Oak Kitchen Ideas: Timeless Designs, Modern Updates & Cozy Styling Tips

If you’re considering updating your oak kitchen but aren’t sure how to mix old and new, read on. If you’d like to update your oak kitchen cabinets or want to know the best wall color for golden-toned wood cabinets, keep reading. I’ll show you 28 smart and creative ways to update, style and redesign your oak kitchen so you enjoy it for years. If you like rustic, minimalist or country-style homes, I’ve added expert advice, my own thoughts and photos to help you imagine each style in your entire home. Let’s get started with the first 7 transformations!
Why Oak Kitchen Cabinets Are Making a Stylish Comeback
Many homeowners who want a warm, textured and unique look in their kitchens have recently shown a strong interest in oak kitchen cabinets. What was once thought of as an outdated design, these cabinets are now becoming popular because of their long-lasting beauty. No matter if the oak is light or dark, it’s once again being used to create both classic and contemporary designs.
For a recent project, I put together vintage shaker-style oak cabinets, modern matte black hardware and white quartz countertops. This contrast made the cabinets feel elevated and current. We decided to use glass upper cabinets to keep the area bright and we added soft LED lights below to highlight the wood. I liked that the oak was able to breathe and that I didn’t use thick lacquer to cover its beauty.
I believe part of why the movement is growing is because people want to experience real, natural products in a world that’s so full of technology. Oak adds instant soul to a space. As mentioned in House Beautiful, designers Leanne Ford and Jean Stoffer have used oak cabinetry to bring warmth to even the most modern kitchens.
For this section to be more effective, I’d advise including examples of how oak can be finished: bleaching, wire-brushing or mixing it with stone or concrete to enhance the look.
Timeless Charm: The Natural Appeal of Oak Kitchens
I find that an all-oak kitchen is both cozy and strong, giving it a special quality. Oak lends a timeless charm, whether you’re designing a craftsman-style space or something sleek and transitional. The kitchen feels like the heart of our home because oak’s natural look and warmth make it inviting and homey, never boring.
Our most recent installation included wide-plank oak flooring, oak slab-front lower cabinets and open oak shelving above. We installed a white subway tile backsplash and light gray quartz countertops to keep the area from feeling too heavy. The combination of warm wood and cool, clean accents made the room cozy but still stylish.
In my opinion, oak works beautifully because it’s so visually grounding. The use of modern or industrial materials does not take away from its ability to balance and comfort the room. If your kitchen is all oak, try to add soft lights, various textures and maybe a bit of steel or tile to give it more depth.
I’d like to add more examples of how people use oak in their homes such as for ceiling beams or vent hoods.
How to Modernize Oak Kitchen Cabinets Without Painting
Even if you don’t want to paint your oak kitchen cabinets, there are many other ways to bring them up to date. It’s best to keep things simple and contrasting, using little decoration, new handles, updated lighting and smooth appliances to match the classic look of the wood.
A client of mine had honey oak cabinets that seemed too heavy for her beige tile floors. We didn’t paint the cabinets, but we did update the handles to matte black and changed the old backsplash for a white herringbone tile. She removed some cabinet doors above to turn them into open shelves which helped the room feel more open and modern.
What I’ve learned is that less is more. To modernize oak, you should display it in a space that’s not crowded or messy. Architectural Digest notes that this year, interior design is all about using textures and a warm minimalist style, making raw oak suitable for modern looks.
If I were to add more to this section, I’d suggest which metals or countertop materials are best for highlighting the natural colors of oak without making them look too busy.
Best Wall Colors to Match Oak Kitchen Cabinets
Picking the correct wall color for your oak kitchen cabinets can completely change the look of your room. Since oak has warm golden, red or brown colors, it’s important to pick a wall color that goes well with it. I like to use soft neutrals, warm whites or muted greens and blues in my decor to make the wood stand out.
In one project, we paired medium-toned oak cabinets with a creamy white wall (Benjamin Moore White Dove). The room was brightened and updated by the neutral color which also made the oak stand out. In another example, a sage green wall brought a gentle earthiness that looked lovely next to darker oak furniture and a natural oak kitchen worktop.
I avoid using very yellow or white walls because they make the oak look dated and make the room feel old. I really like the look of earth tones, greige and dusty navy blues together. Warm white or mushroom tones with wood cabinets are often used by interior designer Shea McGee to create balance and harmony.
