Matching wood cabinets involves understanding wood tones and using contrast effectively. According to interior design principles, the key is to focus on wood within the same color spectrum but with varying shades. Therefore, the best way to match wooden elements is to think in contrasting colors.
Here's a detailed approach:
Understanding Wood Tones
First, identify the underlying color of your existing cabinets. Is it warm (red, orange, yellow undertones), cool (gray, green, blue undertones), or neutral (brown, beige undertones)?
The Contrast Rule
The central idea is to use contrast. Instead of trying to find an exact match (which is often difficult and can look monotonous), aim for a harmonious contrast.
-
Same Color Spectrum: Choose woods that share the same warm, cool, or neutral base as your existing cabinets.
-
Different Shades: Select wood for other elements that are at least three shades lighter or darker than your cabinets. This creates visual interest.
Practical Examples
Here's how you might apply this:
-
Warm Cabinets:
- Existing: Cherry cabinets (medium warm tone)
- Matching Options: A lighter maple (warm undertones) or a darker walnut (warm undertones)
-
Cool Cabinets:
- Existing: Gray-stained cabinets (light cool tone)
- Matching Options: A lighter, almost white ash (cool undertones) or a darker, charcoal-stained oak (cool undertones)
-
Neutral Cabinets:
- Existing: Natural oak cabinets (medium neutral tone)
- Matching Options: A lighter, almost white maple (neutral undertones) or a darker, chocolate-stained walnut (neutral undertones)
Table Summary: Matching Wood Tones
| Existing Cabinet Tone | Matching Wood Options (Contrast) |
|---|---|
| Warm (Cherry) | Lighter Maple, Darker Walnut |
| Cool (Gray-stained) | Lighter Ash, Darker Charcoal-stained Oak |
| Neutral (Natural Oak) | Lighter Maple, Darker Chocolate Walnut |
Additional Tips
-
Consider Grain: While contrast is important, pay attention to the wood grain pattern. Similar grain patterns can help tie different woods together even with contrasting shades.
-
Hardware Matters: Consistent hardware finishes (knobs, pulls) across different wood elements can also create a cohesive look.
-
Test Samples: Before committing, get samples of the wood you're considering and compare them to your existing cabinets in the lighting of the room.
