wrote:

Maybe this is an impossible question! We're getting a new kitchen and
want a design that we not only like, but will not look hideously dated
in 5 or even 10 years time. We thought that was the case with our
current one when we installed it 10 years ago (a dark, shiny,
"cathedral" sculpted oak, admittedly cheap). Now it looks dated and
dowdy.

My thinking is that a natural wood finish is still a reasonably safe
choice. And given we want a lighter finish, maple seems like a good
choice (plus, we've seen one we like at a good price). Or is it a bit
too "Ikea-like"?

Can anyone look into their crystal ball and offer an opinion?

First. Can you not consider smartening up your existing units? Re
finishing? New doors?

If not then use solid wood, traditionally made up solid doors, and make
sure they are solidly fixed. Kitchen units have to be repairable if
they are to last. (And if they are repairable they are probably tough
enough to not need repairs.)

Then it comes down to planning. If you plan badly then however long
lasting the units are you'll find yourself changing them anyway.
Consider how long you'll stay in the house. The units should still look
good to the viewers even if they will rip them out.

Maple darkens a bit.

We moved here nearly 20 years ago and one of the first things I did was
to refit the kitchen. I used Maple units from Winchmore
http://www.winchmore-kitchens.co.uk/ . The ones we chose were their
Dalham design which I'm amazed to see are still available.

I'd used Winchmore in a previous house (c.1976) but then the units came
as "white" and needed finishing off. I chose them because they were so
extraordinarily cheap and because I liked the unusual construction.

In the mid '80s I chose them again but this time they came ready
finished and were a good deal more expensive.

I don't know how they compare on price now - but I'd choose them again
if I could possibly afford to. (If we stay here I won't need to.)

The chipboard carcases have a solid wood (detachable) door frame on the
front and the solid wood doors are hung on these with simple external
pin hinges. I think they are very solid.

Our idea was that the units would last out our time in this house. So
far they've exceeded the expected time and I can't see why they should
not last as long again.

One of the "features" I liked was the absence of door handles. Instead
the doors and drawers have shaped edges to provide a finger grip. I
think it looks very uncluttered like this. However now these parts are
beginning to show wear and my wife is beginning to find difficulty
opening the doors. So I'm considering fitting knobs and re finishing
the door fronts.

Good luck.

Edgar