cabinets Articles

For the last twenty years, painted kitchen cabinets have been the most popular among homeowners. In fact, white shaker cabinets outpace all others! However, in recent years the return of natural wood kitchen cabinets is making a comeback in a big way! A renewed appreciation for the warmth, versatility, and enduring appeal of what wood cabinets bring to living spaces is what homeowners are seeking.

Versatility In Design

One of the main factors contributing to the resurgence of natural wood cabinets is their versatility. From rustic farmhouse kitchens to sleek, modern spaces, natural wood can be used in various styles. Homeowners are increasingly drawn to the flexibility wood offers, allowing them to create personalized kitchen spaces that reflect their unique tastes and preferences. The newer style of wood kitchen cabinets is organic, modern, and beautiful. There any many more shaker styles being offered in different stains and shades of wood tones that create a cozy warmth in your space.

Sleek and Sophisticated Kitchen Design

Contrary to the misconception that wood is reserved for traditional designs, natural wood cabinets can exude sleek and modern sophistication. Darker wood varieties like walnut or cherry, when paired with minimalist hardware and clean lines, create a contemporary kitchen aesthetic. This blend of natural warmth and modern design elements adds depth and character to the space.

Rustic Charm in Farmhouse Kitchen Design

The rustic appeal of natural wood cabinets is a perfect match for farmhouse-style kitchens. Warm wood cabinets can bring a sense of coziness to the space. Farmhouse design is defined by its warmth and simplicity, using natural textures and materials like wood or steel. It's characterized by using vintage, or antique items blended with modern accessories. Paired with open shelving and earthy color tones, natural wood effortlessly captures the essence of a welcoming farmhouse kitchen.

Simple and Modern Kitchen Design

Modern kitchen design is more about embracing minimalism or simplicity in kitchen decoration. Natural wood cabinets are a great choice for creating simple and modern kitchen interiors. The medium to darker tone of natural wood cabinets adds dimension and depth to a kitchen space while maintaining warmth. These kitchen cabinets offer an enduring style, adding a sense of cleanliness to the kitchen. Darker wood slab front cabinets paired with white quartz countertops bring this modern kitchen design alive. 

Traditional Kitchen Design

Traditional kitchen design featuring dark wood cabinets creates a classic style. Raised panel cabinet doors, often crafted from rich hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry, show the craftsmanship characteristic of traditional styles. Detailing, such as intricate moldings and traditional hardware, adds an elegant and refined touch to the cabinetry. The warm, natural tones of wood contribute to a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making the kitchen the heart of the home. Traditional kitchens often embrace a cohesive color palette, where the wood cabinets serve as the focal point, complemented by neutral tones and classic finishes. This combination of wood and classic design elements transforms the kitchen into a space that creates an inviting room for both cooking and family gatherings.

Advantages of Natural Wood Cabinets

Here are some characteristics of natural wood cabinets that offer multiple advantages as kitchen cabinetry.

Durability: While trends may come and go, the durability and longevity of natural wood make it a practical investment. High-quality wood cabinets, when properly cared for, can withstand the test of time and continue to look beautiful for years. This emphasis on longevity appeals to homeowners who see their kitchens not just as a trendy space but as an enduring part of their homes.

Texture and Character: Natural wood brings a tactile quality to kitchen spaces that is hard to replicate with other materials. The visible grain patterns, knots, and unique characteristics of each wood type add depth and character to cabinets. This appreciation for the natural beauty of wood is a departure from the sterile aesthetic of some modern kitchen designs, creating a more inviting and personalized atmosphere.

Neutral color palette: The subtle tone of wood cabinets maintain a neutral color palette, promoting a sense of sophistication to your space. Wood tone cabinets have the ability to evoke warmth, texture, and timelessness to make them the ultimate neutral color palette. While trendy colors come and go, the elegance of wood endures. Opting for wood cabinets as a neutral backdrop ensures a lasting appeal that transcends fleeting design trends.

Soothing appearance: The calming tone of natural wood cabinets can affect your mood. It creates a sense of comfort and serenity, making the kitchen feel quieter. By incorporating wood cabinets as the foundational neutral element, homeowners can infuse their kitchens with a serene and welcoming atmosphere. The subtle warmth of wood creates a backdrop that is both comforting and stylish.

