Raise your hand if you have honey oak cabinets that make you cringe!
I was definitely stuck with that dated 90s oak wood finish when I moved into my fixer upper home.
You know the one – sort of golden brown with noticeable orange undertones.
It felt like my kitchen was straight out of a 70s time warp!
At first, I thought my only option was either an expensive remodel or just living with extreme ugliness.
But replacing perfectly functional cabinets was not in my budget.
There had to be some way to revive the dreary honey oak finish that dominated my kitchen.
So down the rabbit hole of Pinterest searches I went, determined to find ideas to transform the oak from dated to beautiful.
If you also have lackluster golden oak cabinets, don’t lose hope.
With the right approach, you can give them a modern update, too:
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Rustic Farmhouse Honey Oak Kitchen
First up we have a gorgeous rustic farmhouse kitchen featuring honey oak cabinets, a butcher block island, and distressed wood accents.
This spacious kitchen has a relaxed countryside vibe thanks to reclaimed wood open shelves, a charming pot rack, and a distressed wood ceiling.
The cabinets have a handcrafted, custom look with visible wood grain that plays beautifully against the butcher block counters.
Notice how the center island provides ample prep space and casual seating for three.
For a cozy farmhouse feel, the wood counters are left unstained to show their natural coloring.
Under cabinet lighting illuminates the workstations while pendant lights hang above the island offering ambiance.
The kitchen’s layout is practical for cooking and entertaining with the refrigerator built in along the back wall and the range, sink, and dishwasher conveniently arranged along the perimeter.
To continue the rustic charm, the backsplash combines horizontal wood planks and rectangular white tiles in natural stone.
The wood floors ground the space with their weathered character while small distressed rugs add softness underfoot.
Overall this charming kitchen proves honey oak cabinets can star in a laidback farmhouse kitchen.
Their flexible earthy tones complement vintage accents like the shelves, rack and ceiling beams.
This is a great example of how warm honey oak cabinetry brings timeworn character to a spacious country kitchen.
Contemporary Two-Toned Kitchen
Transitioning to a sleek contemporary style, this next kitchen flaunts a cool two-toned look pairing honey oak cabinets with bright white uppers.
The honey oak bases anchor the space with their rich texture and color while the white overhead cabinets keep things airy and bright.
To play up the drama of the two-toned design, the cabinets have a floating appearance thanks to hidden hardware and underlights.
Recessed panels on the uppers and lowers streamline their facade creating a modern vibe.
For contrast, the center island showcases a thick granite countertop with rounded edges.
Notice how the honey oak warms up this contemporary kitchen and balances the crisp white cabinets.
It also coordinates beautifully with the oak plank floors.
Built-in stainless steel appliances complete the upscale contemporary style.
For a fashionable backsplash, metallic subway tiles shine with a hint of copper glint – a trendy choice.
The walls and trim are colored in a deep charcoal gray that underscores the two cabinet tones.
Altogether, this kitchen masters using bold contrasts of color, texture and materials like oak and granite.
A two-toned combo of honey oak and white cabinets proves you can achieve a modern look while keeping cozy wood tones in the mix.
This kitchen would transition seamlessly from elegant dinner parties to family Sunday dinners.
Luxury Honey Oak and Brick Kitchen
Get ready for some serious kitchen envy!
This next design flaunts high-end features like commercial-grade appliances, marble and granite, and beautiful raised panel honey oak cabinetry.
Right away your eye goes to the colossal painted brick wall which gives instant character.
The extra thick honey oak island pairs beautifully with white marble countertops and a navy blue laminate surface.
A built-in range top with brass burners is set right into the island so the cook can face guests and family members nearby.
The Cafe style fridge, shiny brass taps and elegant pendant lighting complete the luxury details.
Notice how the lack of overhead cabinets keeps this kitchen nice and airy.
Low backless shelving along the brick wall provides open storage for cookware and dishes in view.
The honey oak cabinetry offers a pleasing contrast to the white subway backsplash and light granite counters.
This dream kitchen brilliantly combines elegance with the welcoming warmth of brick and honey oak.
