Solid wood cabinets, especially hand-made wall cabinets, can give your room or space a unique look and feel. Typically made from hardwoods and featuring intricate woodworking joints, these cabinets can be an heirloom item passed on for generations.
Most modern cabinets are made from MDF, plywood, or fiberboard. While they “do the job” of a cabinet, they tend to look generic and do not have specialized storage options. Most of these cabinets are not meant for outdoors or in areas with a lot of humidity. On the other hand, a solid wood cabinet can stand the test of time and become the conversation point of your home.
While I have built a solid wood cabinet for my woodworking workshop, I have yet to fulfill my goal of making one for my home. The techniques are similar, and I have a stock of beautiful maple and Sapele wood begging to be transformed into art.
My Hand-picked Solid Wood Cabinets
While looking for designs to inspire my builds, I’ve collected a decent list of wooden wall cabinets. This list features many styles and cabinets, except solid wood kitchen cabinets. Many of these designs are from renowned woodworkers who have significantly impacted their crafts.
You can view my Pinterest board for solid wood cabinets here.
James Krenov School of Design
The design popularized by James Krenov inspired several solid wood cabinets on my list, so it’s worth talking more about him here.
James Krenov was a highly influential woodworker known for his exceptional designs. His focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail set him apart. Krenov’s unique approach to woodworking resulted in beautifully handcrafted solid wood cabinets that exude elegance and sophistication. His designs have become a benchmark for excellence in woodworking and continue inspiring woodworkers worldwide.
James Krenov’s woodworking school or classes have produced talented woodworkers who have made a name for themselves in the industry. Krenov’s teachings on craftsmanship and his emphasis on creating exquisite solid wood cabinets have left a lasting impact on his students, who continue to uphold his legacy through their exceptional work.
James has published many books on the subject, which you can find on Amazon. In each, you’ll discover more of high magic and vision for creating shockingly beautiful furniture.
James Krenov passed away on September 9, 2009, and his business was taken over by his students and apprentices, who have continued his legacy of crafting exceptional solid wood cabinets.
The Process of Making a Solid Wood Cabinet
If you’ve ever wondered how much work goes into creating a solid wood cabinet, watch this video by Matt Eslea. It highlights the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail required, backed by years of experience and an appreciation for art.
Although Matt’s video is short, you can imagine the time and patience it takes to make a handmade solid wood cabinet. So, expect the cost to be significantly higher than your last IKEA purchase. You get what you pay for.