Types of Natural Wood Cabinets

Semi-Custom Cabinets

Semi-custom wood cabinets offer a middle ground between fully custom and stock cabinets, providing several advantages that cater to the preferences and needs of homeowners.  One of the primary advantages of semi-custom wood cabinets is the ability to personalize the design. Semi-custom cabinets are typically crafted with attention to detail and high-quality materials. These cabinets offer flexibility in terms of design and configuration. Homeowners can often choose from various styles, sizes, and organizational features to optimize the functionality of their kitchen or storage space.

For many years pine and oak were the most popular types of wood cabinets. In modern designs, wood cabinetry uses a variety of wood types and stains. Natural wood cabinets come in a diverse array of types, each offering unique characteristics and aesthetics. With custom cabinets you can actually choose a door style, wood choice, and stain color. Some of the most popular types of wood used for cabinets are:

Keep in mind all of these woods can be stained to your liking so if darker cabinets are your preference you can choose dark woods with a darker stain. You can do similar to achieve light wood cabinets and medium tone wood cabinets as well.

RTA Cabinets

Ready-to-assemble (RTA) wood cabinets offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for homeowners and contractors alike. RTA cabinets are often more budget-friendly than fully assembled or custom cabinets. Despite being ready-to-assemble, many of these cabinets offer a variety of styles, finishes, and wood types. This allows homeowners to choose options that complement their specific design preferences and match the overall aesthetics of their homes. Many RTA cabinets are constructed from high-quality wood materials, ensuring durability and longevity. This makes them a cost-effective solution without compromising on the quality of materials used in the construction.

RTA cabinets come in a range of designs and configurations, making them suitable for various spaces and designs. This versatility allows homeowners to find options that meet their specific needs and preferences. Many RTA cabinets are constructed from high-quality wood materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Here are some examples of RTA wood cabinet choices:

Conclusion

The resurgence of wood cabinets represents a notable trend in contemporary design, where homeowners are rediscovering the timeless appeal and versatility of this natural material. Wood cabinets bring warmth, character, and beauty to kitchens and other living spaces.  The recent popularity of wood cabinets signifies a return to a classic aesthetic that can easily be incorporated into many design styles; including modern, contemporary, farmhouse, and traditional.

When it comes to designing the perfect kitchen, few elements are as important as kitchen countertops and cabinets. Both of these components when chosen carefully can create a beautiful and cohesive look. Choosing the right kitchen countertops and cabinets can be a daunting task. There are many different materials, styles, and colors to choose from. This blog post will provide you with helpful tips and advice on how to create a coordinated look for your kitchen countertops and cabinets.

Designing a kitchen is no small task. When countertops and cabinets complement each other, they create a harmonious and balanced visual appeal. Whether you opt for sleek quartz countertops or luxurious granite countertops, choosing materials that complement the color and style of your cabinets can make a world of difference.

Choosing the right colors for your kitchen countertops and cabinets is very important. The colors you choose can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen, so it's important to choose wisely. Here are some tips on how to choose the right colors for your kitchen.

Consider the overall color scheme of your kitchen. Are you going for a monochromatic look with shades of white and gray? Or do you prefer a more vibrant and colorful kitchen? Take a look at your existing decor and choose colors that will complement and enhance the overall aesthetic.

Next, think about the size and layout of your kitchen. If you have a small kitchen, light and neutral colors can help create a sense of space and openness. If you have a large kitchen, you can experiment with bolder and darker colors to create a dramatic effect.

Think about the natural light in your kitchen as well. If you have a lot of natural light, you can get away with darker colors as they won't make the space feel too dark. However, if your kitchen is lacking in natural light, it's best to stick with lighter colors to help brighten up the space.

Select your cabinets first. A lot more goes into selecting cabinets than just color choice. You have to choose the style and finish, the type of material, and handles or pulls. An emerging kitchen cabinet trend is two-toned cabinets; the bottom cabinets are rich and dark, and the top wall cabinets are lighter. Or choosing your island island cabinets to be a darker or different color. Two-toned cabinets are an excellent option for someone who is a little adventurous and wants a more creative and open kitchen feel and design.

