Are you looking to upgrade your kitchen cabinets but don't know where to start? With so many different cabinet styles available, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your home and if you should buy glossy cabinet doors or something more classic.
From traditional and modern designs to rustic and industrial styles, there are countless options that can help create the perfect look in any kitchen.
In this guide, we will explore the various types of cabinets available and how they can be used in different design settings.
We'll also provide tips on how to determine which style is best suited for your space. So if you're ready to makeover your kitchen with beautiful new cabinetry, let's get started!
Traditional Style With Warm-Toned Hardware
Traditional-style cabinets are a great way to add a classic and timeless look to your kitchen.
These cabinets feature ornate detailing, elegant designs, and an overall classic feel that will never go out of style.
They typically come in neutral colors like white, cream, or beige but can also be found in more colorful shades such as blues, reds, and greens.
Traditional style cabinets often feature raised-panel doors with detailed moldings that create an eye-catching design.
The frames are typically made from solid woods such as oak, cherry, or maple to give the cabinet a sturdy feel.
When paired with warm-toned hardware such as brass or bronze, it creates a luxurious look that is perfect for traditional kitchens.
Popular examples of traditional-style cabinets include shaker-style doors with intricate molding details, recessed panels on raised frames, and decorative glass door inserts.
These designs provide the perfect blend of elegance and sophistication for any kitchen setting!
Pros and cons of traditional style
Pros
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Timeless and classic look.
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Variety of colors, designs, and styles.
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It can be dressed up with warm-toned hardware for a luxurious look.
Cons
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Pricey due to intricate detailing and wood construction.
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It can appear outdated if not paired with the right elements.
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Not a great choice for modern kitchens requiring a more contemporary style.
Minimalistic Style With White Kitchen Cabinets
When it comes to minimalism, it’s essential to keep things simple and streamlined without overdoing the design elements.
That’s why white kitchen cabinets are a great way to add a minimalistic feel to any kitchen. They provide a crisp and clean aesthetic that can help make your space feel more spacious, modern, and inviting.
The cabinets are typically made of wood or laminate with no visible accents or hardware, making their appearance more unified and cohesive.
They are also available in various colors, textures, and finishes to best match the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.
The minimalistic cabinet style gives off an airy feel by keeping wall space open with its lack of bulky features such as ornate handles or extra trim.
Additionally, full-length cabinets provide an abundance of storage space while still maintaining a minimalist feel.
This modern style looks best when paired with stainless steel appliances and accent pieces for a truly contemporary look that won’t go out of style any time soon.
The minimalistic cabinet design is perfect for creating a streamlined, clutter-free look in your kitchen that won't overwhelm the other elements in the room. By pairing this classic style of cabinetry with sleek lines and bold colors, your kitchen will surely stand out for all the right reasons.
Pros and cons of modern style
Pros
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Modern and contemporary look.
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Variety of colors, designs, and styles.
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Metal frames provide an industrial feel.
Cons
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Less ornate than traditional designs.
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Pricey due to the use of metals and veneers.
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Not a great choice for traditional kitchens requiring a more classic style.
Craftsman Style With Solid Wooden Frames
Craftsman-style cabinets are a great way to bring a traditional and rustic style to any kitchen.
These cabinets feature classic designs that evoke the feeling of an old-world craftsman shop.
The frames are typically made of solid woods such as oak, cherry, or maple for durability and strength.
The doors have intricate details and paneled designs with beveled edges and raised panels that create an eye-catching look.
Popular examples of this style include shaker doors with beveled panels, mission-style cabinets with detailed molding framing the door, and Arts & Crafts style doors with decorative glass inserts.
Additionally, craftsman-style cabinetry can come in multiple colors and finishes to match any desired aesthetic.
Popular colors include light wood tones such as birch or oak and darker shades like mahogany or cherry.
For a warm feel, many people opt for natural wood finishes, while others prefer painted options like white or black for a more modern look.
No matter the color choice, these cabinets always have that distinct classic touch that sets them apart from other styles.
Pros and cons of craftsman style
Pros
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Classic and rustic look.
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Variety of colors, designs, and styles.
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Timeless appeal.
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Durable and strong construction.
