I am remodeling my kitchen and I love the look of different woods. Are there any rules or guidelines for mixing them?
Creating interest by varying materials and textures has been the trend in kitchen design lately. But it can be tricky for the untrained eye to mix different woods and finishes.
There are no real rules to blending wood types but there are several things to consider.
First, think about the look you want to create. That will determine whether using different woods is the right option for you.
If an urban or contemporary look is what you’re after, you have some exciting finishes to choose from. Exquisite Kitchen Design at the Denver Design District features a vignette with an island and lower cabinets in teak and an upper gull wing in ebony lacquer, giving the appearance of a handcrafted piece of furniture.
If you want an Old World or traditional look, often only the island is different. Here too, it is important that the island looks like a free- standing piece of furniture.
If a lodge appeal is more your style, you may consider adding natural elements such as stone or slate to the mix.
Whenever using multiple woods, for consistency it is best to repeat the color somewhere else in the room. For example, in the kitchen pictured here, the cabinets in the adjoining bar/wine area mimic the cherry wood on the island.
You must also be careful not to have too much going on in your granite or countertops. Coordinating surfaces like those pictured here — honeyed limestone countertops with off-white subway tiles, polished nickel faucets and stainless appliances — keep the rear cabinets from seeming too dark or dominant.
Flooring is an important consideration. The cork flooring in this kitchen is installed in a checkerboard fashion and ties everything together.
Lighting is also a critical component. Lights under the cabinet and a low-voltage track system can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
Again, there really is no right or wrong approach to mixing kitchen finishes. What’s important is the balance between overall design, texture and lighting.
Golden interior designer Suki Jensen, 303-321-6867 or jensendesigns@lbtdsl.com
To “Ask the Experts” your design and remodeling questions, send e-mail to marina@denverdesign.com. Responses are compiled for Room by the Denver Design District, or 303-282-3226.