There are various things to consider when choosing a countertop to match your cabinets. First, we recommended avoiding matching dark cabinets with dark countertops. If you are contemplating this option, make sure your floor, backsplash and appliances are all light-colored to add some brightness to your kitchen. Otherwise, it may feel too dull. Dark cabinets usually look best with lighter countertops. The contrast will make the countertops and cabinets both pop.

If you have chosen lighter cabinets, you have a more of an extensive variety of countertop colors and textures to choose from. If you are looking for a fresh and clean feel, choose a lighter countertop option to match the lightness of your cabinets. Just make sure not to choose too light of a color, as it may make your kitchen feel too bright.  Although, lighter cabinets and countertops give the option to incorporate darker floors and accents. 

Choosing light cabinets also can give you the ability to select a busier, more colorful countertop color and texture. A current trend is selecting different countertop colors. One for the surrounding kitchen counters and a bolder stone for the island countertop. This style would really make a statement.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the color of your flooring, appliances, and other elements in your kitchen. You want your countertops and cabinets to complement these elements rather than clash with them.

By considering these factors and choosing colors that work well together, you can create a kitchen that is visually appealing and harmonious. Remember to trust your instincts and choose colors that make you feel happy and inspired. You can also schedule a free consultation with one of our design specialists who can help guide you through this process.

Shaker cabinets are one of the best choices for timeless kitchen design. These cabinets are a versatile design choice, working well for transitional, contemporary, modern, or traditional designs. Shaker style emphasizes simplicity and functionality.

1. Timeless Style

Shaker cabinets create a modern, clean, inviting style. These cabinets will not go out of style. Shaker cabinets have been popular since the mid 18th century when the Protestant sect named Shakers created them. The understated elegance and versatility can explain their ongoing popularity.

2. Classic White Shaker

White kitchens continue to be popular with homeowners. Shaker cabinets are a popular choice for all kitchen styles. The clean lines and sleek design make these cabinets an excellent choice for contemporary and modern design. Stainless steel appliances and modern decorative accents complement white Shaker cabinets well. However, they can just as easily be used with a traditional classic kitchen style. Adding the right countertops and hardware can definitely give Shaker cabinets a more traditional feel.

3. Shaker Cabinets Pair Well with Statement Countertops

The sleek design of shaker cabinets complement a more engaging statement piece for your countertop. The key is to find the right balance between the two design elements. You do not want your cabinets and countertops to be competing for visual interest. Open shelving is also an excellent design element to pair with Shaker cabinets.

4. Easy to Clean

Cabinets with embellished detail are beautiful, however they can be a cleaning nightmare. The simplistic design of Shaker cabinets mean they attract less dust and grime, making them easier to clean. To clean your Shaker cabinets use a mild cleaner and a damp cloth to wipe down.

5. Simple, Calming Design

Shaker cabinets are built with a flat center panel with square edges and minimal detailing. This is a practical design with clean symmetry. This type of design creates a visual calming effect. If you are looking to create a low-stress environment, Shaker cabinets are a great choice.

Looking to update your kitchen cabinets but not sure what to choose? Whether you are interested in a deep color choice or something more neutral there is an option for everyone. Take a look at what is trending in 2023.

Espresso Cabinets

Espresso kitchen cabinets are quickly becoming one of of the hottest design trends. Espresso cabinets are a sophisticated shade of dark wood that can create a modern feel with a timeless touch. One of the great things about Espresso kitchen cabinets is that they can stand alone or be paired with a lighter kitchen island for contrast to create a two tone kitchen design. If you want a rich, elegant look in your kitchen or bathroom, then Espresso cabinets are a great choice.

Green Cabinets

Green cabinets have become all the rage, adding a spark of color and interest to your space. All shades of green are appearing in kitchens, from blue-green, hunter green, sage green, to a calm light green. Green can add personality and an unexpected beauty to your kitchen.  Greens are also a very earthy organic color that can go well with a rustic or farmhouse design.

Gray Cabinets

Gray kitchen cabinets have come a long way from their “blah” reputation.  Gray kitchen cabinets give a since of sophistication to your kitchen while still maintaining a clean design. Gray cabinets offer a balance of warmth and neutrality. Gray works well with virtually any countertop or design style. The neutral hue is a timeless choice so it won't go out of style in a few years.

