Beautiful wood!!

Way too soft, unless you like inadvertent distressing and a very timeworn and rustic look. If so, pine is cheaper and does the same thing.

I have the same question--new build--and what kind of interior doors? I am planning on distressed white/a little off-white cabinets with painted to match woodwork throughout. I love the look of the stained alder but am worried about the wood--if it'll wear well? I am not in love with hickory unless it is stained with a decently dark stain that subdues its steakiness. Either way I am going for a rustic look. Wondering if anybody has used alder interior doors over the course of a few years---and how well they are standing up.

We just ordered cabinets, doors and trim in it. I'll report back in a few years.

My cabinets are a darker walnut stained alder. Alder will dent if hit, but mine have been in 8 years and still look great. It’s easy to camouflage with a good touch up marker or touch up wax. I wouldn’t worry unless you’re really hard on things.