Looking for wild wood? Here are a few ideas:

1.      AUSTRALIAN CYPRESS – Cream-colored wood with hard knots; imported from Australia; great pine substitute for a rustic look; strong contrast of dark and light shades.

2.      BAMBOO – has short planks made from tropical grass; a porous wood with light cream and brown colors.

3.      BRAZILIAN CHERRY – Warm brown tones with subtle accents of orange and red; contrasts well with maple cabinets; can highlight the dark tones of black granite countertops.

4.      EBONY – A deep black color; often used for dramatic effect.

5.      IPE – One of the hardest woods available; rich nut-brown color with a plain grain; distinctively eye-catching.

6.      PURPLEHEART – Typically a deep purple color but can also include brown tones; straight grain with medium to fine texture; provides contemporary look and contrasts beautifully with lighter woods.

7.      SANTOS MAHOGANY – Medium to light brown tones; finely grained with a high degree of luster.

8.      TEAK – Yellowish-brown wood from Asia; has natural oils and tannins that make it resistant to rot; sometimes used as an accent strip with lighter woods; compliments stainless steel appliances or black countertops.

9.      YELLOWHEART – Light grain and an intense yellow color.

10.  ZEBRA – Usually used to highlight other woods; black and light tan colored stripes.