Kitchen cabinets are the backbone of any well-designed, top-tier, fancy kitchen. Not only do they provide some much-needed storage room for all your cooking and dining utensils, but they also set the tone for everything surrounding them.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Fear not, though, because we've compiled everything you need to know about kitchen cabinets – from their materials down to their unique extras!
The Options
As far as kitchen cabinet ‘purchase options’ are concerned, there are three main varieties: custom, semi-custom, and stock. Custom cabinets are made to order, so you can personalize every aspect to fit your preferences. This option gives you complete control over your cabinets’ size, style, and finish. While they tend to be the most expensive option, they also provide the most flexibility regarding design.
On the other hand, semi-custom cabinets are manufactured but can be modified to fit your kitchen's specific measurements. This option is good if you want more customization without breaking the bank and is the “bridge” between the two types.
Naturally, stock cabinets are the most budget-friendly option, and they come in standard sizes and styles. While they may not be as customizable as the other options, they're a great choice if you're on a tight budget or in a hurry!
The Materials
Kitchen cabinets can be made from various materials, each with specific benefits and drawbacks. It goes without saying that medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and plywood are the most common materials used.
Solid wood is a classic choice for kitchen cabinets because of its strength and natural beauty. It's available in a wide array of species, including maple, cherry, and oak. The downside to solid wood is that it tends to be more expensive than other materials.
MDF, on the other hand, is an affordable and flexible option that's ideal for painted cabinets. It combines wood fibers with resin and pressure to create a robust, durable material that resists warping and cracking. Then there’s plywood – another sturdy option for cabinet boxes. It's made from thin layers of wood glued together, creating a strong and stable material that resists moisture and heat.
Finally, we have laminate, a low-maintenance choice often used for cabinet doors and countertops. It combines layers of paper or fabric with resin and pressure to create a durable material resistant to scratches, stains, and fading. It's available in tons of colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice for any kitchen!
The Style
The style of your cabinets can significantly impact the look and feel of your kitchen. You can pick several well-established variations, including shaker, raised panel, slab, and glass front, just to name a few.
Shaker cabinets have a simple, sleek, and often ‘timeless’ look with flat and minimal ornamentation, thanks to the four-piece frame and singular recessed panel. In contrast, raised panel cabinets have a more ornate look with a raised center panel and intricate details.
Meanwhile, most fully flat, slab cabinets have a minimalist look with clean lines and a smooth surface, making them an excellent fit for contemporary and minimalist kitchens because they create a sleek, uncluttered look. Plus, they’re easier to clean!
Finally, glass front cabinets allow you to show off your favorite dishes, pots, cutlery, etc. They’re optimal for open-concept kitchens because they add plenty of visual interest and depth!
The Finishes
The finish of your cabinets can also affect the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. There are several widespread finishes to choose from, including painted, stained, glazed, and distressed. Painted cabinets offer a wide variety of color options and are a great choice if you want to add a pop of color to your kitchen.
Stained cabinets showcase the natural beauty of the wood grain and are available in nearly every color – quite fitting for traditional and rustic kitchens because of the added warmth and texture. As for glazed cabinets – they have a decorative finish that adds depth and dimension, as the glaze is applied to the surface of the cabinets, highlighting the details and creating a beautiful patina over time.
Distressed cabinets have a rustic, aged look that's achieved by adding deliberate wear and tear to the cabinets. This finish is popular for farmhouse and cottage-style kitchens because it adds a very ‘particular’ sort of charm and character to the space.
The Hardware
The external hardware you choose for your cabinets can significantly impact their overall style and functionality. Knobs and pulls are the most visible hardware on kitchen cabinets, and they come in a wide range of styles and finishes.
Knobs are typically small and round, while pulls are more prolonged and often have a more decorative shape. Some popular finishes for knobs and pulls include brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and polished chrome. When choosing knobs and pulls, it's essential to consider the overall style of the kitchen, as well as the size and shape of the cabinets.
Hinges are another vital piece of hardware for kitchen cabinets. There are two main types of hinges: concealed and exposed. Concealed hinges are hidden inside the cabinet, providing a cleaner, more modern look. Exposed hinges are visible outside the cabinet and can add a decorative element to the overall design. When choosing hinges, it's necessary to consider the weight and size of the cabinet doors and the degree of opening needed.
We hope you enjoyed this little side-track into the intricacies of kitchen cabinets! Choosing suitable cabinets can make a big difference in the look and functionality of your kitchen. When selecting your cabinets, consider your budget, the materials used, the style, the finish, and the hardware. With so many options, you will surely find the perfect cabinets to fit your unique style and needs!