How to Decorate a Kitchen Using Earth Tones

The Cabinets and Countertops

• Choose cabinets and countertops whose colors and finishes complement each other. Cabinets are an easy way to introduce earth tones. Cabinets made of or stained to look like deep cherry, dark mahogany or blond pine represent the natural wood and can be paired with ceramic tiles in shades of sandy tan or clay red. Glass tiles, available in either singular shades or in a combination of colors, are an easy way to introduce earth tones. Singular shade glass tiles in either light green or sky blue adds lightness and can work with cream-colored cabinets. Opt for glass tiles in a combination of dark browns, sage green and golden yellows to use with cabinets in deep shades such as dark maple or reddish cherry.

  Stainless steel countertops will reflect the light of the glass tiles but can work against the warmth that earth tones usually convey. Opt for natural countertops, such as granite, slate or butcher block. These natural elements will work with the warm tones to soothe the coldness of your existing black, white or stainless steel appliances.

The Walls

• Bring in more earth tones on the walls. Consider colors that will complement the cabinets and countertops. Balance dark brown cabinets with walls in shades of light green or light brown. Consider other colors found in nature that are not necessarily popular choices. Deep gray, found on mushroom tops, adds richness to walls in a kitchen with cherry cabinets. Rich yellow, like an egg yolk, adds sunshine and cheer to a room with cream-colored cabinets.

The Accessories and Appliances

• Should replacing the appliances not be feasible, use accessories to balance the appliances. Put natural, organic elements to work to counter the inorganic, utilitarian essentials such as the refrigerator and stove. Use the nubby texture of bamboo to soften the hard-edged appliances. Dress the windows and add texture with bamboo shades, and protect the countertops with bamboo place mats. Bring in more earth tones and organic elements with an earthenware jug to hold serving spoons and other utensils and pieces of slate tile repurposed as trivets. Literally bring in nature with small clay pots filled with herbs such as mint, lavender and parsley.

The Flooring

• Anchor and reinforce the earth tone kitchen with the appropriate flooring. Choose a material that can withstand heavy foot traffic and, potentially, water damage. Also make sure that it's easily cleaned. Linoleum is available in earth tones and can be used to create patterns. Reinterpret the traditional black and white checkerboard linoleum floor with a nature-inspired checkerboard in sage green and light tan. Ceramic tile, in shades of either light or dark brown or gray, can withstand scratches and dings and add organic texture, as can gray slate tiles with streaks of brown, red and gold. Hardwood floors are natural, warm and homey and can be stained in almost any earth tone. Protect the hardwood with polyurethane, which will seal the floor against moisture damage.