A Guide to White Oak Cabinets: The Must-Have Wood for Modern Kitchens

Are you considering white oak cabinets for your kitchen remodel? There are many things to love about this wood species. White oak cabinets are known for their incredible durability and water-resistance among many other benefits. Additionally, they add lots of character and charm to modern, contemporary and transitional kitchens.

You may be wondering if this is the right material for you. After all, there are many types of oak to choose from and it’s offered in all kinds of finishes. What if you can you get the same look at a lower cost? What colors pair best with white oak cabinets? And what can you expect from this wood species over time?

We are here to answer all these questions and more. From what to expect with white oak cabinets to why it’s popular, let’s explore what you need to know below. 

White oak is a popular North American wood species. It’s gained popularity because of its modern appearance and beautiful color. Rather than the wavy cathedral grain patterns of early 2000s golden oak, it offers tight grain patterns making it very water-resistant and uniform. Because of this grain pattern, white oak also accepts stains very easily making it perfect for a variety of color options.

Many cabinet companies offer their white oak species in quartersawn or rift sawn cuts. This cut is popular because it creates a straighter grain appearance. The overall color is creamy beige with yellow undertones making it neutral, but this can vary based on the batch of lumber. All these features are the main reasons why white oak cabinets are so popular.

Both red and white oak are great for indoor projects and incredibly durable. However, if you compare white oak and red oak side-by-side, white oak is slightly darker. Red oak is lower in cost because of its abundance which is why you will find white oak at a higher price. Overall, white oak is a great option for an updated, timeless and modern kitchen remodel.

Like any other wood species, white oak cabinets will change color with age. Most people know this wood type by its lighter cream color. However, you will notice the wood’s color settling into a darker tan or amber tone over time as it’s exposed to UV rays, water and potentially chemicals. We all love the light and bright tone of freshly installed white oak. But be prepared for the color to get a little darker over time.

Do you love having flexibility in your color palette? If you answered yes, this is just one more reason why white oak cabinets are a popular choice. There are many options to choose from because of its neutral color. As you can see below, there are quite a few options that all provide different looks. Choose which color combination works best for your family and the style you’ve chosen.

• Black with White Oak | Moody and Modern
• Green with White Oak | Earthy and Inviting
• White with White Oak | Chic and Minimal
• Gray with White Oak | Contemporary and Sleek
• Blue with White Oak | Fresh and Inspiring

Do you need help choosing your kitchen cabinet colors? Talk to a CliqStudios designer for free help today!

We recently launched several finishes in a white oak look: Lynx, Marten, Caribou and Kestrel. Our finishes are created by using quartersawn red oak with a color blocker to mute the reddish-pink undertones. By doing this, we can offer the white oak cabinet look with more readily available red oak lumber.

Check out Craftsman line’s Berkeley, Brentwood inset, Fitzgerald inset and Talbot inset door styles to see all four unique finishes: Lynx, Marten, Caribou and Kestrel. Now you can get the high-end look for less. Explore this stunning modern wood species for your kitchen remodel today.

Shop CliqStudios’ white oak look now!