Would you like your kitchen to feature warmth, ease of use and long-term beauty? If this fits, then designs for wood kitchen cabinets might be what you’re looking for. I’ll describe some popular wood kitchen cabinet designs to you in this article, covering walnut finishes and earth-friendly recycled wood. No matter if you’re revamping your entire kitchen or just enhancing the cabinetry, I’ll outline why all this works which items and furniture will support the design and how to make it look smart and realistic.
Classic Oak Cabinets For A Timeless Look
Many home kitchens have long used oak cabinets because they are beloved by many. Both their solidity and their adjustment to all kinds of footwear impress me a lot. Oak wood kitchen cabinets offer beauty and stability to the area. The grain that is just a bit visible helps make the wood feel less heavy and more interesting. Reflecting this idea makes any large kitchen feel cozy, friendly and well-balanced.
What I usually do in this configuration is have the oak cabinets along with walls and backsplashes that are off-white or beige and fixtures that are glossy black. The traditional look of oak is highlighted by honed granite or soapstone countertops. The room looks more polished and finished because of the brass cabinet handles and crown molding. A table with oak islands and bar seating matches the rest of the cabinets well in the room.
In what I have observed, people still choose oak cabinetry when they want the security of tradition plus a personal touch. Interior designers at Better Homes & Gardens usually advise oak for families looking to create a kitchen that won’t look old fashioned.
In order to deepen this design, use unusual materials like charcoal stone tiles or steel-colored fixtures that still highlight the oak.
Sleek Walnut Cabinets For A Rich Finish
The kitchen looks richer and more luxurious thanks to the featured walnut cabinets. This style option gives you a daring look that also looks elegant. Because of their natural light brown color, walnut pieces add a feeling of luxury and match all kinds of styles, from modern to traditional. Open-concept kitchens that emphasize symmetry and smooth transitions can make good use of wood kitchen cabinets.
Installing big, flat-panel cabinets, push open latches and built-in appliances is an excellent way to style a walnut kitchen cabinet. In my opinion, sitting dark grey granite kitchen countertops next to white quartz on the floor would be best. Metallic pendant lights, for example those with a brushed nickel or gold finish, make the area look more classy. I often use walnut open shelves to go with my solid cabinets and make the design more interesting.
Walnut cabinets personally come across as attractive and classy without being overstated. Many designers such as Nate Berkus mention the beautiful deeper tones of walnut for turning a kitchen into a fashionable and impressive space.
A good way to finish this area is to add under-cabinet LED lights for task lighting. The natural grain of the wood is highlighted and this makes the space more suited to work.
Light Maple Wood Cabinets For A Bright Kitchen
People who enjoy a bright, spacious kitchen and like natural wood usually pick light maple. The smooth surface and light color of maple bounce off light and look great in small or dimly lit kitchens. Because of their soft yet current appearance, these wood kitchen cabinets blend well with interiors styled after Scandinavian design.
My ideal kitchens would use light maple shaker cabinets, white subway tile on the backsplash and cool-toned quartz as the countertop. A matte black or brushed nickel finish on your hardware gives it the right amount of contrast. The same type of wood is used in a nearby dining table which visually connects the two parts of the room. Keep walls a soft grey, the decorations light and the lights understated so that the cabinets are the most noticeable.
People who want a cozy, minimal-upkeep space that won’t become tired seem to enjoy this palette. Maple is often suggested by Houzz as a choice for modern kitchens wanting a clean style with a natural touch.
What would take this process up a notch? A couple of natural accessories such as jute rugs or clay vases, would highlight the warmth in maple without overwhelming the space.
Rustic Pine Cabinets For A Cozy Touch
Whenever I am after a welcoming and cozy design in a kitchen, I like to consider pine cabinets for their soothing character. The characteristic knots and attractive grain of pine make every kitchen look unique. Homes that are farmhouse, lodge or cottage style usually fit well with wood kitchen cabinets, as these types of homes highlight texture and slight imperfections.
