Expensive Wood

What It is: Premium hardwoods, such as cherry (shown) and walnut, known for their smooth grains.

Pros: It’s hard and durable.

Cons: Cherry darkens as it ages, and walnut lightens over time, so consider this when coordinating the cabinetry with other finishes.

Cost: Cherry and walnut are among the priciest species. Cherry costs about 10 to 15 percent more than midrange woods. Walnut can be twice as expensive as cherry.