What draws us to wood kitchen cabinets and still makes them the focal points of the house? Does the rustic appearance, the integration of traditional and contemporary, or the fact they never go out of style attract us to wood furniture? We will look at the connection between rustic style and modern living by sharing 64 amazing examples of wood kitchen cabinets. Looking at raw wood grain styles and modern minimalism, we will discuss how every approach can turn your kitchen into a cozy gathering place. We can enjoy timber’s beauty by enjoying its cabinet-by-cabinet appearance.
Embracing Nature With Raw Wood Grain Cabinets
There’s something inherently grounding about letting the wood’s natural grain take center stage. I made sure the design portrays a connection between the people and the earth. Raw wood grain cabinets make your home both warm and commonly connected to nature. They complement houses that value the outdoors or people wanting to add some peace inside their homes.
My design opted for thick flat-panel cabinets with minimal stain to put the grain in focus. Using matte black fixtures, a large farmhouse sink, along with exposed beams gives it a classic control and at the same time a sense of strength. I brought together the natural materials with smooth concrete floors and white walls to produce an atmosphere that’s easy to connect with and looks clean.
I have applied this design in a home in the Berkshires, and homeowners mentioned the sense of peace, memories, and people’s admiration for the architecture. Architectural Digest points out that textured kitchens usually sell for more in both rural and suburban markets.
A great way to finish this portion is to put in strip lights under the cabinets to highlight the wood’s grain by night and ceramic tiles for the backsplash to softly add a touch of new texture.
Dark Walnut Cabinets That Define Sophisticated Warmth
Walnut always stays popular because it’s gorgeous, detailed, and can be used in various ways. With this design, I made a kitchen that is beautiful as well as cozy. The purpose was to make the room look confident and elegant using dark walnut cabinets, without making it too heavy or old-fashioned.
There are shaker-style cabinets with flush doors, all placed around cream-colored stone countertops and brushed brass handles. The pendant lights placed above the island are antique and help the eyes travel up and add symmetry to the space. Dark wood stands out nicely against the soft beige floor and the caramel leather nook.
I’ve always admired how walnut creates a dialogue between light and shadow. Light countertops and admitting lots of natural light can turn dark cabinets into a room that is elegant, rather than heavy and depressing. According to Elle Decor, making your kitchen with walnut can turn into a “design success” when the style is balanced right.
To make the space more beautiful, replace the glass cabinet’s back with walnut veneer or set up open walnut shelves to tie everything in together smoothly.
Light Oak Cabinets for Airy Rustic Vibes
To achieve a lighter, more open feel, I leaned into light oak cabinetry for a soft rustic ambiance that doesn’t overwhelm. This design is perfect for smaller kitchens since lightness is essential. It makes it simple to create a comfortable and Scandinavian-style atmosphere.
A semi-matte finish has been put on the cabinets to make the yellowness of the wood more noticeable. I connected them using white quartz countertops, a simple subway tile backsplash, and classic brass wall sconces to give the kitchen farmhouse style. The rustic look is made stronger by having natural jute rugs and terracotta planters in the room.
For my New England cottage, installing this oak system made the kitchen seem twice as big. Light oak is very popular with millennial homeowners, says House Beautiful, because it can be used in many ways and needs little effort to maintain.
Another idea is to put woven baskets above the upper cabinets, or choose appliances made of oak for a uniform overall look.
Handcrafted Reclaimed Wood Kitchen Elegance
Should sustainability and good storytelling be important in your design, reclaimed wood cabinets are worth considering. Only removal of wood splinters was needed, leaving the barn wood to keep its special character. The result? A kitchen that captures the feeling of warmth, history, and interest.
These pieces have comfy, irregular knots, old nails, and different shades, which copying is out of the question. I installed industrial black handles, used a matte white countertop, and put iron pipes for the shelves on top to bring in an industrial look. Wide and warm hardwood planks were selected for the flooring, so they aligned with the story shown in the cabinets.
It made the remodel in the Hudson Valley a real dream. Noted by Dwell, having a kitchen made from reclaimed wood is not only appealing but also eco-friendly since each plank plays a part and lessens landfill waste.
Another way to finish this style is by putting vintage stools at the bar and a worn wood hood cover hiding the oven.
