Shiplap Kitchen Islands - The Hot New Trend for Farmhouse Style Decor
With its clean lines, exposed wood grain, and subtle texture, shiplap is one of the most popular ways to add farmhouse charm to a space. Especially in the kitchen, shiplap brings rustic warmth to an area that's meant to feel cozy yet highly functional. Using this distinctive wood paneling on a kitchen island creates visual interest while also being a relatively easy DIY project for those eager to jump on the latest trend.
Kitchen islands provide additional prep space and storage while serving as a casual gathering spot for family and friends. By incorporating shiplap, the island takes on the character of an antique furniture piece, fitting right in with the vintage farmhouse aesthetic that's currently dominating home decor.
What is Shiplap and Where Does it Come From?
Shiplap refers to wide, wooden boards that have been milled with grooves cut into each edge. This creates a flush fit between planks, eliminating gaps when installed side-by-side on walls or ceilings. The unique, overlapping pattern provides beautiful dimension that brings life to any surface.
Historically, shiplap siding was a pragmatic construction method used on barns and sheds during the 19th century. The angled cuts allowed the lumber to expand and contract without warping or splitting. Today, shiplap evokes nostalgia for simpler times and the comforting vibe of an old country farmhouse.
Painted vs Raw Shiplap
One of the great things about shiplap is that it can be customized in many ways. A crisp coat of bright white paint accentuates the texture and transforms the look. For a more natural, rustic aesthetic, shiplap can be stained, oiled, or left unfinished to flaunt the raw wood grains.
Shiplap Alternatives
While real milled shiplap comes at premium cost, there are budget-friendly alternatives to achieve the look on a DIY budget:
- Plywood boards cut into a shiplap pattern
- Faux shiplap using MDF or vinyl boards
- Tongue and groove paneling
Benefits of Using Shiplap on Kitchen Islands
Kitchen islands are the perfect canvas for introducing shiplap's distinctive charm to a room. Some key advantages include:
| Visually Appealing | Shiplap brings eye-catching texture and dimension to any space. The clean lines and varied plank widths create interest. |
| Durable Material | Made from plywood or solid wood, shiplap stands up well to normal wear-and-tear in busy kitchens. |
| Ease of Installation | Even novice DIYers can tackle a shiplap island project. The boards simply nail or screw into place. |
Beyond the practical perks, a shiplap-adorned island also acts as a charming focal point. It brings cohesion to the room's overall farmhouse style.
Design Ideas for Shiplap Islands
While shiplap islands pairs perfectly with many farmhouse kitchens, it can also add a touch of casual rural flair to more modern spaces. Here are some inspiring ways to incorporate shiplap islands into various kitchen aesthetics:
- Wrap entire island in crisp white shiplap for timeless farmhouse look
- Mix with marble or quartz countertops for elegant modern contrast
- Use raw wood shiplap for a more natural vibe in rustic kitchens
- Add a brick or stone base to boost the vintage appeal
- Extend shiplap from the island onto nearby walls or backsplashes
- Paint shiplap an energetic hue like navy blue for a playful pop of color
How to Build a DIY Shiplap Kitchen Island
While pre-assembled islands are available, there's something special about crafting a custom shiplap-covered island yourself. Follow these simple steps for a successful DIY project:
Plan the Design
First, measure your space and determine the ideal island shape and dimensions. Sketch plans mapping out the shiplap pattern and visualizing finished look. Decide which materials to use - authentic milled shiplap offers durability but is pricey. Plywood cut into shiplap strips saves money while still looking great.