Remodeling your kitchen is a big undertaking. It is important to choose wisely when it comes to selecting materials and finishes that will stand the test of time. One area you will need to give careful consideration to is your kitchen cabinets. There are many different styles to choose from, and each has its own unique benefits. And, not only do you have to decide on the style of the cabinets, but you also have to decide on the construction. Do you want framed or frameless cabinets? In this blog post, we will explore different kitchen cabinet styles and construction so that you can make an informed decision about what will work best for your space.
Understanding Framed vs. Frameless Cabinet Construction
One important distinction to understand when choosing kitchen cabinets is the difference between framed and frameless construction. Framed cabinets are made with a frame around the cabinet itself, with the cabinet doors attached to that frame. Frameless cabinets have no frame around the cabinet itself. The cabinet doors are attached directly to the cabinet sides. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks that you will need to consider.
Framed Cabinets
Also called face-frame cabinets, the main distinguishing features of framed cabinets are the solid wood frame that surrounds the top, bottom, and sides of the cabinet. While this frame adds stability to the entire cabinets, there is less space inside the cabinets. A larger cabinet will also have a center stile or partition in the frame where the doors meet and can sometimes impact where you store larger items.
Framed cabinets can be more forgiving than their frameless counterparts, allowing for easier adjustments after installation to bring everything into alignment. At the same time, they are not the sleek, modern cabinet look some look for, offering instead more traditional or transitional styling for the kitchen.
Frameless Cabinets
Alternatively referred to as European-style or full-access cabinets, frameless cabinets offer a more modern look. They are constructed without a face frame, which allows for more usable space inside the cabinet and makes them easier to clean. Frameless cabinetry can be more challenging to install than its framed cabinet counterpart. Without a face frame, a frameless cabinet has less support at the front, requiring more skilled expertise in the installation. We can help you with installation too!
Frameless cabinets will typically cost more, and will also require more adjustment than their framed cabinets to ensure all cabinets and drawers are physically and visually aligned properly. But there is no denying their modern, sleek appeal, and their ease of access moving items in and out of each cabinet.
Learn more about cabinet construction and wood selection basics in our getting-started section.
The Different Styles of Kitchen Cabinets
When it comes to choosing kitchen cabinets, there are many styles to consider. To help you narrow down your choices, we have put together a guide to some of the most popular kitchen cabinet styles. Let's take a closer look at each of these styles.
Shaker-Style Cabinets
Shaker-style cabinets are characterized by their clean lines and simple forms. Their popularity stems from their classic good looks; they go with just about any kitchen. Shaker cabinets are available in both framed and frameless varieties (although they are more commonly seen in framed cabinetry), and they can be made from almost any type of material. One thing to keep in mind if you're considering Shaker-style cabinets is that they typically require more maintenance than other styles because dirt and fingerprints show up more easily on their flat surfaces.
Pros:
- Classic style that will never go out of fashion.
- Can be paired with both traditional and contemporary décor schemes.
- Can be easily dressed up or down depending on your personal style.
Cons:
- Plain style may not appeal to everyone's taste.
- Can be more expensive than other types of cabinets.
Beadboard Cabinets
Beadboard cabinets are another cabinet style option. As the name suggests, beadboard cabinets feature small beads or ridges running along the surface of the door. They feature vertical tongue-and-groove boards arranged in rows. The result is a textured look that is evocative of cottage kitchens or coastal homes. Beadboard cabinets are typically made from wood and can either be painted or left unfinished. Beadboard panels can also be added as accents to existing cabinetry; for example, beadboard panels could be used as door fronts on an otherwise traditional kitchen.
Pros:
- Create a cozy cottage feel in your kitchen.
- Can be painted or stained to match your desired aesthetic.
Cons:
- May require more maintenance than other types of cabinets due to added detailing.
- Creates a very specific look that should be considered when considering the kitchen and adjacent rooms of the home.
Traditional Kitchen Cabinets
Traditional kitchen cabinets are characterized by their elegant, timeless look. Traditional cabinets feature raised-panel doors, available in both traditional woods such as oak and maple as well as cherry and other premium woods. The traditional styling can be further enhanced by crown molding and detailed corbels and other cabinet accessories. While they're typically more expensive than other kitchen cabinet styles, traditional cabinets are built to last and will never go out of style.
Pro:
- Near timeless style that will add value to your home.
Con:
- Is often the style of the existing kitchen you want to update.
Transitional Kitchen Cabinets
Transitional kitchen cabinets straddle the line between traditional and contemporary styles. They often feature clean lines and simple hardware like shaker-style cabinets but they also have some elements that harken back to more traditional designs like raised panel doors. Transitional kitchen cabinetry is a good option for those who want something that feels fresh but still has classic appeal.
Pro:
- Incorporates elements of both traditional and contemporary design, allowing you to mix and match until you find your perfect style.
Con:
- You may need to get creative with your hardware choices to find what fits perfectly with the cabinets and other products selected.
Contemporary Kitchen Cabinets
Contemporary kitchen cabinetry is characterized by its sleek, modern lines. This type of cabinetry often features minimal hardware and flat panel doors. Contemporary kitchen cabinetry is perfect for those who want a clean, minimalist look in their space. However, because this type of cabinetry is so simplistic, it can sometimes feel sterile or cold if not done right.
Pros:
- Sleek lines create a modern look that is perfect for small kitchens.
- Can be paired with stainless steel appliances for a high-end look.
Con:
- May not fit with more traditional décor schemes.
Slab Door Kitchen Cabinets
Slab door kitchen cabinets are best known as flat panel kitchen cabinet doors characterized by their smooth, flat surface with no added embellishments like raised panels or beads. Flat panel cabinet doors are typically made from wood but they can also be made from metal or laminate. Flat panel cabinet doors offer a clean look that works well with both transitional and contemporary spaces. Depending on door profiles and detailing however, they can show fingerprints and smudges more easily than other types.
Pros:
- Versatile – can be used in both contemporary and traditional kitchens alike.
- Smooth, seamless appearance creates a sleek look.
Con:
- Simple styling of slab doors can limit decorative details such as moldings or corbels in the design.
Decision Time
Now that you have seen some of the most popular kitchen cabinet styles and have a better understanding of those styles and framed vs. frameless construction, it is time to decide which one is right for your kitchen. If you're still undecided, consult with a professional designer who can help you narrow down your options based on your specific needs and wants. With so many beautiful choices available, there's sure to be a perfect style out there for everyone! Let us help bring your vision to life.
