The Affordable Way To Get In On The Burl Wood Kitchen Trend (Without A Reno)

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There's beauty in the imperfections of our natural world. Flaws and all. We always look on with awe when we experience the outdoors – even if it's less than symmetrical. Modern decor is taking a page out of Mother Nature's book. There's a growing demand to ditch the tidy perfection of minimalism and move towards interior design that feels more authentic and organic. That means decorating with more natural materials, like burl wood — a stunning option born from flaw. This unique wood is used for a range of applications in kitchen design, including cabinetry and countertops. However, if a reno isn't in the books, you can bring the magic of burl wood into your space through decor pieces, too.

For the uninitiated, burl wood is cut from deformities and abnormal growths on trees that would otherwise go to waste. And though it often looks like a tumor, it features naturally varied, swirling patterns in the grain, making it a rare gem. As interior designer Nicholas Potts shared with Homes & Gardens, "What we love about a burl veneer is that each piece is singular... no tree (and no burl) is ever alike, and it provides an opportunity for a one-of-a-kind space." Which is exactly why burl wood is trending for home decor. "Our clients are coming to us wanting spaces that are very personal and material forward... possibly a bit of fatigue from the washed-out, algorithm-fueled aesthetic that's consumed design for the past decade or so," he explains. In other words, there is a warm, lived-in quality to burl wood that any kitchen can benefit from.

Regardless of your interior color palette, you can seamlessly incorporate this organic texture into your home. While fairly rare, growths can materialize on just about every type of tree, from elm to walnut. Each tree produces a different type of burl wood, featuring its own unique colors and patterns. Generally, the undertones of the burl are similar to the wood of the host tree. Whether you prefer dark or light wood, there will be a burl equivalent to suit your style. Opt for walnut burl for a dark, moodier accent. If you prefer lighter tones, try out olive or elm burl.

With burl wood trending, there's an abundance of home decor and kitchen accessories to choose from. Just about any typical wood piece will have a burl wood equivalent. You could create an island centerpiece with this ThuyaWoodCraft Burl Serving Tray on Etsy. Or, use this Maple Burl Dish by Art of Turning as a fruit bowl to add a dramatic, earthy touch. For an even better bargain, find vintage burl wood dishware, kitchen tables, sculptural decor, and more secondhand at thrift or antique shops. This type of wood was a popular material during the Art Deco and 1970s decor eras, so you don't have to buy new. Either way, these subtle accents might not have the same impact as burl wood cabinets, but they still carry the perfect imperfection of this unique wood, infusing your home with warmth and authenticity.