How to Incorporate Wood into any Style - Going Beyond the Dining Room Table
Be honest; when you think of working with wood, is the first image that pops into your mind a big dining room table? That’s totally normal. For many people new to woodworking, the idea of using wood starts and stops with large furniture. And if you don’t need a dining table (or don't think it fits your style), you might assume wood just isn’t for you.
But here's the good news: wood is one of the most versatile, style-friendly, and accessible materials you can work with. Even as a beginner. Whether you’re drawn to clean, modern lines or cozy, lived-in textures, wood can enhance your space in big and small ways. You don’t need to be an expert designer to make something beautiful. You just need to know what’s possible — and start imagining.
Let’s explore a few design styles and how wood naturally fits into each one.
Scandinavian
Scandinavian design uses light woods like maple, birch, and ash to create a bright airy feel. The lines are clean, they look minimalist, and wood is a key component in every room. Think floating shelves, narrow benches, and wall mounted night stands.
Rustic / Farmhouse
Texture-rich wood with natural imperfection creates a cozy place you’ll want to curl up under a blanket with a hot cup of coffee and your favorite book. Wood can be light or dark but character is key. Maybe it's reclaimed wood, a live edge walnut, or a knotty pine. Think large wood mantles, chunky coffee or side tables, or wall-mounted coat racks.
credit: GraceInMySpace
Mid-Century Modern
This design style is having a moment and it’s not hard to see why (it’s my personal favorite!). It is fun and functional with its clean lines and subtle grain. The wood can be light or dark, like walnut, teak or cherry. The focus is on functional and visually interesting pieces. Think geometric coffee tables, modular shelving, credenzas, and wood framed mirrors.
Industrial
Industrial style blends hard and soft like natural wood paired with black metal or concrete. Dark stained oak, walnut, and reclaimed beams are all popular in this style. While images of airy lofts in former industrial areas come to mind it can be accessible in smaller places. Think wood coffee tables with metal finishing touches or wooden headboard with industrial lighting.
Boho / Eclectic
This is the style for creative mixing. Different tones and shapes come together in layered, collected ways. Scraps and offcuts, the kind of pieces that don’t match but belong, are perfect for this look. Think hanging plant holders or a wall art panel made with wood.
credit: @nicolebrandeckerart
Think Smaller, Smarter, and More Personal
You don’t have to build a table to use wood well. In fact, Welhous Studio began with a custom drawer front. It could be something small, functional, and totally unique, like:
A wall shelf for your reading nook
A funky desk organizer
Coasters made from offcuts
A small bench, step stool, or kitchen riser
A sculptural wall piece or coat rack
The beauty of wood is that even a small piece can transform a space — adding warmth, interest, and a handmade story to the room.
Custom drawer fronts credit: Welhous Studio
You Don't Need to Know Your Style to Get Started
Still not sure what “your style” is? That’s okay. You don’t need to have it all figured out to start building. Start with what you’re drawn to. Is it a shape, a finish, a color, or even a room that needs something.
At Welhous, we love helping DIYers find the right piece of wood for the right project. You can come to us with an idea, a model of your design or a sketch on a napkin. We will meet you where you’re at.
Whether it’s your first shelf or a bold new coffee table, we can help you choose the right kiln-dried slab or offcut to match your vision. Wood is timeless, forgiving, and full of possibility, no matter your style or skill level.
All you need is an idea. We’ll help you build it.
