Types of Cabinet Construction: Understanding the BasicsTypes of Cabinet Construction: Understanding the Basics
Leona Rodriguesi of Cabinet Makers Mornington highlights, “If you’re looking to renovate your kitchen, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right cabinets. Cabinets not only provide storage, but they also play a big role in the overall design style of your kitchen.”
When it comes to cabinet construction, there are three basic types to choose from: framed, frameless, and inset. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision.
Framed cabinets are the most traditional type of cabinet construction. They feature a frame around the front of the cabinet box, which provides extra strength and support. The doors and drawers of framed cabinets are attached to the frame, which can be made from a variety of materials such as solid wood or engineered wood.
Framed cabinets are a popular choice for traditional kitchens, as they offer a classic look and feel.
Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, are a more modern option. They don’t have a frame around the front of the cabinet box, which means that the doors and drawers are attached directly to the sides. This creates a sleek, seamless look that’s perfect for contemporary kitchens. Frameless cabinets are also known for their efficiency, as they provide more storage space than framed cabinets.
Types of Cabinet Construction
When it comes to cabinetry, there are three basic types of cabinet construction: framed, frameless, and inset. Each type has its own unique characteristics that can impact the style and space of your cabinets.
Framed Cabinets
Framed cabinets are constructed with a face frame, which is a wooden frame that is attached to the front of the cabinet box. The face frame consists of rails and stiles that are typically 1-1/2″ wide. The doors and drawers of the cabinet are then attached to the face frame. This type of construction is commonly used in traditional cabinetry.
Framed cabinets can have either a partial or full overlay. Partial overlay cabinets have doors and drawers that partially cover the face frame, leaving a small amount of the frame visible. Full overlay cabinets have doors and drawers that completely cover the face frame, giving a more modern, European-style look.
Frameless Cabinets
Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, do not have a face frame. Instead, the doors and drawers are attached directly to the cabinet box. This type of construction gives a more streamlined look and can provide more storage space than framed cabinets.
Frameless cabinets are always full overlay, meaning the doors and drawers completely cover the cabinet box. This type of construction is becoming increasingly popular in modern and contemporary kitchen designs.
Inset Cabinets
Inset cabinets are constructed with doors and drawers that are fitted inside the face frame openings of the cabinet box. This type of construction gives a furniture-like appearance and allows for full view of the face frame with minimal spacing between components.
Inset cabinets typically have a recessed panel on the door and are available in a variety of styles, including traditional and contemporary. This type of construction requires precise measurements and can be more expensive than framed or frameless cabinets.
Considerations for Cabinet Selection
When selecting cabinets for your kitchen remodel or renovation, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. These considerations include design and aesthetics, functionality and storage, and quality and budget. It is also better to seek for professional’s advice such as going to Cabinet Makers Mornington.
Design and Aesthetics
When choosing cabinets, it’s important to consider the overall design and aesthetic of your dream kitchen. This includes factors such as color, finishes, hardware, and shelving options. Custom and semi-custom cabinets offer a wider range of design options, while stock cabinets may have more limited choices.
Functionality and Storage
The functionality and storage features of your cabinets are also important considerations. Adjustable shelves, pull-out drawers, and other storage options can help maximize space and make it easier to access your kitchen items. Base and wall cabinets come in different sizes to fit your kitchen layout, so it’s important to measure your space and choose cabinets that fit your needs.
Quality and Budget
Finally, it’s important to consider the quality and price point of your cabinets.
Custom cabinets are generally the most expensive option, while stock cabinets are the least expensive. Semi-custom cabinets fall somewhere in between.
Make sure to work with a reputable woodworker or designer to ensure that you are getting cabinets that are both high-quality and within your budget.
By considering these factors and making informed choices, you can select cabinets that will not only look great in your kitchen but also provide the functionality and storage you need.