Showplace Announces Winners of the 2025 National Design Contest

(HARRISBURG, SD) – Showplace Cabinetry is proud to announce the winners of its 2025 Design Contest, celebrating exceptional creativity and design innovation from its dealer network across the country.

Purple painted bar cabinets with wine bottles and open shelves. Includes badge notifying that this project is a design contest winner.

This year’s contest generated an impressive 130 project submissions spanning six design categories, showcasing the breadth of talent and vision among Showplace dealer-partners nationwide. From stunning kitchen transformations to thoughtfully designed bathrooms and unique specialty spaces, the entries demonstrated both elevated style and functional excellence.

The six award categories highlighted a diverse range of design applications, recognizing projects that exemplify outstanding use of cabinetry, attention to detail, and seamless integration of form and function.

“We are continually inspired by the creativity and expertise of our dealer-partners,” said Bill Allen, CEO of Showplace Cabinetry. “The quality and variety of submissions this year speak volumes about the strength of our network and the passion our designers bring to every project. We’re honored to celebrate their achievements.”

Winning projects were selected based on overall design excellence, innovative use of Showplace products, craftsmanship, and aesthetic impact. Each winning design reflects the versatility and quality that define the Showplace brand.

The annual Design Contest serves as an opportunity to spotlight the remarkable work being done across the Showplace dealer community while reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting inspired design and exceptional results for homeowners nationwide.

The sixteen 2025 Showplace Design Contest winners are:

Large Kitchen

  • Salem Point Design in Parker, CO (1st Place)
  • Chesapeake Cabinetry in Georgetown, DE (2nd Place)

Small Kitchen

  • Brown & Glynn Construction in Milltown, NJ (1st Place and Judges’ Choice)
  • EKAD Studio in Fort Loudon, PA (2nd Place)

Bathroom

  • Spencer Home Center in Lexington, VA (1st Place)
  • Salem Point Design in Parker, CO (2nd Place)

Other Rooms

  • Salem Point Design in Parker, CO (1st and 2nd Place)

Non-Paint

  • Haggard Home Cabinetry & Design in Johns Creek, GA (1st Place and Plant Pick)
  • MJ Kitchen & Bath in Plymouth, MI (2nd Place)

New Products

  • DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen in Rogers, AR (1st Place)
  • Salem Point Design in Parker, CO (2nd Place)

Honorable Mention

  • McGuire + Co. Kitchen + Bath in Wakefield, MA (2 entries honored)
  • Linden Kitchen & Bath in Linden, MI
  • C&C Custom Interiors in Marshall, MN
Light blue bathroom vanity cabinets with ornate gold mirrors and sink hardware.

The winning projects are featured on Showplace Cabinetry’s website and social media channels, celebrating the designers’ exceptional work and inspiring homeowners and professionals alike.

Showplace Cabinetry Announces Multiple Executive and Leadership Promotions

(HARRISBURG, SD) – Showplace Cabinetry is entering a new era after celebrating their 25th year building cabinets and is pleased to announce a series of leadership promotions strengthening the company’s manufacturing, engineering, and systems teams.

These leadership advancements recognize five long-tenured leaders whose vision, dedication, and expertise have been instrumental in shaping Showplace’s evolution, especially during one of the most transformative periods in the company’s history.

The following promotions have been announced:

“Their experience, dedication, and leadership will help ensure Showplace continues to grow, innovate, and deliver exceptional products.”

“These promotions recognize the outstanding contributions of each of these leaders and their commitment to our people, our processes of our first 25 years and position us for our future,” said Bill Allen, CEO of Showplace Cabinetry. “Their experience, dedication, and leadership will help ensure Showplace continues to grow, innovate, and deliver exceptional products.”

Showplace Cabinetry congratulates Jeremy Seykora, Bart Brost, Jeremy Fischer, Jaron DeWit, and Ryan Meins on their well-deserved promotions and looks forward to their continued leadership.

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The Hottest Trends in Kitchen Cabinet Colors for 2026

After years of bright white kitchens and cool gray tones, 2026 is taking a softer, warmer turn with hints of fresh colors.

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Designers and homeowners alike are leaning toward colors that feel grounded, natural, and a little more “lived in” while including bold or colorful accents that add a touch of character. It’s all about creating kitchens and baths that look beautiful and feel like home.

If you’re planning a remodel or helping a client design their dream kitchen, here’s what’s trending and why these choices have staying power.

“Wood finishes are resurging as homeowners crave authenticity and craftsmanship in their spaces”

What’s Fading Out

Don’t worry — your white kitchen isn’t suddenly outdated. But the all-white everything look is giving way to warmer whites and layered neutrals.
Cool grays and glossy finishes are also fading, replaced by matte textures and more natural warmth.

