The Dark Wood Renaissance

If you’ve been paying attention to interior design lately, you’ve probably noticed a shift. After more than a decade of white-washed farmhouse chic, pale woods, and minimalist everything, darker wood tones are making a triumphant return—and designers and homeowners alike are embracing the mood. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that feel rich, storied, and timeless, while also offering a refreshing departure from overly curated minimalism.

To explore this trend, we checked in with Katie Rementer, the creative force behind Cedar Mill Lane, a Cape May-based interior design business that grew, quite literally, out of a milk crate, a few cans of spray paint, and an orbital sander.

“It really started as a hobby refinishing furniture,” says Rementer. “The business kind of took on a life of its own. I’m just here for the ride, really.” What began as a creative outlet soon evolved into a full-service design firm that handles everything from cozy powder rooms to sprawling 14-bedroom homes and even commercial spaces. “If it’s the right fit, there’s not much I’ll refuse,” she says.

Her personal style is what she calls “cozy and easy on the eyes with a story,” though she rarely imposes that style on her clients. Instead, Rementer focuses on delivering designs that allow for growth, flexibility, and, above all, personal expression. “I try to stay away from anything permanent that might limit my client’s creative freedom down the line,” she explains. “Our styles evolve, and the spaces we live in should be able to evolve with us.”

It’s that evolution—in both personal style and cultural preference—that has helped bring darker wood tones back into the design spotlight.

The Pendulum Swings Back

“Like most trends, I’d say it was a gradual slide back into darker wood tones,” Rementer says. “There’s a pendulum in design—it swings one way, and then inevitably swings back the other. There is always an equal and opposite reaction to all trends.”

If the last decade was dominated by bright whites and rustic farmhouse aesthetics, the past few years have seen a rise in deeper, richer, moodier spaces—a design style often associated with the “dark academia” movement. The resurgence of dark woods fits neatly into this shift.

“It appears we’re entering a more conservative style era where we lean back into what is traditional and familiar,” she explains. “Dark woods re-entering the scene is evidence of that.”

This return to tradition doesn’t mean the spaces feel old-fashioned. In fact, incorporating dark woods can actually open up creative possibilities. Rementer points out that dark wood offers flexibility in ways that pale or whitewashed furniture doesn’t. “Imagine trying to match every item in your closet to white linen pants versus dark blue jeans,” she says. “Which do you think is more forgiving?”

The Weight of Wood

Dark wood brings visual weight to a room. It can ground a space, add depth, and create a focal point. “Understanding the visual weight of a piece in a room is instrumental to its success in the space,” Rementer notes.

While some may fear that dark wood will make a room feel smaller or too serious, Rementer insists that the key is balance. Pairing dark wood with lighter fabrics, playful colors, and a variety of textures prevents a room from feeling oppressive. “People assume that darker wood is limiting, but that’s just not true,” she says.

The key, of course, is understanding the mood you want. “While a lot of dark wood can be a great mood-maker in a room, one dark piece also makes a great focal point,” says Rementer.

One of her favorite techniques is mixing multiple dark wood tones within the same space. “Think black walnut dining table with ebony-stained chairs,” she says. “It’s sophisticated and elegant, but also bold and a little funky.”

She recently applied this philosophy to a full-home remodel for a friend, blending family heirlooms, refinished sentimental pieces, and new purchases. Rementer used all kinds of wood tones in one space and still created a cohesive environment that was both dynamic and visually interesting.

The project is a prime example of how dark wood doesn’t have to dominate or overwhelm. Instead, it can serve as a unifying element that brings warmth, character, and a sense of timelessness to a home.

Incorporate Slowly

For those intrigued by the dark wood renaissance but unsure where to start, Rementer offers practical advice.

“Start small,” she suggests. “A stool, picture frame, or corner chair in a dark wood lets you play with the look without making a huge commitment.” She also recommends using easily movable pieces so you can experiment with placement and balance.

For the more adventurous, she suggests a larger statement piece—like a coffee table, buffet, or set of kitchen stools. “Don’t be afraid to try something new,” she encourages. “And if you’re not sure you want to commit financially, start with something easy—and free—from mom or grandmom.”

Her personal preference leans toward deeply textured dark-toned pieces rather than glossy finishes. “I find texture more visually comforting than a polished veneer,” she says, adding that texture brings an organic, tactile quality that softens the boldness of dark woods.

The key, she says, is to trust your instincts and to create a space that reflects who you are rather than following trends blindly.

Every Room Needs a Story

Ultimately, for Rementer, design isn’t about following fads—it’s about storytelling. “Every room needs a little history—story, character, and history,” she says.

Her approach emphasizes sustainability, adaptability, and authenticity—values that resonate with homeowners looking to create spaces that are not only beautiful but meaningful.

And while dark wood seems to be seeing a resurgence, if it’s not for you, don’t force it.

“Personally, I’m still very comfortable in my mid-light toned woods with a story,” says Rementer. “Scrubbed pine definitely being pretty high up on the list, and bonus points if the item came from across the pond—talk about history!”