what colors go with cherry wood furniture

3 min read 26-12-2024

what colors go with cherry wood furniture

Cherry wood furniture, with its rich reddish-brown hues, adds warmth and elegance to any room. But choosing the right color palette to complement it can be tricky. This guide explores various color schemes that beautifully accentuate cherry wood's natural beauty, from classic pairings to more modern and daring combinations. We’ll cover wall colors, textiles, and accents to help you create a cohesive and stylish space.

Understanding Cherry Wood's Undertones

Before diving into color combinations, it's crucial to understand the nuances of cherry wood. Its tones can vary depending on the age and finish of the piece. Some cherry wood has a warmer, more reddish undertone, while others lean towards cooler, brownish hues. This subtle difference impacts the best color choices.

Warm-toned Cherry Wood

If your cherry wood furniture has a pronounced reddish undertone, consider these complementary colors:

Creamy Whites and Off-Whites: These soft neutrals create a classic, sophisticated look. They balance the warmth of the cherry without overwhelming it. Think warm whites like "Swiss Coffee" or "Creamy White".
Warm Neutrals: Beige, taupe, and greige (a mix of gray and beige) offer a calming backdrop and prevent the room from feeling too intense. Look for colors with yellow or brown undertones.
Muted Greens and Golds: These earthy tones create a natural, inviting atmosphere. Think olive green, sage, or mustard yellow. They enhance the wood's richness without clashing.
Deep Blues and Greens: These jewel tones provide a touch of drama. They also create a sophisticated contrast to the cherry’s warmth. Consider a navy blue or deep teal.

Cool-toned Cherry Wood

If your cherry wood furniture has more brownish or cooler undertones, these colors will work best:

Cool Neutrals: Greige with gray undertones, light gray, or even a very pale blue can enhance the cool tones in the wood.
Muted Blues and Greens: These work well with cooler cherry, creating a serene and balanced space. Think pale blues or seafoam greens.
Silver and Gray Accents: These metallic accents add a touch of modernity and contrast without being jarring. Consider incorporating silver picture frames or gray throw pillows.
Deep, Rich Browns: These colors work to create a more cohesive look by mirroring the color of the wood in a deeper tone.

Color Combinations for Different Rooms

The best color choices also depend on the room's purpose and desired atmosphere:

Living Room

A living room with cherry wood furniture can benefit from a palette that's both inviting and sophisticated. Consider warm neutrals like beige or taupe on the walls, complemented by pops of color in textiles like teal or olive green.

Bedroom

For a calming bedroom, opt for softer neutrals like cream or pale gray. These colors help create a restful ambiance. Accent with muted blues or greens for a serene feel.

Dining Room

A dining room often benefits from a more formal feel. Consider deeper, richer tones such as deep blues or greens for the walls, paired with cream or off-white linens.

Choosing the Right Accents

Accents play a significant role in tying the room together. Here are some ideas:

Textiles: Use fabrics like linen, cotton, or wool in colors that complement your chosen palette.
Rugs: A rug in a neutral color or a complementary pattern can ground the space and add texture.
Lighting: Warm lighting complements cherry wood beautifully. Consider lamps with warm-toned shades.
Artwork: Choose artwork with colors that echo your chosen palette or add a contrasting pop of color.

What Colors Not to Use With Cherry Wood

While many colors work beautifully with cherry wood, some should be avoided:

Bright, Neon Colors: These can clash with the richness of the wood and create a jarring effect.
Harsh, Cold Whites: These can make the cherry wood look dull and dated.
Very Dark Colors: Overpowering the wood with a very dark wall color can make the room feel cramped and heavy.

By carefully considering the undertones of your cherry wood furniture and the overall style of your room, you can create a harmonious and stunning interior design. Remember, the key is balance—choosing colors that complement, rather than compete with, the natural beauty of the wood.