To effectively mix wood floors with wood cabinets, focus on either matching undertones or embracing contrast in wood tones.
Strategies for Mixing Wood Floors and Cabinets
According to design principles, two primary approaches can help create a cohesive look when pairing wood floors with wood cabinets:
1. Match the Undertones
One effective strategy is to create a seamless look by choosing wood flooring and cabinets with similar undertones. This doesn't necessarily mean the woods must be the exact same species or color, but rather that their underlying warm (red, orange, yellow) or cool (grey, blue) hues complement each other.
- Practical Application:
- Pair warm-toned oak floors with warm-toned maple cabinets.
- Combine cool-toned grey-washed floors with cabinets that also have grey or muted undertones.
2. Embrace Contrast
Alternatively, you can create visual interest and sophistication by using contrasting wood tones. Specifically, you can pair light wood cabinets with dark wood flooring for a striking contrast that adds visual interest and sophistication.
- Practical Application:
- White oak cabinets with dark walnut floors.
- Birch cabinets with ebony stained floors.
Summary Table
Here's a quick overview of the two main methods:
| Strategy | Approach | Outcome | Example Pairing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match Undertones | Choose woods with similar underlying hues | Seamless, cohesive look | Warm Oak Floors & Warm Maple Cabs |
| Embrace Contrast | Pair light cabinets with dark floors | Striking, sophisticated look | Light Birch Cabs & Dark Walnut Floors |
By focusing on either harmonious undertones or deliberate contrast, you can successfully mix wood floors and wood cabinets in your space.
