40 Beautiful Modern Shiplap Fireplace Ideas

What Is a Shiplap Fireplace?

A shiplap fireplace is simply a fireplace surround or accent wall finished with shiplap boards - long, horizontal (or sometimes vertical) wooden planks that overlap with a small groove between them. Shiplap was traditionally used on the exterior of barns and cottages, but it has become one of the most popular interior wall treatments thanks to its clean lines and versatile style.

When used around a fireplace, shiplap creates a modern-yet-cozy focal point that works with nearly any design aesthetic. From bright white farmhouse fireplaces to sleek black modern shiplap fireplace walls, this look can easily be customized with paint colors, mantel choices, and décor. Whether you're building new or updating an existing space, shiplap fireplaces are a budget-friendly way to add character and warmth to your living room.

Why Choose a Shiplap Fireplace Wall

A shiplap fireplace wall is the perfect way to add texture, warmth, and visual interest to your living space without overwhelming the room. Shiplap's simple lines work beautifully with nearly any style - from modern and minimalist to rustic farmhouse - making it a versatile choice for homeowners. It's also budget-friendly compared to stone or brick, easy to install as a DIY project, and can be painted or stained to match your décor. Whether you want a sleek black modern shiplap fireplace, a classic white cottage look, or a dramatic floor-to-ceiling feature wall, shiplap offers endless possibilities to create a cozy and inviting focal point.

Design Tips for Modern Shiplap Fireplaces

Designing a modern shiplap fireplace is all about balance - clean lines, smart material choices, and a touch of personality to make it uniquely yours. Start by deciding whether you want horizontal or vertical shiplap. Horizontal boards create a classic, cozy look, while vertical shiplap adds height and feels more contemporary. For a bolder statement, consider installing your shiplap on the diagonal or using wider planks for a modern edge.

• Choose the right finish: White is timeless and brightens up a room, but don't shy away from darker hues like black, charcoal, or deep green for a moody, dramatic vibe. A natural wood stain works beautifully in rustic or Scandinavian-inspired spaces, bringing warmth and texture to the room.
• Incorporate other materials: Pairing shiplap with a wood mantel, stone hearth, or tile surround creates contrast and elevates the design. You can also add built-in shelves on either side of your fireplace to turn the entire wall into a functional feature.
• Mind your proportions: A floor-to-ceiling shiplap fireplace wall makes a stunning focal point, but if your ceilings are lower, try stopping at mantel height for a more balanced look. Keep trim and seams crisp, and finish with heat-resistant paint for long-lasting durability.

Stunning Modern Shiplap Fireplace Ideas:

Classic White Shiplap Fireplace with Modern Touches

This bright and airy living room shows how timeless white shiplap can completely transform a fireplace wall. The natural wood mantel adds warmth and contrast, while the sleek black electric fireplace and wall-mounted TV keep the look modern and functional. Flanked by two large windows, this setup feels open, inviting, and perfect for everyday living.

Moody Black Shiplap Fireplace Wall with Warm Accents

This modern shiplap fireplace wall makes a bold statement with its deep black finish and sleek horizontal lines. A natural wood mantel and matching hearth bench soften the look, while the electric fireplace insert keeps things streamlined. The seasonal garland and cozy textures show how easily a dark shiplap fireplace can feel warm and inviting year-round.

Rustic Farmhouse White Shiplap Fireplace with Reclaimed Wood Mantel

This shiplap fireplace design combines classic white boards with a weathered wood mantel for a perfect farmhouse look. The built-in bench hearth adds extra seating or a place to style seasonal décor, while the TV above keeps the space functional. A touch of greenery softens the sharp lines, making this fireplace feel warm and inviting.

