Stained cabinets are making a strong comeback in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, offering homeowners a warm, natural look that stands out from the painted cabinet trend. While painted cabinets have dominated recent years, stained wood cabinetry is now re-emerging as a top choice for those seeking to add warmth, texture, and character to their homes. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or updating a bathroom vanity, stained cabinets deliver a classic, versatile aesthetic.
If you love this look, you might be closer to your dream space than you think… keep reading to see how Medford Design-Build brought these spaces to life.
Why Choose Stained Cabinets for Your Remodel?
Natural Beauty & Texture
Stained wood cabinets showcase the unique grain and character of natural wood, adding depth and visual interest that painted finishes often hide. Each set of stained cabinets is unique, creating a welcoming, organic feel.
Versatile Style for Any Space
Stained cabinetry works seamlessly with a range of design styles. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic farmhouse kitchen, a transitional bathroom, or a sleek, modern look with earthy tones, there’s a wood stain to match your vision.
Lower Maintenance Over Time
Unlike painted cabinets, which can chip or show wear, stained finishes tend to age gracefully. Minor scratches and dings are less noticeable, making stained cabinets a practical choice for busy households.
Timeless Appeal
Paint color trends may come and go, but stained wood cabinetry offers lasting appeal. The natural look of wood pairs effortlessly with both classic and contemporary design elements, ensuring your remodel stands the test of time
Stained Cabinet Inspiration: Recent Project Highlights
Transitional Kitchen with Two-Toned Cabinetry
This stunning kitchen remodel combines the best of both worlds—natural wood lower cabinets and island for warmth, paired with painted upper cabinets for contrast and brightness.
Unique Master Bath
This space features a unique custom stain that complements the existing materials in the home, showing how flexible and personalized stained cabinetry can be.
Modern Cottage Bathroom
This serene bathroom remodel blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The natural wood vanity brings warmth and texture, while clean quartz countertops and subtle detailing add a refined, spa-like feel.
Master Bath with Rich Cabinetry
Dark-toned stained cabinets add just the right amount of contrast against crisp countertops and tile. The result is a classic, high-end look that never goes out of style.
Warm Wood Kitchen
This kitchen project features mid-tone stained cabinets that highlight the wood’s natural grain, bringing warmth and depth to the space. Paired with light countertops and modern hardware, the result is a cozy, inviting kitchen that feels both current and timeless.
Modern Rustic Master Bathroom
A recent bathroom remodel used rich, dark-stained cabinets with neutral tile. The result is a spa-like retreat that feels both sophisticated and grounded.
How We Create Custom Cabinet Stains
Rather than relying solely on pre-selected stain colors, our in-house Interior Designer works closely with you and our expert painter to create a custom stain that’s tailored to your home. This personalized approach ensures a cohesive and intentional design throughout your space.
Clients often worry about making the “wrong” design decision — that’s where our Designer steps in. With years of experience, she guides you through the selection process to make sure your cabinetry feels right for your space, your lighting, and your lifestyle.
How to Pair Stained Cabinets with Other Materials
Stained cabinets are incredibly versatile and look great with a variety of finishes. Consider these combinations for a designer look:
- Quartz or Marble Countertops:
Blend natural wood with polished stone for a balanced, upscale feel.
- Matte Black, Brushed Gold, or Satin Nickel Hardware:
These finishes enhance the richness of wood and add a modern edge.
- Bold or Neutral Backsplashes:
Choose bold for contrast or neutral for a cohesive look.
- Painted Accent Cabinets or Open Shelving:
Mix in painted elements for a custom, two-tone effect.
Design Tip: Start with a Focal Point
A successful kitchen or bathroom design begins with a clear focal point—whether it’s a bold countertop, unique cabinetry, or a striking tile feature. From there, all other design elements should work together to support and enhance that focal piece. For example, if you choose a standout granite or quartz countertop, we’ll help you pair it with cabinetry, hardware, and finishes that complement without competing. If your cabinetry is the star, more subtle counters and tile can bring balance.
Our in-house Interior Designer plays a key role in this process. She helps you define your vision, prioritize design elements, and coordinate all materials — from flooring and lighting to fixtures and finishes — to ensure a cohesive and beautiful result. With her expert guidance, you’ll feel confident every step of the way.
Ready for a Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel?
Stained cabinets are a smart, stylish choice for anyone seeking durability, warmth, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re updating a single room or planning a full remodel, stained wood cabinetry offers flexibility and lasting beauty.
At Medford Design-Build, we specialize in creating custom spaces tailored to your needs — from material selection to final installation. Our team is here to help you design a home you’ll love for years to come.
View our gallery to see more examples of stained and painted cabinetry.
Call us at (817) 446-0368 or click here to schedule a consultation and let’s bring your vision to life!