Here are two examples of what I mentioned above:

Greene & Greene Craftsman Kitchen · More Info

Urban Farmhouse Kitchen · More Info

That's an interesting idea, I haven't heard of zebra wood before. Thanks for the tip!

I prefer some contrast, so I suppose it depends on the color of your cabinets...

I have a lot of wood in my kitchen in that I have oak cabinets, oak floor and butcher block on the island. It is not overwhelming to me because there is also lots of light colored things - white appliances, white farmhouse sink, creamy walls, white trim. I also have an L shaped kitchen, so two walls without wood cabinets though one has a wood pie-safe. If I had a larger kitchen, I would do like in the first pic and have less upper cabinets. However, as my kitchen is on the small side, I need my uppers. I do have a glass door and a plate rail which also break up the wood.

http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/57579129/thumbs/my-pics-work-in-progress

https://www.houzz.com/photos/my-pics-work-in-progress-phvw-vp~71048330

The glass doors, lack of uppers and pretty sinks are helping take away from the too much wood concern in your inspiration pics.

Kavanaghs - nice kitchen! The space is definitely a nice backdrop for color such as your art - which looks great there. I'd be tempted to add some fiestaware as well.

JhMarie - thanks for those observations. I had noticed the contrast with the backsplash and visual impact of the sink but hadn't noticed lack of uppers. Good point. Also have to say - I love your space. You did a great job with it.

LOVELOVELOVE kavanaghs kitchen! She has truly nailed the wood on wood look!