High-end finishes give it luxury appeal while the oak cabinetry and brick wall add character and comfort.
This is an entertainer’s kitchen made for casual family dinners as much as elaborate dinner soirees.
Honey oak cabinets truly shine when mixed with striking elements like marble and brick.
This kitchen does an amazing job bringing together refined and organic materials for a designer look that’s equally inviting.
Modern Minimalist Honey Oak Kitchen
Moving on to something completely different, this next kitchen flaunts a minimalist style with super clean lines.
At first glance, you notice how the lack of hardware, moldings and trim results in an ultra-streamlined look.
This minimalist kitchen lets the honey oak cabinets stand out as the starring element.
The modern base cabinets have a blocky silhouette with straight vertical lines.
Their amber tone and beautiful wood grain provide warmth and texture against the stark white quartz countertops.
Instead of busy backsplashes and decorative tile, the walls are kept bare to cultivate the minimalist aesthetic.
Even the coordinating honey oak planked floors were chosen for their simplicity.
Stainless appliances discreetly blend in without disrupting the zen atmosphere.
Pops of brightness come from the mint green stools that inject subtle color.
Recessed lighting casts an even glow across surfaces to highlight the oak cabinetry and white counters.
The normal kitchen clutter is stashed out of sight in wide drawers to maintain the soothing ambiance.
This minimalist kitchen demonstrates the beauty of honey oak cabinets on their own without competing elements.
Their rich tone and wood pattern bring character and warmth to this spartan modern space.
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Sprawling Country Kitchen with Honey Oak Cabinets
Now let’s explore a captivating country kitchen that truly spans the entire house!
This amazing kitchen offers generous counter space for passionate home cooks.
The honey oak cabinetry combined with wood beam accents imparts rustic farmhouse charm.
You can see how the kitchen extends into multiple rooms while still feeling cohesive.
Different sections serve specific purposes like a baking station, gardening cabinet, laundry zone and more.
The vaulted wood ceiling allows the space to feel open and airy.
While very large, the kitchen still maintains a friendly vibe thanks to the warm wood cabinetry, beam accents and cottage styling.
Pretty distressed furnishings like the dining hutch and chairs add character without feeling too ornate.
And how charming is that bench seat at the work table!
For country flair, exposed brick and wood provide texture and match the rich honey oak cabinets beautifully.
The varied cabinet styles also help define each space’s purpose.
For instance, the raised panel cabinets match the rustic wood beams while glass front cabinets display dishware in the dining area.
This sprawling kitchen proves honey oak cabinetry can help unify a giant country kitchen.
The inviting oak hue and natural wood textures promote cohesion and flow.
Multiple layouts and cabinet styles work together flawlessly thanks to the consistent honey oak tone tying everything together.
This is an inspiring kitchen for cooks who dream of endless prepping and dining space!
Modern Urban Loft Honey Oak Kitchen
Shifting gears, we come to a contemporary urban loft kitchen sporting honey oak cabinetry.
The clean lines and minimalist styling create a hip, industrial feel that’s perfect for modern urban living.
Two large windows allow plentiful natural light to brighten the space and accentuate the gorgeous wood tones.
The honey oak finishes have a matte, satin look for a more modern vibe.
They pop against the bright white walls and concrete flooring.
The base cabinetry provides plenty of storage with its long, streamlined shape and recessed hardware.
For cool contrast, the central island pairs a sleek white quartz top with slender black metal legs.
Touches of urban industrial flair come from the exposed air ducts, metal stools and modern wire pendant lights.
Stainless appliances including a pro-style range give this kitchen powerful cooking convenience.
Overall this urban loft kitchen proves honey oak cabinetry can feel right at home in contemporary spaces as well.
The oak brings warmth and texture to balance the industrial elements like concrete floors and metal accents.
This is a versatile kitchen design perfect for entertaining or family meals thanks to the spacious island and high-end appliances.
Traditional Honey Oak Kitchen with Brick Backsplash
In this traditional kitchen, honey oak cabinetry gets a classic treatment with raised panel doors and decorative trim.
You immediately notice the striking brick backsplash which becomes the focal point.
The red bricks inject vivid color and artisanal appeal.
