Traditional Kitchen Cabinets (Design Ideas)

Welcome to our gallery featuring beautiful traditional kitchen cabinets including design ideas for colors, door types, hardware and styles.
The traditional kitchen style is best known for its grandiose design. Although historical in nature, it continues to be one of the most well loved styles by homeowners and designers alike, because of its timeless appeal and classic beauty.

Traditional kitchens project the elegance and luxury of historical American and European homes of the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. The rich, classical ambiance and elegance of Traditional kitchen styles are highly reflected through its stunning cabinetry and woodwork. Every single piece of detail found in Traditional kitchen cabinets are true masterpieces which are worth to be showcased in any home.

Below we explore some of the key design features of traditional kitchen cabinets to help you decide whether their historic beauty is the right fit for your home. (Visit this page for more types of kitchen cabinet ideas)

Traditional Kitchen Cabinet Styles

The traditional kitchen cabinet style is an umbrella term for many different period styles. It encompasses different classic cabinet designs which have their own signature iconic looks – depending on the year or century it originated.

The traditional kitchen cabinet style includes  Antique style , Cottage style, Country style, Log Home, Arts and Crafts, Craftsman style, Mission style, Early American style, French Country, Old World style, Rustic style, Shaker style, Colonial style, Tudor style and Victorian style. It can also includes kitchen cabinet styles which have cultural influences such as the Italian style, Mexican style and Tuscan style.

Traditional Kitchen Cabinets Design

Characteristics of Traditional kitchen cabinets design

In general, traditional kitchen cabinets are known for their warm and classic appeal. It is characterized by a heightened style and meticulous attention to detail, which is reflected through the use of English and French design elements.

Traditional kitchen cabinets look more ‘heavy” and bulkier compared to modern kitchen cabinets mainly because they are dominantly made up of wood. It is more textured, thus projecting a rustic appeal and more timeworn vibe. Traditional kitchen cabinets also have an aged appearance, which make it feel homely and cozy.

Compared to modern and contemporary kitchen cabinets, traditional kitchen cabinets look more “mature” and project a sense of formality. It follows a strict type of aesthetic, yet projects a well lived in feel.

In summary, here are some other distinct characteristics of traditional kitchen cabinets:

Timeless look – Traditional kitchen cabinets have a time tested design that dates back to   the earlier times. Its timeless look is also one of its greatest advantage, as it does not go out of fashion and is proven to last for decades.

Attention to detail – Traditional kitchen cabinets focus on ornamentation through the use of decorative details and accessories such as moldings, trims, appliques and carvings.

Use of natural materials such as rich woods – Traditional kitchen cabinets are well known for their abundant use of natural materials such as solid wood in rich finishes.

Neutral palette and earthy colors – Unlike modern kitchen cabinets which are geared toward bold and vibrant hues, traditional kitchen cabinets make use of  a”classic color palette” that is comprised of warm and cool neutrals and earth colors.

Made to resemble antique furniture – To project a more homelike vibe, traditional kitchen cabinets are often designed to resemble antique furniture. Furniture details such as carved legs, post and feet are often added to base kitchen cabinets.

Layering of texture, color and detail – To stay true to its elaborate aesthetic, traditional kitchen cabinets put premium on layering design elements. Unlike modern kitchen cabinets which have a very sleek and smooth appearance, traditional kitchen  cabinets are more textured. Layering of finishes, such as adding glaze over paint, is also common as it gives more depth, drama and dimension to the design of the cabinetry.   This traditional design features antique white kitchen cabinets with a dark island for a dramatic contrast with two types of countertops.

Materials for Traditional Kitchen Cabinets

The traditional kitchen  style aims to bring the outdoors in the home through the use of natural materials like solid wood in their rich, natural finish. These woods are often carved to add textures and ornamentation to their appearance.

Here are some examples of wood used for traditional kitchen cabinet design

Cherry – Cherry is arguably the best type of wood for traditional kitchen cabinets. Its distinct deep reddish brown color and fine graining pattern suits the richness and luxurious aesthetics of traditional kitchen design. Cherry wood is prized for aging gracefully as it natural colors takes on different tones over time, offering different looks throughout its lifespan.

Cherry traditional kitchen cabinets are highly durable and can last for decades. They look best in a natural finish but can be enhanced with a clear wood stain to makes it undertones more prominent. See our gallery of cherry wood kitchens here.

