Wood
American walnut
American walnut is a hardwood prized for its rich brown colour and straight-to-wavy grain. It is a common choice for cabinetry and furniture where warmth and visual depth are priorities.
Character and behaviour
The heartwood ranges from chocolate brown to purplish-grey, often with darker streaks. Grain is usually straight but can be wavy or figured, giving cut surfaces a quiet visual interest. It machines and finishes well, producing smooth surfaces that feel substantial underhand.
Best for
- Kitchen and bathroom cabinetry
- Furniture and built-in joinery
- Flooring in low-moisture rooms
- Wall panelling and feature walls
Avoid for
- High-humidity or wet rooms unfinished
- Spaces needing a light or pale palette
Care and maintenance
Wipe spills promptly and clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Refinish or re-oil periodically depending on the finish type. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can lighten the colour over time.
Guides featuring American walnut
- 7 minOak vs walnut flooring
White oak is lighter, harder, and easier to source. American walnut is darker and softer — each changes room mood and long-term wear differently.
- 7 minEngineered vs solid wood flooring
Solid wood can be sanded and refinished many times but moves with humidity. Engineered wood is more dimensionally stable and works over concrete and underfloor heating — the trade-offs matter more than the marketing.