Is It Okay to Mix Different Wood Tones in a Space?

Absolutely! Here’s How to Do It with Confidence

If you’ve ever worried that mixing different wood tones in your home might look messy or mismatched, you’re not alone. But the truth is, blending different woods can create a rich, layered, and intentional look when done right. So, let’s break it down and give you the confidence to mix wood finishes like a pro.

Understanding Wood Undertones

Not all wood is created equal—each type has its own unique undertones that can be warm, cool, or neutral.

• Warm woods (like cherry, mahogany, or red oak) have hints of red, orange, or yellow.

• Cool woods (like ash, maple, or some walnuts) lean towards grey or even a subtle blue hue.

• Neutral woods (like white oak, pine or some mid-tone walnuts) are the perfect middle ground and work well with almost anything.

A great starting point is to identify the undertones of the wood pieces in your space. This helps you create a cohesive look, even when mixing different shades.

Mixing Light and Dark Woods for Contrast

One of the easiest ways to create visual interest is by mixing light and dark wood tones. Think about contrast: pairing a deep walnut dining table with light oak flooring adds depth and prevents a space from feeling too flat. To keep it feeling cohesive, make sure you repeat the tones at least once elsewhere in the room—maybe a walnut picture frame or an oak coffee table.

Don’t Forget About Texture and Grain

Beyond colour, the grain pattern of wood also plays a role in how it fits into a space. Rustic, heavily grained woods add a lot of character and movement, while smooth-grained woods feel more modern and refined. Mixing grains can add another layer of depth, but it’s best to have a common thread—whether that’s the finish (matt or glossy) or a shared undertone.

Soften the Look with Textiles and Accessories

If you’re worried that your wood tones don’t quite match, use textiles like rugs, curtains, or upholstery to soften the transitions. Accessories such as lamps, vases, and artwork can also help tie the different elements together and create a cohesive look.

Trust Your Instincts!

At the end of the day, design rules are just guidelines. Mixing wood tones successfully comes down to balance and repetition, but there’s no single ‘right’ way to do it. If it looks good to you and feels inviting, then you’ve done it right!

So go ahead and experiment, trust your instincts, and enjoy the rich, layered beauty that mixed wood tones bring to your home.