Oak – Oak wood is primarily known for its distinctive golden hue, but its color ranges from white to pinkish tones with occasional streaks of green, yellow and black, depending on the mineral deposits present in the wood. Its natural warm color is a perfectly suited to the rich aesthetics of traditional kitchen cabinetry. In addition, oak is durable, long lasting and resilient. Two of the most popular species of oak used in traditional kitchen cabinets are Red Oak and White Oak. Red oak has a slightly reddish and yellowish undertone a more prominent graining pattern. It is less inexpensive compared to other types of wood. White oak, on the other hand, has a more golden color and a subtle graining pattern. This is typically quartersawn and used in custom traditional kitchen cabinetry.

Pine – Pine is characterized by its knotty appearance and pale yellow color. If your taste does not fit rich, deep and dark colored woods, then pine kitchen cabinetry is one of the options you can explore. Pine is a type of softwood and is inherently prone to dents, that is why before being manufactured into furniture or cabinetry, pine is typically subjected to pressure treatment to reinforce its strength and durability. Pine is best left in its raw, light color but it can also be stained to achieve a darker hue. Some popular species of pine used for traditional kitchen cabinet design are Eastern white pine and Western white pine.

Other species of wood used for traditional kitchen cabinets are hickory, maple, alder, teak,  walnut, birch, ash and maple.

Finishes for Traditional Kitchen Cabinets

Another key facet of traditional kitchen cabinet design is their aged, antique look. Getting the time worn look for traditional kitchen cabinets does not mean that you need to source for wood that dates back to the 18th century. The weathered characteristic of this type of kitchen cabinetry is achieved through different finishing techniques which produce a classic, old world appeal. Here are some common finishes for traditional kitchen cabinets:

Glazing  –  If you love the look of patina for your traditional kitchen cabinets, glazing is your best bet. The glazed finish is a premium type of traditional kitchen cabinet finish that produces a classic, time worn look. Glazes are transparent or semi transparent liquids that are typically hand wiped over the cabinet’s surface after staining or painting. This instantly transforms them into an aged look but also adds a glossy shine to traditional kitchen cabinets.

Glazing is also best used for highlighting decorative details and carvings such as moldings and trims because it creates a shadow effect. It comes in two general forms namely white glaze and dark glaze. White glaze is typically applied for white painted cabinets with dark glaze is used for dark stained cabinets. However, white cabinets can be applied with dark glaze if you want a more antiqued look.

Distressing  – Distressing is a type of faux finishing technique that gives traditional kitchen cabinets a weathered, antiqued look. The distressed finish subjects the primary cabinet material such as wood, to repetitive sanding and beating to create a worn out texture. After such, primer or paint is added then a top coat of antiquing glaze is placed on the cabinet’s surface. Opt for the distressed finish if you want a more laid back vibe for your traditional kitchen cabinets.  Read more about how to paint cabinets to look antique here.

Lacquering – Lacquering provides an extremely high gloss finish. Lacquer is a type of protective finishing material that is made up of shellac and ranges from a clear to colored wood colors. When lacquer dries, the result is an extremely hard and durable surface. You can use lacquering if you want to stick with the original appearance of your kitchen cabinets but want to give it a sheen.

Staining – Staining is typically used if you want to show off the natural beauty of wooden kitchen cabinets. It can also enhance the color and bring out the graining pattern of traditional wooden kitchen cabinets. Stains come in a different tones such as transparent ones which show off the natural color of wood, and  solid color stains which can change the color of wood and help hide its imperfections. Opt for stained traditional kitchen cabinets if you want a more handcrafted look”for your kitchen.

Painting –  Paint is a popular kitchen cabinet finish for “do it yourself projects”. Painting is typically used if you want to to hide the graining pattern of  wood kitchen cabinets. However if you want some of the natural grains to show through, traditional kitchen cabinets can be whitewashed. Paint can also be used to give traditional kitchen cabinets a whole new color or a lighter and more subdued appeal compared to rich woods.  Common paint colors for traditional kitchen cabinets are mostly neutrals like white, off white, beiges, cream and sand.

Unfinished – For a more rustic look, wooden traditional kitchen cabinets can also be left in their natural unfinished state. Other materials which can be used to enhance the natural color of wood are shellac, varnish and oil based or water based polyurethane.

