Toeing the line between modern and traditional is fast becoming the favored way to create a timeless home. It's an approach that perfectly balances classic design with features to last a lifetime.
And it seems wooden kitchen ideas are the best way to do it. Natural and versatile, it's a material that offers a timeless and organic finish – and it's a design that's worked perfectly in the kitchen of Shea McGee's The Oaks project.
Designed in a Texan home surrounded by old-growth trees, it was important to not only nail that mix of old and new but also bring unique natural surroundings into the home's decor. And they've done it in the most unexpected way.
There's no denying the enduring appeal of a wood kitchen, especially when it's paired with the warm neutral hues it has been in The Oaks kitchen. The space needed to function for a young family, while still imbuing a sense of sophistication and character.
The dark-toned wood kitchen cabinets truly set the tone for the whole space. They offer a subtle nod to the natural materials outside, yet still feel chic and timeless. It's the type of kitchen that will grow with the family, rather than limit them.
Special attention was taken to ensure that the view through to the kitchen from the adjoining living spaces looked beautiful, so symmetrical cabinets were introduced on either side of the cooker.
And it's the cooker area that brings in that more traditional feel. Gray zellige tiles on the kitchen backsplash create a stone-like finish, and a brass pot hanger adds a traditional detail with space for pots, linens, and a round wood cutting board.
And we can't talk about the range area without mentioning the hood. Let's be honest, the usual metal extractor fan is rather unsightly and can interrupt the flow of your kitchen design. By simply plastering over it to create a sleek finish, the whole space instantly feels more bespoke and considered.
The natural theme has been continued in the kitchen island, made from the same rich wood tones as the surrounding cabinets. The large size of the island means it can be multi-functional for all of the family's needs.
The sink sat at the center of the island creates an easy, functional flow between the cooker, faucet, and appliances, while also creating a more social layout. Rather than staring at a wall as the homeowners use the sink, they can look out into the open-plan living spaces.
Or, they can socialize as they work – the counter stool in a slightly deeper wood tone allows the island to become an informal dining space too. The stools feature an upholstered backrest, adding comfort and bringing a new, softer texture.
To lift the scheme, white kitchen countertops not only feel really classic, but they contrast beautifully with the rich wood tones used throughout the room. The subtle veining also acts as the middle ground between the light and dark tones used.
While there's plenty to admire in this kitchen, it's the window that's the real star of the design. The upper two-thirds of the left-hand wall has been replaced with a classic steel window, which not only allows beautiful light to flood the room, but it gives a gorgeous view of the surrounding trees, really bringing the outside in.
Rather than foregoing any storage on the window wall, a narrow floating shelf has been added along one of the steel window panes. It doesn't prevent any light from getting in, but it does add an unexpected kitchen storage solution for displaying recipe books, glassware, and pretty ceramic kitchenware.
It's a small detail that adds personality and a sense of the homeowner, something that has clearly been kept in mind throughout the whole design process.
The different styles and features could easily feel mismatched, but the beautifully chosen finer details really tie every element together. It was really important to make sure the black steel window felt cohesive with the rest of the scheme, which they have achieved with finishes.
Black kitchen cabinet hardware has been introduced on all of the cabinetry to bring that darker, almost industrial feature throughout the space. And you can't ignore the statement kitchen lighting above the island – a linear double pendant with black hardware and white linen shades.
This project is the epitome of blending modern and traditional while really paying homage to the beautiful natural surroundings. The large window makes you feel as though you are nestled amongst the trees, and the moody finishes ensure the window feels just as part of the kitchen design as the wooden details.
Shop the look
A wide double pendant like the one in The Oaks project kitchen is the perfect way to make a statement above your island. This design is very similar, with the choice of black leather or natural walnut shades.
A pot hanger is a great way to bring a traditional feature into your kitchen, as demonstrated in The Oaks kitchen. This brass design is a perfect choice, with plenty of hanging space for pots and decor.
A rustic vase not only adds a new texture to your kitchen, but it's the perfect place to make a decorative statement. This terracotta vase is a truly timeless piece, with enough height for large seasonal branches.
If this Studio McGee kitchen proves anything, it's that wooden cabinets really are the ultimate way to be modern and traditional. It's timeless, textured, and expertly brings the outside in. Whether you opt for a light or dark wood kitchen, the right pairings can truly transform any space.
