Wood finishes play a huge role in defining the style of your home. While some stains and finishes stand the test of time, others can make your space feel stuck in a bygone era. One of the biggest offenders? Golden oak and honey oak stains, which were popular in the ’80s and ’90s but now read as dated.
The problem isn’t just limited to intentionally stained pieces—over time, many wood finishes naturally yellow or amber with age, making them appear similar to these outdated tones. If your home is filled with woodwork or furniture that feels stuck in the past, don’t worry—there are several ways to modernize the look.
Option 1: Strip and Refinish for a Fresh, Updated Look
If you love the natural beauty of wood but want a more contemporary feel, stripping and refinishing is a great option.
Why Refinish?
- Removes yellowed or ambered finishes that make wood look old.
- Allows you to choose a stain that aligns with current trends (think dark espresso, warm walnut, or even light, natural tones).
- Preserves the wood’s integrity while giving it a fresh, modern appearance.
Current Stain Trends
Today’s design trends favor richer, deeper wood tones paired with lighter, softer elements (like rugs, upholstery, and pillows) for contrast. A dark-stained coffee table against a light linen sofa, for example, creates a striking balance of color and texture.
Consider Hiring a Professional
While refinishing can be a DIY project, stripping old finishes and applying new stain evenly requires skill. If you’re unsure about the process, hiring a professional furniture maker can ensure a flawless result.
Option 2: Paint for a DIY-Friendly Update
If refinishing sounds too involved, painting your wood furniture or cabinetry is an excellent alternative. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a dated piece, but prep and paint choice matter.
Step 1: Proper Prep is Key
- Sand thoroughly to remove as much of the old finish as possible. At the very least, scuff the surface to eliminate gloss.
- Use a chemical deglosser (available at paint stores) to help break down the sheen and improve paint adhesion.
- Apply a high-quality primer to prevent peeling and ensure a smooth topcoat.
Step 2: Choose the Right Paint
Not all paints are suitable for furniture. For best results, opt for:
- Water-based urethane paint – Applies like standard latex but offers far greater durability.
- Enamel paint – Provides a hard, smooth finish that resists wear and tear.
Both options are more resilient than regular wall paint, making them ideal for furniture that sees daily use.
Bonus Tip: Mixing Wood Tones for a Modern Look
If you’re not ready to refinish or paint everything, another way to modernize your space is by intentionally mixing wood tones. Instead of matching all your wood finishes (which can feel monotonous), try combining:
- Dark woods (like espresso or black-stained pieces)
- Light natural woods (such as oak or ash with minimal stain)
- Painted wood accents (in neutral or bold tones)
This layered approach keeps the space feeling fresh and intentional rather than dated.
Final Thoughts
Outdated wood finishes don’t have to dictate your home’s style. Whether you choose to refinish, paint, or mix wood tones, a few strategic updates can bring your space into the present. For a high-end look, refinishing is ideal, while painting offers a budget-friendly, DIY solution. Either way, saying goodbye to yellowed oak tones will instantly make your home feel more current and stylish.
I’m the owner of Benham Design Concepts, a mixed media art studio where I design and build custom furniture and other works of art using wood, glass, stone, and various metals.
In this blog, I talk about the art I create, my journey, and the things I learn along the way.