Are Wood Cabinets Coming Back?

ProSource Wholesale | 8/20/2024

Tricks of the Trade is an article series dedicated to providing answers to commonly asked questions. The interviews are conducted with ProSource Wholesale^® trade professional members, looking to offer their insights and experience to these thoughts that arise during the building or remodeling process.

 

Jordan Willaby is the owner of Willaby Way and an interior designer member at ProSource of Plymouth (MN).

 

Homeowners choosing wood cabinet finishes will be pleased to hear that they are making a comeback, adding depth and warmth to many homes.

 

Wood cabinets introduce a natural feel into a space and break up the monotony of an all-white or single-color room. Slowly introducing wood into a space through a kitchen island or a beverage bar helps achieve that diversified look.

 

 

The Impact of Wood Grain Cabinetry

 

Recently, many homeowners are getting tired of the sterile, or starkness of all-white kitchens and are more open to fun, multi-colored designs.

 

As kitchens expand with open concepts and butler’s pantries becoming more common, homeowners are mixing and matching paint and wood finishes in their cabinetry designs. They’re more willing to do a painted cabinet on an island with wood cabinets hung on the outside of the space with matching wood cabinetry finishes in their butler’s pantry.

 

This passion for a more natural look with wood grains that pop, extends to the color and material pairings we’re seeing in these spaces. We’re seeing more beiges and creams. We’re seeing more natural looking veining in countertops and more earthy materials for cabinet hardware like brass or an oil-rubbed bronze. These combinations pair well with an accented backsplash, creating layers of depth and texture within the space.

 

This popularity we’re seeing makes ProSource such a great resource for products in the space. They carry different cabinet lines that have a variety of different species and stains, helping homeowners find the exact cabinets that they’re looking for at the price point right for them. These stains include maple, oak, alder, hickory, birch walnut, pecan, and more, providing stunning natural, unique characteristics throughout the space.

 

Each of these wood stains ensure easy maintenance and less susceptibility to discoloration than your average cabinet, making them more attractive to clients looking for a long-lasting option.

 

Wood Cabinets Around the Home

 

Wood cabinet finishes aren’t just making a comeback in the kitchen. The bathroom is a great place for wood look cabinets, because it exudes that warmth and organically cozy feeling that you want to provide in that space. It’s where you’re starting and ending every day, so you want it to feel natural and calming, which wood provides.

 

Incorporating wood cabinets into a home office adds a touch of timeless elegance, showcasing the rich tradition of wood grains and stains that exudes confidence. The versatile wood complements darker-toned walls, bringing a warm and comforting texture to the space.

 

In the living room, built-in wood cabinets enhance the space’s comfort and style. Whether they complement the wood stains of the floors or stand out as a focal point, these cabinets beautifully display family photos, mementos, art pieces, and more.

 

In mudrooms, wood cabinets serve as a stylish accent in a room often focused on functionality. While they may not be the first thing that comes to mind when redesigning, the style and warmth they bring can transform the space. Plus, they provide essential storage for everyone coming in and out of the home.

 

Design Trends Shaping Wood Cabinet Appeal

 

Designing spaces with wood cabinets as the focal point requires a tailored approach for each project. Just as no two spaces are the same, no two wood cabinets are identical. The beauty of wood cabinetry lies in its craftsmanship, with each door showcasing its unique artistry—a feature that continues to drive its popularity.

 

In a recent kitchen project, we installed slab wood doors that brought a modern twist to the traditionally popular natural wood stains. These classic stains are making a strong comeback, outshining the once-dominant trends of gray and whitewashed cabinetry. Natural wood stains harmonize beautifully with the beige and cream wall colors that are currently in vogue.

 

A significant part of this resurgence is due to advancements in design technology. As designers, we can now create detailed renderings that allow clients to visualize different products and design elements within their space. This capability breathes new life into timeless classics, like wood cabinets, by showcasing their potential in a modern context.

 

These renderings often introduce clients to options they might not have considered—such as cabinet door shapes, countertop colors, faucet finishes, or lighting choices. One inspired design idea naturally leads to another, creating a cohesive and innovative look.

 

Ultimately, these explorations often lead to the selection of wood cabinet stains that best fit the space. Partnering with ProSource, with its diverse cabinet lines and wide range of stain options to suit various budgets, further supports this trend of revitalizing wood cabinets.

 

Tagged: Cabinets Vanities Kitchen Design