The new goal? Balance and comfort. A kitchen that still looks bright and fresh — but feels personal and inviting.

How to Bring These Trends Home

Whether you’re designing your dream kitchen or helping a homeowner find their perfect finish:

Magnifying glass

Focus on quality.

Trends evolve, but craftsmanship endures.

Kitchen with light icon

Test colors in your space.

Lighting changes everything.

Paint fan deck

Mix materials.

Try pairing wood and paint for added depth.

Star icon

Add personality in small doses.

Use bolder hues on an island or accent wall.

The Showplace Perspective

At Showplace Cabinetry, we believe color trends should enhance your home, not overwhelm it. The 2026 palette is all about warmth, texture, and individuality, perfectly aligning with our focus on quality, Midwest craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Whether you love soft neutrals, earthy greens, or bold accents, there’s a Showplace finish that fits your style and stands the test of time.

Showplace Cabinetry Introduces Nine New Coastal-Inspired Colors Crafted for the Home

(HARRISBURG, SD) – Showplace Cabinetry has introduced nine new paint colors inspired by the serene beauty of the shoreline.

New Products

Designed to capture the essence of coastal living, this collection blends soft neutrals and tranquil blues to bring a sense of calm and timeless elegance to any space.

“They’re versatile, timeless, and pair beautifully with today’s most popular wood tones and finishes.”

Hannah Gebauer, Marketing Director at Showplace Cabinetry, added, “Our goal is to create a paint lineup that is distinctly Showplace, yet in tune with tonal trends. We leverage insights from our suppliers’ color experts and keep an eye on trends across fashion, European design, and even automotive launches—ensuring each new collection is both inspired and uniquely ours.”

As an employee-owned company, Showplace Cabinetry continues to invest in innovative finishes and design flexibility that meet the evolving needs of homeowners and designers. These new colors represent the brand’s ongoing commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and the art of creating spaces that feel as good as they look.

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Satin vs. Matte: Choosing the Right Sheen for Your Cabinet Finish

When selecting new cabinets, the door style and color usually take center stage—but the finish sheen you choose plays an equally important role in the final look.

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Showplace offers two options: satin and matte finishes. While the difference may seem subtle, sheen affects not only the cabinet’s appearance but also its durability and maintenance. Let’s break down the key distinctions to help you decide which finish is right for your space.

What Is Sheen?

Sheen refers to the level of light reflectivity on a surface. The higher the sheen, the shinier the finish. On cabinets, sheen affects everything from the appearance of the color to the amount of upkeep the surface will require.

Key Differences Between Satin and Matte Sheen At a Glance

How to Decide Between Satin and Matte

Think about your lifestyle and design goals:

  • If you want a balance of beauty and practicality, satin is the safer bet.
  • If you’re aiming for a bold, modern statement and don’t mind a little extra maintenance, matte could be the perfect choice.

Ultimately, both finishes bring something unique to the table. Satin enhances warmth, while matte offers a stylish, refined calm. Whichever you choose, the right sheen will elevate your cabinetry and complete your design vision.


Specifications & Product Information Notice:
The specification, materials, and care information provided on this website are intended as a general reference only. Because Showplace cabinetry is custom-manufactured, final product characteristics will reflect the specific selections, modifications, accessories, and enhancements chosen by the homeowner in collaboration with their designer. As a result, the website content should not be interpreted as comprehensive or absolute for all projects.

Some Showplace-purchased products, including doors purchased from other manufacturers, vent hoods and blowers, internal hardware kits, etc., are manufactured by third-party suppliers. These components are subject to the supplier’s own specifications, limitations, and warranty terms. Care information can be requested through a Showplace dealer or cited on the original manufacturer’s website.

Showplace reserves the right to change or discontinue products, materials, or design specifications at any time without prior notice and without obligation to update or modify cabinetry produced previously.

Homeowners should not rely solely on website information when making purchase decisions. For precise, project-specific details including materials, construction methods, limitations, and care requirements, consult your authorized Showplace designer or dealer.

Showplace Cabinetry Introduces New “Wren” Door Style

(HARRISBURG, SD) – Showplace Cabinetry is excited to introduce Wren, a fresh take on transitional design with clean lines and versatile appeal.

New Products

Wren is a cope-and-stick style door featuring a 3/8″ solid reverse-raised center panel and 2-3/4” wide stiles and rails, offering a substantial yet refined profile.

Featuring a vertical “step” profile on the stiles, this door style is compatible with a wide variety of design aesthetics and is available in the Showplace Framed Overlay (partial and full), Inset, and ShowplaceEVO (frameless) product lines.