Modern Minimalism Meets Timber Beauty
Wood does not have to be rough to look appealing. Modern minimalism was the concept behind this kitchen, with unbroken wood cabinets used to make the surface neat and spotlight the wood’s charm. Creating a good poster is about finding the balance between less information and great results.
Rift-sawn white oak was used in this cabinetry because its grain is very consistent. I made sure that the stainless steel front was the same on the fridge and dishwasher so the look would not be interrupted. There are sinks located on the island, which floats on low, built-in plinths. The countertops are made of delicate, pale marble. Having integrated handles and slab-style drawers, the style looks streamlined but not at all chilly.
The look was chosen for my Los Angeles project because it was liked by younger buyers looking for something modern and environmentally responsible. In its definition, Dezeen calls the combination “elegant restraint,” an aspect I look for in any modern design.
For an extra twist, I would recommend an artistic pendant light that includes elements from nature to add contrast in its shape.
Whitewashed Wood Cabinets for a Coastal Charm
You can give whitewash to wood to make it look airy and classy without taking away its amazing grain. I mixed different textures, strategic lights, and ocean style to form a kitchen that’s both simple and elegant. Those living by the ocean or wanting to feel a cool breeze benefit the most from it.
The furniture cabinets have open-frame doors and a combination of natural wood colors and white. Since the colors are so light, it isn’t noticeable that the room has a theme. Glossy blue glass tile, white ceramic handles, and drum-shaped bar stools made from driftwood went well with the kitchen. Bright morning light falling on the cabinets makes the place feel softly lit and happy.
With this design, this coastal home in Charleston has both convenience and good looks. According to Coastal Living, the use of natural wood mixed with gentle whites will add resale value to homes by the sea.
I’d top off the style by adding roman shades in linen, some vintage seashell pieces, or a beautifully designed ceramic pitcher vase on the island.
Charred Wood Accents for Bold Rustic Flair
For those who like a rustic-but-moody design, I added charred wood cabinets, which are based on the Shou Sugi Ban style from Japan. Although the pieces are both bold and dramatic, great craftsmanship is always present. It somehow brings extra liveliness to the place.
The cabinetry uses burnt cedar, and it has been sealed so that its appearance is shining charcoal. The strike was less harsh because of the satin gold knobs and the soft creamy travertine countertops. The design has assigned both storage cabinets and smaller open spaces for decor, such as metal or matte wares. The room is finished with pendant lights that are smoked glass and raw steel.
A Boulder client loved how this setup gave them something uncommon but elegant for their home. Remodelista says that many people are now choosing charred wood surfaces because of their resistance to weathering and interesting look.
I would make it even better by bringing in a wooden backsplash, matching to the cabinets, and a hood vent that matches the rest of the room to tie everything together and enhance the design.
Floor-To-Ceiling Wood Cabinetry in Open Kitchens
Cabinets running from the ground all the way to the ceiling give lots of space for storing things without compromising how pretty the kitchen looks. Here, I made sure the cabinetry played a role in the design and also provided the structure for the entire kitchen area.
Warm mid-tone chestnut covers the cabinets, which extend from one wall to another including the ceiling. All the appliances are hidden by cupboards that match in color. I chose lighter bright colors for the island to separate the wood from the darker accent. The open place continues into the dining nook, and I applied the same finish to the built-in seats.
High ceilings in loft-type spaces let this method work best. Better Homes & Gardens has pointed out that full-height cabinets help control clutter in open-plan kitchens without poorly affecting the look.
Another point to keep in mind is including glass-fronted area at the top for decorative items and adding lighting strips that go up inside the cabinets.
Vintage Rustic Cabinets With Antique Pulls
There’s a nostalgic beauty in vintage rustic cabinetry, especially when paired with antique metal pulls. My approach to the space was to recall early 20th-century craftsmanship, which truly appeals to those who want a time-honored design.
The wood in the cabinetry is distressed pine, making it look simple and stained so that the knots stand out. For handles, I picked ones in aged bronze and also selected detailed corbels to support the cabinetry below. Checkerboard tiles on the floor, a weathered butcher block as the countertop, and an apron-front sink are what you’ll see in the space. The vintage style is even better highlighted by the hanging pot rack over the island.
