At Merillat Cabinetry, we believe the next big cabinet trend is the return of oak cabinetry. In fact, we’re so sure that we’re launching new options in oak this fall.
Dan Smith, our Director of Product Management, says that “Oak is gaining popularity again, and we wanted to introduce new products to meet this need. The new, darker colors available in oak add a richness and contrast to kitchens, especially when paired with a Shaker-style door.”
On November 12th, new door style Glen Arbor, and current door style Tolani, will be made available in oak, followed by the introduction of new colors Amaretto, Pecan and Kona in oak, on December 10th, 2013.
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, 2012 Kitchen & Bath Style Report,“…a number of lesser-used woods are being specified more often, including oak, which is specified by twice as many designers now (22%) versus two years ago…” It’s really no surprise. Oak is a heavy wood that is extremely durable, making it ideal for the everyday use, not to mention our designers have started to see oak return in new styles such as modern farmhouse, rustic industrial and contemporary trends.
Lori Lewandowski, our Manager of Design Services adds that “Even though we’ve continued to provide cabinetry options in oak, homeowners took a bit of a break from it, and it wasn’t a popular design choice for a while. However, oak cabinetry is gaining popularity again thanks to the resurgence of oak flooring, a true American favorite. Now, with so many new colors and options, oak is fresh and new again.”
If you like texture, the medium-fine grain in oak offers dramatic lines that play quite differently off each finish color – even on painted finishes this grain pattern is noticeable. The door style and finish selection can make an oak kitchen look and feel very different. Consider the goals for your project and the look you want to achieve.
Coming November 12, 2013… New Merillat Classic ® Tolani in Oak
Coming December 10, 2013… New Pecan and Amaretto Stain
For the rustic industrial look, incorporate metal hardware, stools and light fixtures to balance the natural cabinetry.
- Merillat Masterpiece® Mesa in Oak Chocolate w/ Cocoa Glaze
With warmer stains, try balancing the color of the cabinetry with cool floors and accent tiles to make the design feel more current.
Coming November 12, 2013… New Merillat Classic® Tolani in Oak
Coming December 10, 2013… New Kona Stain
Oak’s wood grain comes through nicely in darker stains, which highlight the natural beauty of the wood in a contemporary way.
Merillat Masterpiece® Breland in Oak Onyx Paint
For a dramatic effect, add a white countertop and some pops of color for eye catching contrast.
Coming November 12, 2013… New Merillat Classic ® Cannonsburg in Maple (Cotton w/ Tuscan Glaze)
New Merillat Classic ® Tolani in Oak
Coming December 10, 2013… New Kona Stain
If you like contrast, or like the look of darker cabinets but need to add some brightness to your kitchen, try pairing a darker oak cabinet with a painted white island. A white tile back-splash can tie it together seamlessly.
