Choosing the Right Paint Colors for Cherry Wood Furnishings
If you have cherry wood pieces in your home, you may be wondering what color paint will complement this rich and elegant wood. Cherry wood is a popular choice for traditional office settings, antique furniture, and even kitchen cabinets. It comes in various beautiful varieties, including black and pink woods from North America, as well as more exotic types from Brazil and Patagonia.
Designer Kim Coombs of KBCO Design emphasizes that cherry wood can enhance contemporary designs when naturally stained. Whether you want to incorporate more cherry wood into your space or already have it, selecting the right paint color is crucial.
1. Consider Pink Undertones in Cherry Wood
When choosing a paint color to coordinate with cherry wood, it’s essential to consider the pink undertones present in the wood. Designer Shoshanna Shapiro of Sho and Co recommends selecting colors with warm undertones and subtle pink hues to complement cherry wood elements. Avoid colors like yellow, blue, and green as they can clash with the wood’s undertones.
For a sophisticated look, Shapiro suggests Benjamin Moore Classic Grey, which has warm grey undertones that pair well with cherry wood. Another option is Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace, a color that provides a nice contrast and highlights cherry wood tones.
2. Opt for Cream and Off-White
Designer Sherry Hope-Kennedy of Studio SHK suggests that cream and off-white hues are a great match for cherry wood. These warm, neutral tones complement the wood’s earthy red tones and work well in a variety of design styles, from contemporary to traditional.
3. Look to the Opposite Side of the Color Wheel
Designer Kevin O’Gara recommends choosing colors from the opposite side of the color wheel to complement the dark red tones of cherry wood. Greens and blues make excellent choices to create a balanced look in a room with cherry wood furnishings.
4. Add Accents of Red
To balance the warm tones of cherry wood, O’Gara suggests incorporating small accents of red. These red accents can cool down the overall look of the wood and create a visually pleasing contrast. However, it’s important not to overdo it to maintain a sense of balance in the room.
5. Contemporary Look with Cherry Wood
While cherry wood is traditionally associated with more classic spaces, designer John Lum of John Lum Architecture explains how it can be used in a more modern way. By treating cherry wood as an architectural material, such as for cabinetry and trim, you can achieve a contemporary feel. Light blue or gray paint colors can create a more energetic atmosphere and make the cherry wood stand out.
6. Key Tips for Paint Selection
When selecting the right paint color for your cherry wood furnishings, keep these tips in mind:
- Gather inspiration images and take home paint chips to compare colors.
- Use online resources like Pinterest, design magazines, and Instagram for ideas.
- Test swatches on your walls and place your cherry wood furniture near them to see how the colors flow throughout the day.
By following these guidelines and experimenting with different colors, you can find the perfect paint shade to complement your cherry wood furnishings. Embrace the natural beauty of cherry wood in your home with the right paint choices!
