Hardwood has a starring role in today’s kitchens

Hardwood has a starring role in today’s kitchens.

According to the recently released 2016 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Survey, among the 72 percent of homeowners who are updating flooring during their kitchen renovation, hardwood flooring is most popular in nearly all regions. Baird Brothers expert Steve Stack is not surprised. “People are incorporating hardwood into their kitchen designs because it adds warmth and beauty, yet it’s practical and functional.”

Steve notes gorgeous handcrafted hardwood adds value to kitchens. Kitchen hardwood ideas were hot topics at the Baird Brothers’ booth at home and garden shows this spring.

Hardwood flooring in the kitchen

  • High-traffic alert. Grand Central Station has nothing on busy kitchens. In this heavy-use areas, make sure to consult the Janka Hardness Table for hardwoods such as oak, hickory and maple that can stand up to generations of wear.
  • Choosing a color. “Darker woods are trending,” Steve said. “But lighter or natural-colored hardwood is a good choice for kitchens — dust and food crumbs aren’t as visible.”
  • Comfortable and warm underfoot. Unlike hard, cold tile, premium hardwood flooring has a more natural, warm feel.

Hardwood work surfaces

  • Premium work area. Butcher block won’t dull knives; to repair damage over time, light sanding and oil will restore it.
  • Safe and easy to maintain. Hardwood work surfaces don’t have a protective coating, instead, treat with a food/user-friendly butcher-block conditioner.

Cabinet fronts

  • Value for less.“Replacing cabinet fronts is a stylish way to freshen up your kitchen without investing in new cabinets,” Steve said.
    • Custom made. Baird Brothers offers cabinet doors and drawer fronts custom made to size in the full gamut of species, in a variety of designs, including craftsman, shaker and raised panel. Call 800.732.1697 to speak with an expert about replacing yours today.
    • Add pizzazz. Give cabinets class by topping them with moulding or installing moulding underneath to conceal under-cabinet lighting

Baird Brothers’ new products stole the show!
Spring was a whirlwind of activity for Steve Stack and his team, as they manned the Baird Brothers’ booth at several home and garden shows in Cleveland and Youngstown, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Pa. “We generated a lot of interest with our premium, American-made hardwood because homeowners are gravitating toward designs that are made to be used, not just looked at,” Steve reported. Two new products, Ship Lap Interior Siding and Antique Oak Flooring created quite a buzz.

Ship Lap a.k.a “Joanna’s siding”
Fans of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper,” starring Waco, Texas, husband and wife duo, Chip and Joanna Gaines, were swooning over Baird Brothers ship lap interior siding. “Some people called it “Joanna’s siding” because she incorporates it into so many of the rooms she designs,” Steve said. “What originated as common interior framing out on the prairie, is now being used to add texture, interest and warmth in homes ranging from Craftsman to Modern style.” Whether you use natural wood or want a more clean, painted look, a wood-covered wall makes any room feel warmer.

Awe-inspiring Antique Oak flooring
“This is what I’ve been looking for!” Steve heard it many times from homeowners as they dragged spouses over to Baird Brothers Antique Oak flooring display. “This is a look that is very popular on Pinterst and Houzz, “ Steve said. The appeal lies in the natural color variation and the rugged texture. “Because it’s distressed, wear and tear isn’t going to diminish the natural beauty.”

Need inspiration?
Inspirations, the 2016 Baird Brothers design guide is a stunning book loaded with ideas. Divided into architectural styles — Craftsman/Shaker to Provincial/Victorian —you can see which hardwood products complement your home’s architectural design and your personal style. Request a copy of Inspirations or the 2016 Baird Brothers catalogue here.