Wood kitchens have always been a design staple, but their aesthetic continues to shift with the times. In the 1970s, honey-colored cabinets were everywhere. The 1980s saw a preference for darker woods and black finishes, followed by the blond, Scandinavian-inspired tones of the 1990s. More recently, painted cabinetry has dominated.
Now, the spotlight has returned to natural wood kitchens, and few spaces capture this revival better than Cameron Diaz’s home, designed by the acclaimed Kelly Wearstler, no less.
In Cameron's kitchen, oak cabinetry serves as the backbone of the design. The effect is both timeless and modern, with warm tones that ground the room while still feeling fresh. Here on the celebrity team, we first wrote about Cameron Diaz's kitchen cabinet trend in January 2024, and as we look towards 2026, it's just as beautiful.
Cameron's space reminds us why wood continues to endure: its versatility allows it to adapt to different styles, from traditional to contemporary, while always bringing a sense of strength and warmth.
Shop the wood kitchen edit
Every kitchen needs a wooden board of some variety – it's not only useful, but it doubles up as a piece of decor. Displayed on a shelf or propped up on a countertop, it adds warmth and character to your space. This round design features a narrow gold handle, injecting a touch of elegance too.
For something more unexpected, this plate and spice rack is a charming addition to any kitchen. The wood and brass pairing is a real classic, and it provides extra storage more decoratively. A matching wood and brass shelf is also available.
When I'm bringing in a new texture or material to my kitchen, I always like to look to my essentials. Your slate and pepper mills are a fun and affordable way to bring in an extra wood tone – I love the unique design of this set from Wayfair.
If you're thinking of following this natural look in your own kitchen, Cameron's cabinets are the ultimate blueprint. First, they offer a lesson in layering (alongside marble, in her case).
Pairing natural timber with other materials, such as marble, adds contrast and texture without losing warmth. This mix also prevents the kitchen from feeling too heavy. Marble has long been a classic choice, but on its own, it can read as cold. Balanced with wood, the combination feels elegant and welcoming, perfect for gatherings during cooler months.
Cameron's space also demonstrates how texture can elevate a kitchen. Wooden kitchen cabinetry has a natural tactility that works beautifully when layered with marble, granite, or even polished steel and glass. These juxtapositions highlight the character of each material, creating a design that feels sophisticated yet approachable. It is a reminder that the most successful kitchens are not just functional but also inviting.
Whether your taste leans toward intricate detailing or clean-lined flat fronts, Cameron's oak cabinetry proves that wood adapts seamlessly to different styles. And for those not ready to invest in a full renovation, painted wood cabinets can provide a bridge. Refreshing existing oak with color is a practical way to update a space, saving time and cost while still delivering impact.
Cameron Diaz’s kitchen shows that wood kitchen cabinets are not a relic of the past but a reinvigorated design choice that feels both relevant and enduring. By embracing wood’s natural qualities, homeowners can create kitchens that are beautiful, resilient, and above all, welcoming.