Hardware Styles for Traditional Kitchen Cabinets

Hardware for traditional kitchen cabinets are more ornate and detailed, as compared to modern ones which are usually plain, simple and streamlined. Traditional kitchen cabinet hardware are available in a variety of designs which match period styles like the craftsman style, Victorian style, country, cottage or colonial. They typically have decorative details such as engravings and motifs in geometric, floral, leaves or scroll forms. The shapes are also more graceful, rather than  angular and straight. Common materials for traditional kitchen cabinet hardware are wood and metals like brass, iron, copper and bronze.

Here are some common types of cabinet hardware for traditional kitchen cabinet designs:

Door Knobs – Cabinet door knobs are typically old fashioned and are considered to be a classic kitchen cabinet hardware design. These are typically small in size and are usually round or square shaped.

Knobs come in many different materials such as , metal, wood, or glass. If you want to deviate from the natural coziness of wood, you can get a more the industrial appeal by using metal kitchen cabinet hardware. Wood knobs are also the perfect choice if you want a simple type of hardware that matches the material and color of your traditional kitchen cabinets. It is best paired with mixed wood cabinetry and old world furniture style kitchen cabinets.

(Chrome cabinet knob)

Cups and bin pulls – Cups and bin pulls are also known as “half moon pulls” because of their semi circular shape. Cup and bin pulls are mounted with the open end facing downward, thus they can only be operated from one direction. Cup bins and pulls are typically used for drawers.
Opt for this type of traditional kitchen binte hardware if you do not want a very strict, formal look and want to provide a fresh flair to traditional kitchen cabinets.

(Satin nickel cup pull)

Drop pulls – Drop pulls are a type of cabinet hardware that have a hanging handle, rather than being fixed. Drop pulls are commonly found in traditional furniture and can be used with raised panel kitchen cabinets, inset cabinetry or leaded glass insert cabinetry. Cup and bin pulls have a very simple look which is perfect for toning down ornate traditional kitchen cabinets. It is best paired with classic beige or white traditional kitchen cabinets. Opt for this type of traditional kitchen cabinet hardware if you want to create a furniture like feel to your kitchen cabinets or if you want to add a feminine touch to your kitchen design.

Bar pulls – Bar pulls can be long or short and are available in an assortment of sizes and finishes. A bar pull can modernize your traditional kitchen and give it a more contemporary look. These types of door hardware are often used on flat panel cabinet doors, however they also look great on Shaker style cabinetry.

(Stainless steel bar pull)

Decorative wire pulls – In general, wire pulls are kitchen cabinet pulls that have a simple, rounded edges, with no overhangs at the sides. Its profile is like a slim, shortened letter “C”. Wire pulls come in more decorative forms which fit the traditional kitchen design aesthetic. Accented wire pulls typically have decorative details like beading, fluted ellipses or a birdcage pattern.

Overall, decorative hand pulls offer simplicity, yet it does not lack elegance. Opt for decorative wire pulls if you want to add just the right amount of embellishment to your traditional kitchen cabinets without being too overwhelming. Accented wire pulls are best paired with glazed and distressed kitchen cabinets with a generous amount of architectural details like fluting, reeding and decorative columns.

Hardware with decorative back plates – Some traditional kitchen cabinet hardware include a decorative backplate for an added ornamentation and decorative interest. Knobs with decorative back plates are more ornamental rather than functional.

This type of cabinet hardware also adds a furniture like feel to traditional kitchen cabinets, while rendering a strong statement to the space. Opt for knobs with decorative back plates if you want a “dressy’ touch , and a formal old world feel for traditional kitchen cabinet hinges, doors and drawers. It is best paired with glazed and stained furniture style traditional kitchen cabinetry.

Common finishes of cabinet hardware for traditional kitchen cabinet designs:

To complete that aged look, traditional kitchen cabinets must not only be paired with the right design of cabinet hardware but also the the right color and finish.  

In general, hardware for traditional kitchen cabinets have an antique finish. Here are some popular traditional cabinet hardware materials and finish:

Antique Brass – Antique brass is characterized by a classic, aged look. Antique brass hardware is very durable as it is made up of different materials like lead crystal and pewter. Antique brass hardware is very sophisticated and its warm color with a hint of yellow tinge is best paired with light colored kitchen cabinetry. The color of antique brass hardware also stand out more in white and beige colored traditional kitchen cabinets.

Old Antique – Old antique cabinet hardware has a very unique deep brown color. This kitchen cabinet hardware finish projects a time worn, old world appeal which makes it perfect for traditional kitchen cabinet design. Old antique hardware can also cohesively tie all the decorative elements in a traditional kitchen. Old antique cabinet hardware is best suited with light colored cabinetry and can be paired with matching crown mouldings or decorative trims.

