Shiplap is one of my favorite ways to make a mudroom feel instantly cozy, clean, and intentional without losing that hardworking vibe.

Two-Tone Shiplap Mudroom Wall

Two-tone shiplap mudroom wall: dark boot-zone below, bright airy boards above—clean and cozy.
Two-tone shiplap mudroom wall: dark boot-zone below, bright airy boards above—clean and cozy.

I’m a big fan of two-tone shiplap, with a darker color on the lower section and a lighter tone above. In my own projects, that lower “boot zone” color hides grime way better while the top stays bright and airy.

Try these:

  • Woven Seagrass Storage Baskets: Organize overhead cubbies stylishly with these woven baskets that add texture and keep clutter hidden away.
  • Industrial Black Coat Hooks: Install these durable double-prong hooks to maximize hanging space for jackets, bags, and scarves in your entryway.
  • Large Straw Tote Bag: Hang a spacious woven tote for quick grab-and-go storage that doubles as beautiful, natural wall decor.

Built-In Bench With Shiplap Back

A thick oak bench seat makes the shiplap back wall feel like a true mudroom feature.
A thick oak bench seat makes the shiplap back wall feel like a true mudroom feature.

My favorite “starter” layout is a built-in bench with a shiplap back wall and hooks above, because it’s practical and photogenic. I like adding a thick wood seat so the shiplap feels like a real feature, not just filler.

Possibly handy products:

  • DIY Shiplap Wall Paneling Kit: Create a classic farmhouse backdrop easily by installing these ready-to-paint panels directly behind your mudroom seating area.
  • Woven Seagrass Storage Baskets: Organize shoes and clutter underneath your bench with these textured baskets that perfectly complement natural wood tones.
  • Farmhouse Wall Hook & Shelf Brackets: Add functional storage for coats and bags by mounting durable, rustic hooks along your paneled accent wall.

Shiplap Wainscoting With a Ledge

Half-wall shiplap with an oak ledge creates a chic mudroom drop zone for keys and mail.
Half-wall shiplap with an oak ledge creates a chic mudroom drop zone for keys and mail.

When a full wall feels like too much, I install half-wall shiplap and cap it with a chunky ledge for keys and mail. I’ve found that little shelf turns a mudroom into a legit drop zone without adding any bulky furniture.

Check these products out:

  • DIY Shiplap Plank Kit: Transform your walls instantly with easy-to-install planks that create classic texture without needing professional contractors.
  • Floating Wood Picture Ledge: Install a sleek ledge above your wainscoting to create a perfect catch-all zone for keys and mail.
  • Neutral Textured Throw Pillows: Soften your mudroom bench with textured pillows that add comfort and match a clean, farmhouse aesthetic.

Lockers With Shiplap Cubbies

Warm oak mudroom locker with painted shiplap cubbies—minimal, bold, and beautifully handcrafted.
Warm oak mudroom locker with painted shiplap cubbies—minimal, bold, and beautifully handcrafted.

I love building mudroom lockers where each cubby gets a shiplap backing, because the grooves add instant depth behind coats. In my workshop, I’ll often paint the shiplap and leave the locker face wood-toned for that warm, custom contrast.

Possibly helpful picks:

  • Shiplap Paneling Boards: Choose pre-primed shiplap boards to easily create that signature grooved look for the back of your mudroom cubbies.
  • Double Prong Coat Hooks: Install sturdy double-prong hooks to maximize hanging space for coats and bags against your new shiplap backdrop.
  • Sage Green Interior Paint: Select a calming sage green paint to achieve the contrasting two-tone effect shown in the inspiration photo.

DIY Peg Rail Over Shiplap

A simple oak peg rail over shiplap adds instant built‑in mudroom storage—warm, clean, and airy.
A simple oak peg rail over shiplap adds instant built‑in mudroom storage—warm, clean, and airy.

A peg rail mounted over shiplap paneling is my go-to when a mudroom needs flexible hanging space fast. I’ve done this for backpacks and totes, and it’s one of those projects that looks “built-in” even when it’s a quick weekend win.

Items that may come in handy:

  • Unfinished Wooden Peg Rack: Secure instant organization for bags and coats with a classic wooden rack that easily mounts to your shiplap walls.
  • Individual Shaker Pegs (Pack): Build a custom-length rail by inserting these sturdy wooden pegs into your own lumber for a tailored look.
  • White Shiplap Appearance Boards: Create the perfect farmhouse backdrop for your new peg rail by installing these easy-to-mount, pre-primed wall planks.

