Yes, wood--mahogany for sure--darkens over time. That sample looks like mahogany that's had some time to me; the other pic looks like mahogany that's just been sanded. So I think you're fine. I've made shelves & other pieces w/ mahogany & it's darkened up like they're telling you it will.

And those look gorgeous!

They already have a clear finish on them. That is why I am wondering how they will darken.

They are saying it will take a few months.

I had a very similar experience several years back, albeit with a different (I think) wood species)-- sapele-- and posted here to seek advice. Our cabinets also had a clear finish on them. Here is the thread: http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2597538/uggh-cabinets-not-quite-what-we-expected

Here is a different thread where I posted some "finished" pics: http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2666523/sapele-kitchen-almost-done

Bottom line: the mahogany will darken substantially, and probably start doing so fairly quickly. They're going to be beautiful!

Jugo, Thank you! I feel better. You have a beautiful kitchen! I was teetering between Sapele and African mahogany. I chose African because my quartz countertops are "busy", so wanted to keep my cabinets uniform. We are keeping our lights on 24/7! They come up to measure for the countertops tomorrow. I have been on a roller coaster of emotion since they started installing the cabinets. Craftsmanship is beautiful, it's just the color that I will have to try to be patient for to change. I will post pictures a we go.

Glad it helps. And thanks for the compliment. Please keep us posted as the cabs mature! Can't wait to see how they develop.

Yes they will darken. My ex did woodworking as a hobby and I remember some of his pieces he did in the African Mahogany darkening quite a bit from where he started.