Celebrating 30 Years of Custom Cabinetry in Chicago

For three decades, Wheatland Cabinets has been designing and building custom cabinetry throughout the Chicago suburbs — blending craftsmanship, design, and a commitment to the people we serve. As we celebrate 30 years in business, we sat down with our founder to reflect on the journey: what inspired the early days, how the industry has evolved, and what continues to drive our work today.

This milestone isn’t just about longevity. It’s about craft, community, and the belief that thoughtful design can transform the way we live. Here’s Tyler Wheatland’s story, in his own words.

What inspired you to start the business back in 1995?

In school, I was lucky to have access to a well-equipped woodshop and an encouraging teacher who sparked my interest in craftsmanship. During the summers, I worked on framing large houses with a small crew, which exposed me to many different aspects of construction. Eventually, I realized that having my own shop would allow me to work on my own schedule and dive into the details I enjoyed most. That independence — and the satisfaction of hands-on building — naturally led me toward cabinetry, and I’m so glad it did.

What were some of the biggest challenges in the early years?

Growth in a truly custom business — with nearly limitless options — was a big challenge. I learned a lot of hard lessons and made some costly mistakes along the way. Early on, I realized the importance of constantly questioning and refining our processes. Over time, I’ve come to see that kind of self-assessment not as a burden, but as a strength. Continuous improvement remains a challenge, but it’s also what keeps us sharp, evolving, and adaptable.

What project are you most proud of in these 30 years?

There have been many proud moments and beautiful projects, but what stands out most now is the team we’ve built. The quality, creativity, and attention to detail they bring to every project is incredible — but even more impressive is how much everyone genuinely cares. Seeing that shared pride and belief in one another is deeply rewarding, and that’s what makes me proudest.

How have customer needs and design trends changed over the decades?

When I started, there was a major shift happening — people were opening up their homes to connect the kitchen with the rest of the house. At the time, ornate styles were everywhere: Corinthian corbels, grape-leaf appliqués, dental moldings, and finishes that pushed our glazing and distressing techniques to the limit. On the other end of the spectrum, ultra-modern, high-gloss designs were popular — both challenging in their own ways.

Over the years, things have become more relaxed and integrated. Today, kitchens are designed more like living spaces — simpler, more comfortable, and inviting. With our busy lives, people want warmth and ease. Recently, we’ve seen a return of natural wood tones and a bit more color, which brings a sense of balance and vibrancy back into these spaces.

What has stayed the same — the core values or principles that guide your work?

Honesty has always been at the core of our business. I believe in being transparent and truthful — with customers, with our team, and with ourselves. Trust and integrity matter more than anything. Growth is important, but never at the expense of those values.

What role has the local community played in your journey?

We’ve always valued being part of our local community and supporting it where we can. While we’re not a large contributor to charities yet, we make a point to give back locally. Looking ahead, my son and I have plans to expand those efforts — particularly through reforestation and tree-planting initiatives that tie directly to our craft.

What does reaching 30 years mean to you personally?

It means a lot — and honestly, I can’t imagine doing anything else. I sometimes joke that I should retire soon, but the truth is, this work is my therapy. It keeps me grounded and fulfilled. I don’t think I’ll ever completely walk away from it.

What advice would you give to someone starting a similar business today?

Stay true to yourself and your values. Be open to learning — every single day. Don’t be afraid to ask others, even potential competitors, for help or collaboration, and make sure to give back when you can. Most importantly, stay open and vulnerable to improvement and growth. That mindset will carry you through the challenges and keep your work meaningful.