Natural wood cabinets can add warmth and timeless beauty to any kitchen design. This week we’re highlighting three stunning kitchens that make the most of natural wood cabinetry to create knockout spaces. From classic Shaker style to more contemporary designs, these kitchens demonstrate how wood cabinetry can be adapted to fit a range of aesthetics. Read on for an in-depth look at these three head-turning kitchens and get inspired to add some natural wood to your own kitchen design!
1. Traditional Elegance in a French Country Kitchen
This light and airy kitchen seamlessly blends traditional elegance with French country charm thanks to its use of classic Shaker-style cabinetry in a subtle blue-gray stain. Crisp white quartz countertops complement the blue-gray cabinets beautifully.
Key Features:
- Traditional Shaker-style cabinets with crown molding in a blue-gray stain
- Simple cabinet hardware in an antique brass finish
- White quartz countertops with a waterfall edge
- Herringbone backsplash tiles in shades of grey and white
- Vaulted ceiling with exposed wood beams
- Large island provides additional seating and prep space
The homeowners opted for a traditional Shaker style to ensure their kitchen would have enduring appeal. The blue-gray stain on the cabinets lends a soft, elegant look that fits beautifully with the French country aesthetic. White quartz countertops keep the look fresh and bright.
While classic in style, the kitchen doesn’t skimp on functionality. The large island provides additional prep and dining space. It pairs white quartz with a grey washed wood countertop for contrast. Soft close cabinet doors and drawers, along with pull out shelves and tray dividers, optimize storage and accessibility.
This kitchen masterfully combines traditional style with French country charm. The natural wood cabinetry stained in an elegant hue gives this space a timeless look and feel. This is a room designed to be lived in and loved for years to come.
2. Contemporary Chic Kitchen with Walnut Cabinets
For a kitchen with a more modern, sophisticated look, take a cue from this gorgeous contemporary space outfitted with rich walnut cabinets. The deep, chocolate-brown walnut finish gives the kitchen a luxe feel, while the streamlined styling keeps it contemporary and fresh.
Key Features:
- Slab-style walnut cabinets with recessed pulls for a sleek, minimalist look
- Matte black cabinet hardware provides subtle contrast
- White quartz waterfall island and countertops
- Large marble herringbone backsplash in grey and white
- Open shelving provides alternate storage and display options
- Stainless steel commercial-style range hood makes a bold statement
The star of this kitchen is certainly the walnut cabinetry. The gorgeous wood grain is shown to full advantage by opting for a simple slab-front design devoid of ornate detailing. The matte black hardware allows the beauty of the natural wood to really shine.
By pairing the rich walnut with crisp white quartz and a bold marble backsplash, the homeowners have kept the look feeling fresh and contemporary. Open shelving, minimal upper cabinets, and the commercial range hood provide modern styling accents.
The waterfall island is a stunning centerpiece, and provides ample seating and prep space. Soft closing drawers, concealed waste bins, and specialty pull-out cabinetry maximize the functionality of the space.
For a contemporary kitchen with a warm, natural element, walnut cabinets are a knockout choice. The gorgeous wood grain provides texture and interest, while the streamlined design keeps the look current. This kitchen is both stylish and timeless.
3. Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Rustic Hickory Cabinets
Bringing together modern and rustic design elements, this kitchen makes quite a statement with its use of hickory cabinets. The light brown stain highlights the wood’s varying tones and grain patterns for a rustic, organic look.
Key Features:
- Shaker-style hickory cabinets with visible wood grain
- Antique bronze hardware provides contrast
- White marble countertops add lightness
- Subway tile backsplash in muted green tones
- Stainless steel farmhouse sink and modern fixtures
- Large island for gathering, prep work, and casual dining
The honey-brown hickory cabinetry establishes the rustic personality of the space, while elements like the marble counters, subway tile, and modern fixtures keep it feeling fresh. The results is a compelling blend of old and new.
