A Guide to Kitchen Cabinets

Thousands of Americans remodel their kitchens every year, and a dramatic change you can make is updating the cabinets. Cabinets dominate your kitchen, and a change in cabinetry can transform an outdated kitchen into a space filled with style and function. There is a lot of nuance when you’re comparing cabinets, and it’s important to find the right fit for your style and budget.TypeIn your search, you’ll find three main types of cabinetry: stock, semi-custom, and custom. Each has its own advantages, so the decision rests with your budget and style needs.

• Stock – Stock cabinets are fast, easy, and affordable. This cabinet type is available in a variety of standard sizes, so you don’t have to spend time waiting for them to be custom built. You also save money by avoiding expensive customizations. However, you are limited in terms of colors and finishes, and you’ll have to pay extra for the detail work, like crown molding.
• Semi-custom – Essentially, semi-custom cabinets are stock cabinets with the option to add extra details, like altering dimensions and getting certain finishes. Unlike stock cabinets, which are prefabricated and ready to ship, semi-custom cabinets will take a little longer to arrive.
• Custom – The sky’s the limit when it comes to custom cabinetry. The materials, color, and finish are up to you, but it’s the most expensive option and you could be waiting weeks or months for the final product to arrive.

Door StyleThe cabinet doors are some of the most visible parts of the kitchen, and there are quite a few options on the market. Here are some of the most common door styles you’ll see.

• Shaker – Named for the classic furniture style, Shaker-style cabinet doors are simple and have clean lines, featuring four edges and a center panel. Its simple design lends itself well to many kitchen styles.
• Flat – Perfect for a contemporary kitchen, this door style features clean lines and a minimalist look.
• Louvered – A more decorative (and expensive) door style, this door features vented, horizontal slats that create a dramatic architectural look.
• Inset – As opposed to having the cabinet door rest outside the cabinet, inset doors are recessed and sit flush with the cabinet for a streamlined look. However, since the hinges are visible, you may need to spend a little more on attractive hardware.

FunctionIt’s also important to understand the differences in cabinet functions. Base cabinets sit on the floor and provide the foundation for heavy countertops. Base cabinets, or lower cabinets, also create the perfect kitchen island. Wall cabinets are slightly different, in that they are mounted directly to the wall. You’ll also see tall cabinets, also known as pantry cabinets, that create visual appeal while providing ample storage space.Kitchen remodeling doesn’t have to be a tedious process—armed with the right information, you can make the right decision for your new kitchen cabinets.