A kitchen might be the soul and stomach of your home, but it can also be the northern star of your home decor. From uncorking a bottle of wine to heating up that chef-approved dish from Trader Joe’s, there’s a good chance you spend a lot of time in your kitchen—so shouldn’t it look good, too?
However, lately, we’ve been noticing a seismic shift in today’s kitchen styles. While brightly colored cabinets, subway tiles, and marble used to be trending, designers are giving these spaces the pared-back treatment with wood. Lots of wood. Nowadays, it’s common to see everything from cabinets, to countertops, to kitchen islands reimagined in the same wood species.
Photo by Stephen Busken; Design by Jeff Andrews
For some designers, the all-wood kitchen is 2025’s answer to its passé alternative: The all-white kitchen. “Design is cyclical,” explains Los Angeles-based designer Jeff Andrews. “We’ve gone through the waves of the all-white kitchen and then the statement color kitchen, so I think it’s only natural that we’ve come back to the solace of a wood kitchen at this time.”
Wooden kitchens might be trending, but Los Angeles designer Alexandra Becket says the look has plenty of staying power—especially on the West Coast. “We love blending indoor and outdoor spaces, and the use of natural materials brings the two together,” she explains. Wood works especially well to create a warm, natural environment in the kitchen.”
Photo by Lance Gerber; Design by Morrison Interiors
But with so many species to choose from, how are you supposed to pick one type of wood to use everywhere? Becket generally gravitates toward white oak and light-to-medium browns walnuts as darker shades can make the space appear heavy. “I prefer to use the same species of wood for the cabinets and flooring,” she says. “They can vary in tone, but it creates a nice consistency between the surfaces.“
Before you commit to a specific wood type or tone, you might want to consider how it will hold up over time. “A wood kitchen is going to age and patina, and it will look different at different times of year and with different light sources,” Andrews says. “Cherry or walnut can turn red over time, and a maple or oak can take on a more yellow hue.”
Photo by Christopher Stark; Design by Jeff Andrews
Sure, applying a stain can help address any coloration issues, but Andrews recommends either embracing your aging material or refinishing them every few years. Modern spaces might benefit from a routine refinish whereas a patinated edge will look so good in a Mediterranean-style home.
Another way to keep your wooden kitchen in tip-top shape is to maintain it properly. Becket says a clear coat of sealer on your kitchen will protect them from chips, scratches, or dirt. For regular upkeep, wipe down your wood with a damp towel and mild cleaner. “If any scratches or wear develop, they can be lightly sanded and sealed with a thin layer of sealer,” Becket adds.
Photo by Stephen Busken; Design by Jeff Andrews
Wooden kitchens are a timeless way to be one with nature, but they’re not exactly fool-proof. When you use one material over and over again, there’s always the risk that your space will appear one-dimensional and, well, snoozy. For a kitchen that’s dynamic and high-design, Rachel Morrison recommends creating small, strategic contrasts. “Pairing wood with contrasting elements—like sleek stone countertops, bold hardware, or textured tile—adds depth and keeps the look from feeling one-note, ensuring its longevity beyond trends,” the Costa Mesa, California designer explains.
Though there are some places that are perfectly poised for contrast—Becket agrees that the countertops are a great place to add a new species or material—Andrews begs you to panel as many appliances as possible. “I don’t advise spoiling the aesthetic with a sharp contrast of stainless steel,” he shares. “That will feel more like an appliance showroom than a high-end kitchen.”
With these tips, your kitchen will—knock on wood—be downright delicious.