Blue Cabinets

One of today’s hottest trends is the use of blue cabinets in kitchens. Blue can be used for its calming effects, and the feeling of harmony it brings to those in a room. This color has proven to be popular in kitchens and bathrooms alike, given its bold yet versatile appearance. Light blue tones can bring energy to a space while navy blue finishes are best for traditional, conservative kitchen designs. You will often see blue cabinets used in two tone kitchen cabinet designs as well.

The kitchen is the center of your home, where families gather for meals and celebrations and memories are made. The kitchen is the focal point of your home and updating this space can make the most impact. You can add your personal style with a beautiful kitchen renovation while also adding value to your home. Remodeling projects that offer modern upgrades typically result in a higher resale value. What features add the most value in a kitchen remodel?

Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are one of the most versatile and customizable feature in a remodel. There are many designs and colors you can choose to add your personal style. Blues and greens are becoming a very popular choice to add some interest to your space.  New cabinets also add improved functionally and storage with many organizational options now available, such as pull out drawer for trash cans, pull down rack for spices, pull up stand for mixer, and many other options. Adding new hardware is a great way to dress up your cabinets and create the finishing touch.

Door Styles - These are some of the most popular door styles. You may see variations on each of these styles.

Recessed Panel

These cabinets get their name because their center panel rests inside a center frame.  These cabinets are typically called Shaker cabinets and are probably the most popular with homeowners. The pared back design works well in modern and traditional design styles.  Recessed panel cabinets are an affordable option in a kitchen remodel.

Raised Panel

On this cabinet door, the center panel is raised instead of recessed. These type of cabinets are more frequently seen in a traditional kitchen. Raised Panel cabinets have a varying degree of detail depending on which one you choose. Raised Panel cabinets tend to cost more than recessed because of the increased amount of detail.

Slab/ Flat Panel

Slab Panel cabinet doors are a very modern choice. Their door panel is completely flat with a very simplistic design with no trim. Because of their design it makes them very affordable and easy to clean.

Open

Open cabinet paneling exposes the interior cabinet shelving. Adding mullion glass doors is also an option. However, these can be used completely open. The open cabinet is a great choice if you have dishes, or glasses you would like to display. Pricing depends on choice of glass doors chosen.

Countertops

Countertops are an important investment and one that makes a huge impact in the appearance of your kitchen and its resale value. New countertops give an instant “facelift” to your kitchen and will definitely attract buyers. Upgraded countertops can give your kitchen an upscale modern feel. There are a lot of kitchen countertop options on the market right now, but the most popular and profitable for resale are granite, quartz and marble.

Granite

Granite countertops have long been the most popular surface chosen by homeowners. It has been considered a luxury countertop option for decades. Granite is a favored choice because it is a natural stone that has many variations in colors and designs. There is nothing as stunning as a natural stone, and each granite slab is unique. There is a huge amount of granite slabs to choose from. Granite is beautiful, durable, and has an organic charm.

Quartz

The popularity of quartz countertops have definitely been on the rise.  Quartz is an engineered material that is made of crushed quartz mixed with resin. Because of this quartz countertops are non-porous and don't require a sealer, making them very low-maintenance. They will not harbor bacteria and are scratch and stain-resistant.  As a man-made material, quartz countertops have a vast array of color, veining, and pattern options. One of the most popular quartz varieties you will see is white quartz created to look like marble. These quartz countertops look great in most design styles and will create a timeless appeal.

Marble

Marble countertops are one of the most luxurious updates you can add to a kitchen. It is definitely one of the most sophisticated, elegant, timeless materials you can choose. Marble is also a natural stone and is known for its rich color and deep veining. Nothing surpasses the natural beauty of marble. Marble countertops are often a great choice for a kitchen island. Marble countertops are softer than granite or quartz and will require a sealer. Marble naturally stays cool. They are a great choice for bakers. 

No matter what material you choose, to add the most value to your home, find an experienced fabricator to cut, finish and install your new countertops. Countertops that are not properly installed are more likely to chip, crack, or stain. And as always, working with an experienced professional who can get the job done right will add the most value to your home! Remember, we offer free in home estimates for countertops and cabinets!