Shea McGee explains how to mix wood tones in the kitchen
Wood kitchens might be one of the top trends this year, but they can be tricky to design – especially choosing which materials, colors, and tones to pair them with.
I’ve been trying to get it right this year in my own space to make my light wooden kitchen cabinets feel stylish and updated. Most specifically, it’s the decorative items at the top of my list. I’m a big fan of darker woods, but should I be mixing different tones?
According to interior designer Shea McGee, there’s an art to mixing different woods tastefully in the kitchen. Taking to Instagram, she revealed that her method to nailing the wood kitchen trend is to stick to no more than two wood tones. Here’s what I’ve learned.
‘Wood tones can be tricky – it’s one of the top questions we get asked! A good rule of thumb is to stick to no more than two for a balanced mix,’ says designer Shea McGee via Instagram.
Sticking to only two wood tones is a great way to ensure your kitchen design feels stylish and infused with natural materials without feeling like a mismatched scheme. It’s also a really achievable way to decorate with wood without getting overwhelmed.
There are two routes you can take when mixing wood – a streamlined, cohesive design or a space that embraces contrast. ‘If you’re going for a streamlined look, matching is more of an art than a science – aim for cohesion rather than competition.’
The first kitchen project in Shea’s post is a perfect example of taking a more cohesive approach. Similar light woods have been used on the island, cabinetry, and accessories like the bar stools and cutting board. Paired with the light neutral palette used throughout the kitchen, the entire scheme feels airy, elevated, and cohesive.
Because I want to add deeper, richer wood tones, I’m opting for the contrasting approach – much like the second kitchen from Shea’s post, where light wood chairs have been paired with darker wood shelving, both of which add contrast to the rest of the kitchen design.
‘On the other hand, contrast can add visual interest, especially if things feel too matchy-matchy. Just be sure it feels intentional and complementary to the space,’ Shea adds.
So, how can I introduce this secondary wood? I’m not looking to make any major changes to the bones of my space, so I’m focusing on decor and kitchenware. This is a great approach if you’re not totally confident with mixing wood tones yet – the lack of permanency means you can experiment and see what you like.
My favorite wooden kitchen accessories and decor
Taking inspiration from Shea’s designs, I want to add some darker open shelves as well as some elevated kitchenware that doubles as decor. I’m thinking of cutting boards, a fruit bowl, and even storage canisters that feel a bit more luxurious. Here are a few pieces worth considering.
An elevated fruit bowl is a great way to bring in different wood tones. This dark wood footed design is the perfect piece for your kitchen countertops – I love how this style of kitchenware looks styled with other kitchenware items and recipe books.
Aldina Acacia Wood & Brass Plate & Spice Rack
For something more unexpected, this plate and spice rack is a charming addition to any kitchen. The wood and brass pairing is a real classic, and it provides extra storage more decoratively. A matching wood and brass shelf is also available.
Whether you have a kitchen island or a cozy breakfast bar, your counter stools are the perfect place to bring in wood tones. I love this design with a dark wood frame and neutral upholstery. It brings in that moodier tone with a strong contrast.
Dakota Fields Malaysia Salt and Pepper Shakers
When I’m bringing in a new texture or material to my kitchen, I always like to look to my essentials. Your slate and pepper mills are a fun and affordable way to bring in an extra wood tone – I love the unique design of this set from Wayfair.
AllModern Starr Solid Wood Table Lamp
Adding lamps to a kitchen has been a big trend this year to create a more cozy, lived-in atmosphere – and it’s a great way to bring in wood tones. This design is stylish, timeless, and won’t take up much space. It’s also available in a lighter wood, too.
You can really have fun when introducing wooden accessories into your kitchen. I love this wavy wine rack. It has space for four bottles and adds a fun texture to your space. Perfect for filling an unused corner of your kitchen countertops.
Following Shea’s method for mixing wood tones in a kitchen has made re-accessorizing my space so much easier. A few dark wood decor pieces have given my kitchen a new lease of life and prove just how timeless this natural material can be.
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