Bench With Shoe Cubbies and Shiplap

Handcrafted mudroom bench with open shoe cubbies set against crisp white shiplap wall.
Handcrafted mudroom bench with open shoe cubbies set against crisp white shiplap wall.

I’ve built benches with open shoe cubbies and a shiplap wall behind them, and it’s the easiest way to stop the “shoe pile” situation. I like sizing the lowest openings for boots so the shiplap still stays the star instead of getting scuffed up.

Give these a look:

  • Wall-Mounted Coat Hooks: Add rustic charm and organization to your mudroom by installing these durable hooks for jackets and bags.
  • DIY Shiplap Paneling Kit: Create that classic farmhouse backdrop easily with pre-primed planks or peel-and-stick options to protect your walls.
  • Woven Storage Baskets: Keep smaller items like gloves or hats hidden away on the top shelves for a clutter-free entryway.

Shiplap + Upper Cabinets for Clutter

Shiplap behind upper cabinets creates a calm built-in wall—and hides seasonal clutter up high.
Shiplap behind upper cabinets creates a calm built-in wall—and hides seasonal clutter up high.

If you’ve got the height, try shiplap behind a run of upper cabinets so the whole mudroom reads like one built-in wall. I’ve used that combo to stash seasonal stuff up top while keeping the everyday zone below looking calm.

May just do the trick:

  • Brass Cabinet Pulls: Upgrade standard cabinetry with warm metallic hardware to instantly elevate the look of your built-in storage wall.
  • Woven Storage Baskets: Use large textured baskets on the floor or bench to catch loose items and add natural texture.
  • Peel and Stick Shiplap Wallpaper: Create the look of a custom built-in wall without heavy construction by applying realistic textured wood wallpaper.

Vertical Shiplap for a Taller Look

Vertical shiplap adds height and makes even the narrowest mudroom feel designed.
Vertical shiplap adds height and makes even the narrowest mudroom feel designed.

In narrow mudrooms, I switch to vertical shiplap to visually stretch the wall and make the space feel taller. I did this in a tight entry once and it instantly felt less hallway-ish and more like a designed room.

A few things you might like:

  • Vertical Wall Paneling Kits: Transform your entryway walls instantly; use these paneling kits to create vertical lines that visually heighten space.
  • Heavy-Duty Coat Hooks: Keep mudrooms organized and stylish; install these durable hooks directly onto your shiplap for functional storage.
  • Woven Storage Baskets: Maximize under-bench tidiness; slide these textured baskets into cubbies to hide clutter while adding rustic warmth.

Warm Stained Shiplap Instead of Paint

Warm stained shiplap makes a simple mudroom hook rail feel high-end—let the grain shine.
Warm stained shiplap makes a simple mudroom hook rail feel high-end—let the grain shine.

If you love wood grain, try stained shiplap and let the texture do all the talking. I’ve sealed reclaimed-looking boards for mudrooms before, and the warm tone makes even a basic hook wall feel high-end.

Maybe worth checking out:

  • Dark Wood Stain: Deepen the natural grain of your wood boards with a rich, warm stain for a polished coat rack finish.
  • Antique Brass Wall Hooks: Install these durable vintage-style metal hooks to securely hang coats while adding a touch of rustic elegance.
  • Wooden Shiplap Planks: Create the perfect textured backdrop for your mudroom by mounting these easy-to-install wooden planks horizontally.

Shiplap Bench Front With Hidden Storage

Shiplap-wrapped bench front with hidden lift-up storage—minimal, warm, and beautifully practical.
Shiplap-wrapped bench front with hidden lift-up storage—minimal, warm, and beautifully practical.

One of my favorite details is wrapping the bench base in shiplap so the bench looks like it grew out of the wall. I’ve paired that with lift-up storage more than once, and it’s perfect for dog leashes, hats, and all the random entry clutter.

A few suggestions:

  • Brass Drawer Cup Pulls: Update existing furniture or build a custom bench with these warm-toned pulls to anchor the classic farmhouse look.
  • Woven Storage Baskets: Keep shelves organized and add natural texture by tucking away loose items in these versatile, decorative baskets.
  • Textured Throw Pillows: Soften the wooden bench and add a layer of comfort using durable, neutral pillows for a welcoming touch.

