Why Not All “Walnut Tables” Are Actually Walnut

When you hear the words “walnut table,” it’s easy to picture a deep, rich brown surface with swirling grain and timeless character. Real walnut — especially black walnut — has a natural warmth and elegance that make it one of the most sought-after hardwoods in furniture design. But here’s a surprising truth: not every “walnut table” you see online or in showrooms is made from genuine walnut. In fact, many aren’t walnut at all.

The biggest reason for this confusion is how loosely the term “walnut” is used in the furniture industry. Some companies label any dark-brown table as “walnut,” even if it’s made from a completely different species of wood or covered in a walnut-colored veneer. Others use engineered or composite woods with a printed walnut pattern to mimic the real thing. These pieces may look convincing at first glance, but they don’t deliver the same richness, strength, or longevity as true solid walnut furniture.

Authentic walnut — like the black walnut used at TableCo — comes from Solid American hardwood trees and is prized for its fine grain, stability, and deep colour variations. It’s not stained to appear darker; instead, its natural tones range from creamy sapwood to chocolate heartwood, often with ribbons of lighter streaks that give each tabletop its one-of-a-kind look. In contrast, stained or veneered imitations often lack depth and character. They may appear overly uniform or flat, because they’re designed to look like walnut, not be a walnut.

It’s also worth understanding that there are many “walnut” variations, and not all are equal in quality or origin. Some imported furniture uses “tropical walnut” or other species marketed under the walnut name, even though their grain, density, and durability differ greatly from authentic black walnut. While these woods can still be attractive, they’re not the same material — and often don’t perform the same way in Canadian climates. When you’re investing in a custom tabletop, it’s important to know where the wood comes from and how it’s sourced.

At TableCo, every walnut tabletop is made from genuine Solid American black walnut, carefully selected and handcrafted in Canada. Our artisans respect the integrity of the material — using full-thickness, solid slabs rather than veneers or substitutes. The result is furniture that feels grounded, luxurious, and enduring. Whether it’s a dining table, desk, or custom surface, each piece captures the natural beauty that only authentic walnut can provide.

Final Thoughts

Not every “walnut” table lives up to its name, and that’s exactly why it pays to ask questions before you buy. If you want a tabletop that tells a story — one rooted in real wood, real craftsmanship, and real longevity — look for transparency about materials and construction. At TableCo, we believe authenticity matters. When you choose genuine black walnut, you’re not just buying a beautiful table; you’re investing in a piece of craftsmanship that’s built to last a lifetime.