These are the 5 best colors to pair with a wooden kitchen countertop, according to interior designers

Wood has truly dominated in kitchens this year, from cabinetry in rich oak tones to statement islands featuring a classic butcher's block. Wooden countertops are just as sought after for their classic look and timeless appeal.

But as with any kitchen countertop idea, deciding on the best colors to pair with wooden countertops can be a tricky task. Some hues lean more country in style, while others feel bolder and more contemporary.

Whether you're a fan of neutrals or love to go bold with your kitchen color ideas, I've asked interior designers which shades they like to pair with wooden counters – it turns out this material is more versatile than you might think.

5 colors to pair with wooden kitchen countertops

There's a reason wood has stood the test of time in designs – it's one of those classic kitchen countertops that never go out of style. But the key is to style them with the right colors to create a space that not only complements your home, but also your interior design style. And there's a color here to suit every taste.

1. Go tonal with a color that matches your countertop

Wooden countertops offer a great opportunity to create a bold design. The right wood tones can create a striking contrast or even a tonal color-drenched kitchen for maximum impact. A more tonal approach was chosen in this kitchen, designed by Studio Laloc.

'We love to pair wood countertops with either colors that feel tonal, like blushy pinks and clay tones, or colors that have a strong contrast between the wood and the cabinets, such as a dark blue, a deep purple, a deep green, or an almost black paint color,' says Lauren Caron, founder and principal designer of the Seattle-based studio.

A tonal approach can feel more calming and soothing. The wooden counters blend seamlessly into the design while highlighting the beautiful wood tones throughout the space. On the other hand, a contrasting approach allows the wood to stand out.

'These are good pairings because they highlight the wood material and the inherent warmth that wood countertops bring to a space. They're typically a bit more casual feeling than natural stone and often work well on kitchen islands, in auxiliary spaces, or utility rooms,' she explains.

2. Pair a warm wood with a pale yellow

This year, kitchen trends have embraced butter yellow kitchens for their soft color and timeless appeal. And it turns out, these paler yellow tones are the perfect pairing with wooden kitchen countertops, as shown in this design.

'Going for a full kitchen in butter yellow is my suggestion. As I always say, if you’re going to go for something, then commit fully to it. If you are feeling less brave and like a classic look, then butter yellow walls would be a good starting point, maybe with soft yellowy cream cupboards and wooden worktops for an understated and soft look,' suggests Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.

Designer Christine Tuttle agrees pale yellows are an ideal color to pair with wooden worktops. She explains, 'I used Matchstick by Farrow & Ball in a recent kitchen project. I teamed it with Wimborne White woodwork, also Farrow & Ball.'

'It is a warm and welcoming color combo, with Matchstick having enough saturated color to stand up to rich wood tone counters. For kitchens with wood counters, we tend to go with a neutral paint color that has a warm yellow or red undertone to complement the wood.'

There are a few different ways to introduce yellow to accompany your wooden countertops. For a subtle look, you can add a statement cabinet, but a bolder approach with walls or cabinetry drenched in this muted hue is favored by designers.

3. Keep it classic with a soft white

For a classically traditional kitchen, wooden countertops paired with a soft white hue always look utterly timeless. It's a combination that can be given a more rustic look for a country kitchen, or a more polished finish for modern interiors.

'I often find that wood countertops pair beautifully with complementary warm tones and soft whites. Timber has a natural depth and richness, and those qualities are enhanced when set against colors that share its warmth,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

'Soft neutrals such as Farrow & Ball’s Stony Ground or Little Greene’s Mushroom bring out the grain in the timber and create a sense of harmony. Warm whites like Farrow & Ball’s Pointing or Little Greene’s Slaked Lime provide a clean backdrop that highlights the character of the wood without feeling stark.'

4. Don't just stick with neutrals

Wooden kitchen countertops are more versatile than you might think, and they work as wonderfully in colorful kitchens as they do in neutral ones. For a bolder design that still feels timeless, shades of green and pink are often favorites with designers.

'For those who prefer a pop of color and an element of surprise, Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster is a beautiful pairing with timber, adding a soft blush warmth that feels both playful and elegant,' says Lauren, referencing the dusty pink hue that mimics the look of traditional wall plaster.

'Likewise, richer tones of green can create a striking balance with wood. Shades such as Farrow & Ball’s Olive offer a more grounded, punchy statement that still sits comfortably within a natural palette.'

In this kitchen, a sage green has been applied to the cabinets – it's a hue that allows the wooden countertops to shine, but as a pairing, they create a characterful yet beautifully earthy look.

5. Cool down wooden countertops with a pale gray

While not everyone is gravitating towards a gray kitchen in 2025, the right shade can create a beautiful contrast with wooden countertops, as shown in this kitchen's pantry corner designed by CFK Interiors.

'I love Farrow & Ball's Purbeck Stone. It's kind of a putty that works beautifully with either a stone top or a wood countertop,' says Cláudia Farias Kalur, founder of the Washington-based design firm. This particular paint shade is a mid-toned gray inspired by the color of Purbeck stone, which lends a more natural and timeless finish.

'In this design, the pantry counter is natural walnut, and it looks gorgeous! The Purbeck Stone has a way of bringing out the warmth in these counter materials, without being overwhelming.'

These designer-approved color recommendations prove just how versatile wooden countertops really are. There are plenty of hues to choose from depending on your space and style.

'The key is to choose colors with warmth, whether subtle or bold, so that the pairing feels inviting, layered, and timeless,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe. And, whichever color you choose, ensure your surfaces always look their best with our expert tips on how to oil wooden kitchen countertops.