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Life, Styled

Cabinet Designs Throughout the Decades

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Cabinet design has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting each decade’s changing trends, lifestyles, and design preferences. From the ornate styles of the early 20th century to the sleek and minimalist designs of today, cabinets have played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetics of our homes. Let’s journey through time and explore the fascinating evolution of cabinet designs.

1920s-1930s: Art Deco Elegance

The 1920s and 1930s were characterized by the Art Deco movement, which influenced cabinet design with its geometric shapes, bold colors, and luxurious materials. Cabinets from this era often featured intricate detailing, such as inlaid wood, exotic veneers, and decorative hardware. The emphasis was on creating a sense of opulence and sophistication, reflecting the optimism of the Roaring Twenties.

cabinet design

1940s-1950s: Post-War Simplicity

The post-war era of the 1940s and 1950s saw a shift towards simplicity and functionality in cabinet design. With a focus on practicality and efficiency, cabinets were often made from durable materials like steel and chrome. The modernist movement influenced the style, which was characterized by clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and a sleek, futuristic look.

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1960s-1970s: Mid-Century Modern Charm

The 1960s and 1970s brought the rise of Mid-Century Modern design, which continues to be popular today. Cabinets from this era often featured organic shapes, natural materials like wood and plywood, and a mix of textures and finishes. The style emphasized simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature, reflecting a desire for a more relaxed and informal lifestyle.

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1980s-1990s: Contemporary and Colorful

The 1980s and 1990s were characterized by bold colors, eclectic patterns, and various styles. Cabinet designs from this era often featured high-gloss finishes, geometric shapes, and innovative storage solutions. The style was influenced by the rise of technology and a desire for self-expression, leading to a more personalized approach to design.

a kitchen with blue cabinets and a table
Greenbrook Design

2000s-Present: Sleek and Sustainable

In the 21st century, cabinet design has embraced sleekness, sustainability, and innovation. Cabinets are now often made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo and recycled wood, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues. The style emphasizes clean lines, minimalism, and a focus on functionality, reflecting today’s modern lifestyle.

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Conclusion:

Cabinet design has come a long way over the decades, reflecting each era’s changing tastes, lifestyles, and design trends. From the opulence of the Art Deco period to the sleekness of contemporary design, cabinets play a crucial role in shaping the aesthetics of our homes. As we look to the future, it will be fascinating to see how cabinet design continues to evolve and adapt to homeowners’ ever-changing needs and preferences.

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Functional, Expressive, Elegant: Jewelry For Your Cabinets

Life, Styled

While cabinet hardware is essential for functionality, it’s also a key element in the overall look and feel of your space. When selecting hardware, there’s more to consider than just appearance. How do you want your cabinets to open? Do you prefer knobs, pulls, or a combination of both? Should you go with cup pulls for a traditional touch or sleek bar pulls for a modern edge?

These decisions may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on both the usability and aesthetic of your cabinetry. Hardware serves as the finishing touch—bringing together the design while also making everyday tasks more comfortable and intuitive.

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September 28, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Half-Bathroom-round-gold-hardware-modern-pendants-built-in-cabinets.jpg?fit=853%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 853 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-09-28 20:11:002025-07-29 20:30:29Functional, Expressive, Elegant: Jewelry For Your Cabinets
A kitchen with a close up of a black dovetail cabinet drawer with cabico essenceWalker Woodworking

The Right Fit For You: Why Choose Semi-Custom Cabinets

Design Notes

You are ready to begin your renovation, but you are unsure whether you want to go with custom or semi-custom cabinets. While custom cabinets will provide you with the exact fit you need for your space, they are at the higher end of the price range. Semi-custom cabinets tend to be a more budget-friendly alternative while still giving you the style and function needed for your space. Many homeowners are discovering the benefits of choosing semi-custom cabinets and are learning that they can still get the look they want while staying within their budget. Let’s talk more about what semi-custom cabinets are, the benefits they bring to your project, and some of the options we offer here at Greenbrook Design.

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September 28, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-dovetail-drawer-cabico-essence-frameless-cabinets.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-09-28 14:50:082025-07-29 14:50:31The Right Fit For You: Why Choose Semi-Custom Cabinets
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A Lasting Impression: Why is Flooring Important?

Design Notes

We use it every day but hardly pay any attention to it, yet it can impact the overall design of the home. We are, of course, referring to your flooring, and its importance should not be overlooked or underestimated. It is the largest design element in the home, which means it tends to serve as the foundation of the look and feel in the room. It has the ability to make or break your space and is subconsciously the first thing we notice in a room. Since it is used consistently, it must be durable and functional for the particular area, whether slip-resistant or waterproof. Flooring should also complement the overall design style you choose and be carefully considered before finalizing your choice. Here are some aspects to remember when making your selection.

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September 14, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-window-treatments-white-bathroom-white-bathroom-vanity-canned-lighting-heated-towel-rack-white-bathroom-cabinets-pattern-tile-flooring.jpg?fit=853%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 853 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-09-14 14:55:122025-07-29 14:55:52A Lasting Impression: Why is Flooring Important?
Walker Woodworking custom cabinets top knobs hardware white subway tile white kitchen backsplash inset cabinets

Styled Protection: Why have Backsplash?

Design Notes

The kitchen backsplash tends to be overlooked during the planning session for a renovation, but it has a big impact on the overall look of the design, and it should not be underestimated. To many, it may seem like such a small element, but it has the power to bring style, class, and protection to the heart of the home.  When walking through a model home or flipping pages in an interior design magazine, the kitchen always has a backsplash that often draws our eye. Coming in multiple sizes, styles, and shades, the kitchen backsplash has come a long way from being a simple surface to creating a glamorous highlight that immediately draws the eye.

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September 7, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-top-knobs-hardware-white-subway-tile-white-kitchen-backsplash-inset-cabinets.jpg?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1920 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-09-07 15:14:162025-07-29 15:14:48Styled Protection: Why have Backsplash?
a dog standing in a kitchen Pet-friendly Home RemodelingWalker Woodworking

Accommodating Space: Changes in the Home

Life, Styled

This deficiency has led to a readjustment of space, a call to renovate the home, and to provide a more functional design for everyone. There are also other reasons motivating homeowners to reevaluate their current living situation, such as greater flexibility at home, an open concept, personal space, and plenty of storage. While kitchens and bathrooms are still among the most renovated areas in the home, new emphasis is being placed on four additional sections in the home, which we want to highlight today.

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September 7, 2021/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Dog.jpg?fit=1800%2C1200&ssl=1 1200 1800 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2021-09-07 15:00:042025-08-10 17:57:56Accommodating Space: Changes in the Home
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