Brie Larson's 'harmonious' kitchen combines unpainted cabinets with dark countertops for a calming effect

The balanced combination of light kitchen cabinets and dark countertops is a masterclass in relaxing design, experts say

Brie Larson
(Image credit: GettyImages)

As the unofficial heart of the home, good energy in the kitchen is important. Most of us spend at least a few hours every day in this space, cooking, socializing with friends and family, and relaxing, so it should be a positive experience. Brie Larson's calming kitchen is the perfect example.

We first saw the actress's neutral kitchen in one of her videos about composting, but we decided it deserved a platform of its own. The space epitomizes harmonious energy with brushed beige walls, white trim, well-planned organizational techniques, and a unique iron backsplash. 

However, experts say that the combination of lighter, unpainted cabinet color with dark countertops can be credited for the beautiful energy in the space.

Wooden cabinets have been one of the biggest interior design trends of the year thus far, and Brie's kitchen shows there's no sign of the look fading. Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens says: 'Unpainted wooden cabinets remind us of the outdoors. They are grounding and casual but can be made elegant with the right hardware. Since they are naturally brown, they fit into the popular warm neutral look to create a cozy and calming atmosphere.'

Jennifer Ebert
Jennifer Ebert

Jen is the Editor (Digital) of Homes & Gardens. Before starting this position, she had completed various interior design courses at KLC Design School, as well as working across Ideal Home, LivingEtc, 25 Beautiful Homes and Country Homes & Interiors as an interiors writer.

Furthermore, Brie's black kitchen countertops perfectly complement the cabinet color she has chosen. Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone states: 'Dark worktops are a rising trend in kitchen design.' He continues, 'Contrary to what people often think, black or dark kitchens aren’t always somber or austere. Dark colors can be bold and dramatic or warm and cosseting.'

Mor Krisher

 Mor is the creative mind between Caesarstone, an international firm that produces premium countertops made from fine minerals. He is an expert in kitchen design and countertop pairings. 

On Brie's perfect pairing, Mor adds: 'I’m a big fan of dark worktops paired with natural woods like oak or pale cabinetry and metallic accents like brass, copper or steel taps and handles. Pairing a dark surface with light cabinetry and flooring will help to keep the space feeling open and neutral. This is especially beneficial if you want to create a cozy atmosphere in a small kitchen.'

Shop Brie's Iron Backsplash


Channelling harmony in your interior design is an easy way to bring a touch of brightness to everyday. When you prioritize wellness in every room, especially the kitchen, your home can become a calming oasis away from the world.

Sophie Edwards
News Editor

Sophie is a London-based News Editor at Homes & Gardens, where she works on the Celebrity Style team. She is fascinated by the intersection of design and popular culture and is particularly excited when researching trends or interior history. Sophie is an avid pop culture fan. As an H&G editor, she has interviewed the likes of Martha Stewart, Hilary Duff, and the casts of Queer Eye and Selling Sunset. Before joining Future Publishing, Sophie worked as the Head of Content and Communications at Fig Linens and Home, a boutique luxury linens and furniture brand. She has also written features on exciting developments in the design world for Westport Magazine. Sophie has an MSc from the Oxford University Department of Anthropology and a BA in Creative Writing and Sociology from Sarah Lawrence College.