I’d include a palette chart or some visual examples to make it easier for readers to find matching shades and I’d suggest using matte and satin paint finishes.
Designing a Dreamy Oak Kitchen Island That Stands Out
A statement oak kitchen island can totally change how your kitchen looks and works. For me, it’s important to make your island suit your needs, whether for cooking, eating or storing things and oak grain brings a cozy feel to the room.
In a kitchen inspired by farmhouses, we set up an oak island with drawers next to it and a long quartz slab top for seating at the bar. The base was crafted from reclaimed oak and coated with an oil that makes it safe for food. We matched the wood with brass pendant lights and leather counter stools to get a warm and useful look.
What I like most about an oak island is the way it holds the kitchen together. Even in today’s open or mixed-style homes, it adds a touch of weight and skilled craftsmanship. According to Sarah Sherman Samuel, using wood with bright colors and different metals creates a new, stylish effect that suits oak islands well.
I’d also suggest ways to style the space such as putting cookbooks on open shelves or in baskets and how to place electrical outlets so they are not visible.
Fresh Oak Kitchen Ideas for a Contemporary Look
I enjoy sharing creative ideas for oak kitchens that aren’t typical. Currently, oak kitchens use contrast, simple designs and blended natural materials. Now, it’s best to combine different colors and materials rather than trying to make everything match—that’s what gives a room a modern look.
I really like one of the modern oak kitchens I’ve seen which featured flat-panel oak cabinets with hidden pulls, a cement-style countertop and stylish matte white cabinets above. We put in a black metal open shelf and track lighting to maintain a modern and urban style. This mix of oak and industrial materials was just right.
I’ve noticed that oak looks great when used in a minimalist setting. When used with textured stone, matte surfaces or terrazzo, it provides just the right amount of visual interest. Dwell Magazine reports that this year, designers are choosing “quiet luxury,” and oak is perfect for that trend with its soft finishes, handmade appearance and warm colors.
I’d like to add more examples of successful combinations here such as terrazzo backsplashes, linear cabinet handles or appliances that are hidden behind cabinet doors.
Pairing Oak Kitchen Tables With Trendy Seating Options
The right seating can make an oak kitchen table the center of warmth in your kitchen. I prefer chairs or benches that stand out with a different form, mix of materials or a bright color, but I make sure they don’t take away from the table’s natural charm.
We recently combined a chunky oval oak table with spindle legs and molded black chairs to achieve a mix of Scandinavian and industrial styles. In some cases, we paired classic oak benches with velvet-upholstered chairs. The material’s softness complemented the rustic look of the oak.
I regularly tell clients that a good mix depends on getting the balance right. When your kitchen is mostly wood, choose acrylic, metal or upholstered seating to add variety. If the area is simple, using warm wood in the seating helps create a cozy atmosphere. The Spruce reports that contrast seating is becoming popular—you can see this in chairs that don’t match, have different shapes and use various textures.
I’d like to add more tips about chair heights, table proportions, and rug placement under oak tables to round out this section.
The Ultimate Oak Kitchen Remodel: Before and After Inspiration
I found it very satisfying to give an old oak kitchen a fresh look and useful design, without losing its original character. You don’t need to replace everything during a remodel; it’s about giving your home a new look. In a lot of my remodels, I preserve the oak kitchen cabinets, enhance important surfaces and organize the layout for better modern use.
In our recent renovation, we started by using heavy oak cabinets above which made the kitchen feel isolated. We took out the majority, left the lower cabinets and put a matte clear coat on the wood. We put up a light quartz backsplash, installed open shelving, replaced the kitchen island with oak and updated the lighting. The outcome was a cheerful and open kitchen that kept its original character.
In my view, a successful oak kitchen renovation depends on deciding what to keep and what to alter. You don’t always need to start over. According to HGTV, upgrading the layout and finishes of quality hardwood cabinets can help you save a lot of money and still get a designer look.
To enhance this section, I’d suggest moving appliances to improve how you use the space and adding useful inserts inside oak cabinets.
Small Changes, Big Impact: Oak Kitchen Cabinets Makeover Tips
Many of my clients are interested in updating their oak kitchen cabinets but don’t have the money for a major renovation. So, a makeover is the answer—it’s a quick and smart way to update your current cabinets. You can make these changes cheaply and still see a lot of difference.
