Kitchen Cabinets: The Star of our Kitchen Remodel - Part 1
Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a stunning and functional space? You’re about to embark on a kitchen remodel, or maybe you’re just exploring the idea. Either way, cabinetry is a great place to start since it’s the most substantial investment you’ll make in your kitchen. Cabinets are more than just functional; they are a key element that sets the tone for your entire space. They influence the character of your kitchen and serve as a foundation for the overall design. These essential elements not only provide storage for your cookware and utensils but also play a crucial role in defining the style of your kitchen. In this first part of our series, we will discuss the basics of kitchen cabinets and offer tips on selecting the right ones for your space.
Diane Keaton Kitchen
Understanding Kitchen Cabinet Basics
Dive into the heart of your kitchen’s personality with a closer look at kitchen cabinet basics. Think of cabinets as the fashion-forward attire of your culinary space, not merely places to stash your pots and pans. With a myriad of styles at your fingertips, navigating the sea of cabinet types can initially seem daunting. Fear not, as we break it down into digestible pieces: base cabinets provide the foundation, setting the stage for your kitchen's layout; wall cabinets soar above, offering a ballet of storage and style; and tall cabinets stretch to the ceiling, maximizing every inch of available space. Each type serves its unique purpose, harmonizing in a symphony of function and flair.
But wait, there's more! The beauty of a cabinet lies not only in its shape but in its skin - the materials and finishes you choose are the brushstrokes of your kitchen's masterpiece. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of wood grains, the cool touch of metal, or the sleek sheen of laminate, each material sings its own tune, adding layers of texture and color to the melody of your space. So, let's embark on this adventure together, exploring the diverse world of kitchen cabinets, where functionality meets fashion in the heart of your home.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Kitchen Cabinets
Embarking on the quest to select the perfect material for your kitchen cabinets is like stepping into a vast forest of options, each path leading to different adventures in style, durability, and care. Imagine your cabinets not just as storage solutions, but as the very essence of your kitchen’s charm. Wood, with its natural elegance, brings a cozy warmth to your space, offering a variety of species that cater to different tastes and budgets—from the sturdy oak and versatile maple to the luxurious cherry and light birch. For those leaning towards a more contemporary or fuss-free kitchen, materials like laminate or thermofoil beckon with their sleek finishes and rainbow of color options. These alternatives not only mimic the beauty of natural wood but also boast ease of maintenance and resistance to the wear and tear of daily kitchen dramas. Delve into the characteristics of each material, weigh their merits, and consider how they align with your lifestyle and the story you wish your kitchen to tell. With each choice, you're painting a stroke in the portrait of your future kitchen, ensuring the material of your cabinets adds just the right texture to the masterpiece that is your home.
Emily Henderson
Studio McGee
Cabinet Layouts and Functionality
Navigating the blueprint of your kitchen cabinet layout is akin to choreographing a dance where every step enhances both beauty and utility. The secret to a seamless performance lies in considering the golden work triangle - the dynamic space between your stove, sink, and refrigerator. This strategic placement ensures efficiency and ease of movement during your culinary exploits. Beyond the basics, think about integrating clever storage solutions that cater to your unique needs. Imagine the convenience of pull-out shelves that bring hidden items into the light, or the genius of a lazy Susan that makes every inch of corner space accessible. Drawer organizers transform chaos into order, ensuring every utensil and gadget has its place. Tailoring your cabinet layout isn’t just about fitting things in; it’s about creating a space that fits around you, elevating your kitchen from a place of preparation to a realm of inspiration. By focusing on these aspects, your kitchen cabinets will not only hold your dishes and ingredients but also streamline your movements, making every cooking session a joyous affair.
MATERIAL
When it comes to materials for cabinets, solid wood may look nice but it can be heavy and susceptible to damage from heat and humidity. That's why we often suggest using medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or high-density fiberboard (HDF) for a smooth surface that can be painted or veneered. Glass-front cabinets add elegance, while open shelving creates a spacious atmosphere. By combining different styles and materials, homeowners can create a kitchen that reflects their personal style and needs.
CUSTOM VS. SEMI CUSTOM
Custom cabinets are designed to fit the specific preferences of the homeowner, giving them the freedom to choose their own design, materials, and finishes. This is perfect for individuals who want a completely unique and personalized cabinetry that cannot be build by a manufactuer. We usually use custom cabinets when we are doing a special shape or have demands that are out of the ordinary.
On the other hand, semi-custom cabinets offer a good compromise between customization and cost. They provide a variety of design options, including cabinet sizes, styles, and finishes that are often more durable. Additionally, they usually come with better warranties.
FRAMED VS. FRAMELESS
There are two distinct styles of kitchen cabinets: framed and frameless used in most of cabinet construction. Framed cabinets have a traditional appearance with a solid frame around the doors, offering stability and a classic touch. They often have decorative details and can accommodate inset doors. On the other hand, frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, have a more modern look with sleek lines and full-overlay doors that cover the entire front of the cabinet. This style maximizes storage space and allows for easy access. Framed cabinets are great for traditional and transitional kitchens, while frameless cabinets are popular in modern and minimalist designs.
OVERLAY OPTIONS
With a full overlay, most of the frame is covered by the doors and drawers.
With partial overlay, part of the frame is exposed.
An inset overlay occurs when the door is flush with the frame.
HOW DO I CHOOSE?
Ultimately, these choices depend on your priorities in terms of design specificity, budget, lifestyle, and project schedule. Working with a Designer can help you figure out exactly which option is best for you!
There are three main cabinet door styles but once you add in all the possibilities of colors, woods, trim etc. then your options shoot up to the hundreds, if not thousands. That’s a lot. Which means it’s totally normal to be a little overwhelmed when trying to decide. The great news is that if you know what overall style you’re going for, you can easily narrow down your options. Here’s a little cheat sheet to make your selection process a little easier!
STYLE
Shaker - Modern, Transitional, Farmhouse,
Flat Panel- Modern, Contemporary, Mid-Century
Raised Panel - Traditional, Transitional
Studio McGee Kohler Booth
Unique Kitchens
Trends in Kitchen Cabinetry
Navigating the ever-evolving landscape of kitchen cabinetry trends is like embarking on a thrilling treasure hunt, where each discovery reflects the shifting sands of design sensibilities. At the forefront, we're seeing a delightful embrace of open shelving, offering a breezy, airy feel that invites a display of cherished dishes and knick-knacks. This trend champions not just functionality but also personalization, turning your kitchen into a gallery of your culinary adventures. The dance of two-tone cabinets is another trend captivating hearts, blending colors in harmony to create striking visual narratives; imagine the bold statement of deep navy paired with soft gray, or the classic elegance of black and white. It's a symphony of contrasts that breathes life into the heart of your home. Meanwhile, minimalist hardware is making its mark with sleek, understated lines that complement the cabinet design rather than overpower it. These trends are not just about following what's in vogue but finding ways to express your unique style and personality through the canvas of your kitchen.
Kitchen cabinet styles and material options offer a wide range of choices to cater to diverse design preferences and functional needs. Traditional cabinet styles often feature raised panel doors, ornate detailing, and a timeless charm that adds elegance to any kitchen. On the other hand, modern cabinet designs embrace sleek lines, minimalistic hardware, and a focus on simplicity for a contemporary look. Transitional cabinets blend elements of both styles, striking a balance between classic and modern aesthetics.
We hope we helped guide you through the details of Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinetry basics! We hope you've found valuable inspiration & insights that will help you in your next kitchen remodel. Make sure to stay tuned as we expand upon this series and share details on all the other exciting elements of kitchen remodels including backsplash, counters, lighting and more!