If there is one material that has defined interiors in 2024, it is natural wood. We've seen the versatile and durable staple pop up in homes running the gamut of popular styles from Japandi, to organic modern, to quiet luxury. Though light wood has dominated in the past, in 2025 the look is getting more dramatic.
This shift is best embodied by the dark wood panelling in Jennifer Aniston's living room. The actress's home was created by the esteemed designer Stephen Shadley to create a warm, artistic haven. Behind the piano, an entire wall is done in polished mahogany wood with the grain shining through.
Shadley's living room wall idea is popular among design experts for its cozy sensibility. 'Jennifer Aniston’s living room showcases a beautifully crafted wooden paneled wall that creates a rich, grounding backdrop for the space,' says Westchester-based interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'The warm wood panels add both warmth and sophistication, acting as a contrast to the room’s diverse textures and colors. The natural grain of the wood introduces organic movement and a subtle layer of visual interest, which is both calming and timeless. Positioned behind a striking light wood piano, the wood wall exudes an elegant yet approachable feel, bridging the room’s contrasting elements and giving the space a sense of cohesion.'
Part of what makes dark woods like the one in Aniston's space so striking is their impact on the living room color scheme. Interior designer Nicholas Kaiko tells H&G: 'The wooden panelled wall enhances the space by providing a warm backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the light veneer baby grand piano. The deep grain pattern in the wood adds visual depth and texture, creating an inviting and refined environment, ideal for a music room where acoustics, comfort, and a sense of focus are paramount. The wall’s dark tones also serve as a dramatic counterbalance to the more vibrant elements, such as the piano and artwork, giving these pieces space without feeling overpowering.'
If you are planning to incorporate dark wood wall panelling like this, it's important to consider how the texture will interact with the rest of the space. For instance, there is a definitive flow of materials in Aniston's living room. Lichtenstein remarks: 'The combination of materials and textures—from the stone accent to the white sofa, plush navy blue armchair, and metallic details on the coffee table and piano—creates a layered, multi-dimensional room, while the wooden wall serves as a unifying element. Additionally, the warm glow from the gold floor lamp enhances the natural richness of the wood, creating a cozy yet luxurious atmosphere that’s perfect for both relaxation and entertainment.'
Contrast, both through color and shape are essential for highlighting the beautiful grain in this natural material. 'The furniture, with its rounded, plush forms, softens the room’s sharp lines, adding a touch of luxury and comfort,' says Kaiko. 'The velvet upholstery of the seating provides a tactile richness. The low-profile seating arrangement maintains an intimate atmosphere, essential for a room intended to be both functional and a space for appreciation and relaxation.'
Furthermore, the look is poised to become a popular interior design trend in 2025. Kaiko predicts: 'Regarding trends, I do see this look growing in popularity. The resurgence of mid-century modern and Art Deco styles has renewed interest in wood panelling, especially with rich grains and darker finishes. People are increasingly drawn to spaces that feel intimate, layered, and sophisticated – qualities that wood panelling naturally imparts. The combination of tactile furniture and bold artwork reflects a shift towards interiors that are both visually compelling and deeply comfortable.'
Shop the Wooden Living Room Edit
Even if you are not redoing your walls, you can incorporate warm wood into your living room with furniture featuring the material.
This accessibly priced side table is perfect for adding a touch of warm wood and storage to your living room
This dark elm chair is so stylish and effortless bringing intentionally designed flair into any room
To create a similar effect in your own home, we recommend decorating with art on top of a dark wood wall. Kaiko suggests: 'The artwork introduces a bold splash of colour that offsets the room’s predominantly neutral and warm tones. This creates a focal point that adds vibrancy to the space. Although I don’t recognise the specific artwork, the abstract style and vivid colour palette lend an energy and modern flair, contrasting the otherwise classic, mid-century-inspired interior. This choice could subtly inspire creativity, enhancing the room’s purpose as a space for music and creativity.'
If you are looking for the next dramatic, moody, cozy interior design, dark wood is a wonderful place to start.
