Some trend comebacks are total surprises; namely, ones from the '80s and '90s. When we heard whispers that a staple of the latter, honey oak, was back in style, we weren't totally sure that we could get behind that. That's all changed after seeing Reese Witherspoon's staircase.
The actor recently shared a snap on her warm, wood and white stairs, and the simple, cozy combination has us convinced that honey oak can be a winner in 2025.
One of the main benefits of this finish is it can be produced as laminate or vinyl flooring – yet another '90s trend that is making its way back into the interiors-sphere.
Shop the honey oak edit
This sleek shelf provides ample space for displaying items, along with one closed drawer
If you're keen to play with different forms, this set of two is a great place to start. Complete with one round and one rectangular board, both made from acacia wood, they are perfect for layering or displaying in different areas of the kitchen.
Crafted from rubberwood, this charming chair features a series of braces that add visual appeal as well as stability. It's a perfect pairing for any breakfast nook.
According to design experts, laminate flooring is a budget-friendly way to get the honey oak look, as well as making for an excellent pick in high-traffic areas, like staircases and entryways.
'Laminate flooring is essentially a high-density fibreboard core topped with a printed decorative layer and a protective wear layer,' explains Neel Bradham, CEO of PARADOR. 'What makes it so appealing is the combination of affordability, durability, and design versatility. It’s ideal for busy households because it resists scratches and is easy to clean, all while convincingly mimicking the look of real wood or stone.'
Alternatively, vinyl can actually be a luxurious flooring option, with safety coatings and sleek finishes.
'Vinyl flooring has come a long way in both construction and aesthetics,' Neel continues. 'Today’s luxury vinyl options are made from multiple layers of PVC, often with a rigid core for stability, and a realistic printed surface. It’s waterproof and incredibly resilient, making it especially suited for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or basements where moisture is a factor. It’s also an ideal choice for high-traffic homes with children and pets.'
However, nothing beats the original, engineered wood, which gives the honey oak shade a grainy and truly natural look.
'Engineered wood is the perfect blend of natural beauty and structural integrity,' Neel explains. 'It features a top layer of real hardwood veneer bonded to a multi-layered plywood core, making it more dimensionally stable than solid wood. This means it can handle changes in temperature and humidity without warping – giving homeowners the warmth and authenticity of real wood with added durability.'
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