Floating Shelves on a Shiplap Wall

Chunky floating oak shelves on bright shiplap—simple storage with warm boho texture.
Chunky floating oak shelves on bright shiplap—simple storage with warm boho texture.

A couple of chunky floating shelves over shiplap is my favorite low-effort way to add storage without closing the space in. I usually style mine with baskets so the mudroom stays functional while the shiplap texture still shines through.

Check if these fit your needs:

  • Chunky Wooden Floating Shelves: Instantly add rustic charm and open storage to your mudroom walls with these sturdy, easy-to-install floating shelves.
  • Woven Storage Baskets: Keep clutter hidden and organize your essentials with these natural woven baskets that perfectly complement wooden shelves.
  • Textured Ceramic Vase: Style your new shelves with a neutral textured vase to hold dried florals and soften the overall look.

Shiplap Ceiling for a Cozy Surprise

A white shiplap ceiling + woven pendant turns a builder-basic mudroom into a cozy surprise.
A white shiplap ceiling + woven pendant turns a builder-basic mudroom into a cozy surprise.

A shiplap ceiling in the mudroom is such a sneaky wow-factor, and I’ve used it to make builder-basic spaces feel like a cottage. It’s especially gorgeous when the walls are simple and you let the ceiling texture do the flexing.

You might like:

  • Woven Pendant Light Fixture: Instantly add natural texture and warmth to your mudroom ceiling with a charming woven light fixture.
  • Peel and Stick Shiplap Paneling: Create that cottage-style ceiling look easily by applying these user-friendly shiplap planks directly overhead.
  • Wall-Mounted Coat Rack with Hooks: Keep your new mudroom organized and stylish with a classic rack for hanging coats and bags.

Shiplap Wrap on a Corner Drop Zone

Turn a garage corner into a true mudroom zone with a shiplap-wrapped drop spot.
Turn a garage corner into a true mudroom zone with a shiplap-wrapped drop spot.

If your mudroom is really just a corner near the garage, wrapping that corner in shiplap paneling helps define a real “zone.” I’ve done this with a small bench and hooks, and it instantly reads like a mini mudroom instead of an afterthought.

A few relevant products:

  • Shiplap Wall Paneling (Peel & Stick or Plank): Create your corner zone instantly by installing these easy-to-use panels that add texture and classic farmhouse charm.
  • Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Keep clutter hidden and add natural warmth to your drop zone with this stylish, textured storage solution.
  • Striped Linen Throw Pillow Cover: Soften your bench seating and introduce a cozy, inviting feel with this simple, timeless textile accent.

Utility Sink Wall With Shiplap Backsplash

Sealed shiplap backsplash makes this utility sink wall mudroom-ready and beautiful.
Sealed shiplap backsplash makes this utility sink wall mudroom-ready and beautiful.

I’ve installed shiplap as a sealed, wipeable backdrop behind a utility sink to give a hardworking mudroom a prettier face. It’s awesome for messy hands, garden tools, or even a quick dog rinse area when you build it with durability in mind.

You might give these a try:

  • Brass Gooseneck Kitchen Faucet: Upgrade your sink’s style with this classic fixture, offering ample height for washing larger items easily.
  • White Apron-Front Farmhouse Sink: Install a deep, durable basin perfect for handling muddy boots, garden tools, or bathing small pets.
  • Woven Seagrass Storage Basket: Keep towels or cleaning supplies organized nearby with a textured basket that adds natural warmth.

Reclaimed Shiplap for Instant Character

Reclaimed shiplap adds instant mudroom character—weathered grain, softly sanded, sealed to last.
Reclaimed shiplap adds instant mudroom character—weathered grain, softly sanded, sealed to last.

Using reclaimed wood shiplap is my favorite way to get that timeworn farmhouse feel without needing a ton of decor. I’ve sanded just enough to knock off splinters, then sealed it so the mudroom can still handle real life.

Useful items to consider:

  • Reclaimed Wood Plank Bundle: Create a rustic accent wall instantly with these authentic reclaimed wood planks, ready for your DIY installation.
  • Matte Polyurethane Wood Sealer: Protect your beautiful reclaimed wood surfaces from moisture and daily wear without altering their natural, timeworn appearance.
  • Handheld Orbital Sander: Smooth out rough edges and old splinters easily to prepare your reclaimed boards perfectly for safe indoor use.
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Author Megan Oakly