Design Notes

Custom Cabinet Finishes

Color gets the attention. Preparation creates the finish.

Whether cabinetry is painted or stained, the final appearance depends on numerous steps that happen before you ever see the finished door.

Painted vs. Stained Cabinetry

Paint creates a more uniform color.

Stain celebrates wood’s natural character.

Neither is universally better.

They’re simply different design languages.

Wood Species Matters

Different species have different grain patterns and characteristics.

Walker offers standard species, including maple, quarter-sawn white oak, walnut, cherry, alder, and hickory, with additional species available for custom applications.

Painted Cabinet Materials

Material selection matters here too.

Walker uses MDF panels in painted doors because they’re less susceptible to the expansion and contraction patterns visible in hardwood panels.

green bathroom cabinets

Preparation Is Everything

Sanding and surface preparation create the foundation.

A premium finish can’t compensate for poor preparation.

Stain Celebrates Natural Variation

Wood is natural.

Variation isn’t necessarily a defect—it’s part of the material.

Two boards from the same species can absorb stain differently or display different grain.

That’s part of what makes wood cabinetry beautiful.

Think About the Whole Room

Cabinet finish should coordinate with:

  • Countertops
  • Flooring
  • Tile
  • Hardware
  • Lighting
  • Wall colors

The goal isn’t choosing the prettiest sample.

It’s choosing the finish that belongs in the overall design.

If you are looking for more ideas on incorporating these and other sustainable materials into your home design, browse platforms like Pinterest and Houzz to see what designers are creating for their clients.

Hardware is an essential part of designing an amazing and functional cabinet, as it enables you to open and close doors and drawers easily, while also adding a touch of your personality to the space.

Sometimes, they are the spark you need or the little “aha” moment that adds that final touch you’ve been missing. Let’s talk about the latest kitchen cabinet design trends for 2023.

As a new year begins, designers and homeowners alike look to the latest trends for inspiration as they prepare for upcoming projects. While trends may not be for everyone, they can sometimes spark the creative process, which is why we want to share some of the latest kitchen color trends for 2023.

Kitchen layouts are a critical part of the design process because they can help you make the most of your space. There are specific layouts better suited to a particular home, such as an apartment or large open area, making it essential to understand the function and benefits of each.