A New Look_ 8 Types of Kitchen Cabinets to Choose From

The right cabinets can increase kitchen functionality, add beauty, and provide flair, but there are so many options available today that it can be challenging to find the ideal cabinetry without going over budget. A contractor who specializes in kitchen renovations can help customers narrow down their choices, and most compan

ies have showrooms that display a variety of cabinet 

styles, finishes, and hardware. Popular options in

clude shaker, louvered, farmhouse, inset, distressed, bead

board, thermofoil, and custom cabinets.

1. Shaker Cabinets Have Wide Appeal

The most popular type of kitchen cabinet is the shaker style, which is made using five pieces of flat panel material. The design includes four pieces that frame one flat center panel. It has a simple, classic look that blends well with traditional or contemporary decor. Kitchen Designers can order shaker cupboards in a range of woods, and the most requested are maple, hickory, cherry, and quartersawn oak.

2. Louvered Cabinets Introduce a Unique Touch

Louvered cabinet has horizontal slats that give spaces an architectural style. They are ideal for areas that need ventilation, such as cabinets located near radiators or dryers. Louvered cabinets are more expensive than some other options but can instantly give kitchens a fresh, “beachy” look.

3. Country/Farmhouse Styles Provide a Casual Feel

According to Martha Stewart, farmhouse and country cabinets are the same things and are both traditional styles. Both are made using relaxed materials like shiplap, tin, beadboard, or reclaimed wood. While designs often replicate the coziness of rural U.S. farmhouses, they may also be modeled after French or English countryside homes. Tuscan country cottage and garden cabinets are incredibly trendy now.

4. Inset Cupboards Are Easily Personalized

The doors on typical kitchen cabinets are set outside cabinet frames. Inset cupboards reverse the look and feature doors set inside of frames. Decorating website Caroline on Design advises that inset doors are more expensive than overlay versions and must have pulls installed since they cannot be opened with just fingers.

5. Distressed Cabinets Have an Antique Look

The distressed look has gained a lot of traction in the decorating world because it can make new materials look like antiques. The style is marked by doors with corners rubbed off and other techniques that make cabinetry look old. Any type of cabinetry can be distressed, but the process involved is not cheap. Industry experts estimate that tradespeople charge 15 to 20 percent to distress new cabinets.

6. Beadboard Gives Spaces a Throwback Feeling

Once a staple feature in homes, beadboard cabinetry is also called cottage chic. Door center panels resemble classic beadboard paneling. Planks are used in the construction of cabinetry, and there are ridges called beads between planks. Beadboard was a standard wall treatment before drywall, plaster, and paint became the norm.

7) Thermofoil Cupboards Are Budget Friendly

Many budget-conscious homeowners who want to upgrade cabinets choose thermofoil products. Materials are molded from medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Components are then wrapped in a plastic coating and baked, which heat seals them. The result is cost-effective, durable cabinetry that is available in a variety of solid colors.

8) Craftsmen Will Build Custom Cabinetry

Custom cabinets are the best choice for those who cannot find cabinets to match their needs or decorating style. Homeowners with oddly-shaped kitchens often order custom cabinetry. It is guaranteed to fit and allows unusual features that are not available on standard products.

Shopping for kitchen cabinets can be overwhelming because there are so many styles. However, contractors can help homeowners find options that fit their lifestyles and tastes. Some of the trendiest and most popular styles include shaker, louvered, country, inset, distressed, beadboard, thermofoil, and custom cabinets.