A very charming and cozy feeling came to the kitchen during a farmhouse makeover in Vermont with these eye-catching arrangements. Antique hardware is becoming more popular, says Country Living, mainly among those who prefer genuine and rustic kitchens.
This style can be deepened by setting up antique wall racks for spices and inserts made of stained glass in the cabinet doors.
Shaker-Style Wood Cabinets With a Contemporary Twist
I wanted to present how the Shaker-style cabinet can still be used in today’s homes. This style uses skills from the past in combination with new styles and straight lines.
The cabinetry is made of maple and given a soft taupe-gray paint finish, so the beauty of the wood is noticeable. I equipped the cabinetry with slender matte black handles and put in slab drawers below the cooktop to bring a modern look to the design. The backsplash has been done with a complete slab of stone, while the counters are made with concrete-style quartz to give a bit of industrial style.
In the remodeling of a young family’s suburban home, this style turned out especially well. HGTV reports that people enjoy Shaker kitchens so much because they maintain tradition and allow different changes at home.
At the end of your design, you could add a straight chandelier over the island and a walnut shelf to add another tone and a softer appearance.
Scandinavian Simplicity With Blonde Wood Finishes
What makes Scandinavian design special is function, light, and simplicity—and this design is supported by blonde wood cabinetry. I created this kitchen so that the family would enjoy a peaceful area that remained welcoming and cosy.
The cabinets are smooth and made out of pale birch wood with a satin finish. For a steady visual effect, the cabinets and floors have the same tone, while I used matte white counters and handles for a complete contrast. There are two minimalist globe pendants that hang above the island. Light fixtures are above and the table area has ceramic tableware and little sprigs of greenery ready for serving.
The kitchen in this home was Scandinavian-modern, and it turned out to be a real hit for its clean style. The magazine states that blonde wood suits the Nordic style and looks especially nice in houses that lack lots of natural light.
having built-in banquette seating in the same style would complete the comfortable minimalist look for the basement.
Statement Islands With Contrasting Wood Tones
When I need to bring balanced contrast to a place, I often choose to make an island with a darker or lighter wood color. It is possible to place items in front or behind the TV, and it can serve as the focal point without overpowering the room’s design.
This kitchen has white oak cabinets with an espresso-colored island. This makes the painting dramatic as well as elegant at the same time. There is a marble slab on the island that flows over the edges of the countertop on each side. Pendant lights that resemble globes and mid-century stools made of dark wood were my design choices.
Here, use of the island created an effective layout since it didn’t interrupt the flow of the Brooklyn brownstone’s design. Mismatched wood tones are becoming a trend in kitchens that are meant to look personal and high-end, as described by Veranda Magazine.
Considering adding some tapered wood, or special panels, to the island base, to make it stand out as a focal point.
Floating Wood Cabinetry for a Light Rustic Touch
By using floating cabinets, rustic kitchens get a fresh and modern look. This method helped expand the room in the kitchen and, at the same time, kept the design in warm wood shades.
The base cabinets are made of walnut wood that has a soft satin finish. Since there’s no toe kick, the area around the cabinets looks even bigger. I created harmony by adding thin brass edging to the cabinet sides and setting up open shelves above. Under-cabinet lighting gives a soft light at night so you can see how both the wood grain and the wall tile face are stylishly cool pale gray clay.
Because of its open appearance, this style is a good choice for small urban kitchens. This publication notes that the trend of floating cabinetry matches a sense of modern freshness, especially with other rustic or touchable types of materials.
For the idea to be complete, I’d recommend putting up floor-to-ceiling curtains on the windows and fitting a wall niche to store cookbooks or plants.
Butcher Block Cabinet Tops With Matching Fronts
Putting butcher block countertops and cabinet fronts together in the kitchen creates a consistent and modern space that is also useful. I took the concept and used it in a kitchen that was farmhouse-style but with a bit of modern change.
The cabinets are constructed from ash wood and they are stained to coordinate with the thick butcher block tops. The grain on the doors runs vertically while the tops feature grain going horizontally. To improve the kitchen’s use, I installed iron handles, installed shelves where items can be seen, and embedded cutting boards into the drawers. The stone tiles finish the look of the floor, making the wood feel cozy.
