Kitchen Cabinets Types and Choosing the Right Kind
If you’re planning to renovate your kitchen or build a new one, choosing the right type of kitchen cabinets is crucial. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to select the perfect type that fits your budget, style, and functionality. In this article, we’ll explore different types of kitchen cabinets and guide you through the process of selecting the best one for your needs.
Kitchen cabinets are an essential part of any kitchen, providing both functionality and style. They serve as storage space for your cooking utensils, appliances, and food items. Moreover, they are a significant element of the kitchen’s design, adding personality and character to your space.
Choosing the right type of kitchen cabinets can be challenging, with so many options available in the market. However, by understanding the different types of cabinets, materials, styles, finishes, hardware, and storage options, you can make an informed decision and create a kitchen that suits your needs and taste.
Cabinet Types
There are three main types of kitchen cabinets:
- stock cabinets,
- semi-custom cabinets,
- and custom cabinets.
Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinets are pre-manufactured in standard sizes, colors, and finishes, making them the most affordable option. They come in limited styles and designs, and you have to select from what’s available. Stock cabinets are easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIYers and those on a tight budget.
Semi-Custom Cabinets
Semi-custom cabinets are pre-manufactured, but they offer more design options than stock cabinets. You can choose the size, style, and finish that suits your needs, and some manufacturers offer modifications to the cabinet’s depth, height, and width. Semi-custom cabinets are more expensive than stock cabinets, but they offer more flexibility in terms of design.
Custom Cabinets
Custom cabinets are made to order, and you can design them to fit your exact specifications. You can choose the materials, style, finish, and hardware that matches your taste, and you have more options for storage and organizational features. Custom cabinets are the most expensive option, but they offer the most design options and highest quality.
Cabinet Materials
Kitchen cabinets are made from different materials, each with its unique features, durability, and price range. The most common materials used in kitchen cabinets are wood, laminate, and metal.
Wood
Wood is a classic material used in kitchen cabinets, offering a natural look and durability. Popular wood types include oak, maple, cherry, and birch. Wood cabinets can be stained or painted to match your kitchen’s style and offer a range of grain patterns and colors.
Laminate
Laminate cabinets are made from synthetic materials that offer a smooth and consistent finish, making them easy to clean and maintain. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, and some manufacturers offer wood-like finishes. Laminate cabinets are less expensive than wood cabinets, making them a popular choice for those on a budget.
Metal
Metal cabinets offer a modern and industrial look to your kitchen. They are durable, resistant to scratches and dents, and easy to clean. Stainless steel is the most popular metal used in kitchen cabinets, but you can also find cabinets made of aluminum, brass, and copper. Metal cabinets are more expensive than wood and laminate cabinets, but they offer a unique look and durability.
Cabinet Door Styles
The cabinet door style can make a significant impact on your kitchen’s overall look and feel. There are three main cabinet door styles: shaker style, raised panel, and flat panel.
Shaker Style
Shaker style cabinets have a simple and clean design, with a flat panel and a frame that surrounds it. They are versatile and can fit any kitchen style, from traditional to modern.
Raised Panel
Raised panel cabinets have a raised center panel that creates depth and dimension to the cabinet’s design. They are popular in traditional and classic kitchens and offer a more ornate look.
Flat Panel
Flat panel cabinets have a flat center panel, offering a minimalist and modern look. They are popular in contemporary kitchens and offer a sleek and streamlined design.
Cabinet Finishes
Cabinet finishes refer to the color and texture of the cabinet’s surface. There are three main cabinet finishes: stained, painted, and glazed.
Stained
Stained cabinets offer a natural look and highlight the wood’s grain and texture. They come in different shades, from light to dark, and offer a warm and inviting feel to your kitchen.
Painted
Painted cabinets come in a wide range of colors, from classic white to bold colors like red and blue. They offer a smooth and consistent finish and can complement any kitchen style.
Glazed
Glazed cabinets have a hand-rubbed finish that creates an antique and distressed look. They come in different colors and can add character and depth to your kitchen’s design.
Cabinet Hardware
Cabinet hardware refers to the knobs, handles, and pulls that are attached to the cabinet’s doors and drawers. They can add personality and style to your kitchen cabinets and enhance their functionality.
Handles
Handles are long and narrow and are attached to the cabinet’s door horizontally. They offer a modern and sleek look and are easy to grip and pull.
Knobs
Knobs are round and attached to the cabinet’s door vertically. They offer a traditional and classic look and can be found in different sizes, shapes, and colors.
Pulls
Pulls are attached to the cabinet’s door horizontally and are longer than handles. They offer a modern and functional look and can be found in different lengths and finishes.
Cabinet Storage Options
Cabinet storage options refer to the different features that can maximize your kitchen’s storage space and organization. There are many options available, but we’ll focus on three popular ones: pull-out shelves, lazy susan, and spice rack.
Pull-Out Shelves
Pull-out shelves are shelves that can slide out of the cabinet, allowing you to access items at the back easily. They can be added to base cabinets, pantry cabinets, and even upper cabinets.
Lazy Susan
Lazy susans are circular rotating trays that are added to base or corner cabinets. They maximize the storage space and make it easy to access items at the back of the cabinet.
Spice Rack
Spice racks are shelves that are designed to hold spices and jars. They can be added to upper or base cabinets and offer easy access to spices while cooking.
Choosing the Right Kind of Kitchen Cabinet
Choosing the right kind of kitchen cabinet depends on several factors, including your budget, kitchen style, and personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:
- Determine your budget: Kitchen cabinets can range from inexpensive to high-end. Determine your budget before making any decisions.
- Consider your kitchen style: Choose a cabinet style that complements your kitchen style. For example, if you have a modern kitchen, choose flat-panel or metal cabinets.
- Think about durability: Choose a cabinet material that is durable and can withstand daily use. If you have children or pets, consider choosing a material that is scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
- Look for quality: Choose cabinets that are well-built and made of high-quality materials. Quality cabinets will last longer and offer better value for your money.
- Consider storage options: Choose cabinets that offer the storage options you need. For example, if you need more storage space, consider adding pull-out shelves or lazy susans.
Conclusion
Choosing the right kind of kitchen cabinet is essential to create a functional and stylish kitchen. Consider your budget, kitchen style, durability, quality, and storage options before making any decisions. With the right kind of kitchen cabinet, you can create a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional.