Plank wood countertop in an updated kitchen design.

It’s taken interior design by storm and we know we’ve mentioned it over and over: butcher block countertops look great as kitchen islands, full kitchen countertops and bathroom accents.

But, those beautiful wood countertops can be so much more than just a chopping block for food preparation. There are plenty of other creative uses out there, whether you’re looking to upgrade your home with more work space or just want a fun DIY project. Let’s dive into some inspiration!

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Butcher block countertops from Baird Brothers.

Did you get new butcher block counters for your kitchen? Great choice! Butcher block countertops are a stylish and functional option for your home, but proper butcher block countertop care is essential for keeping them in tip-top shape.

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A split image of butcher block and plank countertop materials with the words “The Pros and Cons of Wooden Countertops” at the top.

Thinking of redoing your kitchen countertops, but not sure which countertop material to go with?

There are plenty of options out there, but choosing one doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Before you get started on that kitchen remodel, write down a list of your needs and wants… and then, make sure you know the ins and outs of each option.

If you’ve made it here, you’ve likely been considering wooden countertops. Let’s take a look at butcher block and plank style wood countertops – both extremely popular choices that might just be the perfect option for your new kitchen counters.

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A kitchen remodel with wood counters and wood cabinets.

If you’re thinking of redoing your kitchen countertops, picking the right countertop surface can be a challenge. Obviously, you want something that will last. You don’t want something that requires a ton of upkeep. And, hopefully, in the end, it won’t break the bank.

So, with all of that, have you ever considered wood plank or butcher block countertops? Using wood in your kitchen renovation can add a touch of timeless charm to the space – and these unique styles are definitely on-trend. But still, we’re sure you’re wondering, “Are wood countertops really a good choice?”

Our answer is short and sweet! They sure are!

Let’s take a quick look at the butcher block countertop pros and cons compared to other countertop materials, and you’ll see why so many restaurants and homeowners alike choose to use them in their kitchen design.

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Old home remodeled on Renovation Hunters near the Nebraska Sandhills.

In early 2022, Hal Shaffer and Chris Filardi gave general contractor Kevin Tarkovich a tour of a historic home in Hyannis, Nebraska. They intended to give new life to the property, as the first project on their new Outdoor Channel series, Renovation Hunters, but the term makeover was an understatement for this 19th-century home, to say the least.

Host Hal Shaffer reassured Kevin on the challenge of renovating the main street’s focal point saying, “You can take all the time you want, as long as it’s done in eight days!” So, they got to work on remodeling old homes for their show – starting in the Sandhills of Nebraska – with the help of numerous craftsmen and DIY-ers, along with some awesome brand partners (if we do say so ourselves).

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2019 Guide to Hardwood in your Kitchen.

Baird Brothers’ Steve Stack discusses ways to incorporate hardwood in your kitchen design, and what to know before you install. “In the kitchen, hardwood is exposed to the worst of the worst — water, heat, spills, sharp tools and heavy foot traffic,” Steve said. “With a little knowledge and TLC, you can keep it looking gorgeous for generations.”

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Hardwood has a Starring Role in your Dream Kitchen

According to the recently released 2016 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Survey, among the 72 percent of homeowners who are updating flooring during their kitchen renovation, hardwood flooring is most popular in nearly all regions. Baird Brothers expert Steve Stack is not surprised. “People are incorporating hardwood into their kitchen designs because it adds warmth and beauty, yet it’s practical and functional.”

Steve notes gorgeous handcrafted hardwood adds value to kitchens. Kitchen hardwood ideas were hot topics at the Baird Brothers’ booth at home and garden shows this spring. Read more

Kitchens are the focal points of most homes. They are the hub of everyday activity and should be designed with style and function in mind. There is perhaps nothing that combines utility with aesthetic appeal quite the way hardwood countertops do. Hardwood countertops and island tops from Baird Brothers are a great way to add warmth and beauty to your kitchen while standing up to the wear and tear of everyday use (Read our Hardwoods in the Kitchen Blog). Read more

Hardwood has a starring role in today’s kitchens.

According to the recently released 2016 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Survey, among the 72 percent of homeowners who are updating flooring during their kitchen renovation, hardwood flooring is most popular in nearly all regions. Baird Brothers expert Steve Stack is not surprised. “People are incorporating hardwood into their kitchen designs because it adds warmth and beauty, yet it’s practical and functional.”

Steve notes gorgeous handcrafted hardwood adds value to kitchens. Kitchen hardwood ideas were hot topics at the Baird Brothers’ booth at home and garden shows this spring.

Read more

How to Build the Ultimate Workbench for DIY Projects.

As a do-it-yourselfer, you have a long list of projects around the house you can’t wait to tackle. However, before you can start on any of those, you’re going to need a dependable workbench, and if you don’t have that, well, it’s obvious what project should be top priority.

So, it’s time to build a workbench. You have it all planned out, measured and you’re already visualizing your new handyman headquarters in your garage. You’re ready to build, but then a thought pops into your head.

“What kind of wood should I use?”

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