Modern Black Vertical Shiplap Fireplace with Built-Ins

This modern living room features a striking vertical shiplap fireplace wall in matte black, creating instant drama and height. The warm wood mantel accent and floating built-ins on each side balance the bold color, while the wall sconces add extra character. This design is perfect for homeowners looking to blend sleek, modern style with cozy functionality.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Brick Surround and Rustic Mantel

This charming design blends white shiplap with a rustic brick fireplace surround for a cozy, farmhouse feel. The dark wood mantel adds rich contrast, while layered décor - greenery, family name sign, and seasonal pumpkins - creates a warm, lived-in look. Perfect for anyone who loves a mix of classic textures and personalized details.

Floor-to-Ceiling White Shiplap Fireplace in a Vaulted Living Room

This striking design takes full advantage of the vaulted ceiling by extending the white shiplap all the way to the peak, creating a dramatic focal point. The warm wood mantel and black firebox add contrast, while the modern chandelier and exposed beams tie the space together. A perfect example of how shiplap can elevate an open-concept living room.

Gray Shiplap Fireplace with Rustic Wood Beam Mantel

This cozy design pairs soft gray shiplap with a rustic wood beam mantel for a timeless farmhouse look. The distressed brick surround and hearth add texture and character, while the lantern accessory keeps the styling simple and elegant. A great choice for homeowners who love a neutral palette with plenty of warmth.

Natural Wood Shiplap Fireplace Wall for a Warm, Modern Look

This stunning fireplace showcases the beauty of natural wood shiplap, adding warmth and texture to the space without the need for paint or stain. The seamless floor-to-ceiling design makes a dramatic statement, while the sleek black firebox keeps the look grounded and modern. Perfect for homeowners who love a cozy, organic feel with clean lines.

Light Gray Shiplap Fireplace with Floating Mantel and Built-Ins

This light gray shiplap fireplace is a perfect choice for a soft, modern living room look. The sleek floating mantel keeps the design minimal, while the built-in shelves provide storage and display space for curated décor. The neutral tones and warm fire create a calming, inviting focal point for the space.

Vertical White Shiplap Fireplace with Marble Surround

This sophisticated design combines vertical white shiplap with a timeless marble surround, creating a perfect balance of modern and classic style. The tall shiplap paneling draws the eye upward, making the space feel more open, while the clean-lined furniture keeps the look polished. Ideal for homeowners looking for a high-end yet approachable living room focal point.

Charcoal Shiplap Fireplace with Rustic Wood Mantel

This sleek charcoal shiplap fireplace is a bold centerpiece that instantly adds depth to the room. The rustic wood mantel brings in warmth and texture, balancing the dark wall and tying it into the neutral cabinetry. A perfect example of how a dark shiplap fireplace can feel both modern and cozy.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Built-In Bookcases and Patterned Tile

This elegant fireplace design combines crisp white shiplap with eye-catching patterned tile for a sophisticated focal point. The surrounding built-in bookcases and brass sconces add both function and charm, turning the entire wall into a statement feature. Perfect for readers and design lovers who want a polished yet cozy living space.

Navy Blue Shiplap Fireplace with Marble Tile Surround

This dramatic navy shiplap fireplace instantly draws the eye upward, making it the focal point of the room. The marble tile surround adds an elegant contrast, while the gold artwork and coffered ceiling elevate the overall design. A perfect choice for anyone looking to add bold color and sophistication to their living space.

Tall White Shiplap Fireplace with Brick Surround in Vaulted Room

This striking design takes full advantage of the vaulted ceiling with a soaring white shiplap fireplace wall. The traditional red brick surround and natural wood mantel add warmth and texture, perfectly balancing the bright shiplap. A great option for homeowners who want a cozy yet dramatic focal point in a large living space.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Hidden TV Cabinet

This clever design combines style and function with a shiplap fireplace that conceals the TV behind charming barn-style cabinet doors. The subway tile surround adds a touch of texture, while the tall shiplap and skylights make the room feel bright and airy. A great solution for those who prefer a clean, uncluttered look.

