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.

Homeowners are looking for something bold that will reflect their character and personality in the design. We always do our best to stay up to date to ensure our clients have the best options available to them. In this blog, we will share the latest trends in some of the hottest kitchen cabinet trend styles.

The first thing that is noticed in a kitchen is its cabinet finish. Whether it is paint, stain, or glaze, it can set the overall feel of the space. Each one has its benefits and particular strengths.

Many designers caution against following the latest trends, but they also encourage their clients to avoid a few additional design mistakes. If you are considering a renovation or even a new construction project, here are our top five biggest kitchen design mistakes to avoid.

A multi-functional space such as this means certain things need to be included when designing it. Today, we will talk about what you need in your laundry room essentials.

We can help create a pet-friendly space! While we are a custom kitchen and bath cabinet design center, we can also do much more because we specialize in creating unique solutions for your home.