The Complete Guide to Pairing Cherry Cabinets and Wood Floors
Cherry cabinets and wood floors is a timeless kitchen combination that brings warmth and richness to any space. The deep reddish-brown tone of cherry pairs beautifully with wood floors in similar earthy hues. While this look is undeniably classic, there are still options for tailoring it to your personal style.
Cherry Kitchen Cabinets
Cherry wood has long been valued in furniture for its attractive appearance and durability. These same qualities make it an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets.
The reddish-brown patina of cherry cabinets provides a refined yet casual elegance. As a dense hardwood, cherry is resistant to scratches and wear. Over time, exposure to light accentuates cherry's signature hue, as the wood develops a richer, warmer patina.

Styles of Cherry Cabinets
From traditional to contemporary, cherry cabinets suit a range of kitchen designs.
- Traditional and country style cherry cabinets often feature visible frame and panel doors with an ornate profile.
- Shaker style cherry cabinets provide a streamlined look with their flat recessed panel doors and minimalist hardware.
- Contemporary cherry cabinets incorporate sleek, handleless designs and innovative storage solutions.
No matter your preferred aesthetic, cherry offers sophistication.
Hardwood Floors
Wood floors are a natural partner for cherry cabinets. Not only do they share a similar palette, but hardwood floors boast many of the same benefits as cherry—strength, longevity, and timeless appeal.
Considerations for Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors bring wonderful texture and warmth to kitchens. However, there are a few factors to weigh when selecting wood flooring.
- Dents and scratches are part of wood's character but can bother some homeowners.
- Refinishing is necessary over time to maintain the floor's appearance.
- Color and stain options allow customization but require commitment.
The natural beauty of wood floors outweighs these minor issues for most homeowners.
Pairing Cherry Cabinets and Wood Floors
When combining cherry cabinets and wood floors, aim for tones that complement rather than match exactly. Here are tips for seamless coordination.
Avoiding Too Much Contrast
Ensure the cherry and floor stain are within the same color family to prevent clashing. Light floors like maple will appear washed out. Dark ebony floors look too harsh. Opt for medium to dark hardwoods like walnut or hickory.
Cohesive Style
The floor's finish impacts the overall look. Consider:
- Distressed floors pair well with country or rustic cherry cabinets
- Sleek, smooth floors complement contemporary cherry cabinets
Matching the floor finish style to the cabinet design creates cohesion.
Additional Kitchen Elements
Beyond cabinets and floors, several other kitchen elements impact the overall design when incorporating cherry and wood.
Countertops
Granite, quartz, or marble countertops can complement the tones in our cherry and wood palette. For granite, brown, tan, or black flecks pair attractively with cherry without clashing.
Backsplash
Natural stone tiles like travertine marble create harmony with cherry cabinets and wood floors. Ceramic tile in warm brown hues can also blend nicely. Avoid very light colors that may look out of place.
Hardware
Brushed nickel or oil rubbed bronze hardware suits traditional cherry cabinets. Matte black hardware has a modern appeal. Stick with a consistent finish throughout for a polished look.
With careful selection of complementary elements, cherry and wood kitchens attain sophistication and warmth from floor to ceiling.
The pairing of cherry cabinets and wood floors results in kitchens brimming with timeless character. While this combination leans traditional, the range of cabinet styles and flooring options allows for tailored designs.
By thoughtfully coordinating the cherry and wood tones and finishes, and selecting fixtures that enhance the overall palette, homeowners can craft kitchens that stand the test of time with this dynamic duo of materials.