What the 1990s did to design is just about irreprehensible, is it not?!?! If you, like us, are tired of walking into a home with oak trim, oak cabinets, oak floors, and oak furniture…RESOLVE to do it differently this year!
The 1990s and the Oak Overload: Time to Break Free!
If you’ve ever walked into a home and felt like you were transported back to the 1990s, you’re not alone! For many homeowners, the 1990s were a time of ubiquitous oak—oak trim, oak cabinets, oak floors, and oak furniture. And while oak was certainly a classic choice back in the day, it’s safe to say that this wood has overstayed its welcome in many homes.
The heavy use of oak throughout the 1990s created a look that, frankly, we’re all ready to leave behind. Don’t get us wrong—oak isn’t inherently bad, but when overused, it can quickly make a home feel stuck in time. If you’re tired of the oak overload in your home and are ready for a change, now’s the perfect time to resolve to do it differently this year!
The Familiar Oak Overload
If you’ve ever stepped into a house and felt like you were surrounded by the same honey-toned wood in every corner, you know exactly what we mean. Oak cabinets with matching oak floors and trim—often in a dated finish—were the epitome of home design in the 1990s. Unfortunately, this “matchy-matchy” aesthetic left little room for creativity or variation, and it quickly became a design rut that many homeowners still find themselves in today. You may feel like you’ve seen this look a thousand times, but what makes it even worse is how tough it can be to break free from that dated aesthetic.
The good news is, it’s 2025, and it’s time to move forward with a new design approach! You can kiss that 90s oak goodbye and opt for more modern and elegant finishes that breathe fresh air into your space.
Embrace the Beauty of Non-Oak Finishes
There are so many beautiful cabinet and flooring species available today that can completely transform your space. Oak doesn’t have to dominate your home design anymore! Let’s take a look at some of the options you can explore to give your home a more modern, timeless look:
1. Painted and Glazed Finishes
One of the hottest trends right now is painted and glazed finishes for cabinetry. These finishes add a layer of sophistication and depth to your space that oak just can’t offer. Whether you prefer a bold, vibrant hue like navy blue or emerald green, or a soft, muted tone like sage or dove gray, painted cabinets can bring a level of personalization to your kitchen or bathroom.
In addition to painted finishes, glazed and antiqued finishes are also gaining popularity. These treatments give cabinetry a weathered, aged look that adds charm and character. If you’re going for a more traditional or rustic vibe, this is a perfect way to introduce texture and warmth without resorting to heavy oak finishes.
2. Non-Traditional Flooring Finishes
Flooring is another area where the 1990s oak domination has lost its appeal. Sure, oak floors were once a popular choice, but in today’s world, it’s time to embrace new flooring species and finishes. Rich, wide-plank ebony is one of the most sought-after trends, providing a sleek, modern, and dramatic backdrop for any room. The deep, dark tones of ebony wood floors create a striking contrast to lighter elements in a space, making your furniture, rugs, and wall art pop.
Another excellent option is cinder-colored maple floors, which offer a soft, silvery hue that’s both contemporary and versatile. This finish pairs beautifully with a range of interior styles, from Scandinavian-inspired minimalism to more industrial or urban loft designs.
3. Exotic and Sustainable Options
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not explore exotic wood species for both your floors and cabinetry? Woods like teak, walnut, and cherry offer unique textures and colors that will instantly elevate your space. Plus, many exotic woods are sustainably sourced, so you can make an eco-friendly choice without compromising on style.
Another option gaining popularity is engineered hardwood, which combines beauty and sustainability. Available in a wide variety of finishes, engineered hardwood is a durable and affordable alternative to traditional hardwoods. Whether you prefer a natural, light wood grain or a dark, rich finish, engineered hardwood offers a solution that is both timeless and modern.
Breaking Free from Oak: The Time is Now!
If you’ve been living with oak for far too long, now is the time to make a change. You don’t have to be stuck in the past. With so many beautiful wood species, finishes, and design treatments available today, it’s easy to break free from the oak overload and embrace a fresh new look for your home.
By introducing painted finishes, glazed treatments, and non-traditional flooring options, you can create a space that feels more personalized, modern, and welcoming. Remember, this year is about making a change—say goodbye to oak, and say hello to a beautifully refreshed home! Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or living room, the possibilities are endless. It’s time to embrace the beauty of new design and let your space shine.