Old Copper – Old copper cabinet hardware also has an antique look that is reminiscent of old copper pots and pans. Old copper has a stand out color that is characterized by a unique reddish tone. Old copper cabinet hardware works best on white, beige and light colored traditional cabinets. If you also want to bring together the design of your traditional kitchen, try matching old copper traditional kitchen cabinet hardware with the same color of faucet and other fixtures.

Venetian Bronze – Darker than oil rubbed bronze, Venetian bronze cabinet hardware has a very dark color which is almost close to black but has accents of brown or bronze. It blends well with dark colored traditional kitchen cabinets, but bring in an interesting contrast when paired with light colored cabinetry. Opt for this type of traditional kitchen hardware finish if you want a rustic, country appeal.

Oil rubbed bronze – Oil rubbed bronze simulates the appearance of aged bronze through the use of chemicals. Oil rubbed bronze has a very dark color which ranges from deep chocolate brown to dark gray with copper undertones. It differs from the Venetian bronze finish as it has a lighter color, less oil surface and matte finish. Oil rubbed bronze cabinet hardware is best suited with distressed white, beige or light colored kitchen cabinetry. Overall, it brings sophistication and elegance to traditional kitchen cabinet designs.

Antique Iron – Antique iron cabinet hardware also has a very unique color, but its appearance is completely weathered as it is filled with imperfections. One stand out attribute of antique iron cabinet hardware is that it takes on different colors, both light and dark, depending on the lighting conditions of the space.  Antique iron is also very strong and sturdy. It works best for traditional kitchen cabinet designs with a country theme or rustic vibe.

Black – Black cabinet hardware matches different kitchen cabinet styles, including traditional settings. It creates a strong statement, but do not compete with the ornate beauty of traditional kitchen cabinets. It is best paired with light colored traditional kitchen cabinetry such as white, beige and light wood. However, it can also be used to offset dark colored kitchen cabinets.

Design Elements of Traditional Kitchen Cabinets

The signature look of traditional kitchen cabinets is created with a strict attention to detail. Carvings and other wood details enhance the overall look of a kitchen, while adding depth, texture and character to the cabinetry design.

With so many options and designs to choose from, it is easy to get carried away with using too much decorative embellishments to adorn your traditional kitchen cabinets. But choosing the right one will help you compose a well balanced, uncluttered and less overwhelming traditional kitchen cabinetry design.

Details used for traditional style kitchen cabinets:

Moldings – Moldings are ornamentation which are used to highlight the shape or outline of  furniture or cabinet. Moldings are typically placed around the perimeter of the kitchen cabinetry – the top, bottom and sides.Alternatively, it can also be added to the wall or ceiling. Molding comes in different shapes or profiles, sizes and thicknesses.

These includes base moldings, which are decorative features that run along the bottom part of the base cabinets, where the wall meets the floor. Another type is the crown molding, which is placed on top of the overhead cabinets, where the wall meets the ceiling. And last, the decorative trims which are embellishments that can be placed anywhere along the cabinetry.

Crown moldings bridge the space between the wall cabinets and the ceiling, thus producing a more seamless transition. An since the gap is void, there is no room for collecting dust on top of your overhead cabinets.

Valance – Valances are decorative details which are placed on the upper portion of a kitchen cabinet, hood or window. Just like in curtains and window treatments, a valance functions as a frame, and it is commonly used to connect or bridge  the overhead cabinets on the left and right part of the sink to provide continuity and a smooth transition in the design. 

Valances take on many shapes, but the most popular design is the arched valance. To add a more interesting visual feature, valances are usually dressed up with carvings and other decorative trims.

Corbels – By its architectural definition, a corbel is any structural piece of material such as stone, metal or wood that is protruding from a wall, used to support weight. Essentially, they function and look like like brackets. In terms of traditional cabinetry design, a kitchen corbel is typically added just for its aesthetical function, giving an appearance that they are supporting something to keep it up.

Corbels are usually rounded or squared, while its more intricate designs include graceful scrolls. Corbels in traditional kitchen cabinet design is usually placed underneath a decorative hood, below the base cabinet or under an island overhang.

Wooden hoods –  Wooden kitchen hoods are wooden architectural features that are used to cover a range hood. Range hoods are typically made up of metal and to fit the traditional kitchen setting more, this wooden detail is added to create consistency in terms of the material and overall look.

