Is Shiplap Still In Style? 6 Modern Alternatives for 2025

Shiplap panels became a household staple over the last decade, especially for fans of the farmhouse look. Thanks to shows like Fixer Upper, it’s been everywhere, from kitchen backsplashes to bedroom accent walls.

But as design trends shift in 2025, homeowners are leaning toward cleaner lines, more natural textures, and a wider range of wall treatments.

So, is shiplap still in style? Not entirely out, but it’s definitely being replaced in many modern homes. If you’re looking for something a little fresher or more flexible, this guide covers six updated alternatives that work better with today’s minimalist, Scandinavian, and transitional interiors.

You’ll still find the charm and detail of shiplap panels, but with options like tongue and groove boards, fluted paneling, and limewashed walls, there’s a lot more to explore.

1. Vertical Tongue and Groove Boards

What it is: Interlocking boards with visible grooves between each piece. These are often installed vertically to create a sense of height.

Why It’s a Great Alternative

This style has a similar clean-lined look to shiplap, but the vertical layout feels a bit more modern and less rustic. It works especially well in Scandinavian, Japandi, or transitional spaces where simplicity matters but texture is still welcome.

Design Benefits

The vertical grooves add soft pattern and subtle interest without being over the top. It’s also a smart way to visually stretch a wall and make ceilings feel taller, great for smaller rooms or tighter spaces.

Materials to Use

You’ll find these boards in MDF, pine, and oak. Pre-primed versions are easy to paint if you want to customize the color to match your space.

2. Tile Walls

What it is: Full-wall tile installations using ceramic, porcelain, or handmade zellige tiles.

Why It’s a Great Alternative

Tile offers a sleek, polished look that’s both durable and water-resistant, something shiplap just can’t do in wet areas. Glazed and textured finishes also add tactile interest that feels a bit more high-end.

Design Benefits

Tiles are perfect for kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture makes wood less practical. Plus, they open up fun layout possibilities like herringbone, stacked, or offset styles.

Matte terracotta tiles are especially popular right now in modern-organic homes, while oversized square tiles make a bold statement in contemporary spaces.

3. Fluted Oak Paneling

What it is: Vertical wall cladding made from oak, with reeded or grooved surfaces for texture.

Why It’s a Great Alternative

Fluted oak panels brings in soft texture and visual rhythm, but keeps the space feeling calm and uncluttered. It’s also rooted in Scandinavian design, which is still hugely popular in 2025.

Design Benefits

Besides looking great, fluted paneling improves acoustics, especially in rooms with high ceilings or echo-prone surfaces. It’s a nice way to warm up modern spaces without veering into rustic territory.

Where It Works Best

Try it on entryway walls, behind headboards, or anywhere you want to add texture without taking over the room. 

4. Limewash Walls

What it is: A mineral-based paint that creates a soft, cloudy finish, such as those having natural depth and a weathered, earthy look.

Why It’s a Great Alternative

Limewash offers a more organic and subtle vibe than shiplap. It works great for those who want movement and interest on their walls without physical texture. Plus, it’s zero-VOC and eco-friendly, which is a win for anyone prioritizing health and sustainability.

Design Benefits

You get a rich, matte surface that plays with light and brings walls to life, no paneling needed. Limewashed walls pair especially well with rustic-modern or Mediterranean-inspired interiors.

Color Trends for 2025: Expect to see a lot of clay, taupe, sage, and warm ivory tones, which work beautifully with the earthy feel of limewash.

5. Wood Slat Paneling

What it is: Thin wood strips, mounted vertically or horizontally, with equal gaps in between to create rhythm and depth.

Why It’s a Great Alternative

It keeps the linear feel of shiplap but adds more architectural detail. It also blends well with mid-century, vintage, or contemporary spaces making it a versatile choice.

Design Benefits

Wood slats can be paired with hidden LED strips for a clean, modern look, or left natural for something more subtle. These panels also help reduce echo, which makes them a smart pick for large or open rooms.

The sound-dampening feature not only improves acoustics but also adds a finished, welcoming feel to the space.

Every panel comes fully assembled, with each slat attached to soft PET felt backing made from recycled water bottles. This backing is not only 100% recyclable, but also holds everything securely in place and simplifies installation.

You can cut panels on-site to fit your layout, and thanks to the tongue-and-groove design, each one fits seamlessly with the next, no vertical gaps or seams.

Panels come prefinished with a satin or matte clear coat, so there’s no need to sand or stain. Just unbox, install, and you’re done.

Materials to Consider

Popular options include walnut, white oak, or MDF with real wood veneer. Veneered MDF gives you a budget-friendly way to get a high-end look.

6. Painted Fluted Wall Panels

What it is: Pre-primed panels with vertical grooves, ready to paint in any color you choose. 

Why It’s a Great Alternative

This option keeps the vertical texture of shiplap but brings in a more updated, dramatic feel. It’s ideal for homeowners who want texture and color flexibility at the same time.

Design Benefits

Paintable panels are primed with a water-based primer and ready to go, just paint your chosen color and install. The repeating pattern fits together neatly and can be mounted with nails, screws, or adhesive, depending on your wall surface.

neatly and can be mounted with nails, screws, or adhesive, depending on your wall surface. Installation is quick, and you can cover a wall in a matter of hours.

They’re available in full 8' or 9' lengths for full wall or ceiling applications, and shorter 44" half-length panels that work well for smaller features like half-walls, bar fronts, or furniture projects.

The panels are made from high-density, ultra-low VOC MDF, which makes them safe for both homes and commercial spaces.

Whether you’re going bold with a deep tone or keeping it neutral, these panels easily adapt to dramatic or minimalist design styles.

Trending Colors for 2025: Matte black, deep forest green, and soft beige remain strong favorites, especially when paired with this kind of grooved texture.

Conclusion

Shiplap panels still have their place, but in 2025, homeowners are looking for wall treatments that offer more variety, texture, and design flexibility.

Whether you’re after a clean modern look, an earthy vibe, or just something easier to maintain, there are smarter alternatives out there.

So, if you're deciding between sticking with shiplap or trying something new, tongue and groove boards, limewashed walls, and fluted panels are all worth exploring. Each one offers a unique look that can fit your space and your style better.