Small Styling Changes You Can Make To Fix Outdated Shiplap

Shiplap was a huge trend a few years ago. Walls covered with wood panels installed horizontally (and sometimes vertically) gained popularity because of the organic, farmhouse decor aesthetic that so many millennial homeowners wanted to achieve. But like any trend, it has since died down and more recent fads like terracotta and mid-size solid color tiles have taken its place. If you're tempted to swap out your shiplap walls for something trendier, wait. Don't run toward the next trend just to be in the same situation a decade from now. Instead, consider small styling changes that you can give your outdated wall a makeover. Something as simple as a gallery wall, some new hardware, or new decor can give your outdated shiplap a brand-new look.

These small changes can help you achieve that aesthetic while drawing the eye to art and furniture, allowing shiplap to fade into the background. Plus, these ideas are much easier than removing shiplap and installing something new. It's also a lot faster and simpler than painting over a shiplap wall. And the best part is, these small decor changes can be done on a tight budget. 

A gallery wall is a perfect upgrade for shiplap. Using frames of different sizes and heights to create your gallery wall will help break up the horizontal lines of the shiplap and create something that feels lived-in and personal. Follow the rule of triangles to create a perfect gallery wall with art, photos, and mirrors. Choose a cohesive style for frames that will pop on the shiplap, like dark wood frames or metallic gold ones. If the shiplap is real wood, hanging the frames with screws and nails can split the wood. So, use some Command Hooks to hang your gallery wall without causing any damage. 

To make your shiplap look more authentic rather than bandwagon, consider placing some accent furniture in front of it. For example, a brown leather bench can make a space look more timeless and vintage. Or, install some wood floating shelves filled with vintage pieces like thrifted candle holders and vases. If you have white shiplap in the kitchen or bathroom, replace your faucets with vintage-look ones in aged finishes to provide character and contrast against the wall.