Wood Grain

Discover a selection of the wood species we offer, each with its own unique grain, tone, and character. From warm, traditional favorites to sleek, contemporary options, every wood type brings a distinct look and feel to your cabinetry.

This page highlights just a sampling of available wood types. Our full collection includes many more species, cuts, and finish options to suit your style and space.

To explore the complete range and experience the differences in person, we invite you to visit one of our showrooms. Our team will help you find the perfect wood to bring your vision to life.

Maple wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - popular hardwood cabinet option JEM Designs

Maple

Grain Pattern: Fine, uniform, close-grained

Durability/Hardness: Hard

Variability (1-5):  1

Best Finishes/Notes: Excellent for paint; consistent stainability. Also available in rustic.

Red oak wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - natural hardwood cabinets JEM Designs Cincinnati

Red Oak

Grain Pattern: Prominent, open grain

Durability/Hardness: Hard

Variability (1-5):  1

Best Finishes/Notes: Classic; takes stain well. Texture is visible through paint. Also available in quarter sawn.

White Oak

Grain Pattern: Tight, consistent grain

Durability/Hardness: Hard

Variability (1-5):  1

Best Finishes/Notes: Works well with natural, matte, and low-sheen finishes. Also available in rift cut and quarter sawn.

Alder wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - natural hardwood cabinet options JEM Designs

Alder

Grain Pattern: Soft, straight, consistent

Durability/Hardness: Soft

Variability (1-5): 2

Best Finishes/Notes: Excellent stainability. Commonly used as a budget-friendly cherry alternative. Also available in rustic

Birch wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - natural hardwood cabinets JEM Designs Cincinnati

Birch

Grain Pattern: Tight, straight, subtle

Durability/Hardness: Moderate

Variability (1-5): 1

Best Finishes/Notes: Good paint-grade option; cost-effective.

Hickory wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - natural hardwood cabinets JEM Designs Cincinnati

Hickory

Grain Pattern: Dramatic, distinct, wild

Durability/Hardness: Very Hard

Variability (1-5): 3

Best Finishes/Notes: Extremely hard. High variation in color (blonde to brown). Also available in rustic

Cherry wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - natural hardwood cabinet options JEM Designs

Cherry

Grain Pattern: Smooth, close-grained

Durability/Hardness: Moderate to Soft

Variability (1-5): 5

Best Finishes/Notes: Known for aging/darkening over time. Rich, elegant look. Good with glazing technique.

Walnut wood kitchen cabinet grain texture - premium hardwood cabinets JEM Designs

Walnut

Grain Pattern: Smooth, rich grain

Durability/Hardness: Moderate

Variability (1-5): 4

Best Finishes/Notes: High-end appeal. Often left natural or clear-coated.

* Durability refers primarily to resistance to dents and daily wear. All natural wood species can still scratch, dent, expand, contract, and show signs of use depending on finish, humidity, and care.

We Invite You to Visit One of Our Showrooms.

To experience the full collection, and to see, touch, and compare finishes in person.

Start Your Design Experience