Choosing the perfect finish combination for your new kitchen is an exciting step in the design process. There are so many options to choose from that it might be hard to keep up with the newest “it” colors and stains. This is where we can help!
In recent years, paints have pushed aside wood stains, shining through with colors like whites, blues, greens, and grays. While these color tones have shifted over the past five to seven years, we are now seeing wood-stained cabinetry make its official comeback! In fact, in a recent designer survey conducted by MasterBrand, light stains have made their way into the top three trending finishes!
Understanding that yellow, orange, and red stains have made their exit is important. The newest stains to consider using in your next project have gray, brown, and blonde undertones, making them suitable for blending with modern finishes. These new stains can take on a traditional role, but pairing them with painted cabinetry is now a more modern approach with traditional elements.
Now, let that wood grain shine through and dive into what’s trending!
Trending Wood-Stained Kitchen Cabinetry
The trending stains that are making their way back into the kitchen are natural, white oak and light to medium tones. We’ve removed the yellow, orange, and red hues from the undertones to bring wood-stained cabinetry into the 21st century!
Natural wood-stained cabinets have the potential to turn your space into a new-age rustic retreat. Mid-tone stains with browns or grays give a soft, modern feel. If an all-wood look is something you crave, try using a mid-tone stain with a blonde undertone. It provides dimension and richness, but be sure that the space has plenty of natural light. You want the space to be warm and inviting, not dark and dull. Make use of natural materials and finishes to complete the space and bring it to the trendy world of modern elegance!
Mixing Finishes in the Kitchen
A trend that is here to stay is mixing finishes in the kitchen! Why settle for one finish when you can have two or maybe three? If you’re really feeling confident in your style, there are many different ways you can mix color or even other stains with your stained cabinetry.
An option that is always safe is to add a finish to your island that contrasts with the perimeter cabinets. The island is a great area to pop color, texture, or a subtle finish to add personality to the space.
If you’re feeling confident, other areas to play around with contrasting finishes include a stand-alone wood hood/island combination, shelving, base cabinets, a separate hutch, or cabinets that vary in depth.
When choosing a complementary finish, be mindful of the undertones that your stain is showing off. Most of the trendy stains now have gray undertones. You want to choose something with the same undertones otherwise you risk a clash of finishes.
Under the Masterbrand portfolio, there is an abundance of stains to accomplish any style trend. If we’ve convinced you that stains are right for you or if you are ready to start your new kitchen journey, visit our website and inspiration gallery to get started! We also recommended searching for a designer near you!