A common way to balance a kitchen is to combine rustic pine cabinets with countertops made of honed granite or soapstone. Finishing touches are the farmhouse sink, vintage faucet and exposed ceiling beams. Putting in antique brass pulls and textured ceramic backsplashes helps add an extra touch to blend all elements nicely.
People who prefer rustic or rural homes often relate very well to pine. It comes across as genuine and natural and that can’t be duplicated. The publication Country Living says that pine is often chosen by designers for making warm and interesting kitchen spaces.
You could bring more character to the room by choosing handmade pottery, natural light fixtures or a pantry entrance styled after a barn.
Dark Cherry Cabinets For A Luxurious Appeal
People who want their kitchens to look bold and elegant often choose cherry cabinets. They are suitable for anybody wanting to keep things classic yet dramatic. Cherry wood gets a beautiful reddish-brown color that matures with time. They are a wonderful choice for kitchens big enough to handle their intensity.
I think using glossy cabinets and designing them with different features such as ivory quartz countertops and polished nickel handles makes everything stand out. The room is balanced by marble above the counters and darker hardwood or porcelain flooring. In many cases, I choose a design that includes a couple of upper cabinets with glass-front doors to make the kitchen look lighter.
I have personally found that cherry makes a good fit in estate-style homes. Because cherry is beautiful and lasts, publications like Architectural Digest frequently present it as a material for the rich and famous.
Making suggestions, complement the layout by choosing light or metallic lighting. The presence of big windows or doors made of glass can improve a building’s appearance.
Weathered Wood Cabinets For A Soft Aged Effect
Wood cabinets with a wind-weathered or driftwood finish give a traditional rustic feel. These wood kitchen cabinets look as if they are aged but never worn and they offer an excellent choice between old and new styles. I think they are best in homes by the beach or rooms meant to feel peaceful and calm.
To complete this style, I think options for countertops like light concrete or marble, appliances made of stainless steel and flooring in ceramic or limestone would make it shine. Walls that are soft grey, sage or seafoam bring out the natural component of the room. Having a driftwood kitchen island or breakfast bar provides the area with more interest, but it still matches the cabinets well.
To me, cabinets that are older and worn-in are undervalued. The gentle appearance of these makes any kitchen look livelier. Coastal Living magazine likes to feature weathered woods in its suggestions for rustic and modern coastal homes.
I would like to see textured glass pendant lighting or shelving in the same weathered wood color, since it matches everything else in the room.
Whitewashed Wood Cabinets For Airy Spaces
I regularly recommend whitewashed cabinets to people who want a light, refreshing feel as well as the charm of natural wood. The light feel of these kitchen cabinets suits beach homes as well as minimalist spaces, but they are not lacking in detail. Those little spots give the sculpture a homely, handmade character.
I often use white shaker cabinets, polished concrete countertops in white or grey, black or brushed brass accessories and wide plank white flooring in this style. Using open shelved units in the same color or style supports a sense of unity. Adding light wood bar stools and woven pendant lights helps create warmth in the rest of the cool-toned setting.
This design seems to me a lovely combination of controlled and sleek modern looks with warm, natural wood. Whitewashed styles are becoming popular in kitchens because they blend brightness with texture, says HGTV.
To make this idea stand out, I would incline towards using pale green or dusty blue accents in the tile or accessories to show some color and distinctness.
Two-Tone Wood Cabinets For Modern Depth
I really like adding visual appeal to a kitchen using two-tone wood cabinets. Two shades of wood are combined by putting darker tones on the lower cabinets and lighter or neutral ones on top. It gives a sense of visual difference, prevents a repetitive look and gives a contemporary atmosphere while also highlighting the wood cabinets.
A balanced composition is possible by putting rich walnut for the base with whitewashed oak or light maple for the upper cabinets. You get a cooking area that is both comfortable and roomy. Usually, I like to add flat-front cabinetry, smooth brushed metal drawer handles and a matching wood island combining both colors. Countertops made of concrete or marble link the two parts of the kitchen together. Using lights under the cabinets makes each floor easier to see.
A lot of homeowners are taken aback by how well two-tone kitchens come together. As per House Beautiful, people who want a balance between standout and functional styles often choose two-tone cabinets.