It was exactly the right choice for a family that always makes meals and loves using different materials. Butcher block caught the attention of The Kitchn in 2019, because it is affordable and brings warmth to kitchens mostly made of stone and steel.
I would finish off this kitchen by installing copper rails for the utensils and getting a rolling island cart in the same copper finish.
Horizontal Wood Planks for a Modern Lodge Feel
Because of their fierce appeal, plank cabinets are a natural addition to kitchens in mountain lodges or near lakes. If there are exposed wood beams and black accessories with big windows, the room looks excellent. The long pattern in wood brings attention to width and helps to widen what seems to be a narrow kitchen.
I suggest using oak or walnut for the cabinets with a wire-brushed matte seal so that the cabinets keep their earthy natural look. The joints between planks should not be visible so that the deck looks less cluttered. Consider setting up an island in timber salvaged from wood and equip it with current appliances to match the vintage charm.
In my view, contemporary kitchens shine best when there are nature-like stone countertops and plain, open shelves included. On several occasions, Joanna Gaines has shown that farmhouse-modern blends are both comfortable and widely liked by the media. It remains appealing throughout the years without becoming old.
For a smarter installation, why not add LED lights tucked under cabinets, so they lightly shine on the plank floor and brighten your visitors’ evenings. Finishing the look with a decorative pendant or a fancy industrial light above the island is a great idea.
Farmhouse Kitchens With Barnwood Cabinet Designs
You immediately notice how authentic barnwood cabinets are in a farmhouse kitchen. The worn surfaces of old pieces instantly make us remembering the past. When a kitchen is open and spacious, barnwood helps keep design together and offers something to talk about.
I make this style by putting up reclaimed wood panels that are finished in either nature or a white hue. To get the best look, put matte iron handles, apron-front sinks, and subway tile on the backsplash together. Either distressed hardwood or stone flooring should be used to establish the main feel of the space.
Many clients who care about sustainable living really relate to this technique. Using old timber helps the environment and brings special features that cannot be found in new materials. You often find kitchens here in Southern Living, where a rustic look mixes with rural style.
How can this design be made better? Matching glass-front touch-latch doors will look beautiful and stand out from the barnwood. It lifts the mood and makes it possible to put ceramics or aged cooking utensils on display.
Industrial Rustic Mix With Metal and Wood
Wood and metal cabinets go well together because they bring warmth and durability to your kitchen. It looks terrific in urban lofts and converted warehouses whose inner walls and pipes are shown.
Ordinarily, I go with steel-framed doors that contain panels made out of knotty pine or hickory. The straight lines of the metal go well with the unique curves of the wood. To complete the style, you need black hardware, metal-bracketed open shelving, and countertops made from concrete.
I especially like how this space is practical. Since the industrial materials are durable and the timber can be touched, the design stays impressive and simple to keep up. Dwell states that the mix of industry and rustic zones is a popular pick among those who look for interior designs that are both sturdy and fashionable.
To make the area look deeper, you can use retro bar stools along with stylish pendant lamps. Inset rivets or place mesh onto some cabinet doors to bring some texture.
Mid-Century Modern Cabinets in Teak Wood
Because mid-century modern design is popular again, teak cabinetry has found its place in the spotlight for good reason. It gives out golden warmth that at once enhances the overall style of the kitchen. The use of teak helps different areas in an open-plan house look more like one large living area.
I choose flat-front teak cabinets for this style and, usually, use push-to-open hardware so that the lines look clean. Add ovens right in the kitchen, install quartz counters, and place geometric shape lights to bring in mid-century design. The vertical grains increase the stature and aim of the cabinets.
I believe that, from my profession, teak shows great beauty and can last a long time. Because of its natural oils, it stays strong even after long use and looks good as it ages. Architectural Digest has observed that teak is prized in premium cabinetry for the way it can be used in various ways.
A great idea is to choose a retro color for the backsplash; a few possibilities are olive green or mustard yellow. It helps form the vintage style without dimming the beauty and character of the wood.
Cabinet Fronts With Live Edge Designs
Using live edge cabinetry is a bold decision for a rustic kitchen and brings a lot of satisfaction. The uncut border of the tree makes the furniture look more like a sculpture.