“Its versatility and clean styling make it a perfect fit for today’s design demands.”

Wren is available in red oak, maple, paint grade, cherry, hickory, and rustic alder wood species, and a wide variety of standard and specialty paints and finishes.

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The Impact of Everyday Life on Cabinets

Every home is unique and meant to be lived in, and various factors will influence how wood cabinetry acclimates and responds over time.

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Your home’s specific environment—including temperature control, humidity levels, daily habits, and exposure to light—will shape how your cabinetry ages and evolves.

Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture based on environmental conditions. As the air becomes more humid, wood takes in moisture and can expand slightly; when the air becomes dry, it releases moisture and may contract. This continuous exchange is a normal characteristic of natural wood and is why slight movement, such as panel shrinkage or minor warping, can occur over time—especially in stained cabinetry where the natural grain and behavior of the wood are more visible.

CABINET CARE TIPS:

If you want to keep your stained (or painted) cabinets looking as new as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Maintain a stable humidity level (30-55%) with a whole-home humidifier.
  • Protect your cabinetry by controlling sunlight exposure (use window coverings).
  • Keep your cabinets clean from dirt buildup, etc.

Specifications & Product Information Notice:
The specification, materials, and care information provided on this website are intended as a general reference only. Because Showplace cabinetry is custom-manufactured, final product characteristics will reflect the specific selections, modifications, accessories, and enhancements chosen by the homeowner in collaboration with their designer. As a result, the website content should not be interpreted as comprehensive or absolute for all projects.

Some Showplace-purchased products, including doors purchased from other manufacturers, vent hoods and blowers, internal hardware kits, etc., are manufactured by third-party suppliers. These components are subject to the supplier’s own specifications, limitations, and warranty terms. Care information can be requested through a Showplace dealer or cited on the original manufacturer’s website.

Showplace reserves the right to change or discontinue products, materials, or design specifications at any time without prior notice and without obligation to update or modify cabinetry produced previously.

Homeowners should not rely solely on website information when making purchase decisions. For precise, project-specific details including materials, construction methods, limitations, and care requirements, consult your authorized Showplace designer or dealer.

Why Do Cabinet Center Panels Shrink? What to Expect and Why It Happens

If you’ve noticed a slight line around the center panel of your cabinet doors, or maybe a small gap that wasn’t there before? You’re not alone.

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This common occurrence is due to something called panel shrinkage, and it’s a natural part of owning real wood cabinetry. While it might seem alarming at first glance, it’s actually an expected result of wood being, well, wood!

So, what causes it? And what should you expect from your cabinets over time? Let’s break it down.

Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. That floating design gives the panel room to move without cracking or warping. So, when your home gets drier, especially in winter, the panel may shrink slightly, revealing a line around the edge where the finish appears lighter or the joint is more noticeable.

This is not a defect. It’s wood behaving exactly as it should.

What Causes Shrinkage?

Humidity Icon

Seasonal Humidity Changes

In colder months, or dry desert-like climates, indoor air tends to be drier, especially when the heat is running, creating low relative humidity. This dry air pulls moisture from the wood, causing the center panel to contract. In summer, when humidity rises, the wood often expands again, and those lines may become less noticeable—or disappear entirely.

Wood grain icon

Wood Species Differences

Some wood types are more prone to movement than others. For example, maple or cherry may expand and contract differently than oak or hickory. Painted finishes on tight-grained woods like maple can make the shrink lines more visible compared to stained finishes on open-grained woods.

Is There Anything You Should Do?

In most cases, no action is needed. This is considered normal and expected in solid wood cabinetry. However, if you want to reduce the seasonal movement as much as possible, here are a few tips:

  • Maintain Stable Humidity: Showplace recommends a relative humidity level between 30–55% in your home year-round, using proper humidification systems installed on your home HVAC system.
  • Avoid Excessive Heat or Moisture: Don’t place cabinet doors near heat vents or in areas with excessive steam without proper ventilation.
  • Be Patient: Often, those lines vanish again when humidity returns to normal levels in spring or summer.

Specifications & Product Information Notice:
The specification, materials, and care information provided on this website are intended as a general reference only. Because Showplace cabinetry is custom-manufactured, final product characteristics will reflect the specific selections, modifications, accessories, and enhancements chosen by the homeowner in collaboration with their designer. As a result, the website content should not be interpreted as comprehensive or absolute for all projects.

Some Showplace-purchased products, including doors purchased from other manufacturers, vent hoods and blowers, internal hardware kits, etc., are manufactured by third-party suppliers. These components are subject to the supplier’s own specifications, limitations, and warranty terms. Care information can be requested through a Showplace dealer or cited on the original manufacturer’s website.