As the finishing touch, putting bar stools with wood colors or a mix of wood and metal, will make all the design elements come together beautifully.
Natural Finish Cabinets For Organic Style
If a client wants to create a consistent outdoor mood in the kitchen, I usually recommend natural finish cabinetry. Untouched wood grain and tone are highlighted in these wood kitchen cabinets which are usually sealed with a clear matte coating to save their original appearance. While keeping things simple and warm, this style is wonderful for organic or minimalist living spaces.
In such projects, I usually build with oak, ash or maple the way they naturally appear. To match the natural style, I go with plain slab cabinet doors that are without any fancy molding. The kitchen looks lovely when you choose stone countertops, especially soapstone or honed granite. Having a backsplash in soft clay or linen colors helps the overall appearance without taking attention from the other materials. Lighter hardwood planks and wood windows give the home extra hominess.
To me, natural finish cabinetry is very soothing and healing. The magazine regularly shows examples of contemporary homes designed so that indoor and outdoor spaces blend seamlessly.
To make things more organic, I would add potted herbs or open shelves to go with the modern country style.
Shaker-Style Wood Cabinets For Clean Lines
Many kitchens include Shaker-style cabinets and I suggest them when someone is looking for a classic, clean and flexible look. Because these cabinets have a recessed panel and are cleanly designed, they match well with classic or modern tastes.
For a balanced and warm-looking result with this design, I prefer medium-toned woods, for example, hickory or birch. Because of its basic shape, shaker cabinets fit nicely with stone or quartz countertops and either tile or beadboard backsplash. Matte black, oil-rubbed bronze or brushed nickel are all good choices for hardware. Another option is to place a big island in the middle, match the cabinets and add a few overhead pendant lights.
Based on my experience, shaker-style cabinetry is very popular among people who love something timeless. Shaker cabinets are also seen by This Old House as a wise long-term investment during a kitchen remodel.
Another way to improve the design is by putting in open shelving on one wall or using glass doors for the top cabinets, to make things less serious and more interesting.
Reclaimed Wood Cabinets For Sustainable Design
For me, reclaimed wood cabinets are environmentally responsible and decorated with wonderful natural beauty. Because salvaged barnwood, boarded floors and other materials are used to create these cabinets, they receive a weathered look that new wood simply cannot have.
Usually, I put reclaimed wood cabinets with industrial pieces such as steel handles, concrete counters or exposed bricks to give the space a simple, real feel. I like to use reclaimed-wood open shelves so that the look stays the same. Reclaimed wood usually works best on the cabinets that touch the floor which can help prevent the space from seeming too heavy.
The fact that this material is unique gets noticed by clients. All these skin variations, marks and scars add to the unique story of each person. According to Remodelista, people who focus on being eco-friendly and authentic prefer to use reclaimed wood in their kitchens.
Eco-friendliness could be stronger if the appliances and lighting included energy-saving, recycled materials.
Vertical Grain Wood Cabinets For A Sleek Visual Flow
If a client wants clean, modern cabinets, vertical grain wood is the way to go. Because the wood grain is placed vertically, the kitchen looks taller and smoother. It helps small kitchens look larger and more up-to-date and I think it’s very useful when you have less space.
I prefer to work with rift-sawn oak or walnut when following this approach and I finish them with a matte or satin sealant. Often, cabinet faces are slab-style and frameless to help create unbroken, sleek features. Most of the time, my advice is to use neutral walls, glass backsplashes painted in the desired color and built-in appliances to keep the cooking line straight. Streamlined lighting is finished off with track lighting or linear pendant lights.
I have noticed that many homeowners who want a very modern kitchen also want some warmth and that is where vertical grain cabinets fit in. According to Elle Decor, this year more kitchens are using vertical grains to add architectural elements to their surfaces.
To finish off the style, think about including tall cabinets and matching them with vertical cabinet knobs that go with the wood grain direction.
Painted Wood Cabinets That Reveal Grain Texture
To get a colorful kitchen that still looks inviting, painted wood cabinets that expose the grain under the paint are a good pick. The cabinets are treated with stains that are only partly transparent, so the grain can still be seen. This is a great method to add trendy colors to the traditional look of wood cabinets.
