Dark Wood Is Having A Comeback: 12 Ways To Get The Look

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Teak, walnut and mahogany have fallen back in favour.

Is dark wood making a comeback? 'After many years of lighter-coloured, Scandinavian-inspired woods dominating home trends, darker, more traditional woods – like teak, walnut, and mahogany – have fallen back in favour,' says Etsy's trend expert, Dayna Isom Johnson.

With a rise in all things antique and vintage, Etsy has seen a 337 per cent increase in searches for walnut desks and accessories in the last three months, compared to last year. The online craft marketplace also notes a 28 per cent increase in searches for brown seating or furniture. 'What's old is new again,' agrees Etsy's 2023 collections curator, Martha Stewart, adding that 'brown furniture is alive and well'.

But while dark wood appears to be on the up, Etsy has observed a 24 per cent decrease in searches for Scandinavian decor, raw or light wood (14 per cent) and beige decor (29 per cent).

Lending itself to the Regency era, dark woods bring warmth and cosiness into a home, working in both modern and traditional interiors. From coffee tables to dining chairs, darker woods can offer an understated yet luxurious look that remains timeless.

Keep reading to browse our favourite dark wood furniture to work in contemporary homes...

This understated side table is a winning combination of minimalist design and practical functionality. It's simple but in the best way.

This roomy chest of drawers has all the space you need for storing clothes and accessories. Rattan detailing on the drawers add a tactile element, whilst the brushed gold handles are a stylish finishing touch.

Is this the best seat in the house? Quite possibly. Upholstered in spice brown corduroy, this bold armchair has tapered legs, angular arms and a floating-style back for a modern twist.

This sleek dining table can be extended to seat up to eight people – the perfect piece for entertaining, we think. The tapered legs and rich wooden finish exude elegance.

A multipurpose piece, prop this wooden ladder against the wall in a room of your choice, such as the bathroom where you can use it for fresh towels. Please note, it's not for climbing, only for decoration.

Sold in a set of two, this chair features a tapered frame and smooth, curved lines for a modern, retro-inspired update. Soft, grey upholstery adds a layer of comfort.

A coffee table with a mid-century-inspired silhouette, this design is sure to draw attention. It's been crafted from solid mango wood in a walnut finish. We love the curved legs and circular top.

This slender console table is completed with rounded edges and a pared-back design to make it a must-have piece for minimalist spaces.

Add a luxurious touch to mealtimes with this chic dining chair. It's upholstered in soft bouclé fabric and features a gently curving backrest for extra comfort.

This compact bedside table features two integrated drawers for plenty of storage space, plus stylish cutout handles for a contemporary finish.

Nesting tables give you plenty of space to show off ornaments and place beverages on. We love the wide legs and rich dark wood.

If you're a fan of industrial design, this is the bench for you: it combines a natural reclaimed wood top and brushed brass capped legs to great effect.

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