Jennifer Garner may be making headlines for her role in Apple TV+'s The Last Thing He Told Me – but we can't help but feel somewhat distracted by her flare for interiors – most prominently in the most functional room of the home.
The actress, also known for her roles in 13 Going on 30 and Alias, is not shy of sharing photos from inside her Los Angeles home – not least her kitchen – where she often shares recipe tutorials with her followers. Jennifer's kitchen offers much to be admired: from her sleek marble kitchen countertops to her high-end appliances (more on that below) – but designers love her use of wood the most.
'Wood texture is unmatched for creating an aesthetic of comfort and natural beauty,' says New York-based designer Ksenya Malina. 'It brings out warmth that balances perfectly against a sleek countertop of marble, soapstone, or other stone materials.'
Experimenting with an abundant amount of wood (especially in a contemporary home) can feel risky – but as Ksenya explains – it is possible to enjoy its natural aesthetic without sacrificing style.
'To give a kitchen a natural wooden look that still reads modern, consider juxtaposing wood paneling with painted cabinets,' she says. This technique is seen in Jennifer Garner's kitchen, where she paired bare wood with white-painted cabinetry.
'The combination of dual materials brings interest to a kitchen and also breaks up the all-wood effect,' Ksenya says. 'It is particularly helpful if you also have wooden flooring in the kitchen.' Much like Jennifer's, naturally.
Plus, Ksenya Malina is not alone in her observation of this fashionable yet functional material. Interior Stylist Sue Ellinas says that 'natural-looking finishes are not only beautiful but practical' as they are strong enough to withstand the inevitable wear and tear you can expect from a kitchen.
'Both dark and light wood cabinets perfectly compliment highly veined work stone and faux surfaces, and backsplashes are a key kitchen trend for this year.' However, Sue recommends changing the colors, accessories, and finishes – to ensure our wooden features impress through the ages.
And, wood aside, we couldn't help but take a moment for Jennifer Garner's appliances sitting atop her countertops. Her stand mixer is a natural choice: the KitchenAid Artisan model in the Almond Cream colorway – a professional choice for a cooking enthusiast. You can pick up one for yourself below.
Is it time we all go au naturel in the kitchen? Jennifer Garner's is certainly convincing...
