Joanna Gaines' Signature Cabinet Finishes: A Comprehensive Guide
Joanna Gaines, the renowned interior designer and co-host of HGTV's Fixer Upper, is celebrated for her unique style that combines rustic and modern elements. One of the most noticeable aspects of her designs are the cabinet finishes she chooses. If you're a fan of Joanna's work and want to incorporate her signature style into your own home, you've come to the right place. Let's delve into the cabinet finishes Joanna Gaines loves to use.
Understanding Joanna's Aesthetic
Before we dive into the specific finishes, it's essential to understand Joanna's design philosophy. She favors warm, inviting spaces that blend old and new, rough and smooth. Her cabinets often serve as the backbone of her designs, setting the tone for the entire room. Now, let's explore the cabinet finishes that have become synonymous with Joanna's style.
Dark Stained Cabinets
One of Joanna's go-to cabinet finishes is dark stain, often in shades of espresso, black, or dark walnut. This finish adds depth and richness to a space, creating a bold, dramatic look. Dark stained cabinets are perfect for creating contrast against lighter countertops and backsplashes, a common theme in Joanna's designs.

- Pros: Adds drama and warmth to a space, creates a striking contrast with lighter elements.
- Cons: Can make a small space feel smaller, requires more maintenance to keep the finish looking its best.
White Cabinets
On the other end of the spectrum, Joanna also loves using white cabinets. This classic choice brightens up a space and creates a clean, fresh look. White cabinets are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of styles, from modern to farmhouse.
- Pros: Creates a bright, airy feel, pairs well with various design styles.
- Cons: Can show every smudge and fingerprint, may not be the best choice for homes with kids or pets.
Weathered Wood Cabinets
For a rustic, farmhouse feel, Joanna often uses weathered wood cabinets. These cabinets feature a distressed finish that gives them a time-worn look. They're perfect for creating a cozy, inviting space and work particularly well in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Pros: Adds character and warmth to a space, creates a rustic, farmhouse feel.
- Cons: May not be as durable as other finishes, can be more expensive due to the distressing process.
Two-Tone Cabinets
Another trend Joanna loves is two-tone cabinets. This involves using two different colors or finishes for the upper and lower cabinets. It's a great way to add visual interest and depth to a space. Joanna often pairs dark lower cabinets with lighter upper cabinets, or vice versa.

| Upper Cabinets | Lower Cabinets |
|---|---|
| White | Dark Stain (e.g., Espresso) |
| Light Gray | Weathered Wood |
As you can see, Joanna's cabinet choices are diverse and can be tailored to fit various design styles. Whether you're going for a bold, dramatic look or a bright, airy feel, there's a cabinet finish that's perfect for your space. So, go ahead and channel your inner Joanna Gaines – your dream home is within reach!