This scheme is great for open-concept kitchens because the cabinetry can link different rooms in your home. Colors that work well with most homes are pale sage, muted navy and creamy taupe. I usually go with natural stone counters and ceramic or handmade tiles in the backsplash for these kitchen cabinets. Brass or nickel can bring warmth to the cooler looks.
When clients request color and don’t want to use fully solid paint, I usually use this technique. Architectural Digest recommends that semi-opaque materials let you show your taste without hiding the workmanship.
To finish the design, I would add some floating wood shelves in a natural or painted finish to go with the wood, giving more areas to display.
Wood Cabinets With Glass Inserts For An Open Feel
If your goal is to keep the kitchen open but still have enough storage, attempt wood cabinets that come with glass inserts. Because of their wood construction, these cabinets allow the kitchen to maintain a light look and easy access and they feature a traditional style. Glass shelves let you put your prettiest plates or decor on display.
Most of the time, I use cherry, maple or painted oak colored frames in my artwork. The sheet becomes either clear, transparent with a frosted or ribbed glass surface which can offer privacy. I generally build the upper section of the cabinet with plywood and have the lower section be solid wood. Subway tile for the backsplash and stone countertops give the look of luxury and warmth.
What may appeal to me the most is the combination of openness and formal elements. Often, Southern Living designers mention glass inserts as a way to make kitchens bright and still keep the cabinetry organized.
If you like this idea, you could put in niche lighting inside your cabinets or choose styles that have decorative dividers.
Modern Minimalist Wood Cabinets With Handle-Free Design
Simple kitchen designs usually leave out cabinet handles, so wood cabinets look clean and continuous. Shelves like this are great no matter how big or small the kitchen, since they keep things organized and create a soothing, uncluttered mood. Often, these simple looks are created using push-to-open features or integrated grooves which give the cabinets a neat and useful look. Since the natural wood finish is used, nothing about the room feels cold or blank.
Pairing the cabinets with a plain modern island, skimmy bar stools and shiny quartz or soapstone countertops is often a favorite recommendation of mine. Lights must be recessed or set below the cabinets so that the space looks quiet and ordered. If the room requires a lot of storage, floor-to-ceiling wood cabinets can make the room look tailored. Contrast-wise, I much prefer matte black or brushed steel faucets and appliances.
For me, this arrangement suits modern homes that want a tidy design and to keep their identity. It is said in Elle Decor that using organic elements like wood in modern decor gives a warm touch to otherwise simple designs. Many times, homeowners are delighted by how cosy and warm their home gets after wood tones are applied.
I would look into including the equivalent of seating along with sleek, soft-closing drawers and interior organizers, so the design is both practical and graceful.
Stained Wood Cabinets To Highlight The Grain
To really make wood kitchen cabinets stand out with their natural look, one of my favorites is to use a rich stain that brings out the wood grain. This style suits traditional as well as transitional kitchens because craftsmanship and organic style are important there. The gel leaves the original wood look in place while deepening the color, making it very eye-catching.
Brushed brass or antique bronze handles usually match the depth and warmth found in these cabinets. Pick either granite or veined marble for a countertop to help create a timeless appearance. Either classic subway tile or material that has an interesting texture, like hand-glazed ceramic, looks nice in the kitchen. Add pendant lights that give off warm light and your kitchen is now balanced and inviting.
From what I have seen, those with a preference for natural products like this kind of design. Better Homes & Gardens pointed out that homeowners are choosing stained cabinets to add both charm and warmth to their kitchens instead of having a bland or cold one. Yes, having pale-colored walls allows the cabinetry to stand out.
You could add more depth to the room by staining your island light and your wall cabinetry dark.
Distressed Wood Cabinets For Vintage Character
Kitchen cabinets made from distressed wood add a traditional and vintage look to any kitchen, perfect for people who like this kind of design. I usually choose pine or alder because they naturally get worn out, although hardwoods can be distressed to get an aged effect. As a result, the kitchen looks comfortable, cozy and never outdated.