In one instance, we cleaned the cabinets well, sanded them down, applied a neutral-colored wood oil and changed the old knobs for new brushed nickel pulls. We placed an off-white ceramic backsplash and under-cabinet LED lights to give the area a more modern feel. The transformation was immediate—bright, clean, and cohesive.
I think that updating your oak kitchen cabinets can sometimes be more satisfying than doing a complete remodel. It’s an exercise in creativity, resourcefulness, and taste. Recently, Southern Living suggested that homeowners adopt “slow design” and do little updates over a period, instead of changing everything all at once.
Consider adding crown molding or decorative toe-kicks to make the cabinets look even better.
How to Create a Modern Aesthetic With Classic Oak
You can still use oak kitchen cabinets and make your kitchen look modern. I have found that using the right style, oak can make a kitchen look modern and attractive. The secret is to keep things simple—let the wood shine by using plain lines, up-to-date materials and one-color accents.
In a home I really liked, we opted for flat-front oak cabinets, a black marble waterfall island, no upper cabinets and simple lighting. The oak was given a light neutral stain to soften the orange color. The use of open shelving and black fixtures made the kitchen feel like a gallery but still remained cozy.
Personally, I love mixing classic oak with modern elements. It creates this wonderful dialogue between old and new. Modern oak kitchens are becoming popular in both urban and suburban spaces by mixing vintage cabinetry with contemporary countertops and straight line lights, as Elle Decor reports.
I could talk more about how to use appliance paneling and how to add smart technology to a traditional wood kitchen.
Oak Kitchen Worktop Trends That Redefine Rustic Style
Having an oak kitchen worktop adds unique depth, style and natural appeal to your kitchen. I prefer using solid oak counters in rustic kitchens and find that they look nice with stone backsplashes, ceramic tile or polished hardware. They add a cozy feeling that’s hard to find with other types of materials.
In a project, we placed a 2-inch thick butcher-block oak countertop with a live edge on a kitchen island. We didn’t smooth out the wood, but we sealed it with food-grade oil for a natural finish. White cabinets, brass fixtures and matte ceramic floors were also used in the rest of the kitchen. The wood color of the worktop made the room feel comfortable and inviting.
I believe that oak countertops are ideal for anyone who wants a natural and touchable surface at home. Real Simple points out that wood countertops are becoming popular again in homes that value natural looks over highly polished ones.
You could make this section richer by offering tips on maintenance such as oiling regularly and avoiding water damage around the sink or dishwasher.
From Traditional to Trendy: Reworking an Oak Kitchen Layout
Changing the layout of your oak kitchen can make it both useful and stylish. Often, the layout is what helps your oak design fit into the modern world. I recommend looking at traffic flow, zoning (cooking vs. prep areas), and how to balance closed and open storage.
I started remodeling one kitchen that was U-shaped and felt too small. We took down a peninsula, put in an oak kitchen island and changed the cabinet layout to include tall pantry units. The changes made it easier to move and see what was happening. We did not replace the oak kitchen cabinets, but we moved them to create a balanced and workable design.
Oak cabinets seem to fit into any new layout, as long as you avoid making them look crowded with lots of dark colors and heavy shelves. Studio McGee recommends that an open and airy kitchen with separate work areas can make any kitchen feel more special, even when oak is the main material.
If I had space for more, I’d advise using zone lighting to outline zones where people cook or clean such as with pendant lights above the island and task lights above the sink.
Paint or Stain? Best Finishes for Oak Kitchen Cabinets
Many people frequently ask me if they should use paint or stain on their oak kitchen cabinets. Every situation is different, based on the wood’s condition, your desired style and how visible the oak grain should be. In my opinion, stains that maintain the wood’s original feel but remove harsh yellow tones are best.
We applied a semi-transparent gray-beige stain in our last update to tone down the orange in the oak and show the wood’s grain. When a client asked for a cleaner style, we painted with a warm white satin finish and it made the space look brand new. We applied a grain-filling primer before anything else to prevent the wood from having inconsistent texture.
I often point out to clients that oak has its own qualities such as deep grain and lots of character. Painting it covers that up, while staining enhances it. Better Homes & Gardens suggests that using gray-wash or greige stains on wood can help you keep the wood’s appearance while following the latest trends.
If I included more in this, I’d mention a few brands and finishes that are great for DIYers when working with oak grain.
Decor Accents That Compliment Oak Kitchen Warmth
Selecting the proper decor is important for making your oak kitchen look finished and designed. I generally suggest clients choose natural materials instead of those that look shiny or are made from plastic. Add ceramics, rattan, textured linens and muted metals to your decor to highlight oak’s warm colors.
