The demand for high-quality cabinetry is beginning to trend upward according to a publication from KBB Magazine. Because we are finally seeing moderation in prices for lumber and other wood materials, property owners are starting to focus on upgrading to real wood elements in their kitchens. This is one of the reasons why unpainted wood in kitchens has been so popular and will continue to be so!
To celebrate the trend of natural wood in kitchens, I want to highlight one of my favorite choices: White Oak. It’s classic, versatile, timeless, and is an incredibly durable hardwood.
What’s great about white oak
Made from white oak hardwood, it’s regarded as one of the most durable and sturdy hardwoods available. This makes it an excellent choice for heavily used kitchens without sacrificing aesthetics.
White oak has a beautiful grain pattern and in my opinion, is the shining star in the unpainted cabinet trend. Its durability also allows for multiple stain options, or even paint to follow the blue/green cabinet trend.
How to style white oak
Pairing White Oak cabinets with an all-white kitchen creates a modern look with a warm undertone. The lightness of the natural wood tone makes it a great replacement for painted-white cabinets.
Add some contrast by incorporating a colorful backsplash, eye-catching hardware, or an impactful light fixture. Play with color and contrast to create your version of a perfect White Oak kitchen.
From a Feng Shui Perspective, White Oak represents Wood Element, which harmonizes Fire and Water. So if your design is feeling bogged down with the wood cabinetry, consider adding more Fire Element or Water Element. The addition of blue cabinets in EL Design's Eden Roc Reno is a great example of adding Water Element to White Oak.
Things to consider:
North American White Oak is known for its durability and consistency; specifically Appalachian white oak. So if you can, I recommend sourcing that variant.
White oak can go beyond cabinetry! There are plenty of furniture, shelving, and flooring options available for kitchens. Some of my favorites being:
Cobb Counter & Bar Stool with Back from Rejuvenation
White Oak Shelf from Rejuvenation
Apex White Oak Sideboard from Crate & Barrel
If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen with White Oak, here are some of my favorite sources and their recent projects:
Eden Roc Reno from EL Design Studio
Slim Shaker White Oak Kitchen Cabinets from Country Kitchens Online
Kitchen in White Oak from Bridgewood Cabinetry
Ares from Wegner Cabinetry
Trends come and go, but quality materials will never go out of style. And because of its versatility, I can see White Oak trending for years to come.
CONSULTATION PACKAGES
Julie and her team have a passion for creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces, focusing on both the physical as well as the emotional well being of your environment. Click on the links below for package details:
A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and existing furnishings you like to see incorporated in the design and a sketch of the space with measurements.
Need some assistance in selecting paint finishes for your home? A design collaboration done between client and designer done entirely online. Purchase the package below, submit photos of the space and and fabrics.
Whether it is directing the flow of chi through the arrangement of furnishings, design or colors; Julie and her team can help you to create the spaces that support your vision of a balanced life, rich in the areas that matter to you.
There is no second chance to make a good first impression. When the time comes to sell or rent your home, ease the transition and maximize return by helping your home look its very best.
Comments