Add open shelves, a farmhouse sink and metal lightings to keep the vintage feel. I generally advice choosing stone countertops that have a matte finish and using iron or pewter style hardware. Matching stain on wide-plank flooring links all the elements of the room.
A lot of our clients who wish their kitchen to convey a story love this look. As indicated by House Beautiful, people are more interested in distressed finishes to add more interest and background to their homes. Absolutely, these cabinets give the kitchen the feel of being lived in.
You can perfectly complete the style by including things such as beadboard paneling, glass-front cabinets featuring mullions and classic retro-style cabinet knobs.
Floating Wood Cabinets For A Contemporary Vibe
I like using floating kitchen cabinets when I want the kitchen to feel modern and open. Lifting your cabinetry off the ground makes the kitchen look bigger and adds natural air movement and this trick is most helpful in smaller areas. They commonly have clean, sleek bodies made with attractive wood finishes.
Usually, floating cabinets look great when combined with under-cabinet LED lighting for both efficiency and added atmosphere. The unused space under a cabinet can be filled with things like open shelves, baskets or kept empty to make the area simple. Fast, simple preparation makes the open layout and full-height backsplash in glass or marble a perfect match.
I prefer floating cabinets because they go against traditional designs and allow you to set up your space how you like it. There have been numerous floating cabinetry designs featured in Dwell magazine lately which state they make spaces appear bigger and look more inventive. I believe they’re a bold yet practical choice.
A good way to continue the style is to add floating shelves or put in a low-profile exhaust hood that complements the rest.
Wood Cabinets With Metal Accents For Industrial Flair
When you prefer an industrial kitchen, matching wood cabinetry with metal details gives a pleasing blend of rough and polished elements. Darker woods such as walnut or espresso-stained oak, together with black steel handles, exposed hinges or a mesh door insert, are what help me achieve that urban style.
It looks especially nice next to stainless steel appliances, cement kitchen surfaces and clearly visible ducts. Harsh bulbs in a black iron or aged bronze finish give a fitting look. Adding brick or black tile works well for me to add depth and that city touch to the kitchen.
Those who like the approach are usually looking for something bold and without pretence. According to Apartment Therapy, the industrial look is now appearing in kitchens more than before, especially when combined with organic materials like wood. I have seen several clients like the way contrast adds warmth to the room without making it too cold.
Complete the look by including open shelves with metal supports and even a sliding barn-style wood pantry door for a cohesive trademark look.
Vertical Slat Wood Cabinets For Added Texture
I find vertical slat wood kitchen cabinets to be both a new concept and very flexible. The vertical lines help the design look taller and more rhythmic. Due to its texture, using oak, walnut or ash helps the cabinets achieve a modern, sculpted look that makes them feel complete and elegant.
Using slender and hidden hardware suits these cabinets because it lets the look of the slats shine through. I usually pick gray smooth counters and simple backsplashes so everything blends together. To achieve a stylish overall effect, I include slatted wood paneling on the island or a close by wall.
For people looking for a distinctive, yet timeless kitchen, these cabinets are just right. Architectural Digest has pointed out that this architecture shows off handmade skills along with a modern feel. I have applied it in every type of kitchen with great success.
To make it better, you could include soft-close vertical drawers and connect with slatted wood vent covers to keep the theme working throughout the room.
Frameless Wood Cabinets For A Sleek, Clean Look
Because of the streamlined style, frameless wood kitchen cabinets are ideal for those who like the European look and desire to make full use of space. It can suit small modern spaces or compact kitchens by making all the storage accessible and giving the cabinets a stylish, simple look.
Matte black or brushed gold hardware gives a sleek complement to the clean cabinets. Here, quartz or porcelain slab countertops are ideal, as are appliances that open into the cabinetry and doors with hidden hinges. Using large-format tile or polished concrete in the floor strengthens the clean and architectural feel of the environment.
From what I see, frameless cabinets are the most accurate and sophisticated style you can have. As reported by HGTV, this type of home is growing in popularity because it makes full use of space and looks polished. I have fitted it in several luxurious homes and it always leaves a big impression.