In one kitchen, we put vintage ceramic jars, a linen runner on the oak kitchen table, a potted olive tree and wall sconces made from antique brass. The combination felt cozy and intentional without being overdone. The oak didn’t stand out, but the decor added both character and use to the space.
I love how well oak supports layered styling. It doesn’t compete for attention—it just enhances everything around it. Oak kitchens with a simple, cozy and practical look are often featured by designers from Magnolia and Pottery Barn.
I’d also suggest including advice on drawer organizers, how to arrange artisanal dinnerware and how to make open shelves look neat and attractive.
Choosing the Right Hardware for Oak Kitchen Cabinets
A quick and easy way to refresh oak kitchen cabinets is to replace the hardware. I think of hardware as the “jewelry” of the kitchen because, even though it’s small, it plays a big role. Changing the knobs or pulls can quickly change the style of your kitchen from old-fashioned to modern and from rustic to sleek.
Recently, I installed long matte black pulls on the flat-panel oak drawers and round antique brass knobs on the uppers in my oak kitchen. It achieved a nice balance between what’s modern and what’s timeless. In a different project, we added oil-rubbed bronze handles to make the wood’s warmth stand out. Your oak kitchen cabinets wall color and the metal fixtures in the room should match the finish of your hardware.
I prefer to use minimalist designs in modern rooms and classic cup pulls for a farmhouse or traditional look. According to Better Homes & Gardens, combining different hardware types (knobs for doors, pulls for drawers) adds depth and visual interest to wood cabinetry like oak.
If I were to add more to this section, I’d include a guide on where to put pulls and knobs for the best look.
Lighting Ideas to Brighten and Modernize an Oak Kitchen
The design of your oak kitchen can be improved or ruined by the lighting. Insufficient light makes the wood seem old and heavy. The right lighting, however, can completely transform the atmosphere. I prefer to use different types of lights: task lights for where I work, ambient lights for creating a mood and accent lights to draw attention to certain features.
I often use recessed ceiling lights, brass sconces over my open shelves and pendant lights over the oak kitchen island. I prefer fixtures in matte black or brushed brass for a current design. It’s important to have under-cabinet lighting because it makes the countertop brighter and shows off the natural grain of the oak.
I believe that great lighting helps oak furniture look modern and not out of place. The company highlights that using height, layers and the right temperature in lighting helps keep natural wood finishes looking sharp.
You should consider dimmable lights to get the right mood and make sure the bulbs give off a warm-white light that matches the oak’s color.
Smart Storage Solutions for Oak Kitchen Cabinet Interiors
The inside of oak kitchen cabinets should be just as useful as they are attractive. I pay close attention to storage ideas that help the kitchen run more smoothly every day. Adding pull-out trays, vertical dividers and hidden bins can improve any basic cabinet design.
One time, we added special spice pull-outs, deep drawers for pots and a vertical tray divider for baking sheets inside the traditional oak kitchen island. I also prefer using drawer organizers made from natural wood to match the rest of the cabinetry. It helps the space look unified while also giving it both style and usefulness.
What I found out is that storage upgrades are underappreciated. They help the kitchen look and work like it was designed for you. The National Kitchen & Bath Association suggests focusing on how the space functions and how easily it can be used, mainly in older kitchens that haven’t been updated.
To finish this section, I’d suggest adding corner carousels, pullout drawers under the sink or recycling drawers to help with daily tasks.
Flooring Options That Work Beautifully With Oak Kitchens
To create a unified design, you need to pay attention to the flooring when using oak kitchen cabinets. The trick is to create contrast while maintaining harmony. I typically advise choosing a color that is a little lighter or darker than your cabinetry so the room doesn’t look too similar.
I recently combined medium oak cabinets with pale gray oak-look porcelain tile floors which helped the room feel bright and open. Another time, we chose to install wide-plank dark walnut floors which made the light oak in the kitchen table and cabinets stand out even more. Wire-brushed wood and patterned tiles look great with the grain of oak.
I have found that natural wood and stone-look tiles can be used in many different ways. Domino published a kitchen design inspired by Scandinavia, using light herringbone wood floors and the result looked amazing, clean and cozy.
I would add considerations about durability, especially in high-traffic kitchens—suggesting materials like luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or engineered hardwood for budget-conscious remodels.
