How to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern, according to designers

Wood schemes are back in favor, but how can you make oak kitchen cabinets look modern? They're so heavily associated with outdated trends of bygone eras, so it takes a careful approach to bring this organic material up to date.

As we endeavor to create more timeless, lived-in spaces, it's no surprise that oak cabinets are being more considered in kitchen design. And, contrary to design myths, wood kitchen cabinet ideas are more versatile than you might think.

Whether your space is traditional or contemporary, we've turned to experts to find out how to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern, so your wood kitchen feels up-to-date and on-trend in 2025.

How to make oak kitchen cabinets look modern

Wood kitchens have been reemerging in trends this year – and getting this style right requires a careful selection of materials and designs. Contrast and cohesion are key, and with these expert tips, you can make oak kitchen cabinets look modern in no time.

1. Add a contemporary touch with cool-toned hardware

It's often said that hardware is the jewelry of the kitchen. And when it comes to oak kitchen cabinets, the hardware finish you choose is key to ensuring your scheme feels on-trend and modern.

Alexander Shepel, a luxury interior designer and founder of Atelier Helen, says: 'Focus on updating your cabinetry with hardware with a contemporary edge, such as brushed brass or silver. These finishes provide a striking contrast to oak’s natural warmth and can modernize the appearance instantly.'

Cool-toned metals have been a big kitchen trend this year, and it's set to endure for 2025. To bring in more of the finish, bring your large appliances into the mix, too. 'Pair oak cabinetry with large stainless-steel appliances and chrome hardware for a sleek look. This creates a warm and inviting yet contemporary atmosphere,' recommends Tom Howley, creative design director at Tom Howley Kitchens.

2. Choose a modern countertop material

Kitchen cabinets and countertops are the biggest pairing in a kitchen. They sit on top of one another, so make sure to choose materials that complement each other beautifully and feel in keeping with the design style you want to achieve.

'I’m a big fan of dark countertops paired with natural woods like oak or walnut and metallic accents like brass, copper, or steel taps and handles. Pairing a dark surface with light wooden cabinetry and flooring will help to keep the space feeling open and neutral,' says Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone.

The versatility of oak kitchen cabinets means they can work with so many different countertop materials and colors – in a way they act as a neutral. So, if dark kitchen countertops don't feel quite right for your space and style, plenty of alternatives can work just as well.

'Oak cabinets pair beautifully with opulent countertops that have bold veining, such as Calacatta marble or quartz,' adds Alexander. It's also key to consider the aesthetic of your kitchen when choosing a material to work with oak – especially if you're creating a more industrial or contemporary design.

'For a more industrial look consider dark granite, soapstone, or concrete countertops, especially those with visible movement or veins, to add visual interest. These countertops compliment oak’s rich, organic feel and add a level of luxury,' Alexander suggests.

3. Consider your color scheme

Whichever kitchen cabinet material you are using, color is so important. Oak cabinets are natural and organic, meaning you can take a few directions with your color palette.

For minimalists, farmhouse fans, and anyone who prefers light, airy kitchens, neutral colors work an absolute treat alongside oak cabinets – as long as you choose the right hues.

'Neutrals and rich, earthy colors often work best with oak, enhancing its natural warmth without overpowering it. Soft tones like beige or taupe create a warm, inviting backdrop, while deeper shades like navy blue or forest green add depth and contrast for a more dramatic, modern look,' says Alexander.

However, if you love the ongoing color trend for moody tones (a perfect palette for kitchens), darker, more dramatic hues can create a completely different atmosphere when paired with oak.

'Dark green is a perennially sophisticated shade that complements a dark Tudor oak. Try pairing deep green cabinets with an oak island, herringbone flooring, and shiny brass hardware. Fresh white worktops and a matching slab splashback will help keep the space open and airy,' suggests Tom.

4. Opt for a timeless cabinet style

As with many cabinet designs, choosing the right style will ensure your kitchen feels timeless and endures trends. Oak kitchen cabinets in the wrong style feel instantly outdated, so opt for a design you'll never tire of.

'Keeping the cabinet profiles simple with shaker-style or slab doors is another effective approach [to make them look more modern], as it allows the cabinets’ natural grain to be the focal point while staying current with a minimalist aesthetic,' says Alexander.

The cabinet design you choose will depend entirely on the interior design style of your space. For more traditional or transitional schemes, shaker-style cabinets are a tried-and-tested winner, but for more contemporary or Scandi-inspired kitchens, slab doors offer the simplicity synonymous with these more pared-back aesthetics.

5. Avoid mixing oak cabinets with other woods

When you're designing a scheme around oak kitchen cabinets, it's important to be aware of the materials and finishes to avoid if you want your space to feel more modern, as well as those that pair seamlessly.

'It’s best to avoid incorporating other types of wood into the kitchen design, as mixing wood tones can feel busy and detract from the beauty and natural warmth and veining of oak, resulting in a less cohesive design,' says Alexander.

Your cabinets take up a substantial amount of your kitchen, so adding more wood can feel overwhelming and outdated. Instead, allow the beauty of the oak to shine by complimenting it with contrasting materials, like sleek stones and on-trend color choices.

Oak kitchen cabinets are making a strong comeback – making them look modern is all about the materials and you pair them with and ensuring you introduce oak in a timeless style.