As a hub of the home, designing a kitchen that is as durable as it is stylish can be challenging. When in doubt, however, wood reigns supreme as a kitchen workhorse, as we can see in Jennifer Garner's space.
The 13 Going on 30 star recently shared a clip of her natural kitchen to her Instagram page, and we were immediately drawn to her take on the ever-popular wood drenching trend, which, as the name suggests, favors wood walls, floors, fixtures, and accessories.
Jennifer's take includes wood walls, floors, and ceiling beams, which give her kitchen a rustic, lived-in feel, which contrasts with her modern appliances and white cabinets.
Shop the wood-drenched kitchen edit
Showcase both form and function with this elegant serving board. Made from natural wood and featuring gently scalloped edges, it’s ideal for presenting appetizers, charcuterie, or simply adding a stylish touch to your open kitchen shelves.
When introducing a new texture or material to the kitchen, I always begin with the essentials. Slate and pepper mills offer a simple, budget-friendly way to add an extra wood tone. I’m especially drawn to the distinctive design of this set from Wayfair, which blends practicality with subtle style.
The best kitchen accessories are as beautiful as they are functional. This acacia wood piece, with its rich grain and smooth, sculptural form, works equally well for everyday use, entertaining, or as a striking display on open shelves.
Design experts agree that wood drenching is not only a versatile approach to kitchen styling, but also one that his highly practical.
'Homeowners are increasingly seeking materials that not only meet their design preferences, but also the requirement of being hardwearing, especially for the kitchen,' Conor Taylor, director of timber terrazzo brand Foresso, explains. 'The kitchen is the heart of the home, and often its most hardworking space.'
He continues, 'It's where we cook, entertain, work from home, and help with homework, so it's vital to choose a material that works hard for you.'
If you're working with a kitchen that is already set in its foundation of non-wood materials, like marble or even painted wood, try incorporating smaller wood accessories to achieve a similar impact. You can't go wrong with a fruit bowl, like this one from Crate & Barrel, or some sturdy salt and pepper shakers. Even the smallest pieces can provide that sense of warmth and coziness that makes this look so appealing.
