Are you dreaming of transforming your living space with a touch of classic charm and modern appeal? A shiplap accent wall could be the perfect solution! We recently embarked on this exciting DIY journey in our own living room, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. This simple yet impactful renovation completely revitalized the room, turning a once-drab space into a bright, inviting haven. Join us as we share our stunning before-and-after photos, offer insights into why shiplap is a fantastic choice, and guide you through creating your very own breathtaking accent wall.
When we moved into our new house, it was technically move-in ready. However, we knew almost immediately that we wanted to infuse it with our personal style. Beyond a planned kitchen renovation, a DIY shiplap accent wall was high on our priority list. The transformation it brought was truly remarkable, proving that sometimes, the simplest changes can make the biggest difference. (Please note, this post contains affiliate links; original publication date: December 2018).
Can Shiplap Be Used as an Accent Wall? Absolutely!
The answer is a resounding yes! Shiplap is an outstanding material for creating an accent wall, and our living room is a testament to its incredible potential. It instantly becomes a captivating focal point, adding texture, depth, and a touch of farmhouse or coastal charm that consistently draws compliments. Just last week, we showcased our farmhouse kitchen decor and renovation photos, and now, we’re thrilled to unveil our completed shiplap wall!
Our living room now boasts a fresh, cohesive look. While we’re still waiting for our custom plantation shutters to arrive for the large windows, the impact of fresh paint and the newly installed shiplap is undeniable. The contrast between the “before” and “after” truly tells the story of this incredible home improvement project. Prepare to be amazed by the visual journey!
Looking back at the original state of our living room still evokes a sense of melancholy. It was so dark and uninspiring…
But the “after” photos? They bring an instant smile to my face every single time!
It’s incredible what a profound difference brightening up a room can make. The entire ambiance has shifted; stepping into this space now brings immense joy and comfort. We did replace the couches to complement our desired farmhouse aesthetic and rid the room of its overwhelming brown tones, but the most significant transformation undeniably stems from the fresh coat of white paint and the striking shiplap wall. From an abundance of brown, we transitioned to a clean, crisp white that makes the entire room feel larger and more inviting.
Here are a few candid cell phone photos captured during the exciting progress of our shiplap installation…
How to Install a Shiplap Accent Wall: Your DIY Guide
Our home was a hub of activity during this period – with the shiplap accent wall underway, our back patio undergoing replacement, and the entire kitchen being renovated, it was certainly a busy time! While we opted to hire a professional for the initial shiplap installation on our living room wall, creating a shiplap accent wall is an incredibly rewarding DIY project that many homeowners tackle themselves. In fact, my husband is now learning the ropes, as my new obsession with shiplap has led me to envision several other walls in our home receiving this stunning treatment!
For those eager to dive into a DIY shiplap project, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve a flawless finish. The process, while requiring precision, is manageable for those with basic carpentry skills and a willingness to learn. Planning and preparation are key to a successful outcome.
Here is our beautifully completed white shiplap accent wall, a true labor of love and design!
I absolutely adore it; it has completely transformed the feeling of the room!
Creating Your Shiplap Accent Wall: A Step-by-Step Approach
Ready to embark on your own shiplap journey? Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools and a general overview of the installation process. Remember, safety first! Always wear appropriate protective gear like safety glasses and gloves.
Essential Tools and Materials:
- MDF Shiplap boards: Readily available at most local hardware stores, offering a variety of styles and finishes. Consider pre-primed boards to save time on painting.
- Pry Bar: For removing existing trim or baseboards.
- Hammer: For minor adjustments or nail removal.
- Stud Finder: Crucial for locating wall studs, ensuring your shiplap is securely fastened.
- Chalk Line: For creating straight, accurate guidelines on your wall.
- Level: Essential for ensuring each shiplap board is perfectly horizontal (or vertical, depending on your chosen orientation).
- Pencil: For marking measurements and stud locations.
- Tape Measure: For precise measurements of your wall and boards.
- Speed Square: Helps ensure perfectly square cuts.
- Circular Saw or Miter Saw: For cutting shiplap boards to the correct length. A miter saw offers greater precision for angled cuts.
- Nailer with 16-gauge nails: A brad nailer or finish nailer makes installation quick and efficient.