Cons
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Pricey due to intricate detailing and wood construction.
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It can appear outdated if not paired with the right elements.
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Not a great choice for modern kitchens requiring a more contemporary style.
Contemporary Style With Flat Panel Doors
Contemporary-style cabinets are a great way to bring a modern look and feel to any kitchen.
These cabinets typically feature clean lines and minimalistic designs with sleek frames and an overall modern aesthetic.
The frames of these cabinets are usually made of metal, glass, or veneer, providing an eye-catching, industrial look perfect for modern homes.
For example, flat-panel doors can be paired with frosted glass in the frames for an ultra-modern effect.
The doors also come in various finishes such as wood grain laminates, matte black or titanium finishes, high gloss lacquers, and even custom etched glass.
The beauty of contemporary cabinets lies in its versatility; it works well with both traditional and modern interiors.
It can blend seamlessly into an existing traditional setting while being able to move the space forward into a more modern direction as well.
Whether you want an open-concept kitchen or closed-off wall cabinetry setup, contemporary cabinet designs can accommodate any project.
Popular examples of this style include white flat panel doors paired with black stainless steel frames or natural wood finish doors on frosted tempered glass frames.
Pros and cons of contemporary style
Pros
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Modern and sleek look.
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Variety of colors, designs, and styles.
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Durable materials such as metal, glass, and veneers.
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Can blend seamlessly into any setting.
Cons
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Pricey due to the use of metals and veneers.
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May appear cold and uninviting if not paired with the right elements.
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Not a great choice for traditional kitchens requiring a more classic style.
Country Style With Shaker-Style Doors
Country-style cabinetry is a great way to bring a warm, inviting feel to any kitchen.
Unlike contemporary and craftsman styles, country-style cabinets are typically characterized by their rustic, natural look that evokes a sense of nostalgia.
These cabinets feature simple frames with raised panel door designs and handcrafted details for a distinct rural aesthetic.
The frames of these cabinets can be made from traditional woods such as oak, cherry, or maple.
Still, they can also be constructed with more modern materials like metal, glass, or veneer for added durability.
The doors are usually painted in bright colors such as white or pastel shades for an airy look reflecting the countryside's atmosphere.
Some examples of country-style cabinetry include distressed white cupboards paired with exposed hinges and antique-look pulls.
Shaker-style doors with beadboard insets, wrought iron knobs and handles, and two-tone cabinets featuring light upper sections contrasted against dark lower sections.
This type of cabinet design has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its versatile nature; it can be used both in traditional homes to create an old-world feel and in modern homes to soften up the overall vibe.
With this kind of design, you have plenty of options for creating a cozy farmhouse kitchen atmosphere, no matter your budget.
Whether you opt for classic wood tones or bold colors combined with intricate detail work - the possibilities are endless!
Pros and cons of country style
Pros
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Warm and inviting look.
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Traditional wood frames or modern materials for added durability.
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Variety of colors, designs, and styles to choose from.
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Affordable compared to other styles.
Cons
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It can be too rustic for some modern kitchen designs.
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It may not fit in with more contemporary interiors.
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Limited options for customization due to the simple frame and panel design.
Shaker Style With Metal Bar Handles
Shaker-style cabinets are one of the most popular and timeless looks for any kitchen.
This classic style is defined by its simple frame-and-panel door design, which features a flat center panel surrounded by an exterior frame.
The frames and doors are usually made from either solid wood or high-quality veneers, giving it a durable yet luxurious feel.
They can be painted in almost any color to match the existing interior palette, but white is still the most popular choice due to its ability to create a bright and airy atmosphere.
When it comes to hardware, shaker cabinets include knobs or handles that are subtle yet attractive – think sleek chrome pulls or metal bar handles.
These fixtures should not overpower the rest of the design but instead enhance the overall look and feel of the cabinets.
Shaker-style cabinetry is also highly customizable; you can opt for framed doors for a more traditional aesthetic or frameless doors for a more modern touch.
Pros and cons of shaker style
Pros
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A classic look that never goes out of style.
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Variety of colors and finishes to choose from.
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Highly customizable.
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Durable construction with solid wood or high-quality veneers.
Cons
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It can be too traditional for some modern kitchen designs.
