For the last decade, interior design has gleamed with the glow of metallic finishes. Think brushed nickel faucets, stainless steel range hoods, and furniture legs with the same shine as a luxury SUV. And sure, chrome and brass had their moment. They brought drama, a touch of industrial cool, and a modern edge to kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms across the country.
But lately, things have been softening. There’s a noticeable shift happening in homes—from slick metal to warm, organic wood. And we’re not talking about your grandmother’s over-polished cherry cabinets. This new wood movement is all about texture, balance, and grounding a space with natural, calming elements.
At Ground Up Builders, we’ve seen firsthand how this transition is changing the feel of interiors in powerful ways. It’s not just about trends—it’s about how people want to live and feel in their spaces.
Why Metallics Fell Out of Favor (Just a Little)
Don’t get us wrong—we still appreciate a good matte black sconce or a brass drawer pull. Metallic finishes aren’t disappearing entirely, but their dominance is waning. The main reason? Saturation. After a while, what once felt bold and luxurious started to feel, well… expected.
Too much metal in a room can create a sterile or impersonal vibe—especially when paired with cool color palettes and glossy surfaces. That aesthetic worked well for ultra-modern or industrial styles, but as homeowners began craving warmth, character, and calm, the pendulum swung in the opposite direction.
Enter wood: nature’s answer to all that shines.
The Rise of Wood Accents: Texture, Warmth, and Personality
Wood accents bring an instant sense of depth and comfort to a room. Whether it’s a chunky walnut coffee table, floating oak shelves, or a reclaimed beam across the ceiling, wood tells a story. It’s tactile, grounding, and no two pieces are ever exactly alike.
Incorporating wood doesn’t mean abandoning your modern sensibilities. In fact, the most striking designs right now feature a balanced mix—metal lighting over a rustic dining table, or sleek tile backsplashes softened by warm wood cabinetry. The magic is in the contrast. Wood keeps modern interiors from feeling too “designed” and brings a sense of home into every corner.
This is especially valuable in open-concept layouts, where visual warmth and natural breaks in materials can help define areas without adding physical walls.
Where the Wood Works Best: Strategic Places to Make the Switch
You don’t have to remodel your entire home to lean into this design direction. Sometimes, it’s the subtle swaps that make the biggest difference. Replacing cold metal bar stools with curved wood versions adds instant softness to a kitchen island. Swapping out a glossy coffee table for one with a distressed finish can bring texture and storytelling to a sterile living room.
One area where wood is making a huge comeback is in kitchen cabinetry. We’re seeing a shift from all-white kitchens to rich, earthy wood tones—think rift-cut white oak, walnut, or even lightly stained pine. These kitchens feel alive, layered, and inviting without sacrificing elegance.
Even bathroom vanities are getting the wood treatment. Paired with stone or matte tile, the effect is high-end, spa-like, and soothing.
Not All Wood Is Created Equal: Choosing the Right Finish
The success of this transition often depends on the type of wood and its finish. Forget the glossy polyurethane-coated cabinets of the past. Today’s wood accents lean natural—matte finishes, visible grain, and colors that reflect the forest more than the furniture store.
Light tones like ash or white oak keep spaces feeling airy, while darker stains like walnut or espresso add drama and sophistication. Reclaimed or rough-hewn wood introduces a rustic edge, while smooth, clean-lined pieces keep things modern.
And remember: you don’t have to match everything. Mixing wood tones thoughtfully adds depth and helps your space feel curated rather than showroom-perfect.
For Business Owners: Why Wood Matters in Commercial Spaces Too
This shift toward organic elements isn’t limited to residential interiors. Businesses—from coffee shops to coworking spaces—are embracing wood as a design asset. It’s a subtle signal of hospitality and authenticity, both of which matter deeply in client-facing environments.
A wood-clad reception desk feels more approachable than one made of stainless steel. Wooden display shelves make products look more curated. Even adding a wood feature wall can elevate the overall brand feel without a major investment.
If your commercial space is feeling a little cold or outdated, the right wood accents can make it feel fresh, modern, and memorable.
Mixing Metals and Wood: Yes, You Can
Let’s clear up a common misconception—transitioning to wood accents doesn’t mean tossing every metallic finish out the door. The goal isn’t to erase metal but to reframe it.
Brass hardware can look stunning against walnut cabinetry. Matte black light fixtures over a natural wood table? Always a win. Even stainless steel appliances don’t clash with wood when the overall palette is balanced.
Think of wood as the anchor and metal as the accent. It’s all about the right proportions and intentional pairings.
Bring the Balance Back Home
In the end, the move from metallic finishes to wood accents is less about ditching one style and more about restoring balance. Homes and businesses that once felt sleek and cool are now being reimagined as warm, livable, and grounded spaces. And wood is the hero of that transformation.
At Ground Up Builders, we help homeowners and business owners bring this natural shift into reality—whether through custom cabinetry, built-ins, or subtle accent work that blends seamlessly with your current design.
Ready to warm up your space? Let’s explore how wood accents can breathe new life into your interior. Contact us today and start designing a home that feels as good as it looks.