Oh hey actual shiplap! It's refreshing someone knows the difference and not simply refer to any and all horizontal paneling as "shiplap" (but that's usually the case, hence the assumptions). Depending on the space, it could be overbearing or it could be just right. I've seen a house that's entirely stained/varnished beadboard (walls and ceilings) and it works amazingly in THAT house, but I could see it looking completely terrible and excessive in a different house. Pics would be very helpful.

for shiplap, I'd prob do a satin. eggshell at the minimum. make sure you up your bulbs to a 3500-4000K temp Personally I would have done a brighter white than alabaster.

My contractor was saying the light popcorn ceiling would show through natural shiplap boards on ceiling in kitchen. I have not read that being a problem in most discussions or blogs. Most are painting their shiplap a light color. Maybe paint ceiling dark before install? Can anyone direct me to info on that or have done ideas. Thank you for any suggestions.

Have you considered this instead? - easier and looks great. Armstrong Plank Ceiling Had a different situation years ago (o.k. about 26 years ago) and put this ceiling up. I have a friend who now owns my previous home and the ceiling is still there and going strong. I like pine, but frankly, it's tough to paint and have look like anything. It's great natural on walls and if it's the look you're going for, o.k. on the ceiling. But in your situation, I'd personally go with this plank ceiling. Save yourself a LOT of time and money and in my opinion, get far superior results :)