Elizabeth Banks’ 'Naked' Wood Kitchen Cabinets Are the Ultimate Case for Going Paint-Free in Kitchens That Prioritize Calm
The actress makes the case for unpainted wood cabinets, which are as versatile as they are durable, not to mention effortlessly chic
Wood kitchens are as practical as they are timeless. From their durability to their adaptability within different trends, there's a solid reason so many of us choose to leave our cabinets unpainted.
Elizabeth Banks is among this camp, having shown off her 'naked' wood kitchen cabinets on her Instagram page. The soothing, minimalistic quality makes an excellent case for an unpainted space, and we are taking notes.
The organic feel and warmth of a wooden kitchen is unparalleled. It leaves room to experiment with neutral, textured fixtures, as Elizabeth shows off with her marble countertops. However, you don't need a paintbrush to get her look. I love experimenting with this warm, organic aesthetic with wooden accessories.
A post shared by Elizabeth Banks (@elizabethbanks)
A photo posted by on
Shop the Wood Kitchen Edit
An easy way to introduce warmth into your cooking space, this acacia wood cutting board is simple but effective. Store it on your kitchen island or countertop for a character and lived-in charm.
Perfect for housing your utensil holder or simply resting your spoon on, this charming pedestal will bring a rustic edge to any empty countertop.
For a dose of charm that lasts while you cook, try these charming heart-shaped mixing spoons. A farmhouse kitchen staple, you'll be reaching for this adorable duo daily.
Perfect for housing your utensil holder or simply resting your spoon on, this charming pedestal will bring a rustic edge to any empty countertop.
The best kitchen accessories are as beautiful as they are functional. In this case, richly grained acacia wood turns out into a smooth, sculptural serving essential. It's naturally suited to everyday use, entertaining or artful display.
When I'm bringing in a new texture or material to my kitchen, I always like to look to my essentials. Your slate and pepper mills are a fun and affordable way to bring in an extra wood tone – I love the unique design of this set from Wayfair.
According to design experts, natural materials like wood are mainstays in the kitchen due to their soothing properties and overall timelessness.
'The great outdoors and all its natural beauty are taking precedent within our homes,' Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca' Pietra, says.
'From color palettes to materials, we just can’t get enough of it, and with good reason. We associate outside with nature, wellbeing, and health, and so it makes sense to want to bring that into our kitchens.'
She continues, 'From its warming colors through to its abundance of texture, we’re leaving our kitchen cabinets unpainted and turning to wood worktops. We’re also considering it for our flooring too, but it can take a lot of upkeep, especially in kitchens that see a lot of action.'
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.
As I mentioned, you can get the look in your own kitchen, regardless of whether you have wood cabinets. Try incorporating pieces like these natural salt-and-pepper shakers from Wayfair or this mango-wood carved pedestal, which would make an excellent spoon rest.
Elizabeth’s ‘naked’ wood cabinets show just how timeless and inviting a natural kitchen can be. Whether you choose unpainted cabinetry or simply layer in wooden accents, her approach reminds us that warmth, texture, and authenticity never go out of style.

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.
Her love of film is rivaled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.