For a truly vintage look, the checkerboard vinyl flooring coordinates with the brick backsplash while green granite countertops keep things lively.
Wrought iron chandeliers and furnishings reinforce the old-world Traditional style.
The kitchen features a rarely seen galley style layout with cabinets lining either side.
This elongated footprint is great for fitting into challenging spaces.
It allows for a spacious prep zone in the center.
Honey oak is a natural fit with this nostalgic brick backsplash and checkerboard floor.
It provides heritage appeal but feels warmer than true brown wood tones.
The diverse earth hues in the cabinetry complement the brick’s ruddy complexion.
This fun retro kitchen shows that sometimes honey oak cabinets look best when paired with vibrant, daring elements like brick red backsplashes.
The oak brings familiar comfort while the brick and checkerboard vinyl inject playful retro energy.
Honey Oak Cabinets with Black Granite Counters
Want drama?
This kitchen delivers with its bold combo of shiny black granite countertops on top of beautiful honey oak cabinets.
Right away your eye goes to the striking granite that provides such as strong contrast against the golden oak.
The oak cabinets look especially luminous and rich beside the sleek granite.
Not only do the countertops pop but the oak grain truly becomes an artistic focal point.
This contrast works beautifully in this spacious U-shaped kitchen.
The oak cabinets offer warmth while the granite brings a look of luxury and sophistication.
For a hint of brightness, a tile backsplash with avocado green, peach and yellow tiles add a splash of color.
The cabinets feature classic raised panel doors and carved trim for ornate appeal.
This works with the fancy custom carved ornamental corbels attached to the uppers.
All the carvings and corbels coordinate with the traditional dining set.
We especially love the built-in cabinet housing the fridge which blends right in with its oak facade.
This kitchen keeps things traditional yet makes a bold style statement by combining golden honey oak with striking black granite countertops.
It’s a look that’s elegant, timeless and ideal for formal properties.
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Rustic Modern Honey Oak Kitchen
If you love modern design but also crave natural rustic flair, this kitchen beautifully combines the two aesthetics.
It features contemporary honey oak cabinets paired with reclaimed wood accents and textured tile backsplashes.
The oak cabinetry has a sleek modern design with flat slab style doors featuring rectangular cut-outs.
Built-in open shelving keeps the look airy and makes items easily accessible.
We adore the unique floating shelves against the textured tile which feel both rustic and modern.
The gorgeous wood-look tile backsplash contributes natural warmth in a modern way.
It has an imperfect handmade look while the colors echo natural timber and stone.
The mosaic tiles in shades of grey, brown and terracotta feel like an abstract painting.
For more organic texture, reclaimed wood shelves display cookbooks and loaves of bread.
Modern white quartz countertops balance the reclaimed and natural elements resulting in a stylish but comfortable kitchen.
Homeowners can enjoy the best of both worlds – modern precision and rustic artisanal flair.
This aesthetic would work equally well in urban lofts and rural cottages.
Coastal Cottage Kitchen with Honey Oak Cabinets
Are you ready for a breezy kitchen bursting with coastal charm?
This delightful cottage kitchen celebrates the relaxed allure of the seaside.
Right away the baby blue backsplash catches your eye and evokes the ocean.
Crisp white countertops feel like billowing sails in contrast to the sandy brown honey oak cabinets.
The oak finishes have a weathered driftwood appeal that fits flawlessly with coastal design.
Even the lighting becomes part of the beachy theme with nautical rope pendants swinging above the decorative blue farmhouse sink.
Open shelves give that easy cottage vibe while displaying colorful Fiestaware dishes.
And check out how the white chair rail trim mimics the rails on a boat!
This charming detail ties the whole coastal look together.
Driftwood, shells and touches of sea glass complete the effortlessly elegant cottage design.
This lovely kitchen proves soft honey oak is perfect for evoking breezy cottage living.
The weathered oak cabinets pair beautifully with light blue accents and white counters to create a soothing coastal atmosphere.
This is a dreamy kitchen designed for carefree oceanside gatherings and enjoying soulful views.
