In recent years, we've seen a growing trend toward darker, moodier furniture finishes that bring a sophisticated touch to any space. At Casa Kids, we decided to explore this trend by introducing more walnut finishes mixed with black accents into our furniture designs, creating pieces that feel both grown-up and stylish while staying true to our commitment to functional and beautiful kids' furniture.
The Inspiration Behind the Trend
Inspired by classic mid-century pieces like the iconic Eames chair, which pairs a walnut veneered plywood frame with black leather cushions, we wanted to bring this refined aesthetic to children's rooms. Traditionally, kids' furniture tends to be light and airy, often utilizing white accents to create a sense of openness. However, we saw an opportunity to do something different—something that would appeal to both children and their parents who appreciate a more mature design sensibility, as seen in Pierce's room below.
Debuting at the ICFF Trade Show in 2022
We first showcased this walnut and black finish combination at ICFF, creating customized versions of our Marino twin over full bunk bed and Dumbo desk, with the reception being overwhelmingly positive. Many interior designers and parents loved the rich, sophisticated look of the furniture because it was a departure from the typical light and bright children's room décor. Our pieces stood out, demonstrating that darker finishes can indeed work beautifully in kids' spaces, particularly in larger rooms where the darker finishes don't overwhelm the space.
Perfect for All Rooms
Furniture finished with black accents is exceptionally well-suited for larger kids' rooms or those with ample natural light, as seen in Leif's room below. The darker tones add warmth and a sense of coziness without making the room too dark. However, this combination can also be a stunning choice for smaller bedrooms. To ensure a balanced look in smaller spaces, we recommend pairing the furniture with walls painted or wallpapered in lighter or white color palettes to maintain a bright and airy feel.
The Appeal of Mid-Century Modern Design
Mid-century modern design emerged in the mid-20th century and continues to captivate homeowners and design enthusiasts with its unique blend of functionality, simplicity, and timeless appeal. This design style embraces clean lines and a sense of minimalism, combining form and function effortlessly. Influenced significantly by the Bauhaus movement and Scandinavian design, mid-century modern characteristics include:
The Benefits of Walnut and Black Combinations
Our Commitment to Innovation
Since debuting at ICFF designs and showcasing those samples at our showroom, we've completed numerous projects that showcase the versatility and beauty of this combination. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly with other elements in the room, providing a cohesive and elegant look that parents and kids alike can appreciate.
Visit Our Showroom
We'd love to have you at our showroom to see these and the rest of our sample pieces up close, experience the craftsmanship and quality that go into every piece, and get inspired by the possibilities for your child's room. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to update an existing space, our team is here to help you create a room that's both stylish and functional! Book your showroom visit today!