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It may not fit in with more contemporary interior styles.
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Cabinets can be quite expensive compared to other styles.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cabinet Style
Finding the right balance between form and function is key to a successful kitchen design.
When it comes to cabinetry, there are several popular styles that each have their own unique characteristics and benefits. When selecting the perfect cabinet style for your kitchen, consider these tips:
Figure Out What You Like About Different Styles
Are you drawn to the warm and inviting atmosphere of country-style cabinetry? Do you appreciate the simplistic beauty of shaker-style cabinets?
There are several different cabinet styles, and it's crucial to figure out which one resonates with you the most before making a decision. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you out:
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Step 1: Make a list of features you like and dislike about different cabinet styles.
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Step 2: Take some time to browse through websites and magazines to get an idea of what different styles look like in real life.
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Step 3: Don't be afraid to branch out and explore other options. There are plenty of cabinet styles that might be just what you're looking for!
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Step 4: Consider the overall design of your kitchen and choose a style that will complement the space.
After figuring out your likes and dislikes, you should have your personal style.
Know Your Personal Style
Once you've narrowed your options, it's time to decide on a style that fits your tastes.
Do you prefer a traditional look or a more modern aesthetic? Knowing your own style can help you find the perfect cabinet style for your kitchen.
Consider all the other design elements in your kitchen, such as flooring, countertops, and appliances, before making a final decision.
These details will ultimately determine if your chosen cabinet style is the perfect fit.
Next, you should consider your overall home environment to ensure that your new cabinets will blend in with the rest of your decor.
Consider Your Overall Home Environment
For example, if you have a more traditional home, shaker-style cabinets would be a great option since they offer a timeless look.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more contemporary style, modern cabinets with stainless steel accents or glass fronts might be the perfect fit.
The following steps should help you out:
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Step 1: Take into account the overall design of your kitchen and make sure that the cabinet style will complement the space.
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Step 2: Consider your overall home environment to ensure the cabinets blend in with the rest of your decor.
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Step 3: Choose a style that will offer the necessary functionality and durability.
Next, you should think about your storage needs and functional requirements.
Identify Functional Requirements and Storage Needs
When it comes to cabinetry, choosing a style that will provide the storage you need is important. Do you need extra space for baking supplies or kitchen appliances?
Don't forget to consider any special features such as pull-out shelves, built-in pantries, and lazy Susans.
It's also important to think about your functional requirements.
Are you looking for easy access or prefer a more closed-off look?
Do you need adjustable shelves, or do you prefer fixed shelves?
Consider all of these factors before making your final decision.
Next, consider other factors, such as budget or maintenance needs.
Consider Other Factors, Such as Budget or Maintenance
Your cabinets should be able to withstand everyday wear and tear, so make sure to make a cost comparison between different materials. Different types of wood, for instance, will require different types of care.
Also, if you're trying to stay on a budget, explore different options, such as pre-finished cabinets or recycled materials.
Check this out to learn more: How to Remodel Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank
Finally, you should be able to make a choice.
Make A Choice
Once you've gone through the steps above, you should be able to make a choice.
Consider your options carefully and choose the style best suits your needs and preferences.
Once you've made a decision, it's time to start adding color, hardware, and accessories for a unique touch.
Here's a list of 24 different options for kitchen cabinet designs for you to explore. Don't forget to consider the other design elements in your kitchen as well.
Add Color, Hardware, and Accessories for a Unique Touch
Once the cabinet style has been selected, it’s time to start adding color, hardware, and accessories for a unique touch.
You can choose from different finish options such as natural wood or stained wood. Or you can go for painted cabinets for a bolder look.
Don’t forget to add accessories like knobs, pulls, and handles. These details can really bring a kitchen to life!
You’ll also want to consider other design elements, such as the countertop, backsplash, and flooring. These interior house changes can bring happiness and satisfaction to your home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cabinets for your kitchen can make all the difference in the overall look and feel. Take into account your:
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Personal style
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Storage needs
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Home environment
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Functional requirements
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Budget
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Maintenance needs
With these tips in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect cabinets for your kitchen. Did you find this guide useful? Please share it and let us know in the comments!
Good luck!
