The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Hardwood Species for Oakwood Homes in 2026
Oakwood’s tree-lined streets aren’t the only place you’ll find beautiful wood in 2026. Inside the homes on Sugar Camp, Schantz, and Far Hills, natural hardwood cabinetry and flooring are making the strongest comeback we’ve seen in 15 years.
After installing over 180,000 board feet of hardwood in Oakwood homes last year, here are the five species our clients can’t stop requesting — plus the exact neighborhoods where each shines:
Quarter-Sawn White Oak (Rift & Plain Sawn Mix) – The undisputed king of 45419
Grain pattern hides fingerprints (perfect for Harman Elementary families)
Light cerused finishes are exploding on Ridgeway
Janka hardness: 1,360 (kid- and dog-proof)
European Walnut – The choice for $900K+ homes
Rich chocolate tones with dramatic figuring
Most popular on Hadley and Park Road projects
Naturally darker — no staining required
Reclaimed Oak from Ohio Barns – Historic home favorite
Nail holes and patina tell a story
Used in three 2025 Oakwood Historical Society-approved projects