- Handheld Vacuum: Absolutely indispensable for easy cleanup throughout the process.
- Hanging shiplap generates a significant amount of dust and small particles. A powerful handheld vacuum with various attachments is your best friend for tidying up behind couches, under TV stands, and for general floor cleanup.
- Consider a cordless model for ultimate convenience and freedom of movement. Ditch those cumbersome cords and streamline your cleanup routine!
- Caulk Gun and Paintable Caulk: For sealing any gaps between boards or where boards meet trim.
- Wood Putty/Filler: For concealing nail holes.
- Fine-grit Sandpaper: For smoothing filled nail holes and board edges.
- Paint and Primer (if not using pre-primed boards): Choose a durable paint that complements your room’s aesthetic.
Installation Steps (General Overview):
- Prepare the Wall: Clear the wall of any decor, remove existing baseboards/trim if desired, and clean the surface.
- Locate Studs: Use your stud finder to mark the location of every stud on your wall. These marks will guide where you nail your shiplap for maximum stability. Use a chalk line to create vertical lines marking each stud.
- Measure and Cut First Board: Measure the length of your wall and cut your first shiplap board. Start from the bottom of the wall, ensuring the board is level.
- Attach First Board: Using your nailer, attach the first board to the studs. Ensure the groove side is facing up.
- Continue Laying Boards: Place the tongue of the next board into the groove of the installed board, ensuring a snug fit. Use spacers (often built into shiplap designs or use coins for consistent gaps) to maintain even spacing between boards if desired, or allow the natural shiplap overlap to guide you. Nail each subsequent board into the studs.
- Cut Around Obstacles: For outlets, switches, or windows, carefully measure and cut the shiplap boards using your saw.
- Finish the Top: The last board may need to be ripped lengthwise to fit perfectly at the top of the wall.
- Finishing Touches: Fill all nail holes with wood putty, sand smooth once dry, and caulk any gaps. Once everything is smooth and clean, prime (if necessary) and paint your shiplap accent wall.
Designing with Shiplap: Horizontal or Vertical?
While we chose a classic horizontal orientation for our living room shiplap, which tends to make rooms feel wider and more expansive, shiplap can also be installed vertically. Vertical shiplap can make ceilings appear higher and add a more contemporary flair. The choice depends on your desired aesthetic and the architectural features of your room. Beyond the shiplap, we painted all the surrounding walls a crisp white, which made a phenomenal difference. We also updated our couches and added a new white farmhouse-style TV stand to further enhance the bright and airy feel of the room.
This entire home renovation project was a significant undertaking, something we diligently saved for to transform our house into our dream home. Honestly, I anticipated it would look better, but I had absolutely no idea the impact would be so dramatic, profoundly affecting how I feel in the space every day. The power of thoughtful design truly elevates daily living.
Embrace the DIY Shiplap Accent Wall for a Home You Love
As a food blogger, I spend a considerable amount of time in my kitchen, but like many, the living room is where countless hours are spent relaxing and gathering. If your current living space doesn’t fill you with happiness, it’s a clear sign to consider a change. Believe me, investing in your home’s comfort and beauty is incredibly worthwhile!
Even if a full shiplap installation isn’t immediately feasible, simply changing the paint color can create a powerful transformation. A fresh coat of bright paint can instantly lift your spirits and bring a renewed sense of joy to your home. Don’t underestimate the power of color!
Another beloved addition to our newly renovated living room is this custom sign. It features my all-time favorite quote, and I’ve always dreamed of having it displayed prominently in our home. Talented artisans like Averie Lane can create personalized signs for you, capturing any quote in any size you desire. This allows you to truly infuse your personality and inspirations into your living space.
- For my custom sign, I provided Averie Lane with the exact dimensions, my chosen quote, and even sent her a picture of my couch and clock. This allowed her to perfectly match the colors in the floral accents, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious addition to our decor.
The journey to creating our shiplap accent wall was not just about aesthetics; it was about crafting a home that truly reflects who we are and brings us daily happiness. Whether you decide to tackle this project yourself or enlist professional help, the striking visual impact and the cozy, inviting atmosphere that shiplap brings are truly priceless. We hope our transformation inspires you to take the leap and create a beautiful accent wall in your own home!