Chevron Shiplap Fireplace with Modern Mantel and Sconces

This chevron shiplap fireplace brings a fresh twist to the traditional horizontal layout, adding visual interest and movement to the space. The sleek light wood mantel and symmetrical sconces frame the fireplace beautifully, creating a polished, high-end look. Perfect for homeowners seeking a modern statement piece with subtle texture.

Coastal White Shiplap Fireplace with Nautical Tile Surround

This coastal-inspired shiplap fireplace feels light and breezy, with its crisp white paneling and playful sailboat tile surround. The built-in shelves are styled with nautical décor, adding charm and personality to the space. Perfect for beach houses or anyone wanting to bring seaside vibes into their home year-round.

Tall White Shiplap Fireplace with Marble Surround

This bright and airy living room features a soaring white shiplap fireplace that draws the eye to the vaulted ceiling. The marble surround adds elegance, while the black-framed windows on either side provide beautiful symmetry. A perfect blend of classic and modern design for a clean, timeless look.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Red Brick Surround and Wood Mantel

This design pairs classic red brick with white shiplap for a beautiful contrast that feels both warm and fresh. The chunky wood mantel and round gold mirror complete the look, creating a balanced focal point in the living room. Perfect for homeowners who want a cozy, traditional feel with a touch of brightness.

Vaulted White Shiplap Fireplace with Coastal Accents

This beautiful vaulted space features a full wall of white shiplap, including a simple fireplace surround that keeps the focus on the architecture. The rustic beams and bright turquoise furniture give the room a relaxed, coastal vibe. Perfect for beach houses or anyone who loves a breezy, nautical look.

Simple White Shiplap Fireplace with Rustic Beam Mantel

This design keeps things clean and simple with white shiplap and a rustic wood beam mantel that adds warmth and texture. The slim electric fireplace insert is a perfect choice for a modern, low-maintenance setup. A great inspiration for smaller living rooms or budget-friendly fireplace makeovers.

Grey Blue Fireplace with Shiplap

This amazing fireplace showcases a beautiful blue shiplap color, but the interest is in the wood storage. I love how the built in boxes are symmetrical but the items on the shelves are not symmetrical. This gives a sense of interest without it feeling over whelming.

Vaulted Living Room with White Shiplap and Stone Fireplace Feature

This breathtaking living room pairs bright white shiplap walls with a dramatic stone fireplace that stretches to the ceiling, emphasizing the room's height. The wood ceiling beams and oversized windows add warmth and natural light, making this space feel open and inviting. A perfect inspiration for large, luxurious living rooms with a modern rustic style.

Two-Story White Shiplap Fireplace with Brick Surround

This impressive two-story fireplace combines crisp white shiplap with a classic brick surround for a timeless coastal look. The soaring height draws the eye upward, while the built-in shelves and oversized two-story chandelier make the room feel grand yet inviting. Perfect inspiration for open-concept homes with high ceilings.

Gray Chevron Shiplap Fireplace with Floating Mantel

This gray chevron shiplap fireplace brings a sleek, geometric touch to the living room. The floating mantel keeps the design minimal and modern, while the soft neutral palette creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. A perfect example of how patterned shiplap can add subtle interest without overpowering a space.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Built-In Shelves and Modern Bar Area

This light and bright living space combines a classic white shiplap fireplace with built-in shelving for storage and display. The nearby bar area with open wood shelving and tile backsplash adds a functional, modern touch. A perfect example of how to create a cohesive design in an open-concept home.

Dark Gray Shiplap Fireplace with Rustic Mantel and Tile Surround

This fireplace design makes a bold statement with deep gray shiplap and a striking hexagon tile surround. The rustic wood mantel adds warmth, while the brass firebox trim brings a touch of vintage charm. Paired with farmhouse-style sconces, this look is both dramatic and inviting.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Pebble Tile Surround

This airy living room features a white shiplap fireplace accented with a unique pebble tile surround for added texture and interest. The natural wood mantel warms up the space, while the neutral color palette keeps things calm and inviting. A perfect choice for those who want a subtle coastal or spa-like feel in their home.