In some cases, a wooden hood also hides ducting and pipes which are used for the kitchen’s exhaust system. Wooden hoods can either be plain or highly decorative and may take on many shapes such as a simple box like cabinet, or a tapered shaped. This usually runs from the ceiling down to the termination of the range hood.

Legs and Posts – Legs and posts are column like structures that  are typically square in shape used to support the weight of a kitchen island countertop, peninsula  or a seating area. In some cases, these details are also applied on the ends of base cabinets for an added artistic flair.

Legs and posts also tend to give your kitchen cabinets and islands a “furniture like” feel. Legs and post also take the shape of a rounded column, scroll or turned legs. Depending on its period style inspiration, legs and posts are typically adorned with intricately carved motifs. Some of its popular styles are reeded,fluted,  twisted, mission, arts and crafts, cabriole, ball turned and carved cabriole.

Feet –  Feet are an enhancement added to legs and posts to give them a more artistic feel. This decorative detail has a low profile and  can be added under the base cabinets as a support or under the kitchen islands. Some popular examples of feet styles are bun feet, pad foot, square or tapered feet, ring turned, tulip or the Queen Anne feet.

Reeding and Fluting – Also known as “gadrooning”, reeding and fluting is a type of architectural detail that is composed of a series of vertical, rounded, convex ridges or concave groove. Reeding is the linear convex accent, while fluting is the concave accent. These decorative details are  typically applied on the surface of a column, leg or post.  In traditional cabinetry design, reeding and fluting are typically added on freestanding kitchen center islands, peninsulas or on the sides of base cabinet ends.

Appliques or Onlays – Appliques and onlays are pieces of carved decorative woodwork that are added on the cabinet’s surface. These are highly ornamental and usually take the form of different motifs like the fleur de lis, scrolls, leaves, flowers or swirls. Their main function is to bring in an added touch of flamboyance to the kitchen.  

In traditional kitchen cabinetry, appliques and onlays are typically attached on cabinet doors and faces, on top of the refrigerator or in valances, but practically it can be aed to almost anywhere. Applique and onlays can be bought ready made from specialty suppliers and woodwork specialist, but they can also be made to order or customized by millwork supplier and cabinetmakers. Some suppliers offer this in a self bonding variant which allows for easy and quick installation.

Wainscot panels – Wainscot panels are typically used as a wall treatment in classic traditional design, but it can also be used to add a sophisticated flair to kitchen cabinetry. Paneling for cabinetry design is not only added on the cabinet door faces, but it can also be used to adorn the back of cabinets or a kitchen island. Combined with other details like decorative legs and posts, this can give your kitchen cabinetry a more “furniture like” look.

Traditional Style Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Traditional kitchen cabinets focus on ornamentation and a heightened style. Unlike modern kitchen cabinets which typically make use of plain flat panel and slab style doors, traditional kitchen cabinets have raised and recessed panel doors. Here are some popular cabinet door designs found in traditional kitchens:

Raised panel designs – The raised panel kitchen cabinet door has a center panel that is raised above the rest of the cabinet door which is ornamented by a recessed border, contour or profile. The appearance of raised panel cabinet doors vary depending on the specific period style that prevails in the kitchen.  Raised panel kitchen cabinet doors are more detailed compared to its counterpart, the recessed panel door.

The cream kitchen cabinets featured in this space provide a warmer feel than a brighter white finish. Paired with a contrasting dark wood island it provides visual interest to the design.

Recessed panel designs– Recessed panel doors are the opposite of raised panel doors and it is characterized by a center panel that is recessed below the rest of the cabinet door. The recessed panel is also decorated with a surrounding raised border, contour or profile. Compared to raised panel doors, the recessed kitchen cabinet door has a more sleek appearance.

Cathedral cabinet door design – The cathedral cabinet door design is a variation of the raised panel door that is accentuated with a raised arch. The cathedral cabinet design can either have a single arch, which found at the top part of the cabinet door panel, or a double arch, which is found both at the top and bottom part of the cabinet door panel.

Mullion and Accent – Mullion and accent doors are typically used to break the monotony of solid wood kitchen cabinet doors. It provides a way to introduce mixed materials into a space that is dominated by natural wood. Accent doors are used to highlight a specific part of the kitchen. Some popular traditional style accent doors include glass panels, engraved glass, textured glass, leaded glass and wooden carvings.

