Ever since the early 2010s minimalist farmhouse craze, light colors have dominated the home design space. White shiplap walls, pale sofas, and whitewashed cabinets have been the go-to choices since they brighten up a space and make it feel more spacious and airy. Design preferences like minimalist decor and the desire for bright, natural light further complimented the lean toward both light colored fabrics and lighter woods like beech, birch, and ash. But design trends ebb and flow, and both interior designers and homeowners are now itching for something different. We’re on the brink of a new (or new-to-some-of-us) trend in furniture: dark wood.

The re-emerging preference for dark wood furniture comes from a growing desire for luxurious, timeless home spaces. This luxury can easily be achieved with the rich, character-packed look of classic dark woods like mahogany or walnut and even more exotic ones like ebony or rosewood. While these types of dark wood were once seen as dated or even oppressive in home design, they’re making a big comeback in more than just traditionally-styled libraries and Victorian-era heritage homes. It’s all about bringing back the nostalgic warmth, rich colors, and an overall elegant feel to the modern home.

Dark wood has come and gone several times throughout interior design’s history. Opulent and grand-looking dark wood reigned over the interior design aesthetic of the Georgian and Victorian eras in the 1800s. Dark wood then made a notable resurgence in the mid-century modern style of the 1960s. Now, after a long period of light wood domination in the home décor space, dark wood is, once again, reclaiming its place among the top home design trends and furnishings. This is part of a broader interior design movement that is swinging away from stark, minimalist design and more toward maximalist looks.

The introduction of the “Grandmillennial” style in 2019 — which blends opulent, traditional styles with modern, chic designs — brought maximalism to its peak resurgence in 2024. Fewer and fewer designers are opting for the sterile appearance of minimalism. What people really want in their homes now is a unique personality and a lived-in, layered look that’s full of character. Dark wood delivers on that desire since it elevates the space with both sophistication and warmth while bringing a sense of permanence and stability. Tomorrow’s homes will have more soulful, grounded aesthetics, and the dark wood home décor trend is hitting all the right notes.

If you want to incorporate dark wood into your space but you’re worried about it overwhelming the room, realize that balance is key. First, decide if you want to go with one or two large wood statement pieces or if you’d rather incorporate several smaller dark wood pieces that complement your personal style. For example, you can opt for a big walnut dining room table or a bed frame made with deep cherry wood. Alternatively, you can choose to subtly place a dark wood end table or a small writing desk as a stylish accent. To create a timeless look with dark wood furniture without overdoing the lavishness, the balance of quiet luxury is key.

Since these dark pieces automatically carry more visual weight, you’ll want to offset them with lighter design elements — think light-colored walls, soft linen curtains, and other textiles in light, muted tones. You can also incorporate bright metal hardware, brass lighting fixtures, or other reflective elements to add a bit of brightness which will ease the heaviness. Designers often use natural materials like marble, slate, or even woven textures with dark wood furniture since it softens the richness of the wood and helps create a layered, high-end aesthetic. The key to success when designing your space with dark woods is to be intentional with your choices. By mixing tones and textures, you’ll keep the space from feeling too heavy and, instead, highlight the quiet luxury that gorgeous dark wood brings.