Graywashed Shiplap Fireplace in Vaulted Living Room

This elegant design features graywashed shiplap that gives a subtle, weathered look while maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic. The vaulted ceiling and exposed trusses add architectural interest, making the fireplace wall the centerpiece of the room. Ideal for anyone who loves a soft, neutral palette with a hint of rustic charm.

Beadboard Shiplap Fireplace with Classic White Mantel

This fireplace uses vertical beadboard-style shiplap for a fresh take on the classic horizontal look. The crisp white mantel and warm stone surround create a timeless, elegant focal point in the room. Perfect for homeowners who love traditional design with a subtle modern update.

White Shiplap Fireplace with TV and Herringbone Tile

This sophisticated design blends a white shiplap fireplace wall with an elegant herringbone tile surround for a timeless look. The built-in TV placement makes the space functional, while the open floor plan and large windows keep it light and airy. Perfect for anyone seeking a clean, modern farmhouse aesthetic.

Tall White Shiplap Fireplace with Brick Surround and Built-Ins

This stunning floor-to-ceiling shiplap fireplace creates a dramatic focal point in the living room. The rustic brick surround and warm wood mantel add texture, while the symmetrical built-in shelves provide storage and display space. Perfect for large, open living areas that need a bold centerpiece.

Warm Wood and White Shiplap Fireplace with Brick Surround

This cozy living room combines the warmth of natural wood paneling with a touch of white shiplap for a bright, balanced look. The rustic brick firebox adds character, while the traditional furniture and soft green curtains give the space a timeless charm. A perfect blend of classic and casual design.

Simple White Shiplap Fireplace with Brick Accent and Wood Mantel

This clean and simple shiplap fireplace design is perfect for transitional spaces, with its crisp white backdrop and warm wood mantel. The slim brick surround adds just enough texture, while the surrounding built-in cabinets offer functional storage. A great choice for those who prefer understated elegance.

Black Chevron Shiplap Fireplace with Electric Insert

This bold black chevron shiplap fireplace adds instant drama and texture to the room. The sleek electric insert and industrial sconces create a cozy yet modern vibe, making it a perfect choice for a home office or multipurpose space. A great example of how dark shiplap can transform even small rooms into stylish retreats.

Sleek Black Shiplap Fireplace in Modern Minimalist Living Room

This dramatic black shiplap fireplace makes a bold statement in a minimalist, high-ceilinged living room. The clean lines, gray tile surround, and mounted TV keep the design sleek, while the black chandelier ties the entire space together. A perfect inspiration for anyone wanting a striking, contemporary look.

White Shiplap Fireplace with Built-In Shelves and Cozy Décor

This white shiplap fireplace design creates a fresh, welcoming focal point in the living room. The built-in shelves are perfectly styled with books, baskets, and greenery, while the rich rug and warm textiles add a cozy touch. A great example of how to mix modern shiplap with inviting, layered décor.

Minimalist White Shiplap Fireplace with Wood Mantel

This minimalist shiplap fireplace is the perfect blend of simplicity and warmth. The wood mantel and round mirror create a balanced focal point, while the clean lines and uncluttered styling keep the look modern and airy. A great option for smaller living spaces or those who love a less-is-more design.

Tall White Shiplap Fireplace with Rustic Mantel and Modern Décor

This tall shiplap fireplace is a striking centerpiece, extending nearly to the ceiling and drawing the eye upward. The rustic wood mantel adds warmth to the clean, modern aesthetic, while the white brick surround keeps the look fresh next to white walls. A perfect design for bright, airy living rooms with plenty of natural light.

Fireplace Shiplap Safety Tips

When planning your shiplap fireplace wall, safety should be your first priority. Shiplap can be a beautiful, modern accent - but because it's a wood product, it needs to be installed with proper clearances from heat sources.

Follow Heat Clearance Guidelines:
Always check the manufacturer's clearance recommendations for your fireplace insert or gas unit before installing shiplap. Most fireplaces require a minimum distance (often 6-12 inches) between the firebox opening and any combustible material like wood. If you're not sure, consult the fireplace manual or a professional installer.

