What Colors Contrast With Light Oak Floors?

Black

• The rich, dramatic effect of black furnishings make rooms with light oak floors pop. Pair black upholstery with white cushions and throws for a comfy yet ultramodern effect that makes a personal statement. Or enhance the black with tones of gray to make an interesting graduated reference to the light oak flooring.

Browns

• Deep, rich browns are a natural accompaniment to light oak floors. Brown has enough contrast to break up the expanse of light coloring and is an authentic variation in tone of the oak shade. A bit less dramatic than black and more inviting for relaxing activities, browns add a homey note while still being stylish and current.

Reds

• For those who love to decorate with reds, light oak flooring is a great background tone to give the room a bit of warmth. Bright candy-apple reds, burgundies and soft brick reds go well with light oak flooring, providing eye appeal and an upbeat mood. Use beige, royal blue or gold to create additional accents.

Whites and Creams

• Another way to go with light oak flooring is to accentuate the light-reflecting qualities in the room. A white sofa and chairs, white draperies and prints with white backgrounds can bring an ethereal, light-infused quality to the room. The same effect can be produced with pale cream colors, or pale yellows to pick up the yellow tones in the flooring. This is a particularly good look for rooms with large windows, skylights or other light sources, and for small areas that can be made to feel larger with light colors.

Lavenders

• A pale lavender wall paint can bring immediate interest to a room with light oak flooring. This hue is light enough to enhance the color of the wood yet adds enough surprising contrast to give the room interest. Add deeper purple accents for an eye-appealing palette that is easy to enjoy.

Blues

• Many blues go well with light oak flooring, from deep cobalts to pale aquas. Even a careful mix of blues can add dramatic effects to rooms with light oak flooring. Beware of clashes, however, and try to use blues with the same undertones to bring the whole effect together.