feel more personal.
Installation Tips
Installing shiplap sounds tricky, but it’s not hard if you follow a few simple steps. You don’t need fancy tools or a lot of experience.
- Measure Your Walls Carefully: Before you begin, take exact measurements of your wall. Use a tape measure and write everything down. Measure the height and width of the wall where you’ll install the shiplap.
- Use a Level to Keep Boards Straight: A level keeps your boards even across the wall. Start with the first row and make sure it’s perfectly straight. If the first row is crooked, the rest will be, too. Mark a guideline on the wall to follow as you go.
- Paint Before Installing for Easier Coverage: Painting the boards before you put them up saves time. It’s easier to paint flat boards than to get in between cracks later. Use a roller for the front and a brush for the edges.
Just take your time and plan things out. These tips will help your wall turn out straight, smooth, and clean-looking. Mistakes are easy to avoid when you start with a clear plan.
Conclusion
Adding shiplap to your laundry room is a straightforward way to give it a cleaner, updated appearance. It helps the space feel more open and well-organized.
Whether you choose to cover every wall or just one, the result can noticeably improve the room’s look and function.
Painting it in white, gray, or another light shade that fits your home’s style will help tie the space together.
You don’t need advanced tools or professional experience to get started. I always say, with a little planning and some careful effort, anyone can improve their laundry area.
If your laundry room feels a bit too plain or tight, shiplap might be the right solution.
It’s a practical way to enhance both function and appearance, making the space more pleasant to use every day.