Butcher Block Oak - Combining Strength With Beauty

Butcher block Oak kitchen islands and carts combine the durability and strength of oak with the nearly indestructible qualities of a Butcher Block top.

Both have a traditional appearance, the Oak showing off a dramatic and colorful grain, the Butcher Block quietly displaying the soft and variable hues of Hardrock Maple blocks.

In older homes and kitchens, the combination is often complementary.

Oak was commonly used in older homes for flooring, woodwork and baseboards, and Butcher Block cutting boards have been used in kitchens for over a hundred years.

A Limited Choice Of Materials But In Plenty Of Styles And Designs

Butcher blocks were developed in the late 19th century to deal with problems of sanitation, warping, and cracking experienced in the meat-cutting industry.

They're still used commercially, but home cooks often find them to be essential in cooking and food preparation.

Though the combination of Oak and Butcher Block is limited, it is found in many designs and styles.

Contemporary, Traditional, American Folk and French Country, Avant Garde or Hip, and others are all popular.

A natural finish is usually preferred on oak, but for those who find the grain too dramatic or who want to tone down the amount of bare wood in their kitchens, painted finishes in a multitude of colors are available.

Some islands combine Butcher Block with other top materials to provide surfaces with specific uses.

Inserts or drop-leaf cutting boards made of Butcher Block are sometimes fitted onto tops of stainless steel or granite because while the Butcher Block is easy on cutlery and won't mar utensils, the other materials are best for working with dough and other ingredients.