Most of the time, I suggest using this design for cabinet doors on islands or in focal places. Walnut or maple are good wood choices, as they have a lot of contrast. The live edge ought to be treated with care so it keeps its natural appearance, and avoid adding knobs or handles that could break the movement.
Many clients are attracted by how sculptured and artistic the cabinets look. Elle Decor points out that working in live edge designs leads to biophilic design, which aims to create a bond with nature.
For a refined look, put leather accessories on the drawers, select soapstone for the countertops, and place herb planters on the exposed shelves. It gives the environment some interest, plants, and harmony.
Sleek Handleless Wood Cabinets for Refined Kitchens
To achieve a trendy and tidy appearance while still keeping wood’s traditional charm, you should think about handleless cabinetry. It looks great in modern and clean kitchens where every detail is on purpose and well-organized.
I prefer vertical-grain walnut or rift-sawn oak that has a satin finish. Push-to-open knocks or grooves make opening the cabinets smooth while helping the entire cabinet unit stand out. It looks amazing with marble and appliances that are built in.
Sometimes clients look for a newer style in their kitchens, yet want to avoid the very plain feel of fully white countertops. If both of you want handles and no handles, choose handleless wood cabinets. It feels fresh and at the same time comforting. In an article, The Spruce pointed out that choosing this style is among the best ways to design a spa-like kitchen.
Another idea to increase the modern feel is to add a hidden pantry door that matches the style and includes LED lighting along the edges.
Earthy Warmth With Clay-Toned Wood Cabinets
People attracted to warm earthy cabinet colors will enjoy the appearance of clay-stained wood cabinets. If you want your kitchen to look homely and easy to highlight other features, these hues are an excellent choice.
You should use stained ash or maple if you’re looking for a reddish-brown color. Join into your design by picking terrazzo, concrete, or beige tile for countertops, and aged bronze hardware for a relaxing organic effect.
To me, the colors in this palette are very relaxing. It looks similar to the interiors made with adobe materials in the American Southwest. Better Homes & Gardens stated that the use of clay and terracotta colors is becoming popular again, since they create a feeling of well-being and stability.
I would introduce floating wood shelves using the same stain, or lay out linen cafe curtains and woven rugs to build up a more welcoming mood.
Deep Espresso Cabinets for Refined Luxe Appeal
Refined luxury is noticeable in any kitchen when rich espresso cabinets are accented by marble or brushed nickel touches. I suggest this collection to people who are interested in having wood at home but who enjoy a darker style. Lighting helps to add warmth and depth to places of any size.
If I use espresso wood for my design, I like to go with mahogany or dark oak, which fits well with waterfall islands, mirrored backsplashes, and lighting housed in the ceiling. High-gloss kitchen spaces feel cozier when the finishes on the countertop are different and lighter.
I notice that the experience becomes much more luxurious when mixed with just a few special pieces or no hardware. Elle Decor states that using dark cabinetry has become popular among people creating upscale interiors. The style comes across as aged, assured, and still relevant now.
I think that adding under-cabinet lighting would give the design the right balance and take pressure off the room. Reflective accessories, for example, chrome or glass pendant lights, add more style and brightness to a room.
Japanese-Inspired Zen With Vertical Wood Slats
Taking ideas from Japanese Zen, vertical wood slat cabinetry achieves a peaceful, structured, and natural appearance. I have noticed that this taste is suited to modern kitchens with lots of light and a neat design. Vertical lines make a kitchen appear higher and more peaceful.
When it comes to the wood, I chose between white oak and bamboo and I seal them with oil to emphasize the grain. Most of the time, slatted cabinet fronts come together with inner pulls and a matte white finish. Apart from cabinets, I also add open shelves to hold dishware with delicate colors.
Wabi-sabi is an idea in Japanese culture related to enjoying simple and flawed designs, and this design philosophy does the same. House Beautiful reports that a lot of today’s kitchens use minimalist designs to promote calm and effective use of space.
You could also make a small indoor herb garden or buy a bonsai plant, use stone sinks in the bathroom, and choose linens for your window dressing. All of them together give the book a relaxing tempo.
Beadboard-Style Wood Cabinetry for Vintage Appeal
Having beadboard-style cabinets at home is perfect for those who like classic country decor with a warm feeling. I usually recommend this look to people who value nostalgia in their coastal cottages or bungalows. The small vertical lines on the cabinet door surfaces make the cabinet look handmade and interesting.