Showplace reserves the right to change or discontinue products, materials, or design specifications at any time without prior notice and without obligation to update or modify cabinetry produced previously.

Homeowners should not rely solely on website information when making purchase decisions. For precise, project-specific details including materials, construction methods, limitations, and care requirements, consult your authorized Showplace designer or dealer.

Why You Should Work at Showplace Cabinetry: A Glimpse into the Experience

Choosing where to work is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make in your career. It’s not just about the paycheck; it’s about finding a place where you can grow, feel valued, and make a meaningful impact.

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Showplace Cabinetry offers an exceptional environment for those seeking these qualities. Here’s why you should consider building your career with Showplace Cabinetry and what you can expect from the experience.

Innovation is another cornerstone of our culture. We continually invest in the latest technologies to enhance our products and processes and strive to be at the forefront of industry product trends. As a member of our team, you may have opportunities to advance your career and work with cutting-edge tools or help develop new and innovative products.

Support is readily available at Showplace Cabinetry. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, you’ll find that your colleagues and supervisors are always willing to lend a helping hand. Ongoing training opportunities are part of our commitment to employee growth and development.

We believe professional development is key to both individual and company success. We support professional development through hands-on training, cross-department collaboration, mentorship, and opportunities for internal advancement. Our employee-owners are encouraged to take initiative, expand their skill sets, and pursue long-term career paths within the company.

What Employees Are Saying

Don’t just take our word for it. Our employees are our best advocates. Here’s what some of them have to say about their experience at Showplace Cabinetry:

  • Production Worker: “Working at Showplace Cabinetry has been an incredible experience. The team is like a family, and the collaborative culture makes every day rewarding. Plus, knowing that we’re creating products that make a difference in people’s homes is very satisfying.”
  • Production Manager: “I’ve been with Showplace Cabinetry for over ten years, and I’ve seen firsthand how much the company values its employees. There are always opportunities to learn and grow, and the supportive environment makes it a great place to work.”

Showplace Cabinetry Launches Kona: A Bold New Stain for Maple

(HARRISBURG, SD) – Showplace Cabinetry proudly announces the release of Kona, a rich new stain that brings dramatic depth and warmth to its cabinetry offerings.

New Products

Now available on Maple and Maple SG across the Framed Overlay, Inset, and Frameless product lines, Kona adds bold personality and flexibility to any design vision.

Kona is a stain that highlights natural wood grain with a dynamic visual range depending on the selected sheen. When paired with a Matte (10) sheen, Kona appears lighter, more textural, and full of natural variation—ideal for relaxed, organic spaces. In contrast, the Satin (25) sheen deepens the tone, offering a more refined, uniform appearance with a rich, contemporary feel.

“It’s a versatile finish that feels timeless yet fresh, perfectly suited for creating spaces that are both welcoming and stylish.”

“We’ve seen light, airy wood tones dominate the market in recent years—and that’s still a strong look,” added Lisa Myers, Director of Product Development at Showplace Cabinetry. “But we’re starting to see a shift. Homeowners and designers are now pairing those lighter elements, like white oak flooring, with deeper, moodier finishes like Kona or our new paint colors. It adds richness, dimension, and contrast to the space. These additions allow us to meet that growing desire for balance between light and dark.”

New Paints

Introducing Carnelian paint

Carnelian (SW7580)

A romantic mix of violets, reds, and browns—another Sherwin-Williams Color of the Month.

Introducing Labradorite paint

Labradorite (SW7619)

A cool, calming soft blue.

Introducing Rockweed paint

Rockweed (SW2735)

A dramatic warm neutral that balances cool gray violet and rich chocolate brown with a subtle red undertone.

Introducing Rosemary paint

Rosemary (SW6187)

An earthy, organic green with subtle gray undertones—also a Sherwin-Williams Color of the Month.

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Showplace Announces Winners of the 2024 National Design Contest

(HARRISBURG, SD) – Showplace Cabinetry is proud to announce the winners of their 2024 Design Contest, recognizing outstanding creativity and craftsmanship in kitchen and bath design.

Large open kitchen space with wood beams and stained and painted cabinets

This year’s contest showcased exceptional talent from designers across the country, highlighting innovative uses of Showplace Cabinetry products in a variety of stunning projects. This year’s contest included 248 entries from dealers across the country.

“Every year, we are amazed by the level of creativity and expertise our designers bring to their projects, and 2024 was no exception,” said Bill Allen, CEO of Showplace Cabinetry. “These winning designs truly showcase the versatility and quality of our cabinetry, transforming spaces into beautiful and functional environments.”

