It has been said that not all types of wood are created equal. While solid wood remains a top choice for furniture, each species comes in different colors, grains, and degrees of hardness.
In this blog, we ask the question: “Which is the better wood for furniture?” Our contenders? Walnut and White Oak. Let's delve into the key differences between these hardwood giants to help you make an informed decision.
Appearance
Walnut wood is known for its rich, dark tones that range from brown to deep chocolate. It has a straight grain pattern, though it can also be more intricate with waves and curls, adding depth and character to any piece. With its deep color, walnut makes a refined and luxurious impression, which may be the reason it’s more associated with traditional furniture. But it's also popular for modern and contemporary pieces.
In contrast, white oak boasts a lighter, more golden color with a tight straight grain pattern. This creates a classic, timeless look that is well-suited for both traditional and contemporary interiors. Compared to walnut, white oak offers a brighter and airier feel, which is perhaps why it's a popular choice for spaces with limited natural light.
Color
- Walnut: Ranges from light brown to a deep, dark chocolate hue, sometimes with slight hints of purple.
- White Oak: Natural color typically has a light to medium brown color, sometimes with an olive or yellow cast.
Grain
- Walnut: Open and wider grain pattern, generally soft surface.
- White Oak: Tight and straight grain pattern, slightly raised and rougher texture.
Overall Appearance
- Walnut: Known for its sleek, elegant, and sometimes dramatic appearance.
- White Oak: Offers a classic, warm, and rustic look.
Durability and Hardness
While not as hard as some solid wood options, walnut is still considered a strong and durable wood. It's resistant to scratches and dents, making it a suitable choice for high-traffic areas. However, it's slightly softer than white oak, so it might slightly take extra care to prevent damage. This said walnut is still pretty hardy.
White oak offers exceptional hardness and durability and is among the strongest domestic hardwoods available. It's highly resistant to wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for furniture meant for heavy use, such as dining tables and bed frames.
Workability
Walnut and white oak are both impressive solid wood options known for their workability. Both woods are relatively easy to cut, shape, and finish. Walnut, which is slightly softer, offers a smoother cutting experience due to its open grain.
Meanwhile, white oak might present a slightly tougher challenge due to its denser nature and tighter grain. However, with the right tools and techniques, both walnut and white oak can be worked on efficiently and yield excellent results.
Cost
Walnut tends to be more expensive than white oak because it's less available and in higher demand. It's often favored for upscale furniture and cabinetry. While white oak is still a premium hardwood, it's more readily available and sometimes more accessible price-wise.
The Modern Dresser is shown here in White Oak. In the featured image, the dresser is in walnut.
Which Is the Best for Furniture?
The decision between walnut and white oak for furniture truly is a matter of personal preference. Consider the vision you have for your space, your lifestyle, and your budget. Do you have a modern home where a bold, dark wood would make a statement? Or perhaps you prefer a classic, timeless look that white oak wood can provide?
Summing up the details above, here are some key factors to think about when making your decision:
- Aesthetic: Walnut and white oak are both versatile enough to suit any space. Walnut's rich color adds depth to your space, while white oak brings warmth with a lighter touch.
- Maintenance: Both types of wood need regular care to maintain their beauty, but walnut wood might require extra attention to avoid scratches and keep its finish.
- Budget and Value Over Time: When it comes to lumber, white oak is slightly cheaper than walnut. However, the cost gap might not be substantial once both materials are crafted into furniture. While some argue that walnut furniture could have a better long-term investment value, well-crafted oak furniture also holds considerable worth.
***
The best way to decide is to see samples of both wood samples of walnut and white oak. Visit furniture stores and local artisan shops to check out furniture crafted from these materials. They are often conveniently staged so you can properly visualize how these types of wood can work for your space.
Remember, both walnut and white oak are excellent hardwoods, durable and long-lasting, so, you can't go wrong either way.