Here's How to Build a Farmhouse Style Shiplap Closet

Most farmhouse closets feature one accent wall with shiplap, with other walls painted or wallpapered. For the shiplap wall, remove the baseboards, shoe molding, and nails, along with any outlet or light switch covers. Repair any drywall damage and consider adding a fresh coat of paint before you install the shiplap, especially if there are glaring blemishes.

You may decide to keep the other closet walls the same, especially if they’re already painted white. But if not, now is a good time to consider repainting the walls in a farmhouse-style shade, such as green, white, or gray, or put up wallpaper that includes olive branches, tiny florals, or pale damask patterns.

Measure the height and width of your wall to determine its square footage. Based on the height of your shiplap boards, determine how many you’ll need to fill the wall from floor to ceiling. Purchase an extra board or two to account for any mistakes.

If you need to cut a board horizontally to cover the wall completely, place that board at the bottom. Consider using prefinished shiplap boards that come primed or even primed and painted. They cost slightly more than plain boards but they save you lots of time.

You should attach your shiplap boards to the vertical wall studs so it’s secure and doesn’t damage your drywall or any electrical wiring. Locate your wall studs and use a chalk line to mark each one. Studs are usually placed 16 or 24 inches apart.  

Measure the length you need for the boards and cut accordingly. Double- and triple-check your measurements before making any cuts. If you prefer a staggered shiplap look, cut your boards so that two pieces meet part way on the wall. Intersperse where the seams come together for the best aesthetics. If you choose a staggered look, use construction adhesive instead of nails as it’s difficult to align varying board lengths with the wall studs. 

Use a level to identify where you'll install your bottom-most board (always start from the bottom when installing shiplap). Slight imperfections at the base of your wall will be covered by your baseboard, so focus on getting your first board perfectly straight. This step impacts how the rest of your shiplap wall will look. Use a chalk line to mark where you'll place your first board. 

Place each board on top of the last one installed. Insert nickels or popsicle sticks as spacers between each row (this step gives it the natural shiplap look). Your spacers should be three feet apart from each other. Reuse your spacers for each row you install.

Secure the top and bottom of each board with nails or construction adhesive. If you nail the boards, ensure they reach over the vertical studs. Fill in the nail holes with wood filler. Follow any installation guidelines from your shiplap manufacturer.

Once you install your shiplap wall, reattach your baseboards, shoe molding, and outlet covers.

The key to maximizing a small space is to utilize every inch. Determine the shelves, rods, and other storage options that work best for your clothes and accessories. Most farmhouse closet shelves are white, but some are natural or reclaimed wood. Consider these closet design tips:  

• Double hang your clothing rods: Place one clothing rod above the other for more hanging space. Leave room for full-length items like dresses. 

• Add upper and lower storage: Build shelves near the top of your closet for accessories you only use on occasion, such as purses or hats. Place angled shelves at the bottom of your closet for shoes and boots. 

• Include farmhouse closet shelves and drawers: Install shelves and drawers to store socks, bins of accessories, or jewelry, ensure your closet has ample spots for all of your go-to items.

• Designate a space for your hamper: Don’t forget to create a spot for your hamper, whether it’s on the floor or included in a tilt-out design. 

You can also hire a local closet designer or a local closet maker to ensure you optimize your space and customize your closet to your needs.

To enhance your shiplap closet, add or change your closet doors to resemble a farmhouse style. A few options:

• Sliding faux barn doors

• Shiplap doors

• French closet doors (can be converted from bi-fold closet doors)

• Install farmhouse trim around your existing closet door

You can either DIY your farmhouse closet doors, or buy a kit online or from a hardware store. Sliding barn door kits usually include the door and the hardware you need to install it.

If you have the space, add other elements that amplify your farmhouse vibe. Consider these fixtures and accessories: 

• Vintage or farmhouse chandelier

• Farmhouse style mirror

• Piece of artwork featuring flowers, trees, herbs, or farm animals

• Farmhouse bench, chair, or stool

• Light-colored patterned rug

• Reclaimed wood trim

• White or neutral-colored bins, organizers, and baskets