Do All the Wood Finishes in a Room Have to Match? Not Anymore.

One of the most common questions interior designers get is:
"Do all the woods or finishes in a room have to match?"

It’s a fantastic question—and the answer might surprise you.

For years, interior design was dominated by "matchy-matchy" furniture sets. Think back to those catalog-style rooms: in the bedroom, the bed, nightstands, dresser, and mirror were all in the same wood finish. In dining rooms, the table, chairs, and buffet were identical. Even living rooms featured matching entertainment consoles, cocktail tables, and end tables—all part of a perfectly coordinated collection.

But design has evolved—thankfully!

Today’s Design Rule: Mix, Don’t Match

Modern interiors embrace creative freedom and layered style. You no longer need every wood finish in a room to be identical. In fact, mixing wood tones and finishes can create a more visually dynamic, curated, and high-end look.

Here’s the golden rule:
Your wood tones don’t have to match—they just have to complement.

A designer friend once shared a light-hearted metaphor that I love:
Think of your finishes like friends at a party. They don’t need to wear the same outfit; they just need to compliment each other—
"Hey, you look nice today!"
"Why thank you, you look nice today too!"

That’s the energy you want between your wood tones.

How to Mix Wood Finishes Like a Pro

If you’re decorating on your own or trying to work with existing pieces, these tips will help you create a cohesive look without stressing over perfect matches:

1. Coordinate Undertones

Warm wood tones (think honey, walnut, or chestnut) work best with other warm tones. Cooler tones (like gray-washed or espresso woods) complement other cool tones. The finishes don’t need to be the same shade—just in the same undertone family.

2. Let Painted Finishes Stand Out

A painted piece—like a vintage white dresser or a navy console—can act as a statement element in the room. Build around it with complementary wood tones and finishes rather than trying to compete or match.

3. Avoid the ‘Almost Match’ Trap

Trying to match a new piece exactly to an old one usually backfires. Slight differences in stain or grain make it look like you tried and missed. Instead, intentionally choose a contrasting but complementary tone to create interest.

4. Think in Layers

Mixing different wood finishes adds depth and warmth to your space. It makes the room feel collected over time, rather than pulled from a showroom floor.

Final Thoughts

So yes—you can absolutely mix wood finishes in a room. In fact, you should. It’s one of the easiest ways to elevate your design and make it feel more intentional, inviting, and stylish.

Just remember:
"You look nice today."
"Why thank you, you look nice today too!"

Need help pulling your pieces together?
Whether you're starting from scratch or working around existing furniture, our design consultations can help you choose the perfect mix of materials, tones, and finishes to bring your vision to life.

Book a complimentary design consultation today for expert help on creating a room that feels effortlessly stylish—and completely you.
Follow us on Instagram @hamiltonparkinteriors for more insider design tips, before-and-afters, and trend inspiration!