Mixing Wood Tones: A Guide for Your Home

I’m a mix and match kind of girl. I always have been. Whether I’m using fabrics, metals or wood, I’ve always used a combination. So, I’ve never worried if the wood tones in my home are the same. If you’ve ever stood in any room of your home and wondered if your oak floors could ever look good with your cherry wood coffee table, I’m here to tell you that you’re not alone. The fear of clashing wood tones is real, but it doesn’t have to be.

Mixing wood tones in your home is a simple design trick and can add character and visual interest to your interior spaces. Who doesn’t love a little visual interest? I also love the way mixing makes a space feel. It can make any room feel layered, collected and gives it your own unique stamp. Forget the old-school rule that everything has to match. Today, I’ll share a few simple tips to help you achieve the art of mixing wood tones with confidence.

Understanding the Basics of Wood Tones & Texture

It’s easy to think of wood furniture as just brown. Did you know that wood tones actually fall into three different categories? Just like paint, wood has different tones…my artist son would be so proud of me for using this analogy!

Creating a Cohesive Look: The 70/30 Rule

How do you get a cohesive look mixing your woods, you ask? There is something called the 70/30 rule and it’s a simple guideline to follow for balance. The basic premise is, you pick one wood tone to be the dominant color for 70% of your space, such as the flooring and larger furniture or cabinets. Next, you use a second, different wood tone for the remaining 30% of the space to act as a complementary accent. You can use something like a small side table or gallery wall of picture frames if you’d like to start small.

If you are hesitant to try, experiment with smaller pieces first. Picture frames, cutting boards, or decorative trays, are items you can try before committing to a large piece of furniture. Doing this will help you build your confidence and help you to see what works in your space.

In my she room, I have a cream colored wood desk, a cherry wood file cabinet and two pieces of painted pink furniture. If you noticed, there is also an neutral wood serving tray on the chaise lounge. Remember, neutral wood blends well with warm or cool wood tones.

I love this space and the different wood tones that blend perfectly together.

Don’t Ignore Scale and Proportion

Here’s something that I’ve been guilty of. You go to the store, fall in love with a piece of furniture or accessory, and think it’s going to be perfect in your space. You have to have it! Hence, you buy it, bring it home, and instantly realize you didn’t measure to see if it would truly work or if the wood tones would mesh. Raise your hand if I’m not alone!

Below are a few of my tips when considering a purchase. No impulse allowed!

Your Cohesive, Coordinated Home Awaits!

Remember, mixing and matching different wood tones to your home is not a mistake. It’s an opportunity to add warmth, depth and your own personal style. By understanding the basics of the undertones, scale and proportion you can create a space that is cohesive and stylish! Don’t be afraid to experiment. You won’t know unless you try!

If you love the mix and match concept like me, check out my Guide to Mixing Prints and Patterns. It’s such a creative and rewarding process!

Happy mixing, friends!

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