How to update a wooden kitchen for a timeless and on-trend scheme, according to interior designers

Wooden kitchens are back in a big way, and for good reason. But if you have a wood scheme that feels a bit outdated, there are a few fun and easy ways to give it an on-trend update.

The beauty of wooden kitchens is that they're truly timeless. This organic, natural material always has a place in kitchen design, it's simply a case of designing them in a way that stands the test of time.

There are plenty of ideas – varying from quick and simple to more major changes – if you're looking for ways to elevate your space. We've asked designers how to update a wooden kitchen and they've shared plenty of useful advice.

8 updates designers say transform a wooden kitchen

Just because your wooden kitchen is feeling a bit tired doesn't mean you should opt for a full remodel. As long as your cabinets are in good condition, there are plenty of ways to give them a new lease of life.

'Updating a kitchen doesn't necessarily mean a full cabinet replacement. We often guide our clients through impactful refreshes that focus on key elements,' says Gladys Schanstra, of Drury Design.

'The goal is to breathe new life into the existing cabinetry and refresh the entire kitchen. These updates add visual interest and a touch of elegance.' Here's how designers suggest updating a wooden kitchen for an up-to-date design.

1. Surround your wooden kitchen cabinets with beautiful decor

If your wooden cabinets are in good condition, you might be surprised at the difference a beautifully styled and decorated kitchen can make. Look to decor that complements the style and tones of your cabinetry for a seamless design.

'Dark wood or shaker-style wooden cabinets tend to have a more traditional look. Lean into this with your aesthetic choices to make your kitchen feel cohesive and cozy,' says Laura Styles, resident style advisor at Yester Home.

'Adopt the ‘curated clutter’ look by introducing complementary decor and kitchenalia, such as textured wooden chopping boards, organically shaped ceramics, and dried flowers, which can be changed out seasonally. Layer light textiles, such as an under-counter skirt or blinds to add further warmth and interest.'

2. Update your countertops and backsplash

One of the most effective ways to update a wooden kitchen is to refresh the look with new materials – particularly your kitchen countertops and even your backsplash.

'Countertops and backsplashes present a fantastic opportunity for change. We often recommend exploring materials like porcelain or natural stone and design details like waterfall edges, raised sections for seating, or even the incorporation of two different countertop materials to add depth and visual interest,' suggests Gladys.

If you want to take it a step further, or if you want an alternative to replacing your countertops, refreshing our kitchen backsplash can make a huge difference to the overall look and feel of your wooden scheme.

'A full-height backsplash, especially one that complements the countertop with similar veining or movement, can create a sense of luxury and spaciousness,' adds Gladys.

3. Re-finish your wooden cabinets

The natural element of a wood kitchen means you can re-do and change the finish overtime, especially if they currently look a bit dated or tired. This is especially effective if your current countertops lean a bit too orange.

'One of the easiest and most effective ways to give a wooden kitchen a fresh look is to update the finish. A light sand and re-stain can bring out the natural grain beautifully, while a bold or muted paint color can completely shift the mood of the space,' says Fiona Ginnett, co-founder at HØLTE Studio.

Choose a stain that not only feels more in-keeping with your style, like a deep brown or a more neutral wood tone, and make sure it pairs beautifully with your countertops and flooring choice – this kitchen is a perfect example of a complementary pairing.

4. Update a wooden kitchen with better lighting

Lighting is key in every kitchen, but especially in a wooden scheme. There are two levels to kitchen lighting – your fixtures and natural light.

'Swapping out a few outdated pendants for a larger, more eye-catching fixture over the island can instantly elevate the space,' says Gladys. Choose fixtures that not only complement the wood tones in your space but also bring in a decorative element and a contrasting finish for a dynamic design.

If your kitchen features lots of windows, make sure you dress them in a way that elevates the overall look and feel of your kitchen. 'Don't forget the impact of window treatments and decorative metal accents, which can be incorporated into the cabinetry or range hood.'

5. Introduce moldings or paneling to your cabinetry

If you're willing to get a little bit more hands-on with updating your wooden kitchen, some small DIY additions can have a huge impact. One of this year's biggest kitchen trends is textural cabinets and decorative moldings – perfect for updating a wood scheme.

'A quick and simple way to update your wooden cabinets is to add reeded molding or beading. This is a cost-effective method suitable for even beginner DIY enthusiasts, which will leave you feeling like you have brand new wooden cabinets without breaking the bank,' says Laura.

The are a couple of approaches you can take with this update. Fluted kitchen cabinets are a big trend this year and will instantly transform the space. Alternatively, opt for a more contemporary approach with wavy paneling on the upper cabinets and central molding on the lower wood cabinets, like in this kitchen.

6. Swap out your hardware

For a smaller but oh-so-effective way to update a wooden kitchen, focusing of the smaller details is always a good idea. As the jewelry of the kitchen, hardware can make such a difference.

'Swapping out cabinet handles or knobs is another quick win. It’s amazing how much character the right hardware can add, whether you’re after something sleek and modern or more classic and tactile,' says Fiona.

Finish is key here – it needs to complement your kitchen's wood tone while also feeling stylish. 'Most natural woods tend to have warm undertones, making polished brass the natural choice for complementary kitchen hardware,' says Laura.

'Creating an elegant contrast against darker cabinets, or a harmonious look when paired with lighter woods, brass handles are a fail-safe option which will elevate the overall look of your kitchen and update it instantly,' she adds.

7. Focus on the ceiling

When you think about updating a wooden kitchen, your thoughts probably instantly go to the cabinetry. But there are so many other areas of the kitchen that can have a huge impact – the most unexpected being the ceiling.

'At Drury Design, we emphasize the importance of the ceiling, an often-overlooked element in kitchen design. It's a substantial surface area that offers tremendous potential. After all, you consider the walls, so why not the ceiling,' says Gladys.

'Depending on the space and ceiling height, the possibilities are vast. We might add beams for architectural interest, apply wallpaper or a fresh coat of paint, or incorporate decorative molding to transform this often-neglected surface.'

8. Update the inside of your cabinets

Sometimes, it pays to get creative. While the most obvious way to update a wooden kitchen is to focus on the major areas, decorating less expected areas can make a huge difference.

'For something a little more understated but just as effective, think about what’s happening inside the cabinets. Adding new shelving and organizers, or even painting the interiors in an unexpected color can bring a surprising layer of depth and personality to the space. Small changes, big difference,' says Fiona.

This is especially effective if you have glass-fronted kitchen cabinets – it helps to break up the continuous run of wood in a more playful way. Perfect to add a fun yet subtle pop of color or pattern.

From refinishing your cabinets to transforming your scheme with new countertops, there are plenty of ways to update a wooden kitchen to suit every style, space, and budget. Whether you want to make your oak kitchen cabinets look modern or add traditional Tuscan kitchen style to your space, repurposing rather than replacing our cabinets is always the more sustainable choice.