Choosing the right cabinets is paramount if you are considering updating your kitchen doors or a complete kitchen renovation. Not only do the kitchen cabinets make up a large portion of the room visually, but they’re also one of the most used elements. There are lots to consider, such as the materials, the design, and the features that are right for you.

The cabinets generally take up more than a quarter of the budget in most kitchen remodels. So, knowing some differences between the styles and materials can help guide your decision. Great kitchen cabinet makers should be able to assist you with selecting the right materials based on the style and functionality of your vision.

In this article, we will cover some popular options available in 2022, along with their pros and cons. Continue reading to ensure you make the right choice!

Thermofoil style – kitchen cabinet

Thermofoil is a popular, cost-effective style of kitchen cabinet. It is made from an inner layer of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and wrapped in a heat-sealed plastic coating. This helps make it both a water-resistant and durable material.

It’s low maintenance, easy to clean, and comes in various flat colours or imitation wood patterns. With a low resistance to heat, however, it’s important to consider where it is used in your kitchen. Ideally, avoid placing it next to your oven or other heat sources, as the laminate may end up loose.

Glass-front style kitchen cabinet

Glass-front cabinets come in a multitude of styles with varying benefits, such as seeing your dishware. Guests can easily find where the glasses or plates are kept! Keeping your cupboards well organised becomes important as everything is displayed. (You can opt for frosted glass cabinets if you prefer to keep things hidden.)

Along with the frosted glass, you also have options of textured, seeded, led, or standard see-through glass.  Glass kitchen cabinets often work well when used in conjunction with other styles, such as inset, for example. This can give a nice balance between functionality and visibility.

Glass reflects light, which can brighten up your kitchen and even give the illusion of a larger room. Just remember to make sure your lighting choices complement your glass cabinet choices.

One downside to consider is the fragility of glass. Glass cabinets can often crack or fracture when used roughly or regularly.

Flat-Panel style kitchen cabinet

If you prefer the minimalistic look, you may want to consider flat-panel (also known as slab-panel) for your kitchen cabinets. As the name suggests, this style consists of a flat panel or slab with no detail or ornamentation.

This gives your kitchen a simple, clean look and can be made from various materials based on your style or budget. The lack of details or frames makes them easy to clean and maintain. Your choice of handles (or handle-less) is where you can really add your style with flat-panel kitchen cabinets.

Beadboard style kitchen cabinet

Beadboard cabinets lend themselves to modern farmhouse and beachside styles. The planks and indentations give texture and a rustic vibe to the room. Beadboard can also be incorporated into the shaker-style cabinets, allowing you to blend both styles.

While typically made of wood, beadboard is available in other materials, such as MDF, if you want to keep the cost down. In addition, beadboard offers the flexibility of many different looks depending on your style. You can varnish the wood grain to make it pop, paint it your favourite colour, or create a distressed pattern for an old-fashioned look.

Louvered style kitchen cabinet

The louvered style is often associated with blinds or furniture, but adding this design to your kitchen cabinets can bring a unique feel to the room. With rows of horizontal wooden slats elegantly angled to allow for small gaps between them, you’ll achieve a visually stunning effect.

Match louvered cabinets to a range of home styles thanks to the versatility of their design, such as varying thickness to the slats or different materials and colours. This style is timeless and impressive but can be costly.

Inset style kitchen cabinet

Most kitchen cabinet doors are fitted to the outside of the frames, whereas inset-style cabinets fit within the cabinet frames. They are built to exact measurements giving a flawless finish to the cabinetry. This precision also ensures the cabinet doors open and close perfectly.

Due to the high-quality materials used and the expertise involved, you can expect to pay a premium. Inset cabinets suit most interior styles while adding character and value. The classic look remains a favourite for luxury kitchens as it never goes out of style.

Shaker

Shaker-style cabinet doors remain another popular option in today’s kitchen renovations. Their design consists of five flat panels, four of which make up the frame and a fifth piece in the centre. This simple design with clean lines is timeless and works well with modern or contemporary homes.

They are typically constructed using quality hardwoods, with the wood grain finish on display. However, many kitchen cabinet makers now offer shaker cabinets made from moisture-resistant MDF and other affordable alternatives.

Custom Design

Choosing a custom kitchen design opens up your options immensely. There is a slightly higher price tag, but this comes with multiple benefits. You’ll be getting an individualised design to suit your home perfectly.

It’s ideal to have an in-home consultation to help build on your ideas with expert advice. Careful planning will help eliminate wasted space and maxisimse your storage areas. If you do choose to go custom, there’s no doubt you’ll love your one-of-a-kind kitchen!

Time to upgrade your kitchen cabinets?

If you are looking for a kitchen cabinet maker in Melbourne to help you choose the perfect option, look no further! The experts at H&H Cabinets and Kitchen Renovation will work with you to design and build your ideal kitchen. Call our expert team on (03) 9808 4200 to arrange a consultation.