I generally pick painted maple or pine, and highlight them in either warm cream or sage green. Farmhouse tables, vintage light decorations, and antique brass knobs will complete any furniture set. The way this style is built, as well as its soft wood designs, makes it easy to be comfortable and welcoming.
Thanks to their shape, beadboard cabinets don’t distract the visual appeal of my kitchen. Southern Living considers this style to be a great fit for houses whose architecture has a meaningful past. The place is cozy and sophisticated at the same time.
You can also make your dining area better with molding by the top of the cabinets, a center plate rail, and soft lights below your kitchen cabinets. Retro stoves or apron sinks can finish the vintage theme really well.
Arched Timber Cabinet Doors for Architectural Interest
Arched doors made from wood in a cabinet create a stunning look in the kitchen and blend well with the wood’s natural beauty. I’ve applied this idea in kitchens styled after the Mediterranean and it makes a great impression each time.
Most cabinets of this style are created from walnut or cherry, having custom-cut arches on their door fronts. Stone floors, tumbled tiles, and arched doorways create the perfect look with them. Fitting some upper cabinet doors with glass helps you maintain plenty of light even within a formal room.
I find this method to be impressive because of its strong ideas. If you want to mix old-fashioned elegance and modern life in your home, Architectural Digest may just highlight this style. The cabinetry becomes the main focus in the room, not just something to see around.
You can make the overall look more appealing by choosing warm lights and iron handles to represent the history. Choose natural stone countertops instead of highly modern ones to match the style of the house.
Mixed Wood Textures for a Layered Rustic Look
And, when you use different wood types, your kitchen feels more rustic and is enjoyable to the touch. It’s enjoyable for me to work with this concept as it gives more meaning and narration to a place. Because of the different types of wood used, each piece of furniture feels as if it was collected over the years.
My favorite is to use a mix of hickory, walnut, and reclaimed oak, coating them with matte and semi-gloss finish. The frame used in cabinetry may not match the door’s material. And since it goes nicely with simple metal fittings and earthy tones in tiles, this design stands out.
In case you like imperfections, this style is perfect for you. It shows the same style as luxury rustic lodges or homes in the European country. Better Homes & Gardens says that mixing different kinds of wood can give your home a style that many people today like.
If you want to take it a little further, adding handmade ceramics, wrought iron hooks, or shelves with unfinished wooden boards is a good way to go. These various elements bind the story about mixed wood together well.
Open Shelving Integrated With Wood Cabinets
Mixing open shelves and wood-framed cabinets is a great method to have space for your kitchen items and still have easy access. This style is suitable for kitchens that ought to be lighter and brighter, mainly for smaller and darker areas.
Normally, I make the cabinet base from oak or alder and finish it with open shelves from the same or a lighter kind of wood. The shelves can be used for plates, cooking guides, or pretty jars. Having cabinets as well as open spaces in the kitchen makes it very functional and aesthetically pleasing.
My clients like how this method lightens the look of the kitchen. Real Simple indicates that having open shelves in the kitchen helps bring simplicity and taste to any kitchen.
It would be best to install lights on the shelving, use matching brackets, and place items that create a uniform appearance. It’s important that these shelves remain curated, not cluttered.
Compact Rustic Kitchen With Custom Timber Cabinets
You can make a small kitchen beautiful by using personalized timber cabinets, as long as each one is carefully planned. I love coming up with small rustic kitchen designs, which include storage that saves space and adds a cozy feel to the room.
I select reclaimed fir or knotty pine and adjust it to suit uneven openings and fit them as best I can. Wide drawers under the sink called toe-kick storage are helpful too. With these features plus vertical cabinet combinations, the kitchen remains simple and nice to look at.
As I’ve worked on a number of these projects, I have found that custom wood elements do better than ready-made ones and offer many possibilities. They look good over the years, seem genuine, and help make life better for the environment. Custom cabinetry is important according to Apartment Therapy if your home has limited space.
Some more improvements could be adding a butcher block counter, a small farmhouse sink, and vintage lights hanging from pendants. A table that folds or a rolling cart could make things easier and more convenient when moving the wares.
