How Clear Alder Cabinets Transformed A Minneapolis Kitchen
Some projects stand out not only for their beauty, but for the collaboration that brings them to life. When the talented team at Bluestem Remodeling approached us to partner on this unique kitchen, we knew it would be something special. Their vision centered around a frameless cabinetry design that balanced clean lines with warm, organic materials and our team at Sean’s Cabinetry was thrilled to help bring that vision to reality.
Our project manager, Nora Stanley, guided the cabinetry side of this build with exceptional care, ensuring the craftsmanship and design intent aligned at every phase. We could not be happier with how this collaboration unfolded and the final space truly speaks for itself.
1. Clear Alder Kitchen Cabinets
Some kitchens stand out because every element feels intentional, and this one is a perfect example. These warm clear alder cabinets set the tone, offering a soft and natural warmth that immediately draws you in. Cabinetry pairs beautifully with the layered materials throughout the space, creating a palette that feels modern and inviting.
This look becomes even more refined with frameless construction. Clean lines allow the finishes and textures to take center stage, while the cabinetry feels chic and highly functional. It is a space designed to live well, work hard, and age gracefully.
For the interior of the clear alder cabinets, the homeowners upgraded to UV maple plywood. This material is a hardwood plywood with a genuine maple veneer that comes pre-finished with a clear and durable ultraviolet cured coating. It offers a smooth and tough surface that resists scratches, chips, and chemicals. By eliminating the need for on-site finishing, it provides convenience and consistency while enhancing the natural beauty of the wood and offering long-lasting protection.
2. Island and Hutch in Tricorn Black
The hutch and custom range hood stand out as strong architectural features in this kitchen. Finished in Tricorn Black, they anchor the room with sophistication while still feeling effortless. Tricorn Black is known for its deep neutral quality with no visible undertones, which makes it ideal for interior cabinetry and millwork.
With its very low light reflectance value, this color absorbs light in a way that creates a rich and saturated look. In this space, it pairs well with the warm alder cabinets and gold hardware, bringing structure and balance. The black elements do not dominate the kitchen. They elevate it, providing contrast that enhances the warmth, texture, and overall design of the room.
3. Lighting That Completes the Space
Lighting plays a major role in the atmosphere of this kitchen, and the selections here add both character and balance. A pair of Parkington Double Library Wall Lights sits symmetrically on each side of the range hood, creating a striking visual frame. These fixtures blend industrial minimalism with refined architectural details. Inspired by classic library lighting, the glass and metal silhouettes bring a sculptural quality that feels purposeful. Their warm glow highlights the movement of the marble backsplash and draws attention to the hood as a true centerpiece.
Above the island, two Euro Design Black Gold Pendant Lights continue the theme. Their crisp black exterior and warm gold interior echo the room’s palette while adding another layer of contrast. The scale of the pendants is perfect for the island, creating a focal point without overshadowing the cabinetry. Together, the sconces and pendants create a lighting composition that is cohesive, balanced, and beautifully aligned with this modern kitchen.
4. An Award Winning Collaboration
How fabulous is this kitchen. Its beauty and thoughtful design certainly did not go unnoticed. This remarkable project earned Bluestem Remodeling the 2025 Gold Award for Residential Addition $250,000–$500,000 from NARI of Minnesota. The recognition celebrates design excellence, beautiful integration, and exceptional craftsmanship. The larger renovation included a modern three story addition that transformed a cherished 1924 South Minneapolis home and created space for a brighter kitchen, an owner’s suite, and expanded lower level living.
We are truly grateful that our cabinetry was part of the kitchen featured in this award-winning project. Collaborating with Bluestem Remodeling on a build of this caliber is something our team at Sean’s Cabinetry takes immense pride in. Seeing the space recognized at a state level makes the partnership even more meaningful.
