Let’s all sing it from the mountain tops: The days of matching wood furniture sets are a thing of the past. Truthfully, it was a decorating rule that really never was — and for good reason. When all of the wood surfaces in a single space share the same tone, nothing stands out and the room falls flat. Allowing various wood finishes to coexist can result in a more eclectic, 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 here are a few guidelines that may help you find your footing.
CONTRAST 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 furniture grounds 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, graywash stain of the wall adds just enough contrast while letting the dramatic, dark painted wood pieces and accessories in the room really 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. We used our accessories — throw pillows, lamp shade and stools — to create a harmonious flow through color.
SOFTEN THE MIX 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.
