Cabinet Door Styles to spruce up your kitchen
Every kitchen remodel involves the selection of a ‘focal point’ that will add visual interest to the design. Many people consider the splashback to be the focal point. But in reality, it is the kitchen cabinet. The kitchen cabinet doors are the most visible part of the whole kitchen.
In other words, it is the ‘face’ of the kitchen. Most designers select the cabinet doors first and then tailor the other elements around it to complete the design.
While the options in style and design are virtually endless, here are some of the most popular styles in cabinetry.
Shaker
Shaker-style cabinets have been around forever. Yet, it remains the most popular and commonly used door style in kitchens. Minimalistic yet practical, Shaker cabinetry blends in perfectly with all styles of kitchen spaces. While the original rail and stile construction is still in vogue, it allows ample room for customization in design, paints, and hardware. In more contemporary shaker cabinets, the edges are given a beveled finish. If you are on a shoestring budget, you can choose a cost-effective material in place of wood.
Louvered Doors
The humble old louver is used extensively in classic architecture. But its usage is mainly limited to windows and furniture pieces. When used in kitchen cabinetry, it provides a distinctive look that is unparalleled in its visual appeal. It does cost a tad more than other cabinetry styles though. Louvered doors with horizontal slats can even be used sparingly in spaces that need additional ventilation. Kitchens with transitional designs often have louvered wooden doors on the side of the center island.
Inset Style
Inspired by traditional English cabinetry, Inset Cabinets are one of the most stylish but expensive choices in kitchen cabinetry. This timeless design features doors that are nested within the frame. Precise measurements and immaculate design, account for wood expansion and contraction also without interfering with the function. Some designers also blend the inset style with shaker cabinets to produce inset-shaker-styled cabinets. One thing to consider is that Inset-styled cabinet doors will have exposed hinges as opposed to regular styled cabinets.
Flat Panelled
The minimalist but hard lines in flat paneled cabinet doors makes them an ideal choice for contemporary styled kitchens. These are available in both laminate as well as wood and the choices in color and design are almost endless.
Thermofoil
If you are on a shoestring budget but do not want to compromise on style or durability, then thermofoil cabinet doors are a great choice. Made of medium-density fibreboard (MDF) that is wrapped in vinyl, these doors are usually available only in solid colors and are mass-produced. They resemble wooden doors in style and finish.
Along with these, distressed cabinet doors and country-styled beadboard panels are also quite popular.
Once you make a choice from these, speak to your kitchen design professional who will help you understand the pros and cons of each style. Narrow down on one that best suits your requirements and design a beautiful focal point for your kitchen.