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When I work with clients, one of their biggest struggles is finding the right pieces that ‘match’ the same timber types.
It feels good when things match — it makes sense and it’s an easy formula to follow. Don’t get me wrong, when a space is filled with timber of the same type, it is absolutely gorgeous. However, sometimes it can feel flat and monotonous — it’s like a showroom, and a little too contrived.
That’s why it’s a good idea to mix things up a bit, and make your home feel more like ‘you.’
We have seen a move towards timber in our homes again. Where once everything was indiscriminately met with a white paint brush (please stop!), we are now finding that living with timber makes our homes feel softer, warmer, and more effortless. (White is unforgiving however timber can hide scuffs.)
I actually found a study that supported positive effects of natural wooden materials on our mood in the office environment. We’ve always had a hunch, but this is actually backed up by science. It’s true: wood in our spaces just makes us feel good.
Mixing timber tones is about balance, achieved through contrast. Too much of the same timber feels overwhelming so the key is to break it up with an intentional juxtaposition. There are always exceptions to the rule, however here are a few guidelines…
Texture
Timber can be different if the finishes are speaking the same language.
For example, if you’re matching chairs with a dining table, mix the tones of the timber (dark and light) but make sure the texture is the same. If the table has a matt finish, then the chairs should also have a matt finish, not shiny and polished.
Texture creates cohesion even when colour varies.
Contrast
The goal is not ‘almost matching’. The goal is clearly deliberate mis-matching .
First decide on what the main timber element will be, usually it is the floor. American oak floorboards are an easy colour to live with on the floor (not too light or dark). Pair it with walnut kitchen cabinetry for a strong contrast that works. They are not supposed to ‘match’, rather the darker tone of the walnut adds depth.
Pattern
Mixing too many ‘busy’ timbers can look too chaotic. On the other hand, if the timbers are too ‘quiet’ it can look too flat.
A feature timber can really lift a space and add interest. Consider feature pieces (adding one at a time) such as a burl side table, a spotted pine dining table or even the worn patina of a vintage sideboard.
Set against a smooth oak floor these feature pieces really sing. Let one be the star. The others can hum politely in the background.
Colour
Mix timbers in the same family.
Cooler, paler timbers (bleached finishes, American oak, pine) tend to play well together, while warmer, redder timbers (jarrah, walnut) like each other’s company too.
Mid-tones like Tassie oak which, fun fact, isn’t actually oak at all, are brilliant bridge-builders. They can comfortably sit between light and dark, warm and cool, without causing drama.
Mixing timber tones isn’t about rules — it’s about balance, contrast and confidence. When it’s done intentionally, it adds depth, warmth, and personality. And that’s the whole point.
Because, your home shouldn’t look like everything was bought in one go — it should look like you.
