23rd February 2026 | IN DESIGN ADVICE | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn Timber has always had a place in bespoke design, but how it’s used continues to evolve. For 2026, wood is moving beyond cautious accents towards more immersive schemes, where grain, tone and texture shape the space as a whole. One of the clearest signs of this shift, and something you’ll spot across many current wood kitchen ideas, is the rise of “wood drenching”: wrapping cabinetry, islands and architectural elements in timber so kitchens feel cohesive, grounded and calm. Once most closely associated with traditional classic kitchens, timber is now playing a more confident role in modern design. At Roundhouse, this renewed focus feels like a natural progression, aligning with an approach rooted in bespoke craftsmanship, architectural precision and responsibly sourced materials. Below are four contemporary ways timber is being used right now. Introduce rhythm through fluting Fluted or ribbed timber detailing offers a refined way to introduce rhythm and depth. Typically arranged vertically, fluting draws the eye upward, subtly emphasising ceiling height while adding architectural interest without increasing the footprint of the room. In Roundhouse’s Bulpitt project, fluted-grain feature doors are integrated into a timber-led scheme to create movement and elegance. This layered approach allows light to shift across surfaces throughout the day, adding richness while avoiding overly heavy or uniform finishes. Roundhouse Design Roundhouse Design Let the texture lead Texture is becoming increasingly important in timber kitchens, with designers stepping away from perfectly uniform finishes in favour of surfaces that feel more tactile and expressive. Rough-sawn cuts and open-grain timbers introduce depth and variation, allowing light and shadow to bring cabinetry to life. When paired with clean lines, controlled palettes and considered proportions, textured timber feels refined rather than rustic. The use of rough-sawn oak in Roundhouse’s Ashbury project shows how embracing natural variation can add character while still sitting comfortably within a contemporary kitchen. For those exploring oak kitchen ideas, texture offers a way to introduce authenticity without compromising clarity. Stretch the space with directional grain Grain direction is a subtle detail, but one that can quietly shape the overall feel of a kitchen. When timber is run horizontally, it helps extend the space visually, encouraging cabinetry to feel cohesive rather than segmented. This approach works particularly well with richer timbers. Walnut, specified with a horizontal grain on modern slab doors, enhances flow across open-plan layouts, as seen in Roundhouse’s Moony project. It’s a simple move that supports modern design principles: calm lines, visual continuity and a sense of ease throughout the space. Roundhouse Design Roundhouse Design Go immersive with deeper tones Timber kitchens don’t need to sit solely within light, neutral palettes. As confidence grows around creating more atmospheric dark kitchens, darker stains are being used to introduce depth, intimacy and presence. Grounded in richly stained oak or walnut, darker kitchens retain the warmth timber naturally brings while creating a more enveloping mood. The key lies in layering -balancing lighting, metallic accents and tonal variation so the scheme feels intentional rather than overpowering. Roundhouse’s Munro project demonstrates how dark-stained oak can create a space that feels bold, sophisticated and timeless. The success of every one of these projects lies in thoughtful application, ensuring the timber enhances the architecture rather than taking over. If you’re considering how timber might influence your next design, visit a Roundhouse showroom to speak to their team of expert designers. About Roundhouse Design Ltd Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.