How to Blend Oak Cabinets With Modern Backsplashes
A new backsplash is a great way to upgrade oak kitchen cabinets without changing their unique look. I usually encourage my clients to choose clean lines, light colors and soft textures that stand out from the oak’s grain.
We recently put in a matte white zellige tile backsplash behind medium-tone oak uppers which gave the kitchen a rustic yet modern touch. For another kitchen, I chose a slab marble backsplash with very little veining which gave the rustic lower cabinets a simple and elegant background. The mixture of natural wood and smooth surfaces made everything harmonious.
I think backsplashes should connect the old and the new. Apartment Therapy reports that natural stone, vertical tiles and slab backsplashes are popular—and they go perfectly with modern oak kitchen cabinets.
You might also include advice on choosing the right grout color. Light grout helps the floor look clean and warm gray grout matches oak’s natural colors.
Design Mistakes to Avoid With Oak Kitchen Renovations
I always make sure to mention some typical problems that can happen with oak kitchen elements. A major mistake is choosing flooring, cabinets and furniture all in the same color wood. As a result, the space appears flat and is too warm, without much depth.
I’ve noticed many kitchens with lovely oak cabinets, but their counters or lighting are old or unmatched which takes away from the look. Often, people miss the importance of wall color—if you go with a hue that highlights the orange in oak, your entire room can look old-fashioned. If you use cheap materials or shiny finishes, the cabinetry might look outdated.
It’s a good idea to take a step back and see the room from all sides. Ask: Where’s the contrast? Where’s the softness? Architectural Digest points out that the best kitchens are made up of different styles, not just one. You should mix the richness of oak with simple designs, matte surfaces and not put too many decorations in the room.
I’d suggest including a checklist for homeowners to review their kitchens before starting a renovation such as “3 Things You Should Never Do to Your Oak Cabinets.”
Scandinavian Meets Rustic: Oak Kitchen Fusion Styles
Blending different styles is something I enjoy and I especially love Scandinavian minimalism with the warmth of oak. A Scandi-rustic oak kitchen combines open, simple designs with warm and natural elements which is great for families who want both simplicity and warmth.
In our most recent project, we selected pale-stained oak cabinets, flat panels, white upper shelves and a soft gray oak kitchen worktop. To make the space rustic, we added some woven baskets, ceramic vases and wooden bar stools. The large windows let in lots of natural light which helped create the Scandinavian atmosphere of freshness and calm.
I think this kind of cooking is the most adaptable and has stood the test of time. Dwell reports that modern minimalists often select oak because it helps to soften modern designs without adding too many visual elements.
Another way to make this section more interesting is to suggest pairing sage, cream and muted charcoal to tie the whole style together.
Minimalist Design Ideas Using Oak Cabinets as a Focal Point
Minimalism doesn’t mean boring, especially when you’re working with oak kitchen cabinets. I enjoy placing oak as the main feature in a room that’s simple and minimal. Oak’s natural grain looks wonderful against simple lines, so the wood stands out without being too much.
Recently, we installed flat-panel oak cabinets in a soft matte finish in a minimalist kitchen. No cabinets above, just a floating oak shelf and a big oak kitchen island that offers storage. The countertops were made of white quartz and only one linear pendant provided the lighting. The result was modern, organic, and effortless.
In my opinion, minimalism is about intention. All the furniture in a room should either be useful or make us happy and oak cabinets do both. As Elle Decor explains, natural materials are key in minimalist interiors because they bring warmth to empty rooms.
For a stronger section, I’d suggest tips for using hidden appliances and push-to-open hardware to maintain a clean and continuous design.
Matte Black Accents With Oak: A Bold Yet Balanced Look
Oak cabinets and matte black accents are a rare combination that looks very attractive. It’s bold, modern, and wonderfully grounded. Clients who look for a classy, natural look often find that warm wood and industrial metal are a perfect match.
One of the designs we created was to install oak base cabinets and match them with matte black uppers, as well as a black sink and faucet. The backsplash was white tile and the countertops were made from black honed granite. Having black pendant lights above the oak kitchen table helped bring everything together. The result was clean, dramatic, and totally livable.
I believe matte black enhances the beauty of oak without making it look too strong. Domino says that black is becoming popular in both fixtures and full cabinetry because it gives a room contrast and a polished look. When balanced correctly, it’s timeless.
I’d enjoy adding some accessory ideas, like black picture frames, drawer handles or little black appliances that fit the accent color everywhere.
