Ask any designer to define one kitchen trend that will shape kitchen design in 2024, and they'll probably agree that wood is making a comeback. Especially in recent months, unpainted, natural wood has been the centerpiece of the most stylish kitchens, and that's true in the homes of some of our favorite celebrities (we're looking at you, Jennifer Aniston and Zendaya). But no home is more suited to this organic aesthetic than Anne Hathaway's California abode.
The actress and her husband, jewelry creator Adam Shulman, live in a cozy alpine-inspired cabin (created in collaboration with Studio Shamshiri), and as such, wood is used throughout the space, including in the kitchen.
While many might opt for wooden kitchen cabinets, Hathaway incorporated wood into the backsplash, shelves, and paneled walls (the cabinets were painted a mint, dusty green shade.) The space is a reminder of just how versatile this kitchen trend is, so it's no wonder it's expected to remain mainstream in 2025.
“Natural, unpainted wood is beautiful and versatile, so it's no wonder it's making a comeback in kitchen design. Customers are looking for warmer tones and natural, honest materials, making wood a great option,” comments Dave Young, founder of HUSK Kitchens.
“People are moving towards cozier interiors. They want to feel connected to the landscape and be surrounded by the beauty of natural, sustainable materials. Wood's rich tones and open grain bring complexity and character to a room. Plus, wood is a classic material that will last a long time.”
Unlike bolder kitchen colors, unpainted cabinets take you back to basics in the most beautiful way possible. Homes & Gardens Digital editor Jennifer Ebert says that's what will give the company an edge in the coming months and into 2025.
“The resurgence of wooden kitchens is one of the freshest trends to emerge this year, and their beauty, versatility and ability to be paired with almost any colour means they're here to stay long beyond 2025,” she begins.
(Image courtesy of Victoria Maria)
As mentioned above, wood is often used for kitchen cabinets, but Hathaway's twist on the trend shows that there are other ways to utilize this look, and it's this versatility that's keeping the movement alive, says Ebert.
“Unlike colors that are only suitable for cabinetry, natural wood is flexible and durable, so it can be used in other areas of the kitchen, such as a backsplash or shelving like the Hathaway, or even somewhere on the island as the ultimate focal point.”
Buy a wooden kitchen
You can also try out wooden accents with the accessories we have handpicked below.
