Mixing Wood Tones in a Room

This post about mixing wood tones was updated June of 2024.

Let’s all sing it from the mountain tops: The days of matching wood tones and furniture sets are *finally* a thing of the past.

When all of the wood surfaces in a single space share the same tone, nothing stands out and the room falls flat. However, allowing various dark and light wood finishes to coexist can result in a layered look that lends the right amount of texture and depth. The overall feel is more organic, as if individual pieces have been collected over time.

There is no magic formula when it comes to mixing wood furniture finishes, but today’s decorating guide is here to help establish a few guidelines to help every home decorator find their footing.

Contrast Wood Furniture and Flooring

Furnishings can get lost against the backdrop of a similarly toned wood floor. Break up the monotony by pairing light furniture with flooring that has a darker stain—as we did here—or vice versa.

Start with An Anchor Piece

An easy way to create impact is by using a larger piece of wood furniture, such as a coffee table or buffet, as your starting point and mixing in two to three contrasting wood tones around it. You can always experiment by switching out wood accessories to see what appeals to you.

Create a Harmonious Balance

To prevent your room from looking lopsided, balance different wood finishes throughout your space. Here, the dark-stained floating shelves ground the room, allowing the whitewashed elements to have a greater contrast for an airy effect.

Pick a Dominant Wood Tone

Nothing says you have to go crazy mixing wood tones, especially if you’re feeling a bit out of your element. Here, the neutral, beige stain of the wall adds just enough contrast while letting the dramatic wood wall frames and dining table to anchor the space.

Create Continuity with Accent Color

If you’re worried your mismatched wood grains have gotten out of hand, tie the different finishes and styles together with an accent color. Here, we used some accessories—throw pillows, lamp shade and drapery—to create a harmonious flow through a neutral color.

Soften the Mixed Wood Tones with a Rug

When you’ve got a lot of legs in various wood tones, give them common ground with an area rug. A rug also helps to create a soothing transition between the furniture and wood floor.

Browse all of our indoor and outdoor furniture offerings now, or find even more decorating inspiration from these helpful posts below:

• Ballard Designs’ Decorating 101 Series
• 15 Best Living Room Layout Tips
• The Complete Guide to Beautiful Drapery
• How Do I Choose the Right Lamp Shade?

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