There are so many different interior design trends that come and go as the years pass. While natural wood has been around for a long time, this might be the year for it to make a serious comeback in both traditional and modern New York residences.

The beauty of the most classic design trends is that they can evolve to fit various tastes. And while everyone has their own style that might swing differently with natural woods, there are so many ways it can work well. Here are some of the reasons why natural wood is making a comeback in interior design.

1. Earthy Vibes

One way that natural wood can truly shine in any home is by going back to those youthful, bohemian, earthy vibes. Whether you had your boho phase in college or you’re still deep in it, natural wood can bring a sophisticated, earthy feel to any room.

From furniture to floors, the neutral tones and unique washes of natural woods can bring any space together and make it feel even more connected to nature. For example, take this luxury SoHo residence, which incorporates floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall natural wood cabinetry. The residence softens modern sharp angles with a grounded, natural feel.

2. Vintage Design

Maybe you don’t want to take things all the way back to the earth, but you do want to bring in a bit of vintage charm. If that’s the case, natural wood might be worth looking into.

While furniture and fixtures play big roles in this, natural wood flooring can set the foundation for every vintage direction — from Victorian to mid-century modern. If you can find original flooring or real vintage furniture, that’s even better.

One of the best ways to incorporate natural wood in a vintage style is to mix and match different pieces throughout your home. For example, if you're interested in adding a rustic touch, you might want to view barn style doors that can easily bring that classic, warm feel to any space. You may also add vintage light fixtures or use reclaimed wood for shelving and accents.

The Philip House condos in Carnegie Hill are the perfect example of vintage inspiration in action. This prewar building is renovated for modern use, but still incorporates natural wood flooring and cabinetry evoke a timeless feel.

3. Organic Color Palette

For those who love neutral, organic color palettes, natural wood might be exactly what you need. 

If you tend to go for minimalist black-and-white tones in your usual decor, bringing in some natural wood can add some dimension without overpowering your creative vision. This can be seen in popular trends embracing natural touches like interior barn doors or natural wood kitchen cabinets.

If you tend to veer more towards a varied neutral color palette, natural woods can even add a bit more depth to what you already have in your home. Neutrals are the hot new thing, so it makes sense to add to the subtle and sophisticated look.

4. Artistic Shapes

If you’re going more neutral in the color department, there are plenty of areas where you can suddenly play — even if you didn’t realize it before. One of the areas you can begin to explore is shape and texture.

Usually, color and color design dominates a room, especially if you tend to go bright and bold. But when you’re leaning into natural woods and neutral colors, you can go for more interesting furniture shapes, layer textures on top of one another, and even mix and match. Features like exposed beams and original molding can shine when you go for a more natural look.

5. Comfortable and Cozy

One thing that it’s important to keep in mind is the comfort factor, which happens to be another area where natural wood totally shines.

Natural wood is subdued but also cozy and warm. Not only are the features of each wood unique and personal, but they also offer a bit of a rustic feel that’s perfect for those looking to bring a bit of comfort into their home. For example, if your home is bright and minimal but feels a bit cold, natural wood can bring in the bit of warmth you need.

6. Natural Wood’s Natural Comeback

While many people still love the minimal chic looks that have been popular in recent years, natural wood is all about comfort and sophistication. While natural wood can add to a space that embraces minimal design, it can also create a warm, homey, and vintage feel if that’s what you like. If you are wondering how you can add wood design to your new home, check out Forever Home's guide.

No matter your taste, natural wood may just be able to do a lot for your home, whether you find gorgeous vintage floors or fall in love with a piece you just can’t live without. Do you enjoy a vintage, earthy, or neutral style the most?

About the Author:

Evelyn Long is a real estate writer and editor. She manages Renovated, a web magazine for renters, buyers and professionals. She’s also contributed to Rental Housing Journal, National Association of REALTORS®, and other online publications.

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