What kind of wood is this?

[Anonymous]

We put in an offer on a house with wood kitchen cabinets, but I'm not sure 1) What kind of wood and 2) How we should best update.
Found a picture of similarly colored/grained wood -- Is this oak? I am thinking of going with a dark stain or perhaps painting. I would love to save some money by reconfiguring the cabinets into a new design with updated countertops (currently has laminate installed, yuck).

http://www.gallaudetathletics.com/facilities/2011-12/trainingroom#PhotoSwipe1437338044921

[Anonymous]

I would guess birch?

[Anonymous]

^^^ PP again, do you mean the before or the after in the link you posted?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:^^^ PP again, do you mean the before or the after in the link you posted?

Sorry, I meant the first picture in the second row. (Dark wood, BEFORE pics).

My mother mentioned that they might be oak, but she hasn't seen the house in person, only in tiny real estate photos.

[Anonymous]

I would guess oak.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I would guess oak.

Thanks --
I'm told oak is pretty hardy and will last forever. Would people recommend I simply switch out the countertops and possibly reconfigure the existing cabinets? Would painting or staining work best with oak?

I'm also happy to do a full remodel with new cabinets, but I will be spending money on switching the layout of sink/appliances, and would rather save money where I can. Anyone have experience/tips to share regarding oak cabinets?