The thirteen 2024 Showplace Design Contest winners are:

Large Kitchen

  • Coastal Kitchen and Bath in Victoria, TX (1st Place and Plant Pick)
  • Kitchens Plus in La Mesa, CA and USA Cabinet Store in Houston, TX (Tie-2nd Place)

Small Kitchen

  • Designing Kitchens Etc. in Libertyville, IL (1st Place)
  • Linden Kitchen & Bath in Linden, MI (2nd Place)

Bathroom

  • Designing Kitchens Etc. in Libertyville, IL (1st Place)
  • Studio A & C Kitchen Design, Inc. in Grand Rapids, MI (2nd Place)

Other Rooms

  • Cabinetry by Better Bilt in Mt. Clemons, MI (1st Place)
  • Sims Exteriors and Remodeling in Stoughton, WI (2nd Place)

Non-Paint

  • Julie Piesz Interiors, Inc. in Rockwood, MI (1st Place and Judges’ Choice)
  • Branches Cabinetry & Design in Evergreen, CO (2nd Place)

New Products

  • Great Lakes Countertops & Kitchens in Lake Park, IA (2nd Place)
  • Kitchen Express, Inc. in Syracuse, NY (1st Place)
Master bathroom with stained vanity cabinets and painted tall linen cabinets. Also includes a shower with glass walls.

The winning projects are featured on Showplace Cabinetry’s website and social media channels, celebrating the designers’ exceptional work and inspiring homeowners and professionals alike.

Painted Cabinets: Comparing Paint Grade, Painted Red Oak, and Rustic Alder

When selecting cabinetry for your home, the material you choose plays a significant role in shaping both the look and feel of your space.

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While paint grade cabinetry is the most popular choice for its flawless, smooth finish, options like painted red oak and rustic alder offer distinct textures and character that set them apart. Let’s explore these three options to help you decide which one is best for your design.

Why Choose Paint Grade?

  • Timeless Appeal: Its clean aesthetic blends effortlessly into a variety of design schemes.
  • Smooth Look: A beautiful, smooth surface with no visible grain, ideal for contemporary and modern styles.
  • Versatility: Works beautifully with any paint color, allowing the design focus to shift entirely to color and hardware.

Why Choose Painted Red Oak?

  • Distinctive Texture: Unlike paint grade, the grain of red oak remains visible through the paint, creating depth and character in the finish.
  • Durability: Known for its strength, red oak stands up to daily wear and tear, making it a practical choice for busy homes.
  • Design Versatility: Red oak’s textured finish works well in transitional spaces, blending traditional and contemporary design elements.

Best For: Homeowners who want a painted finish with added visual interest and a durable, long-lasting material.

Why Choose Painted Rustic Alder?

  • Smooth Surface: Similar to paint grade, rustic alder paints evenly, resulting in a smooth-to-the-touch finish. Knots are visible, providing a rustic appearance.
  • Subtle Warmth: Rustic alder’s natural charm shines through, even in painted applications, making it a great choice for farmhouse, cottage, or casual designs.
  • Slight Character: Though painted rustic alder is smooth like paint grade, the knots and other characteristics make rustic alder an excellent choice for those that want a smooth painted finish with a slight bit of character.

Best For: Those who want a smooth painted finish with just a hint of rustic charm in the wood’s subtle character.

Showplace Cabinetry: Crafted for Your Style

At Showplace Cabinetry, we offer a variety of painted cabinetry options, from the seamless elegance of paint grade to the textured charm of painted red oak and the smooth, natural appeal of rustic alder. Whatever your vision, our expertly crafted cabinets will help you create a space that’s uniquely yours.


Specifications & Product Information Notice:
The specification, materials, and care information provided on this website are intended as a general reference only. Because Showplace cabinetry is custom-manufactured, final product characteristics will reflect the specific selections, modifications, accessories, and enhancements chosen by the homeowner in collaboration with their designer. As a result, the website content should not be interpreted as comprehensive or absolute for all projects.

Some Showplace-purchased products, including doors purchased from other manufacturers, vent hoods and blowers, internal hardware kits, etc., are manufactured by third-party suppliers. These components are subject to the supplier’s own specifications, limitations, and warranty terms. Care information can be requested through a Showplace dealer or cited on the original manufacturer’s website.

Showplace reserves the right to change or discontinue products, materials, or design specifications at any time without prior notice and without obligation to update or modify cabinetry produced previously.

Homeowners should not rely solely on website information when making purchase decisions. For precise, project-specific details including materials, construction methods, limitations, and care requirements, consult your authorized Showplace designer or dealer.