How to Decorate Dark Wall Colors Around Light Oak Wood

Pick a dark wall color that has the same undertones as the light oak wood. For example, light oak wood tends to have a cream or yellow tone in it, so you can choose a dark wall color such as a deep apricot, grass or moss green, or golden brown.

Hang pictures with a light oak frame. Choose prints that have the wall color as well as a pale yellow or cream color to help coordinate the room.

Stain the baseboards, windowsills and crown molding with a complementary light oak stain. This frames the room in the oak wood tone and adds balance to the dark wall color.

Pick upholstery fabrics, an afghan and throw pillows that incorporate the pale color of the oak wood and the wall color. This makes the room appear as if it were decorated by a professional.

Hang a mirror opposite a piece of the oak furniture such as a tall entertainment center or armoire. It reflects the oak wood and helps give continuity to the dark wall color.