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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.

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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.

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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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What’s Your Lighting Style? It’s in the Details

Life, Styled

In our final part of the selection tips series, we want to focus our attention on lighting. Good lighting can make a difference in the room; no one enjoys struggling to see around the shadows cast by insufficient light or the glare of one placed too low.  Here’s what should be on your list of things to look for when selecting your lighting.

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November 21, 2020/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bonus-room-blue-wainscoting-blue-and-tan-bonus-room-specialty-lighting.jpg?fit=1036%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1036 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2020-11-21 14:43:002025-07-30 14:43:43What’s Your Lighting Style? It’s in the Details
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Remodeling Truths: As Seen On TV Versus Reality

Life, Styled

There’s no denying the appeal of HGTV’s popular renovation shows such as Fixer Upper, Love It or List It, and Property Brothers. These programs consistently deliver impressive home transformations, turning outdated properties into stylish, modern living spaces—all within the span of a neatly packaged, one-hour episode.

While unexpected challenges and budget concerns occasionally arise, the hosts reliably navigate these obstacles, keeping projects on track and showcasing the kind of resilience and problem-solving that resonates with homeowners and renovation professionals alike.

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November 15, 2020/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Bench-seat-shiplap-orange-decorative-pillows-coat-hooks.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 Walker2020-11-15 14:29:002025-07-30 17:46:36Remodeling Truths: As Seen On TV Versus Reality
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Effective Design for your Home Office

Life, Styled

What was once just space to check your email quickly or jot down your to-do list, the home office is now essential for many who work from home. This shift from the nice bonus feature to the necessary has caused many homeowners to reevaluate their current condition, with many finding it lacking. Productivity and efficiency are linked to a functional space that gives you exactly what you need to get the job done. Here we share some tips on designing the perfect office away from the office.

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November 14, 2020/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-Joe-Pruvis-Loftus-design-home-office-gray-office-desk.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 Walker2020-11-14 15:06:382025-07-30 15:06:58Effective Design for your Home Office
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What’s Right For You? How to Choose your Kitchen Appliance

Design Notes

You have been dreaming of a new kitchen for a while, and now the decision has been made to finally bring it to life. Cabinets, lights, faucets, tile, and flooring are all on your to-do list, but what about the kitchen appliances? Have you thought about whether you want a double oven? Two dishwashers? Maybe you want a wide refrigerator, a separate beverage cooler, or a wine fridge? The choice of kitchen appliance you need depends on what is important to you and what will suit your lifestyle. We will share some of our best tips on which appliances are best for your specific needs.

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November 14, 2020/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Walker-Woodworking-custom-cabinets-beige-kitchen-cabinets-beige-kitchen-wolf-kitchen-appliances-white-countertop-white-tile-backsplash-oven-hood-kitchen-farm-sink.jpg?fit=1167%2C1280&ssl=1 1280 1167 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2020-11-14 15:03:302025-07-30 15:03:50What’s Right For You? How to Choose your Kitchen Appliance
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How to Modernize your Outdated Home

Design Notes

You need to understand the difference between style, class, and function. Although a house’s style may become outdated, it does not have to lose its class. Every home can remain functional regardless of its style and age.

An old-style home is one thing, but an obsolete home is an entirely different matter. In this article, we outline simple things you can do to pull your outdated home out of the past and into the modern period. You will be able to restore its appeal without giving up the quiet dignity that’s associated with old homes.

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November 1, 2020/by Stacey Walker
https://i0.wp.com/greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Graber02.jpg?fit=1010%2C647&ssl=1 647 1010 Stacey Walker https://greenbrookdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Design-Center-Logo-1-02-300x213.png Stacey Walker2020-11-01 15:15:052025-07-30 15:15:32How to Modernize your Outdated Home
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