A way to improve the design might be to put LED lights in the cabinets and switch the pulls with soft-touch mechanisms so that the cabinet doors look good and function even better.
Custom Carved Wood Cabinets For Artistic Detail
Wooden kitchen cabinets, specially carved by hand, give a kitchen an artistic and distinctive look. When clients come to me wanting their kitchens to look special, I lean on this approach. Wood carving gives depth and character to the room without the need for other decorations. How intricate the carving is will decide if the cabinets appear traditionally, Mediterranean-style or contemporary in character.
Since cherry and oak hold detailed layers, I pick them when doing carving projects in the kitchen. Cabinets like these go well with natural stone countertops, fancy lighting and dark floors. I frequently add arched cabinet doors, fluted pilasters and inlay designs to make the furniture stand out. Hardware in a country cottage style often looks best with warm metals like antique bronze or burnished gold.
I have found that homeowners who appreciate craftsmanship most often like these small artistic touches. Traditional Home says that luxury homes are once again using handcrafted items which emphasize the individuality and talents of designers. Even small kitchens can look much better when their cabinets are beautifully carved.
A further touch could be moulding the upper cabinets with carved corbels or echoing the carving on the island base for style consistency.
Horizontal Grain Cabinets For A Streamlined Effect
Horizontal grain kitchen cabinets give the whole kitchen a sleek and slim look that feels both fashionable and wide. It suits kitchens that are shaped like a galley or an open area, since the extended look can visually broaden the space. I tend to choose walnut or rift-sawn oak because their grains are naturally in straight lines which creates the look I want.
To keep the furniture clean, I choose long horizontal handles or integrated door knobs. The cabinets stand out the most when they are installed with slab countertops and a uniform, backsplash material such as quartz or glass. Make sure the wood grain is horizontal in every upper and lower cabinet so everything matches.
It’s an approach I appreciate when clients want their kitchen to have a sleek style but be more active than with slab doors. As reported by Dwell, many designers are now using horizontal grain cabinetry for the way it gently points the eye and makes the space seem smoother. I find that Rugs are a good choice in modern apartments and condos.
If you want to strengthen this concept, make sure the drawer slides are soft-close and add hidden compartments or choose a similar grain direction for the appliances nearby.
Slab-Front Wood Cabinets For A Seamless Finish
Building a clean and contemporary kitchen can be best done with slab-front wood kitchen cabinets. Because these cabinets lack frames, bevels and ornamentation, they give the kitchen a consistent appearance. In many cases, I suggest these in lighter or medium-colored woods to prevent the room appearing heavy.
Having slab-front cabinets, matte countertops and built-in appliances all at the same level gives the kitchen a cohesive look. Using lights hidden in the ceiling and under the cabinets gives the kitchen a clean appearance. There should be minimal hardware used, like slender touch-latch or brushed metal pulls. It can be used on the refrigerator panel as well for added coordination.
In my experience, clients who like clean and modern homes tend to choose these cabinets the most. As Interior Design Magazine states, slab-front cabinetry appeals to modern architects for its clean lines and its ability to adapt. I completely think the same—its versatility works with both exciting and neutral color schemes.
Add some toe-kick drawers and push-to-open doors for a neat ending touch.
Herringbone Wood Cabinets For Stylish Pattern Play
Often, kitchen cabinets in herringbone designs are attractive because they bring an eye-catching pattern right to the cabinet surface. When clients want to make their space more interesting but not overwhelmed, I always present this as an option. The herringbone layout is eye-catching and goes nicely with modern or transitional kitchens.
Cabinets look best in mid-tone or darker woods because they highlight the grains at the angles. Most of the time, I choose calm colors for the backsplash, countertop and hardware to make the pattern stand out. The cabinets look lighter because of the slim lighting and monochrome flooring. Small touches such as floating wood shelves or appliances with panel-ready fronts, complete the design.
Based on what I’ve seen, this style fits homeowners who are interested in having a modern kitchen space. As Elle Decor points out, herringbone (and similar patterns on wood) are being noticed for the way they bring personality to traditionally plain walls. In different places I’ve lived, my oven took center stage in the whole house.
