Yes, it is not uncommon for kitchen cabinet doors to be made from one type of wood or material, while the cabinet boxes (the main structure) are made from another. This approach is often seen in kitchen cabinetry to achieve a balance between aesthetics and cost-effectiveness.
There are a few reasons why different woods or materials might be used for cabinet doors and boxes:
Cost and Budget: Cabinet doors are more visible and contribute significantly to the overall appearance of the kitchen. Using higher-quality or more decorative wood for the doors can be more expensive. To keep costs down while still maintaining an appealing look, less expensive wood or engineered materials (such as plywood or MDF) might be used for the cabinet boxes.
Stability and Durability: Certain woods are better suited for cabinet boxes due to their strength, stability, and resistance to moisture. For example, plywood is commonly used for cabinet boxes because it is sturdy and less prone to warping compared to solid wood.
Design and Style: Mixing materials can be a deliberate design choice to create contrast and visual interest. Combining different woods or materials can add depth to the kitchen's aesthetic.
Regarding the sides that show, such as the visible ends of the cabinets (called end panels), they are typically finished to match the cabinet doors, especially in higher-end cabinetry. This consistency helps create a cohesive and unified appearance for the kitchen.
However, you are correct that different woods or materials might stain differently, and this is an important consideration when choosing kitchen cabinets. If you plan to stain the wood, it's crucial to select materials that have similar characteristics and take stains consistently. Some woods might have open grains that absorb stain differently, leading to uneven coloring. In such cases, using a pre-stain wood conditioner can help achieve a more uniform stain application.
If you're concerned about potential staining variations, you can opt for materials that have a similar grain pattern or consider using paint or a clear finish instead of stain to avoid color discrepancies.
Ultimately, when choosing kitchen cabinets, it's essential to consider your budget, design preferences, and the functionality of the materials used. If you have specific concerns about staining, discuss them with a knowledgeable cabinet professional who can guide you in selecting the right materials for your desired look and performance.