Classic Shaker Cabinets in Warm Oak
Any timeless kitchen begins with using shaker-style cabinets. I selected warm oak as the main wood for this concept so that its warm gold color and natural grain were on display. It helps make a kitchen special by staying versatile so it fits with various designs from old and new kitchens. The wood brings life into the room, but it doesn’t overpower the other parts of the interior design.
The shaker style is clearly seen in every piece, as each pieces edges are smooth and barely detailed. I preferred to use oil-rubbed bronze hardware because it contrasts slightly and still matches the other earthy tones in the room. The wide farmhouse sink is next to open shelves made of oak, creating a link between storing and displaying items. A set of gray stone counters tops the setup with a simple touch of luxury.
From my own encounter, I see oak shaker cabinets as a great way to get strength, touchable surfaces, and cozy atmosphere. According to Architectural Digest, in their 2024 trends report, the resurgence of using oak points to people wanting to add more ‘nature-inspired’ looks to their kitchens. This style looks just as good now as it did when it started.
You can take this design to the next level by setting task lighting below the upper cabinets and choosing an island made of white quartz.
Dark-Stained Wood Cabinets With Matte Black Accents
To get a stylish and dark look, I decided to have dark-stained wood cabinets and match them with black metal pieces. Large spaces with high ceilings and many windows are well matched by the look. The espresso finish on the wood gives a powerful mood, and the dark matte handles and light fixtures create a trendy atmosphere.
Every cabinet has integrated handles and a slab design, so the look of the wood is not broken. The top shelves in black are different from the enclosed wood ones beneath. The backsplash uses dark gray subway tile and dark gray grout to make the palette more impressive. At the same time, under-cabinet lights give the area warmth and keep it fully illuminated.
I’ve advised clients who are interested in a contemporary kitchen with the feel of wood to use this style of design. In truth, Elle Decor recommends this combination for homes wishing to have a refined modern industrial look.
You might also want to install an espresso machine and use leather or metal stools on the kitchen island to complete the design.
Rustic Reclaimed Wood Cabinets With Copper Pulls
Kitchen cabinets built from recycled wood featured in this collection are among the most unique, as they don’t try to hide their rough appearance and previous history. I purchased these wooden slabs from midwestern suppliers, and that’s why every slab is unique and raw-looking. Even though it is rustic-looking, this kitchen does not appear old-fashioned.
All the cabinetry is made up of traditional shapes, with thick frames and soft closing drawers. The best feature is the copper hardware: every handle and pull has a hammered look that matches the bold look of the wood. I made sure the whole kitchen would look consistent by choosing open timber shelves, an old-style matte copper range hood, and seeded glass fronts on the cabinets.
After using reclaimed materials for a long time, I discover that the story of each plank comes out in these cabinets. In the opinion of House Beautiful, one reason reclaimed wood is popular is that it is sustainable and tells unique tales.
I’d also like to include some rustic pendant lighting, with bulbs made to look like Edison’s, and then add a countertop from concrete to give the space a true industrial chic theme.
Scandinavian-Style Light Wood Cabinets With Clean Lines
If you’re craving a minimalist kitchen that feels light, airy, and inviting, Scandinavian-style wood cabinetry is an exceptional direction. I selected pale birch and soft maple, finishing them in a matte way so the design would keep its air of simplicity. There is a sense of peace and simplicity about it, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants a clean and tidy living space.
Using push to open, the doors are flat-fronted, doing away with the need for separate handles or hardware. I created the arrangement using built-in appliances, a thin white countertop made of stone, and grey backsplash tiles arranged in a herringbone way. Floating shelves also made from the wood finish the design by lifting the weight from the walls.
It seems to me that having an open-concept apartment or loft is ideal for this kitchen. As stated by Dwell Magazine, Scandinavian kitchens this year mostly use light wood and either soft gray or white colors.
Placing a tiny wooden breakfast table next to it will add more practical use, or you could use a small pendant light in natural rattan or paper for even more warmth.
Timeless shaker designs and sleek Scandinavian styles from these wood kitchens prove that wood can be used in various ways to update the style of a kitchen, no matter how simple or modern it is. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or looking for inspiration to update your existing kitchen decor, there’s a design here to suit every taste and layout. I’d love to hear which cabinet style caught your eye—share your thoughts or favorite ideas in the comments below!