Another way of making it more distinctive is to use the herringbone pattern in other parts, particularly on the kitchen island or with similar parquet flooring.
Wood Cabinets With Open Shelving Combos
Wood kitchen cabinets go well with open shelves to get both beauty and function. This strategy works well for clients who need closets and also wish to display their favorite cookbooks, ceramics or glassware somewhere in the kitchen. Combining textures and colors makes the kitchen livelier and more individualized.
I most often put the closed cabinets on the bottom and the open wood shelves on top. It allows you to keep the space structured and keeps it from looking cramped. Adding floating wood shelves in a shade close to or just a tiny bit darker than the rest of the cabinets works well. Under those shelves is integrated lighting which provides coziness and makes the space visible.
In my opinion, clients like that this strikes a balance between use and appearance. The experts from HGTV mention that open-shelving makes any kitchen look more open and practical. I tend to prefer this design most in homes with big ceilings, because the large open shelving makes the room feel bigger.
I can add wall-mounted racks or brass brackets to further emphasize the style of the cabinets and bring extra attraction.
Bamboo-Style Wood Cabinets For An Earthy Atmosphere
People who appreciate an eco-friendly, simple style will love bamboo-style wood kitchen cabinets. Many times, I suggest buying bamboo because it is environmentally friendly, tough and has a unique linear look. A peaceful and natural feel makes stone look especially welcome in such kitchens.
Bamboo-style cabinets work well with light stone countertops and plain designs on the backsplash such as stacked tiles or just one layer of glass. Brushed nickel or matte black fixtures ensure the style does not seem too airy and pendant lighting made from wood or other natural material adds to the natural feel. Everything in the room looks clean, natural and relaxing.
Those who like nature-themed design tend to appreciate this kind of cabinetry. It is reported by The Spruce that many are choosing bamboo because it can be renewed and always appears sleek. I think it looks great as well as being very hard-wearing in the kitchen.
You could make the design better by including wooden or rattan bar stools and woven drawer accessories to blend with the high-end details of the cabinetry.
Soft Grey Stained Wood Cabinets For Neutral Appeal
A grey shade on stain wood kitchen cabinets gives homeowners a gentle color change that preserves the special quality of natural wood. The wood grain is highlighted by the mark and a modern hue is introduced that goes with every kind of design, from current to farmhouse.
Countertops of white marble or quartz and grey-blue subway tiles or white ceramic make great compliments to my cabinets. Here, chrome or brushed nickel handles or hinges add a nice difference without overpowering the room. A lot of the time, I pick shaker-style fronts to keep a traditional look but also be fashionable.
Grey on wood tends to make an area peaceful, sophisticated and not too in-trend. Better Homes & Gardens recommends it for anyone looking to soften a kitchen’s palette without losing depth. It turns out that the design gives me more options for picking accent colors for different accessories or seating.
Another idea is to set up grey wood paneling around the kitchen island and a matching grey range hood cover to achieve a matched and elegant appearance all around the room.
Custom Wood Cabinet Panels That Blend With Appliances
Custom cabinet panels made from wood will help your kitchen kitchen look high-end and blends perfectly with your appliances. It improves how the space flows and gets rid of distracting designs on the large stainless steel surfaces. In a number of kitchens, the fridge, dishwasher and vent hoods are hidden by wood-paneled doors, so the cabinetry appears to be one seamless set of furniture. It’s a refined and luxurious effect that serves both design and function.
Usually, in these designs, I pick strong and beautiful hardwoods such as walnut or white oak for the cabinets. Appliance panels are styled to align with the cabinets which creates a symmetrical appearance. The hardware is usually either tucked away or cut out totally and many use push-latch or integrated handle mechanisms to open the door silently. Having these choices in your kitchen is most helpful if your kitchen can be seen from other parts of the house.
I feel this is one of the wisest ways to spend your money on a heavily used cooking space. Immediately, it enhances the outlook and gives a consistent and relaxed feel. In interior design articles from Architectural Digest, it’s highlighted that putting appliances flush into cabinets and adding custom cabinet fronts changes your kitchen into a relaxing living area rather than a dedicated spot for cooking.
