decorating

Unexpected Ways to Decorate with Wood in the Kitchen and Bath

Add a note of nature and a hint of warmth with these elements

June 9, 2017

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Between tile, marble, granite, mirrors, and stainless steel, kitchens and baths tend to skew rather cold when it comes to design. If you're in search of a way to lighten these spaces, there's nothing better than a touch of natural wood. The perfect organic foil to cool stone and steel, wood elements add texture and interest while also providing warmth. While we're all for wood beams and cabinets, the options don't stop there. We've searched our archives and the Web for some of the most unexpected uses of the age-old material. Prepare to be inspired.

Photo: Laura Resen
1/8
Consider the backsplash
While the thought of backsplashes immediately conjures notions of tile, designer Dan Fink opted instead for rich mahogany in the kitchen of this Los Angeles home. The material serves as a warm counterpoint to the room's black and white elements and ties the vintage Nakashima stools into the design.
2/8
Consider the backsplash
If full paneling isn't in the budget (or you live in a rental), Wayfair sells laminate wall panels that will achieve a similar effect; $179 for four. wayfair.com

3/8
Try a wood sink
Instead of the usual porcelain or stainless suspects, opt for a wood sink, like this teak one from Signature Hardware, for a natural touch in the bath; from $610. signaturehardware.com
4/8
Add a bench
Whether as a useful perch and place for towels in the bath or as extra seating in the kitchen, Bambeco's sculptural root wood bench is both functional and beautiful. Bonus: Sourced from fallen lumber, the piece is also totally sustainable; $250. bambeco.com

Marco Ricca
5/8
Switch up your island
In his kitchen design for the 2015 Kips Bay Decorator Show House, Christopher Peacock merged a marble island with a live-edge wood one to create a multitextural surface.
6/8
Reimagine the door
Sliding barn doors aren't just for barns: Consider them as a more rustic alternative to the bathroom's usual glass door. New Jersey–based Wood Boards and Beams incorporated this rolling door into the bath's vanity and cabinet.

7/8
Create a surround
Clive Christian's kitchen design in the 2016 Kips Bay Show House features elegant wood that chicly frames the stove.
8/8
Add an accent!
If all else fails, live-edge bowls, like this one from ABC Home, are multifunctional, beautiful, and an easy way to get the warmth of wood without a renovation; $85. abchome.com