I'm in the final stages of constructing my kitchen cabinets and they're made of old growth Douglas fir, with a lovely reddish/amber patina reminiscent of original woodwork in 1930s homes. I'm also incorporating a Hoosier white oak piece, and the floors are original white oak, so the vibe is very cohesive. I'm considering using some salvaged white oak flooring from the 1920s-30s for countertops but I'm not sure if this is the best route. The flooring is essentially bare and would need an edge applied. Should I stick with this wood, consider something else, or just forget the idea of wood countertops altogether? I'd really appreciate any suggestions!
2 Answers
Butcher block countertops could be a great option for you! You might want to think about using a stone countertop near the sink and stove to avoid wear and tear in those high-use areas, but wood can definitely work well elsewhere if you're careful.
It really depends on how good you are with upkeep. Wood countertops can show stains and blemishes, and if you want them to look pristine again, you’ll have to put in some elbow grease to sand and refinish them. Do you think you'll be okay with that? For me, I’d probably pass, but if you’re used to living with imperfections in a vintage home, go for it! Just be aware that you’ll need to do regular maintenance.
I totally understand! I’m comfortable with a bit of wear since my house has its share of character. If I do go with wood, I plan to use Waterlox finish to protect it.
I get that! It’s a small Cape Cod kitchen, so I understand the layout concerns. I've seen some beautiful wood countertops with dish drains carved into them in vintage homes, though. Just keep in mind, they used high-quality wood back then.