Mullion cabinet doors have a resemblance to “mullion windows” which are made up horizontal and vertical styles that separate glass panes. Its overall look is somewhat inspired by the French window design. Stylized forms of mullions are curved, arched and diamond.  Mullion cabinet doors project elegance and embody a classic and timeless sophistication. It can be used for a variety of traditional kitchen styles.

Beadboard cabinet door – The beadboard cabinet door design is typically used in traditional kitchen settings that have a country, farmhouse or cottage charm. By definition, a beadboard is a row of narrow wood planks that are lined up vertically, separated by little ridges called “beads”. Beadboard panels are typically used as a wall treatment but also look exquisite as a kitchen cabinet door detail. Beadboard kitchen cabinet doors may be used for traditional kitchen cabinets if you want to add a rustic vibe to a space, making it feel more homelike and cozy.

Shaker cabinet door – One of the most iconic looks in kitchen cabinetry, the Shaker style originated in the 1770’s during the American colonial era. It is generally characterized by a simple design that has clean lines, made up with quality wood, a sturdy build and utilitarian in nature. Despite its historical origin, Shaker style kitchen cabinets offer flexibility in terms of design as it can be used for both traditional and contemporary settings.

The signature look of Shaker style kitchen cabinets is characterized by a five piece flat paneled door with rail frames. Shaker style kitchen cabinets put emphasis on functionality more than aesthetics that is why no ornamentation or decorative details can be found in its design.

Once you’ve determined what styles and elements you want in our design you can bring your ideas to life by using kitchen cabinet design software. This can help you finalize your plans before hiring an expensive interior designer or allow you to create a design to your exact specifications. The software can also provide you with different looks quickly once you have created a layout.

White Traditional Kitchen Cabinets

As a substitute for the richness of natural wood, white is also used as a primary paint color for traditional kitchen cabinets. This is the best color for homeowners who do not like the heavy look of wood finish traditional kitchen cabinets, but instead want to create a lighter and brighter ambiance.

White traditional kitchen cabinets also project a classic, timeless look. It can be paired with almost any countertop color, whether light or dark. It goes well with any wall color and flooring material. White traditional kitchen cabinets provide more room for design experimentation as it works like a blank canvass which allows you to introduce different elements in the space.

In some cases, white traditional cabinets are substituted with another light color which has a warmer tone, which is beige. Beige is also a neutral color, but compared to the bright, crisp color of white, it has a slightly yellowish undertone. It projects the perfect balance of cool and warm and also offers flexibility in terms of mixing and matching other elements in the kitchen design.  

Contrary to the belief that the color white can be dull or boring, white traditional kitchen cabinets exactly project the opposite. White traditional kitchen cabinets also offer a visually interesting look as it is highlighted with decorative details which add depth and character to its overall look. Layering of textures, through the use of finishing materials, also give white traditional cabinets a unique appearance. Some of the popular finishes used for white traditional kitchen cabinets are distressing, antiquing, weathering and glazing.

As mentioned earlier, distressing is a faux finishing technique which gives kitchen cabinets a more aged appearance. Distressed white kitchen cabinets are the perfect addition to traditional kitchen settings because they help enhance the “lived in” or rustic vibe. You can use distressed white kitchen cabinets if you want to project a more laid back vibe, compared to the formality of  rich dark wood traditional kitchen cabinetry.

Traditional Painted Kitchen Cabinets

Traditional kitchen cabinets are geared towards a classic color palette which are composed of  neutrals like white, beige and shades of brown. These colors are also often referred to as “earth colors”. The colors for traditional kitchen cabinets range from warm tones like cherry to lighter hues like white.

Brown is often reflected in traditional kitchen cabinets through the use of wood as the primary material for construction. The colors for the wooden cabinetry are generally darker to show signs of wear and tear. Deep and dark colored wood also project richness and a luxurious feel.

Wood for traditional kitchen cabinets are typically in their natural color, enhanced by stains to show their graining pattern more, but in some cases wood is also painted to give it an entirely differently look.

Painting wooden kitchen cabinets  entirely covers up their natural knots and grains, thus produce a softer and fresher look. Wood finish kitchen cabinets are abundantly used in traditional kitchen settings such as the Craftsman style, rustic style, country style, Victorian and log cabin kitchens.

Traditional painted kitchen cabinets often make use of neutrals like white, beiges and cream. Soft muted colors like light grays, taupes are also commonly used for traditional kitchen settings. In some cases, pastels like soft yellows are also used in Traditional kitchen settings such as the cottage style to add charm and  a more laid back vibe.