You know what we are seeing a ton of? All things wood. And more specifically, unfinished and lighter, blonde woods. From natural wood finished cabinetry, to pale wood floors and gorgeous furniture and accessories in lighter tones, the blondies are back in a big way.
This lighter shade of wood is so versatile, fitting a wide range of design styles. Think modern Scandinavian, eclectic, mid-century, or a fresh coastal cottage. But don’t be dissuaded by the early 90’s orange-hued variation. This fresh take will woo you right on over to the blonde side.
Interior Design: Rehabitat Interiors
In the bathroom, blonde wood is taking over the vanity landscape. Case in point, the sleek floating vanity above. But it is not just for modern interiors. Blonde wood cabinetry runs the style gamut. Below, a more trad-meets-bohemian take.
Interior Design: Amber Interiors | Photography: Tessa Neustadt
Interior Design: Meg Cassidy Creative | Photography: Lauren Miller
Painted cabinetry is still as hot as ever but we are seeing a major resurgence in natural wood cabinetry. From just a pop of wood in the kitchen island to the whole shebang. It adds so much warmth and texture a space and looks beautiful paired with marble countertops.
Interior Design: Studio McGee
Once upon a time, dark stained floors were all the rage. In contrast, interiors are now trending towards light, blonde floors and the look of unfinished flooring is even becoming a thing. With this shift, comes a brighter, warmer space.
Interior Design: Amber Interiors | Photography: Tessa Neustadt
Similarly, this lighter, natural finish works beautifully for furniture and decor. (Insert every current piece in our shopping carts across the internet). Sleek case-goods, coffee tables in just the right shade of blonde and wood bead accessories are just a few of the many great pieces we’re spotting in our design travels.
Interior Design: Lindsey Brooke Design
Interior Design: Kate Marker Interiors | Photography: Stoffer Photography
Interior Design: JDP Interiors | Photography: Margaret Austin
While we’re on the topic of all things wood, there is another beautiful trend making the rounds – mixing woods. Throw that need to match out the window. Much like mixing metals or pairing prints, a combination of wood finishes gives a space depth and interest.
Interior Design: Nicole Davis Interiors
We have been pinning the heck out of kitchens that pair wood cabinets with a contrasting wood island. Or wood floors with furniture pieces in complementing yet distinct tones.
Interior Design: Nicole Davis Interiors
A good rule of thumb for achieving this look is to stick with two types of wood in contrasting shades. Pairing light with dark easily allows you to blend a myriad of wood tones. Likewise, if you make sure to contrast the wood tone of your flooring with that of your furniture, it will keep the room from looking too flat and blah. Variety is the spice of life as they say.
Interior Design: Bria Hammel Interiors | Photography: Aimee Mazzenga
Our mantra is quickly becoming “Give us allll the blonde wood.” Whether that is a sea of blondies or you are mixing lighter finishes in with your wood classics, this trend towards the lighter variety is stunning. And if you are on the hunt for a few more pieces to add to your home, check out a handful of our faves from the current McGee & Co. sale happening now!
Colette Desk | Erin Coffee Table | Isaiah Sideboard | Nita Bowl | Wooden Serving Tray
If you are in the mood, here are a few more design and trend topics to peruse…
Erin Lepperd is an interior designer – turned digital media editor with a penchant for breathtaking interiors. When she’s not gabbing about design, you’ll find her wrangling her wild and wonderful 5 year old twins, brunching like it’s her job and exploring the wilds of New England as a California transplant.
@alexanderjames_SHOP
@JENNIKAYNE
@FREDASALVADOR
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Soo good, Love this blog post. All the images are so inspiring. I am so excited that blonde wood is coming back!
Thank you for always taking the time to share all the goodies with us 🙂
Much love IDCO!
Delia Kaplan
@ddesign_interiorstyling
Hey Delia! Thank I’m so glad you loved the article. We are SO glad blonde wood is back, because I love the mixture of our dark floors with light wood accents in the room.
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What finish do you use to keep the wood looking natural?
Hi I’m trying to find the source for the Amber Interiors bathroom you posted here. I can figure out which client project that bathroom is from. Do you know? Thanks!
[…] you do not stain Hickory. Hickory has some beautiful streaks of ebony running through it as well as lighter blondish wood. It is extremely difficult, so carbide tipped router bits and saw blades are highly recommended. If […]