Authentic Historical Finishes for Period Cabinetry
Period-accurate finishes that capture the authentic character of historical cabinetry
Custom Finishes for Every Era
At Period Designs Company, we specialize in period-accurate finishes that capture the authentic character of historical cabinetry. Whether you're restoring a Colonial home or creating timeless elegance in a new space, our custom finishes bring depth, warmth, and authenticity to every project.
We use premium materials from trusted suppliers combined with our own proprietary formulations to achieve historically accurate, beautifully aged finishes. Every finish can be customized to match existing woodwork in your home or tailored to your specific vision.
Below are our most popular historical finish styles. We offer a much larger palette and can color-match any existing finish for seamless integration.
17th Century Primitive Finish
Single Color with Distressing & Aging
This authentic reproduction finish recreates the dry, matte appearance of early American painted furniture. Using traditional milk paint or specialized latex, we achieve the weathered look of centuries-old pieces—complete with natural wear patterns, subtle cracking, and aged patina.
Best Suited For:
Primitive cabinetry, reproduction furniture, farmhouse pieces
Characteristics:
Single color application, no protective topcoat, continues to age naturally over time
Options:
Can be enhanced with glaze and low-luster topcoat for added durability
Recommended Use:
Light-use furniture and decorative pieces
Historic Layered Finish
Multi-Color with Rub-Through & Glazing
Our most versatile period finish features multiple layers of color that reveal the history beneath. Base colors show through distressed top coats, creating the authentic appearance of generations of use. Hand-applied glazes settle into recesses and details, while a low-luster topcoat provides modern durability.
Best Suited For:
Kitchen cabinetry, bathrooms, built-ins, high-use furniture
Characteristics:
Two or more colors, strategic distressing reveals underlayers and wood grain, professional glazing for depth
Durability:
Protected with low-luster topcoat suitable for daily use
Customization:
Choose any combination of historical colors
Traditional Stained Finish
Natural Wood with Period-Appropriate Stains
Our hand-applied stains honor the natural beauty of solid hardwood while achieving period-accurate color tones. From the warm amber of early cherry to the rich darkness of aged walnut, we replicate authentic historical stain colors using modern, durable finishes.
Best Suited For:
Shaker cabinetry, Arts & Crafts styles, fine furniture
Characteristics:
Highlights natural wood grain, even color saturation, hand-rubbed application
Durability:
Multiple protective topcoat options from matte to semi-gloss
Options:
Can be combined with glazing or light distressing for aged appearance
Custom Color Matching
Already have existing cabinetry or woodwork you need to match? We can replicate any finish—from decades-old milk paint to modern stains—ensuring your new cabinetry integrates seamlessly with your home's existing character.
Ready to Choose Your Finish?
Our finish samples shown here represent only a fraction of our capabilities. Schedule a consultation to see our full palette, discuss period-appropriate options for your home's era, and explore custom color possibilities.