A cherry wood kitchen uses cherry, a fine-grained hardwood that starts a soft pinkish-tan and deepens to a rich reddish-brown as it's exposed to light. It's smooth, elegant and warm, and it suits traditional and classic homes especially well. Cherry is less common than oak, which is exactly why a well-made cherry kitchen feels special.
At Oak & Pine by Design, we make kitchens by hand in our Honley workshop in the timber of your choice. Here's our honest guide to whether cherry is right for you.
What does a cherry wood kitchen look like?
Cherry has a fine, even grain with a satin-smooth feel. Freshly cut, it's pale with a pinkish tone. Over the first months and years it darkens noticeably, developing the deep, warm red-brown that cherry furniture is famous for. That change is part of its charm: a cherry kitchen gets richer as it ages.
Pros and cons of cherry kitchens
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful, warm colour that deepens with age | Colour changes noticeably, especially in sunlight |
| Fine, smooth grain and an elegant look | Softer than oak or maple, so it can dent |
| Feels luxurious and distinctive | Usually costs more than oak or pine |
| Can be sanded and refinished | New pieces take time to match older, darkened ones |
Is cherry wood good for kitchen cabinets?
Yes, for the right home. Cherry is stable and works beautifully, which is why it's long been prized for fine furniture. It's a little softer than oak or maple, so it may pick up dents in a very busy kitchen. For many people, those marks simply add character over time.
If you want maximum hardness with a fine grain, maple or beech may suit you better. For deep, formal warmth, mahogany is another option.
Comparing timbers? Book a showroom visit and we'll show you samples side by side.
Cherry kitchen design ideas
- Classic cherry Shaker: the simple door lets the grain and colour shine.
- Cherry with cream: painted cream wall units with cherry base units or island.
- Cherry and dark stone: black or dark granite worktops set off cherry's warmth.
- Cherry island: a single cherry piece in a painted kitchen.
- Cherry furniture: a cherry dresser or display cabinet for a traditional dining kitchen.
Caring for a cherry kitchen
- Expect the colour to darken, especially where sunlight falls
- Avoid covering areas for long periods in the early months, or you may get lighter patches
- Wipe spills promptly and use a soft, damp cloth for cleaning
- Minor marks can be refinished by a cabinet maker
Cherry vs oak vs walnut
| Cherry | Oak | Walnut | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colour | Pinkish, ages to red-brown | Golden | Dark chocolate brown |
| Grain | Fine and smooth | Strong and open | Flowing and dramatic |
| Hardness | Medium | Hard | Medium-hard |
| Style | Elegant, traditional | Heirloom, country | Luxurious, modern or classic |
Frequently asked questions
Are cherry wood kitchens out of style?
Cherry is a classic fine-furniture timber. Paired with simple Shaker doors and modern colours, it looks warm and current rather than dated.
Does cherry wood darken over time?
Yes. Cherry darkens significantly with exposure to light, from pale pinkish-tan to a rich reddish-brown.
Is cherry harder than oak?
No. Cherry is softer than oak, so it can dent more easily, but it's stable and very pleasant to work and touch.
Can you make a cherry kitchen to order?
Yes. We make kitchens in the timber of your choice. Talk to us about cherry for your project.
A kitchen made in the wood you love
Every kitchen we build is designed around you and made by hand in our Honley workshop by master craftsman Daniel Fitzpatrick and his team. We'll help you choose the right timber for your home, your light and how you live. Browse our handmade kitchen ranges.
Visit us at Unit 3, Crossley Mills, Honley, HD9 6PL. Your first consultation is free.
Book a showroom visit or call 01484 666 333.