Characterized by long horizontal (or vertical) panels formed by overlapping “rabbets” (grooved boards), weathertight shiplap has long been popular in areas with harsh climates. Because of this functionality, and due to the fact that it was often made from relatively inexpensive pine, shiplap has traditionally been associated with less formal structures, such as woodland cabins and coastal cottages.
But architect Sheila Bonnell of FRAMe Architecture & Design (a member of the Remodelista Design Directory) encourages us to break with tradition when it comes to shiplap, regarding it as not just a “rustic” or “period” material but also a timeless detail that is as much at home in modern architecture. Recently we asked Sheila to share her insights into the myriad applications of shiplap.
Above: In the dining area of Harbor Cottage, shiplap paneling was used to unify the space and give it an updated cottage feel. Photograph by Justine Hand.
Remodelista: You’ve used shiplap in many of the homes you’ve designed. What is it that draws you to this material"
Sheila Bonnell: Put simply, shiplap is a less formal way of adding interest to a wall and/or dimension to a space. The fact it has to be installed by hand and that you can feel the craftsmanship, the fact that it is a natural material, that it is textured, that it allows you to create a seamless line throughout a space, that it has historic and regional contexts?for me...