Shiplap, the signature look of the modern farmhouse aesthetic popularized by Joanna Gaines, is currently facing some debate in interior design circles. More and more designers are reportedly avoiding this traditional wood paneling precisely because it has become overly popular.
However, shiplap's latest high-profile champion, Carrie Underwood, might make even the harshest critics think twice. The country music star, who gained fame after American Idol in 2005 and lives in a stunning estate in the country music capital, Nashville (of course), has shiplap at the very heart of her home.
The singer has clad her kitchen walls in bright white shiplap, complemented by decorative wooden beams – both elements lending a distinct contemporary-country, feel-good appeal to the property. So, should we take inspiration from her space – or is shiplap going out of style for good? We asked the experts.
Shop the Carrie-inspired edit
This single-light pendant blends farmhouse charm with modern minimalism. Crafted from metal in an antique copper finish, it features a sleek cone shade that casts a warm, outward glow over your kitchen or dining area, just as Carrie demonstrates.
Finished with a creamy white hue, this canister is versatile and elegant. Whether used practically in the kitchen or simply styled on shelving, it blends effortlessly into your kitchen design.
These curtain panels feature a textured linen look with sheer opacity, bringing a light, airy elegance to your kitchen. Their breezy design filters natural light beautifully –perfect for brightening up breakfast nooks or kitchen windows, just like Carrie's.
Shiplap walls have adorned American homes for centuries, historically serving practical purposes like insulation, keeping rooms warm and dry. Their modern resurgence began around 2013 when Magnolia designer Joanna Gaines highlighted their merits on Fixer Upper.
Today, shiplap is often chosen for its rustic style rather than its practicality. The experts at Idaho-based manufacturer CDA Wood believe this coveted natural beauty will ensure it never permanently falls out of fashion.
Beyond rustic warmth, shiplap, like all wood paneling, can enhance spaces by 'drawing the eye up', making the ceiling appear higher, a trick exemplified by the shiplap in Carrie Underwood's kitchen (above).
They note, 'Drawing the eye up, wood-paneled ceilings bring instant warmth, texture, and interest to any space, integrating biophilic design to underutilized areas.' To further emphasize the shiplap's beauty, they suggest following Carrie's design choice by incorporating decorative wooden beams, as seen in the kitchen image.
The experts add that, 'Exposed decorative beams are another great way to create architectural elements and add dimension to a space, especially in a new build.' They continue, 'They can give the illusion of higher ceilings, and bring a sense of scale, structure, and character.' Unsurprisingly, when it comes to styling this wall paneling, Carrie's execution is top-notch.
The singer's country kitchen features a natural foundation, most evident in those wooden elements. Yet, she keeps the look contemporary by pairing it with modern furniture and accessories – including sleek marble countertops and stylish kitchen light fixtures.
The team at CDA Wood explains, 'Rustic design elements paired with modern furnishings and art help create a design-forward space, showcasing the perfect balance of old and new.' They also advise that, 'When accented by strategically placed lighting fixtures, exposed beams can have an even greater dramatic effect.'
If you’re still not sold, Dallas-based interior designer Amy Lawrence is a shiplap skeptic. However, she offers a way to keep the feature impressive for seasons ahead, even in the winter or fall when cozy textures are sought after: 'If you decide to keep shiplap, try it in a more modern application like black versus white,' she suggests.
While this differs from Carrie's bright look, it proves there are versatile options to keep this debated wall decor stylish. Considering Carrie's influence, it seems unlikely this feature will disappear too fast.
