Cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen, functionally and aesthetically. The perfect drawers or cabinets completely transform the look and feel of your space. But how do you choose the right ones that match your style? For over 80 years, Star Lumber has supplied homeowners in Wichita with the perfect cabinets and materials for their homes. The guide to popular kitchen cabinet styles outlines the different cabinet types so you can make the best decision for your next remodel or new kitchen.
Understanding the Basics of Kitchen Cabinet Styles
Cabinet Construction
Framed cabinets have an additional wooden frame surrounding the cabinet doors and drawers, creating a space between other doors and drawers.
Framed Cabinet Pros
- Extra frames strengthen cabinets
- Inset, and partial overlay door styles
Framed Cabinet Cons
- Gaps between cabinets and drawers
- Less storage space
Frameless cabinets, on the other hand, lack an outer face frame surrounding the doors and drawers, essentially removing the space between adjacent cabinet doors.
Frameless Cabinet Pros
- Easy to clean
- More cabinet and drawer storage
Frameless Cabinet Cons
- Fewer door options
- More expensive
Door Styles
Inset cabinet doors are built into the cabinet frame and are flush with the cabinet box.
Full overlay cabinet doors cover the cabinet frame completely, creating small spaces between adjacent cabinets and drawers.
Partial overlay cabinet doors create a large gap between adjacent kitchen cabinetry and do not cover the frame like a full overlay.
Cabinet Materials
Wood, laminate, wood veneer, and thermofoil are the most common materials for kitchen cabinets. Let’s break down each type of material.
Wood cabinets are durable and provide a classic look. However, the cost of wood depends heavily on the type of wood. White oak, cherry and maple are the most durable but the most expensive options widely available.
Wood Cabinet Pros
- Genuine wood aesthetic
- Durable and long lasting
Wood Cabinet Cons
- Higher overall cost
- Cabinets are heavy
Wood veneer is constructed by taking thin sheets of real hardwood and applying them to other materials like medium density-fiberboard (MDF), plywood, or particleboard. As a result, wood veneer cabinets are affordable and come in styles that mimic high-end wood, protecting your kitchen remodel budget.
Wood Veneer Pros
- Affordable, low cost
- More style options than wood
Wood Veneer Cons
- Less sturdy and durable
- Lacks authentic wood look and feel
Laminate is also applied to core materials like MDF. The main difference is that laminate is composed of layers of resin, creating a durable material that blocks moisture and prevents scratches. Additionally, you can print designs, patterns and graphics on laminate, making it highly customizable and affordable.
Laminate Cabinet Pros
- Affordable, low maintenance
- More style options than veneer and wood
Laminate Cabinet Cons
- May chip, crack, or peel
- Lacks authentic style
Thermofoil cabinetry is created by heat sealing vinyl to MDF. Out of all of the cabinet materials, thermofoil is the most affordable because of the easy manufacturing process and the low maintenance. At the same time, these cabinets are the least durable and susceptible to various kinds of damage.
Thermofoil Pros
- Most affordable option
- Offers fresh, modern look
Thermofoil Cons
- Prone to heat damage
- Least durable option
Popular Kitchen Cabinet Styles
Shaker Cabinets
Odds are you’ve seen shaker cabinetry in a home before. Shaker cabinet doors are simple designs that consist of a recessed center panel surrounded by a flat face frame. Their clean lines make shaker cabinets versatile and incredibly popular because they blend in with any style.
Modern or Contemporary Cabinets
Modern and contemporary kitchens often use frameless cabinets and full overlay doors to accomplish a sleek, minimalist look without the use of handles. Options like frameless cabinets are an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a modern kitchen aesthetic.
Traditional or Raised Panel Cabinets
Depending on your interior design goals, raised panel cabinetry could be the appropriate fit for both formal and traditional homes. Traditional cabinets consist of a raised center panel and a recessed surrounding frame. Raised panel cabinets are often ornate with deep sophisticated carvings or designs. Detailed cabinets and drawers give a classic look that is always in style.
Transitional Cabinets
Transitional cabinetry blends modern and traditional styles, offering a versatile aesthetic. By incorporating minimalist designs, clean lines, and recessed panels, transitional cabinets combine classic ornate looks with contemporary trends. This makes transitional cabinets a perfect choice for virtually any kitchen design.
Rustic or Farmhouse Cabinets
Popular for their rustic, inviting and charming appearance, farmhouse cabinets suit cottage-style kitchens and farmhouse designs. These cabinets typically use distressed natural wood, like hickory, to give the idea of a lived-in feel. Rustic farmhouse aesthetics also often use open shelves to complement the airy, inviting atmosphere.
Choosing Your Ideal Kitchen Cabinet Style
Consider your kitchen’s layout. Take into account the placement of and type of kitchen cabinet. For example, base cabinets provide both counter space and storage. Placing cabinets in the right spot can build an area for preparing food or storing appliances, adding to the functionality and style of your kitchen.
Match your overall interior design style. Look for cabinets that match the ornamentation or design of the rest of your home. Stock cabinets provide an easy and affordable way of matching your kitchen’s style to the rest of your home. In some cases, you may want to consider semi custom cabinets if stock options aren’t matching your home’s aesthetic.
Don’t forget about the budget! Cabinets have varying prices. In general, natural wood and other natural materials will cost more than synthetic materials like wood veneer. Additionally, the style of the cabinet will affect price. Don’t forget to include installation costs in your budget.
What is your personal preference? When it comes to kitchen cabinets it’s best to visualize the look and feel you want to achieve. Ask yourself what you want during the remodel and what suits your style. Overall, the project will come down to personal preference, be sure to focus on cabinetry that will match your idea or vision.
Additional Tips
When making your decision, you should also think about cabinet hardware, knobs, handles, and finishes. Choosing high-quality hardware ensures smooth operation and adds to the overall look of your kitchen cabinetry. Usually, design trends will help dictate which types of hardware, cabinet colors, and finishes are popular and how they work with new styles. Lastly, remember that each type of cabinet requires different care. For example, wood is often more durable but laminate may chip and peel. Consider how you may approach repairs or general care before making a final decision.
Create Your Dream Kitchen
Choosing the perfect cabinets for your dream kitchen can be exciting, rewarding, and a little overwhelming. Understanding the differences between cabinet design styles, material, and price can make the decision much easier. Don’t forget to look at cabinet styles in person too! In Wichita, Star Lumber’s showroom provides visitors with the opportunity to see designs, test hardware, and consult with experts. Stop by or schedule a free design consultation today and start building your dream kitchen!