Use Fire-Rated Materials When Possible:
For extra peace of mind, consider using fire-rated MDF or cement board as a base layer behind your shiplap. Some homeowners also choose to install metal flashing or heat-resistant tile directly around the firebox before starting the shiplap.

Seal and Protect Your Shiplap:
Paint or seal your boards with a high-quality, heat-resistant interior paint to help prevent warping, staining, and smoke absorption over time. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are easier to wipe clean than flat paints, which can trap soot.

Ventilation & Maintenance:
Keep the fireplace area well-ventilated, have the chimney or vent inspected yearly, and clean your shiplap regularly to prevent dust or soot build-up. This not only keeps your space looking fresh but also helps maintain air quality in your home.

Shiplap Fireplace Maintenance & Care

Keeping your shiplap fireplace looking beautiful is easier than you might think. With just a little regular care, you can prevent dust buildup, maintain the finish, and keep your space feeling fresh and cozy.

Dust and Wipe Regularly:
Shiplap boards can collect dust in their grooves, so use a microfiber cloth or vacuum with a soft brush attachment weekly. For deeper cleaning, wipe with a slightly damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage paint or stain.

Touch Up Paint as Needed:
Over time, fireplaces can develop small scuffs or smoke marks - especially if you use a wood-burning insert. Keep extra paint on hand to touch up dings or refresh high-traffic areas. If you notice yellowing or discoloration, a light sanding followed by a fresh coat of heat-resistant paint will bring it back to life.

Check for Warping or Cracks:
Changes in temperature and humidity can cause shiplap boards to expand and contract. Inspect your fireplace surround seasonally for gaps, cracks, or warped boards and repair as needed to prevent long-term damage.

Protect from Excess Heat & Moisture:
If you notice heat damage or charring, consult a professional to confirm that your installation meets clearance requirements. In humid months, consider running a dehumidifier to reduce moisture exposure, which helps preserve the boards.

With consistent maintenance, your modern shiplap fireplace wall will stay crisp, clean, and stylish for years to come - making it the perfect focal point in your living room.

More Fireplace Inspiration

If you loved these modern shiplap fireplace ideas, here are some more posts from Nikki's Plate to spark your creativity:

• 35 Mirror Above Fireplace Ideas for a Beautiful Look - Gorgeous ways to use mirrors above your fireplace, whether you have shiplap or another surround.
• 35 Fireplace Ideas With TV Above for a Cozy View - Tips and inspiration for designing the layout around a fireplace + TV combo.
• 15 Black Shiplap Fireplace Ideas for a Moody Vibe - If you're leaning toward deeper tones, this one shows how black shiplap fireplaces can be dramatic and stylish.
• 30 Cozy Corner Fireplace Ideas to Bring Warmth to Your Space - Perfect for smaller rooms or odd floor plans where a corner design makes the fireplace a unique focal point.
• 25 Best Modern Farmhouse Living Room Decor Ideas - Broader living room décor that pairs beautifully with shiplap fireplaces, especially in modern farmhouse styles.

Final Thoughts on Modern Shiplap Fireplace Ideas

A shiplap fireplace wall is one of the easiest ways to transform a living room into a cozy and stylish retreat. Whether you love the crisp look of white shiplap, the drama of a black fireplace wall, or the warmth of a rustic stained finish, there's a design idea here for every style and budget. By mixing in modern elements like floating mantels, sleek electric inserts, or built-in shelving, you can create a custom fireplace that feels fresh and perfectly suited to your home.

No matter which look you choose, your shiplap fireplace can become the true focal point of your space - a place where friends and family gather year-round. Use these shiplap fireplace ideas as inspiration, save your favorites, and start planning your dream fireplace makeover today. And if you want even more design inspiration, check out my posts on black shiplap fireplace ideas and farmhouse living room décor to complete the look.

Until next time,