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While some design trends come and go, the pull of nature-inspired colors and textures is constant. We talked with Normandy Designer Bryan Brisky about the timeless trend of nature’s color palette, from warm woods to blues and greens.
“People are seeking homes that feel restorative, and natural palettes help create that atmosphere, allowing interiors to flow more easily from indoors to outdoors,” Bryan says. “Embracing colors and materials rooted in the natural world, particularly soothing greens, calming blues, and warm stained woods is a trend that’s more than a passing style. While there’s been a shift from bold shades to softer blues and greens, pairing these painted colors with woods is still very popular.”
Painted cabinetry has dominated for years, versus stained wood kitchens for instance, but wood grains have continued to provide a nice balance in any space, according to Bryan. “Whether it’s rift cut white oak, maple or walnut, natural wood brings life into a design, even if it’s a white or off-white space,” he says. “Small touches of stained woods bring a sense of craftsmanship and complement painted cabinetry for a layered, custom look.”
There are a variety of ways to bring in earthy wood elements. “I’ve always been a big fan of bringing in natural wood whenever possible, even if it’s interior shelves or beams. Bringing any natural stained wood into the space adds depth so the design isn’t monochrome,” Bryan says. “And we often work with projects that are keeping the original wood flooring, so bringing in another wood element helps bring the focus up.”
In terms of color, greens have become especially popular, ranging from soft sage tones to deeper, moodier shades, and mirror the tranquility of leafy and lush landscapes. Blues echo the expansiveness of the sea or the peace of a clear horizon. Whether used on kitchen cabinets or in accents like tile, these hues offer versatility that pairs beautifully with both modern and traditional aesthetics.
Paired with wood elements, these colors can stay in style for years to come. “A white kitchen with navy island might be considered trendy, but a navy island with some stained cabinets will feel more timeless,” notes Bryan. This more neutral and classic canvas can also pair effortlessly with trending metallics like brushed brass or matte black, as well as with a wide variety of stone and tile.
“Greens, blues, and natural woods never truly go out of style,” Bryan says. “They evolve subtly with the times, but their roots in nature ensure they remain relevant and desirable year after year.”
If you’d like to discuss the best way to put a personal stamp on your kitchen design, set up a time to talk with Bryan to make your next kitchen one you will love for year to come. Any day of the week, you can find design inspiration on our Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and TikTok accounts. Check out our photo gallery of past projects for more design ideas as well.
“Shaker style doors are classic and have been around forever for a reason,” Bryan says. “They offer minimal detailing that still adds visual interest, so they can fit most any style depending on the 
In addition to their adaptability, Shaker cabinets are one of the most budget-friendly choices in nearly every cabinet line. “They are an entry-level style in terms of budget, and whether you choose painted or stained, they are an effective design at a relatively low cost,” Bryan notes. Their simpler construction also makes them easier to clean and maintain compared to ornate cabinetry with intricate detailing, like 