Honey Oak Cabinets with Copper Tile Backsplash
Copper remains a top trend for kitchen backsplashes and here’s an elegant example done right.
The glowing copper subway tile makes a glamorous statement against the homey honey oak cabinets.
By pairing copper with a natural wood tone like honey oak, the kitchen retains warmth and familiarity.
The oak’s varying wood grains and knots pop beside the ultra-sleek metallic tiles.
Together they strike an artful balance.
The extra thick waterfall island veneered in oak adds striking visual weight and beautiful lines.
A funky modern chandelier suspends from the double-height ceiling introducing unexpected whimsy.
We love how the copper backsplash extends all the way up the wall behind the oven making this a focal feature.
The oven gets framed in glimmering copper shine.
Gold cabinet hardware picks up the copper and oak tones for a cohesive upscale look.
Overall this kitchen showcases how copper’s sparkle can feel cozy and inviting against honey oak cabinets.
The oak’s mellow coloring prevents the copper tiles from feeling too flashy or overwhelming.
The mix feels inviting, playful and full of quality.
This is a fun look for homeowners wanting to include trendy metallic backsplashes.
Honey Oak Cabinets with White Quartz Counters
Here’s a stunning yet soothing kitchen pairing traditional honey oak cabinetry with brilliant white quartz countertops and backsplash.
Clean white surfaces contribute brightness and illumination so the gorgeous oak grain peeks through.
The lack of wall decor or colors allows the wood cabinets to take centerstage.
Even the matching oak floors were chosen to showcase this beautiful honey-hued oak.
However, the white counters and backsplash keep the overall look light and airy.
The cabinetry features classic raised panel doors with visible wood grain that catches the eye.
Notice how crown molding and light rail trim frame the cabinetry with elegance.
Using the same oak finishes throughout achieves a seamless custom appearance.
For an indulgent touch, the cabinets also have interior lighting which casts an ambient glow across the quartz surfaces.
Luxury appliances like the dual fuel range, paneled fridge and coordinating dishwasher complete this upscale yet comforting kitchen design.
Homeowners who desire the beauty of natural wood tones paired with fresh white surfaces will love this kitchen.
The honey oak finishes are clearly the star but balanced out by the bright white surfaces.
Altogether the look conveys traditional sophistication.
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Honey Oak Kitchen with Salmon Accents
Our final stunning honey oak kitchen sees the cabinets paired with pops of salmon pink.
The rosy tile backsplash and pink window treatments set off the gorgeous oak finishes.
The cabinets flaunt prominent vertical wood grain that makes each one totally unique.
Gold hardware picks up the warm golden undertones of the oak for a subtly upscale vibe.
Using the same oak for the open shelving, trim and island base results in a seamless custom look.
You’ll notice a few special details like the raised panel farmhouse sink, arched window trim and beaded glass cabinet doors.
These charming accents keep the kitchen traditional yet playful.
The salmon tile backsplash feels simultaneously retro and trendy.
It brings energy to the space without overwhelming the oak star.
Vintage salmon furnishings like the painted chairs and hutch keep the scheme feeling cohesive.
Overall this charming kitchen proves sometimes all you need is a pop of color to make honey oak cabinets shine.
The salmon pink injects just enough pizazz to show off the oak’s artistic grain without going overboard.
We love how the finish makes each cabinet totally unique.
You saw this versatile wood tone lending rustic charm to sprawling country kitchens as well as sleek elegance to urban spaces.
The examples featured an array of styles from coastal casual to modern industrial.
This shows how honey oak cabinetry can adapt to almost any aesthetic from traditional to ultra-modern.
Their woodsy brownish-gold tones make them ideal for farmhouse kitchens but also contemporary spaces wanting cozy natural texture.
Some key honey oak kitchen takeaways include…
– Pairing with brick backsplashes and walls for a hit of bold contrast
– Mixing with white cabinets, counters and backsplashes to get a fresh two-toned look
– Complementing with black granite or stainless steel for modern luxury
– Contrasting with painted blue, green or pink accents for a playful pop of color
– Keeping walls and surfaces bare to let the oak grain take center stage
– Choosing matching floors or butch block surfaces to create seamless oak flow