Despite the rustic charm, the kitchen doesn’t compromise on functionality. The large island provides additional counter space and casual seating. It also houses the main stainless steel sink. Built-in cabinetry conceals small appliances, while pull-out shelves maximize corner storage.
If a modern farmhouse style is your goal, hickory cabinets can help you nail the aesthetic. The wood’s natural grain provides rustic, organic texture that feels right at home in a farmhouse kitchen. Pairing the cabinets with sleek modern elements creates an alluring contrast. This kitchen delivers country warmth with contemporary livability.
Design Ideas for Using Natural Wood Cabinets
After seeing these stunning kitchens, you’re probably eager to incorporate some natural wood cabinets into your own space. Here are a few key design ideas to consider:
Complement the Undertones in the Wood
Look at the undertones in your cabinets’ wood stain or finish and choose complementary materials like countertops and backsplashes that pick up on those tones. For example, blue-gray cabinets pair beautifully with white counters, while deeper walnuts look great with cream and black accents.
Mix Wood Finishes for Contrast
Don’t be afraid to pair your cabinets with a wood island, shelves or ceiling beams that use a different wood type, stain or finish. Contrasting wood finishes can add beautiful visual interest. Just be sure the tones complement each other.
Use Unique Backsplashes and Hardware
Have fun choosing materials like backsplash tile, hardware finishes and lighting fixtures that pop against your natural wood cabinetry. Introducing materials like metal, stone, glass and patterned tile can enhance the wood’s natural beauty.
Incorporate Warm Metals and Textures
Warm metal finishes like brass and bronze pair exceptionally well with natural wood cabinets, as do textural elements like woven baskets, linen curtains, and ceramic vessels. These materials complement wood’s organic warmth.
Upgrade with Smart Storage Solutions
Take advantage of storage innovations like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and slide-out spice racks. Smart storage solutions not only maximize usable space, they also optimize the convenience of your new wood cabinets.
Accentuate Craftsmanship with Decor
Use accessories like framed artwork, fresh flowers, and decorative bowls to accentuate the craftsmanship and detail of your wood cabinets. Styling your space with decor is like adding jewelry to an outfit – it really makes the details pop!
FAQs About Natural Wood Kitchen Cabinets
What types of wood are best for kitchen cabinets?
Popular choices include oak, maple, cherry, hickory, and walnut. Oak is highly durable, maple offers a light and airy look, cherry has a rich reddish tone, hickory has distinctive graining, and walnut is prized for its luxurious dark color.
What finish options work well for wood kitchen cabinets?
Stains in shades that complement the natural tone of the wood are recommended to highlight the beauty of the grain. Light distressing also adds character. Glossy lacquers can provide protection with a contemporary style. Avoid paints that fully obscure the wood grain.
Should I get custom built or stock kitchen cabinets?
Stock cabinets provide more budget-friendly options in standard sizes. Custom cabinets are built specifically for your kitchen’s layout and offer personalized options. Semi-custom cabinets strike a balance, combining stock components with made-to-order options.
What are the pros and cons of natural wood versus painted cabinets?
Wood cabinets showcase the wood’s natural grain, resisting scratches better than painted finishes. Painted cabinets provide endless color options to match your style. Both natural wood and painted cabinets can look beautiful if properly maintained.
Should I install wood cabinets on both the upper and lower levels?
This depends on your preferences. All-wood cabinetry provides a cohesive look, while mixing materials like painted cabinets up top and wood down below can allow you to spread your budget further. There are pros and cons to both approaches.
Bring Natural Warmth into Your Kitchen with Wood Cabinets
The inherent beauty, warmth, and timelessness of natural wood makes it a coveted material for kitchen cabinets. Whether your style leans traditional, contemporary or somewhere in between, wood cabinets can be adapted to work beautifully. Use the design ideas and considerations shared here to help select wood cabinets perfect for your space. Then sit back and enjoy the natural magic they bring to your kitchen for years to come.
