Suni Lee's pared-back kitchen cabinets 'evoke a sense of authenticity and simplicity' – designers love their raw look

With one silver, one bronze, and two gold Olympic medals under her belt, gymnast Suni Lee is one to watch at the Paris 2024 Games and has been since joining Team USA in 2017. While we typically see her donning glitter-embellished leotards on the mat, her home style takes on a much more classic and subdued approach.

In a post shared on her Instagram page, we can see Lee's minimalist, modern kitchen featuring white tiles, a white kitchen island, a glass light fixture, and most notably, unpainted wood cabinets. The raw material beautifully contrasts the shiny, white base of the kitchen, elegantly balancing out the space.

Modern kitchens run the risk of feeling sterile of all materials are glossy and/or synthetic. By introducing natural materials, such as wood, we instantly feel closer to the outside world and comforted in the space, as the gymnast's space demonstrates effortlessly.

'Unpainted cabinets evoke a sense of authenticity and simplicity that is often missing in modern, high-gloss kitchens,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein.

'The natural hues and organic patterns of the wood introduce an earthy element, grounding the space and fostering a connection to nature. This connection is particularly appealing in a kitchen, where natural materials can promote a sense of calm and well-being. Whether your kitchen leans toward rustic farmhouse or modern minimalism, unpainted cabinets blend in, adding depth and character without overwhelming the overall design.'

'Unpainted cabinets, often finished with a protective sealant, are exceptionally durable,' she explains. 'Unlike painted cabinets, they are less susceptible to chipping and wear over time. The natural finish can easily be refreshed with oil or wax, maintaining its beauty for years.'

She continues, 'The neutral tones of natural wood pair well with a variety of colors and materials. Whether you prefer the cool elegance of marble countertops or the warm tones of granite, unpainted cabinets provide a versatile backdrop that complements any choice.'

The beauty of styling around unpainted cabinets is that there are endless options and styles that can be chosen from. However, Lichtenstein has a few tips to get us started.

'Select a color palette that highlights the natural beauty of the wood,' she suggests. 'Soft neutrals, such as creamy whites, muted grays, and warm beiges, can create a harmonious look. Alternatively, bold colors like deep navy or forest green can provide striking contrast, making the wood stand out even more.'

Additionally, countertops and backsplashes play an important role in enhancing unpainted cabinets.

'Consider natural stone or butcher block countertops to enhance the organic feel,' Lichtenstein says. 'A subway tile backsplash in a complementary tone can add a touch of modernity while keeping the focus on the cabinets.'

We love how Lee has opted for modern, patterned tiles for her backsplash to infuse the unpainted cabinet area with some modernity and spunk. We recommend ensuring there is a balance of sleek and rustic accessories around unpainted, wood cabinets to keep the kitchen feeling balanced, as well as visually stimulating.