Collaborative Post¦ The easiest way to make any kitchen welcoming and luxurious is to add as many natural elements as possible, such as wood. Whether it’s American black walnut or Tulipwood, wood’s impact in the kitchen is like no other element.
Of course, every wood-based item must be equipped with proper finishings and water-resistant coatings to make them durable against moisture. At the same time, investing in qualitative wood is essential to avoid wear and tear, so anything between oak, maple, and cherry can become a lifetime option for your kitchen.
Solid wood brings character to your kitchen, and it’s got plenty of benefits. Still, for those who are on a budget, there are several alternatives, so let’s dive into the wood dilemma.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/brown-wooden-kitchen-cabinet-with-sink-Ws82-2bOUkw
Solid wood is durable
Since solid wood is entirely comprised of wood and does not include any other composites, its durability and strength are superior. Its form is natural, making it a lifetime investment since it can withstand temperature fluctuations, knocks, or regular wear and tear.
Moreover, it maintains the same form and colour, especially when treated with wood preservative coatings. The biggest advantage of solid wood kitchens is they can last through generations. However, the upfront cost of solid wood cabinetry can be quite expensive.
Solid wood is sustainable
Since solid wood is a long-lasting material and a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, it has a low environmental impact. Even if you want to replace it, solid wood is recyclable and biodegradable, so someone can repair it or create something new from it.
Moreover, solid wood has natural insulating properties, so it retains heat and keeps your kitchen warmer during colder months. Solid wood can also absorb and release kitchen moisture without suffering damage.
Solid wood fits any kitchen design
Solid wood has a special appeal in every final product, from oak to maple and birch. Oak is brighter, while walnut usually comes in a dark brown, making it the perfect high-end element for furniture. Mahogany and acacia wood also come in unique colours.
Therefore, solid wood is great for any type of kitchen design, from the traditional Shaker style to the modern Industrial design. Wood and earthy elements, combined with stainless steel or metal, form unique kitchen styles for anyone’s tastes.
Still, you may want alternatives
Despite its numerous benefits, solid wood might not be everyone’s cup of tea due to its prices, even if the costs are justified. In addition, solid wood is heavy and difficult to move, posing challenges to a redesigning move.
Luckily, there are several options for solid wood, such as engineered wood, whose composition consists of a few wood products fixed together. While it’s not really a budget option, engineered wood is less expensive and is more moisture-resistant than solid wood due to its numerous layers. Engineered wood includes plywood, particleboard, and medium-density fibreboard (MDF).
Bamboo is also a great alternative, and it’s cheaper than hardwood. This eco-friendly option is scratch—and dent-resistant and comes in waterproof ranges. Bamboo is great for kitchen floors, but proper design can transform it into any type of kitchen material.
How to maintain a wooden kitchen
Long-term maintenance for a wooden kitchen requires several things from you as a homeowner. Even if you opt for solid wood and not its cheaper alternatives, you must be wary of humidity, cleaning products, and light exposure.
Humidity, whether water or steam, can affect the wood’s resistance and lead to swelling or mould. It’s best to make a habit of wiping off water drops or steam immediately as they form and ensure there’s not too much humidity in the kitchen.
Secondly, wooden kitchens require cleaning with neutral detergents and a soft cloth. Solutions like acetone, ammonia, or alcohol-based products are not recommended, especially for wood with finishes, as they strip the furniture’s top layer.
Finally, ventilate the kitchen frequently and use an extractor hood when cooking. Clean air and proper ventilation can save wooden kitchens from damage, but be wary of prolonged light exposure, which can cause discoloration sooner than it should.
How to design a perfect wooden kitchen
While choosing mostly wood-based elements, such as countertops and chairs, is pretty straightforward, designing and decorating the kitchen can pose challenges. It’s best to take the opportunity to transform your wooden kitchen into a harmonious and homey room and introduce more natural materials, such as stone, to contrast with the wood’s tones.
Stainless steel or copper are also great when accompanied by either light or dark wood materials. Plants are essential in a wooden kitchen, as they help absorb moisture and offer a natural aesthetic.
How much wood is too much?
Sometimes, even the wood aesthetic is too much, so yes, you can overdo it even with wood. If the material is present on the island, in the wood cabinets, and in windows, it might be rather difficult to maintain it, especially in a kitchen. While it’s visually appealing, too much wood in the kitchen doesn’t ensure the same stability and durability. For some areas, it’s best to blend wood with materials like stainless steel to create that contemporary look.
Moreover, high-end wood materials for the entire kitchen, including cutlery or decorations, will cost considerably. Solid wood is already pricey due to its labour-intensive processing and market demand, so there’s no wonder that similar products will follow the costs.
That’s why sometimes it’s best to choose fewer trendy elements for your kitchen and focus on functionality rather than aesthetics. Wood will also provide both, but it may not be the best option for a full wooden kitchen.
Do you consider solid wood for your kitchen?
Solid wood is one of the best options for kitchen cabinetry as it’s durable, aesthetic, and sustainable. Despite its high costs, many interior designers choose it for a kitchen design as it’s a lifetime investment. Still, since not everyone can afford it, alternatives like engineered wood or bamboo ensure the same looks at a lower price. In addition, if you’ve got a wooden kitchen, you must maintain it through sensible cleaning solutions and by avoiding humidity.
Cover photo by Max Vakhtbovycn: https://www.pexels.com/photo/modern-kitchen-with-wooden-wall-and-white-cupboard-6508350/