Creating a Cozy Country Kitchen With Oak Elements
There’s something undeniably comforting about a country-style oak kitchen. Farmhouse sinks, floral fabrics or vintage crockery, when made from oak, give a sense of comfort and tradition to the home. Many clients come to me wanting a kitchen that feels warm and comfortable and oak helps achieve that without much effort.
Recently, we renovated a country home using oak cabinets with visible knots, an oak table with turned legs and antique bronze hardware. Vintage china was shown on open shelves and a big oak-framed window let plenty of sunlight in. Textiles and a rustic chandelier made the dining room even more appealing.
I believe this style of design should not be too fancy. Oak gives you all the character you need. In many of its features, Southern Living highlights kitchens where oak is the main element.
You might also include suggestions for putting antique pieces together with modern ones, for example, by using an old oak butcher’s block or reclaimed wood ceiling beams to make the room feel more authentic.
Eco-Friendly Oak Kitchen Updates for Sustainable Homes
More and more, people are choosing oak kitchen cabinets made from reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood. If you want your kitchen to be environmentally friendly, oak is a great option since it lasts for a long time.
In the green remodel, we built the cabinets from reclaimed white oak and used plywood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council for the box. We used a plant-based oil to finish the cabinets and we combined them with recycled glass countertops and energy-saving appliances. An old church bench was turned into the oak kitchen island.
I think eco-conscious choices don’t have to sacrifice beauty. They often enhance it. Dwell Magazine points out that sustainability means using less, but better and oak is a perfect match for that. If you use oak in your design, you are making something that will last.
I’d finish this by suggesting eco-friendly coatings, no-VOC sealants and safe hardware for your oak kitchen.
Mixing Wood Tones: Coordinating Oak With Other Finishes
It’s often a challenge for me to match oak kitchen cabinets with other types of wood in flooring, furniture or ceiling details. It may be tough, but combining woods gives your home a rich, interesting style.
In that area, we put together medium-tone oak cabinets, dark walnut floors and light pine open shelves. We gave all the wood a matte finish and used the same oak color for the kitchen table and light fixtures. I used contrast on purpose, while making sure the undertones went together well.
My take? Choose a dominant tone (like oak), then layer in others that are either a few shades lighter or darker. It’s important not to combine paints with different sheens or those that have too much red in their base color. Studio McGee often applies this approach in their projects, making spaces that are soothing and where wood looks well-integrated—not cluttered.
To finish this section, I’d provide tips on testing samples before you buy and on using rugs or color to separate wood floors in open-concept rooms.
Best Countertop Materials to Complement Oak Cabinets
Choosing the correct countertop is important to ensure your oak kitchen cabinets are both intentional and current. I help my clients choose materials that bring contrast or texture, but still let the wood shine through.
The kitchen was given a modern twist by using honed black granite with a light oak cabinet base in our latest installation. There, creamy quartzite with gentle veining added a natural contrast to the darker oak cabinets. If your kitchen is all wood, butcher block counters are perfect for achieving a smooth, rustic style.
My rule? Let the countertop be the main focal point for the colors in your room. Light marbles, quartz composites and matte stone are among the best choices to go with natural wood, according to HGTV. They support the wine by letting the oak be the main attraction.
To elevate this section, I’d recommend adding countertop edge profiles (like waterfall vs. beveled) and discussing how lighting can affect the perception of both counter and cabinet tones.
Bringing Your Oak Kitchen Vision to Life
Even after you’ve picked out your cabinets, planned the layout and chosen the counters, it’s the finishing touches that really bring your oak kitchen to life. You can show your character and link all the pieces with color, texture and detail at this stage.
In the kitchen I like best, we hung vintage botanical prints above the oak table, left out handmade mugs on the open shelves and used a linen runner along the oak island. The terra-cotta pots with greenery added life and a basket of cookbooks rested under the counter.
I think these special touches give a well-designed kitchen its character. According to The Spruce, adding small things like dishtowels, trays or candles can help unify the atmosphere in the room.
At the end of this section, I’d give readers a list of soft goods, art, lighting and plants that suit oak and help create a classic, finished look.
Conclusion
Oak kitchens provide a great chance to mix classic craftsmanship with new design ideas. If you like a rustic or minimalist style or anything in between, oak kitchen cabinets will always stand out as a beautiful centerpiece. I’d love to hear how you’re designing your own oak space—share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!