Another way to improve this layout is to put wood-paneled trim around the oven stack or wall units. By adding that bit of enclosure, the cabinets appear even more carefully planned and finished.
Wood Cabinets With Beadboard Details For Cottage Charm
Whenever I’d like to bring some personality to a kitchen, I usually recommend wood cabinets with beadboard panels. They bring a gentle type of texture to the space which makes the room feel peaceful and charming for cottage-style homes. They suggest living in the country without being old-fashioned or too common. It is a good choice for homeowners who wish to make their cabinets more unique without using many ornate features.
Beadboard cabinets look great when combined with open shelves, old-style cabinet handles and white or sage-green walls. Islands made from natural wood or butcher block nicely match the vertical beadboard everywhere in the kitchen. One more thing I suggest is to add tongue-and-groove ceilings or shiplap backsplashes to continue the same style all through the area.
I have found that beadboard always makes a kitchen feel more cozy. When we modernized a lakehouse kitchen, I combined light oak flooring, pale wood beadboard cabinets and antique brass sconces which really made the space feel relaxing and comfortable. Better Homes & Gardens underscores that this style looks especially classic where there is a lot of natural light and warm wooden finishes.
Adding soft-patterned curtains, reclaimed wood as a dining table or ceramic farmhouse sinks would add to the cottage effect, preserving a modern feel.
Floor-To-Ceiling Wood Cabinets For Maximum Storage
Where there isn’t much storage space, tall wood cabinets reaching the ceiling are essential. Using this style often makes the most out of vertical spaces and ensures everything is kept orderly and out of sight. They provide convenient access to items and their furniture-like look helps the kitchen appear well-organized and well-structured. If constructed in warm wood tones, they also make the room look richer and more solid.
To avoid the kitchen looking too plain, I usually suggest teaming full-height cabinets with an island or base cabinet in a finish that stands out. Cabinets this high regularly hide practical solutions, for example pull-out shelves in the pantry, tray organizers that stand vertically and places to store appliances. My personal taste likes maple and rift-sawn oak, because they keep the room bright without making it cold.
Customers say they find these units refreshing, because it means their soffits and cabinets are unobstructed and not too low anymore. One city loft renovation saw us cover an entire wall in custom wood cabinetry, meeting the client’s need for both style and available space for seasonal things, cleaning tools and dishes. In environments like open floor plans, tall cabinets are a great asset according to House Beautiful because they help create visual structure.
Improving the design, you might add built-in lighting strips, decorative molding to the ceiling or add mirrored panels on upper cabinet doors to reflect light and reduce the impression of a lot of cabinetry.
Mixing Wood Tones For Visual Interest And Warmth
Mixing several wood tones helps create an exciting look, but still ensures that wood cabinets keep their warm feel throughout the area. When I want a place to be layered and bring different elements together, I really enjoy using this method. Darker walnut teamed with white oak or cherry cabinetry set against ash wood islands, helps the focal point move effortlessly through the room. It separates different activities in an open kitchen.
I like to match the warm undertones in one wood with another warm wood and cool undertones the same way. The most important thing is to match the texture with the right finish. Using a matte finish on base cabinets can give the room a solid base and using lighter colors for wall cabinets or shelves adds a sense of openness. Choosing breakfast tables or stools in a different wood tone accents the room and gives it interest without it becoming too busy.
Smoked oak was the material I chose for the pantry units and I painted the overhead cabinets a pale birch color. It made the kitchen feel updated but also homely. According to design experts at Dwell, mixed wood tones create a more customized, intentional look compared to a one-finish approach, making your space feel sophisticated and less “off-the-shelf.”
In this style, something else I’d love is a mix of textures, including stylish leather bar stools and unique mixed-metal details. They work nicely with the layered wood effect by increasing both the texture and appeal of the surface.
Wood kitchen cabinets allow you to make your kitchen timeless and fit your personal tastes. If you like uniform panels, delicate beadboard or depths of wood tones, you will find a style that can improve your kitchen’s usefulness and style. Is there a cabinet design you like better than others or are you designing a remodel? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
