19 Don’t use dark woods.
While dark wood features are undeniably classic and pretty—whether it’s your kitchen table or on your seating furniture—light woods are what really brighten the home. Instead of looking closed off with dark or stained options, opt for pieces made from something lighter, like oak, maple, ash, birch, or hickory. And if you’re brave enough, you can always go over dark cabinets with a fresh coat of white paint to totally transform your space.
