In addition to cabinets and shelves, here are 6 other creative ways to incorporate wood into your kitchen design!
We're now on Instagram! Follow us for more house inspo, tips, tricks and more…
Wood is a natural and timeless material that can dramatically improve the look of any room, including the kitchen. When it comes to creating a wood-filled kitchen, many people immediately think of the most obvious way to do so: stock up on solid wood cabinets and shelves. This, however, is not your only option. From countertops to backsplashes to ceilings, there are numerous approaches to a wood-filled kitchen.
Here's a list of 6 different ways to incorporate wood into your kitchen designs that will give this material a new spin and make it a modern favourite!
1. Create a lived-in look in your kitchen with a wooden countertop
Wooden countertops are not as popular as natural stone countertops, but they do have several advantages. When incorporated into a counter, it can look super sleek and can be both modern and classic at the same time, which is a rare quality for any material. Furthermore, they are a much more affordable option compared to natural stone countertops such as marble, quartz, and granite.
While wooden countertops are more prone to scratches, dents, discolouration and rot than other materials, they are also easier to restore compared to natural stone countertops. You can sand and refinish the lumber to create a like-new surface free of knife cuts, dents, and burns. Meanwhile, oiling your wooden countertop with food-grade mineral oil (eg. linseed oil or lemon oil) will create a protective water-resistant barrier, which is better/cheaper than constantly having to restore it.
Wooden countertops go well with a variety of different materials, textures, and colours. For example, if your cabinets are already a crisp white, you can warm things up with a wood countertop, as seen in this modern kitchen designed by Doubble Interior Associates.
When compared to other flooring materials such as tiles, wooden floors are a great option for those who prefer underfoot comfort and warmth while cooking.
Full of character, a wooden floor can visually ground a room (pun intended!) and provide a place for the eye to rest. The best part is that wooden floors are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, allowing them to be installed to match almost any kitchen setting or the exact look that you desire. If you want to make a statement with your floors, consider laying them out in a unique pattern. Chevron is one eye-catching option, but an inlaid parquet, basketweave, or herringbone design, as seen in this modern kitchen designed by Nevermore Group may work just as well.
3. Draw the eyes up with wooden ceilings and beams
When it comes to wood, don't stop at the ground. You should also think about adding wood to your ceiling and beams. It adds a unique touch to your kitchen and draws the eye upward.
Installing exposed wooden beams can help to add a rustic feel to your kitchen, as seen in this Spanish revival kitchen designed by Dot Works. They also look great when paired with a contrasting ceiling colour or painted the same colour as the ceiling for a more streamlined look.
Explore: Beautiful Spanish Revival Home Wins Qanvast Design Award
4. Add visual interest to your kitchen using a backsplash
Aside from tiles, mirrors, glass, and natural stone, wood makes an excellent kitchen backsplash material. A wooden backsplash can add personality to your kitchen space, where distressed or painted wood walls can create a shabby chic feel, while raw wood can create a rustic edge. When a wooden backsplash matches the other surfaces in the kitchen, it can add depth to the space too, as seen in this contemporary kitchen designed by PINS Studio.
If you decide to use wood for your kitchen backsplash, make sure that it is laminated or sealed with sealant to ensure that it is waterproof against any liquid spills or splashes.
Explore: Want A Cosy Home? Here Are 6 Ways To Achieve It Using Wood
5. Complete the look with kitchenware and loose furnishing made of wood
When remodelling your kitchen, don't just focus on the fixed elements, such as built-in shelves and cabinets, but also consider some of the more flexible pieces in your space, such as chairs, barstools, or rolling carts. They are much easier to replace and coordinate with your existing built-ins, adding style and cohesion to your space.
Aside from loose furniture, wooden kitchenware can add finishing touches to any kitchen, and it can give your kitchen an elegant feel without costing a lot of money and renovation. Grab a few wood cutting boards, carved wooden bowls, spatulas, and hanging racks, and place them on display, as seen in this Balinese-styled kitchen designed by Sachi Interiors. These functional pieces will also serve as decorative accents, creating a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional!
6. Opt for a subtle way of using wood by framing your doors or windows
Looking for a more subtle way to incorporate more wood into your home's decor? Frame your doors and windows with wood. They soften the overall appearance of your kitchen and can make a small room feel more open and spacious. Furthermore, wooden doors and windows take up no space at all.
Take a cue from this Scandinavian-styled kitchen by Amaze Design. Despite its small size, the wooden door frame with a glass door blends in with the wooden bar and dining table, creating a visual continuity that unintentionally diverts attention away from the small kitchen.
Planning to renovate your kitchen?
Qanvast gives you access to a catalogue of interior designers for any budget and style. Drop us a request for a free quote and we’ll be happy to match you up with up to four interior designers close to your area, tailored to your budget.
All recommendations made by Qanvast will be protected under the Qanvast Guarantee scheme that covers 50% of your contract value, up to RM50,000, in the case that the recommended Contracting Service Provider becomes insolvent.
Meet interior designers. Get quotes.
Based on your requirements, we will recommend you up to 5 firms with the Qanvast Guarantee.
Get Free Quotes