How Kitchen Cabinets Can Enhance the Look of Your Kitchen
Cabinets are an indispensable feature of any kitchen. Not only can they store things, but their decorative impact can enhance the design.
Wood cabinets are among the most sought-after cabinet styles, while other options such as metal, laminates and glass-front doors may also be considered. Choose a style that complements both your taste and needs to ensure lasting enjoyment of the kitchen space.
Material
Material choices for kitchen cabinets can make a substantial difference in both their look and durability. Popular choices include solid wood, plywood and melamine.
Solid wood may be more costly than its synthetic counterpart, but its beauty makes up for any additional costs in maintenance and upkeep. Oak wood grain patterns stand out beautifully against medium or dark stain tones for an eye-catching finish on traditional style cabinets.
Plywood is an economical and sturdy material made of thin layers of wood glued together, which makes it both inexpensive and moisture-resistant. Plywood can also be painted or stained to match other cabinet materials, and its moisture resistance allows it to be painted or stained according to preference. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF or HDF), similar to plywood but denser, makes a cost-effective alternative to solid wood for doors and drawer fronts and is available in multiple colors and finishes. Finally, Thermofoil vinyl coating applied under heat and vacuum pressure covers these same MDF/HDF doors/drawer fronts offers endless variety for finishes/style combinations while being easy to keep clean when cleaning is required.
Design
Cabinet surfacing is an integral component of its overall appearance. Plywood, a flat sectioned material suitable for shelves and cabinet bottoms, is often the least expensive choice but must be regularly sealed to avoid warping due to moisture exposure.
Wood cabinet surfaces typically receive clear finishes that highlight the natural grain of their wood, while factory-applied wormholes and compression marks add an aged appearance. Unfortunately, uniformity in color consistency can often prove challenging due to differences among stain manufacturers; different ones might not always match exactly.
Shaker cabinet doors are the go-to choice, boasting clean lines and classic proportions for modern, transitional and traditional kitchen designs alike. Frameless cabinets also provide contemporary appeal while increasing space within cabinets – ideal for open floor plans or smaller kitchen spaces.
Storage
Kitchen cabinets provide much more than simply storage space; they also offer multiple ways of organizing your items and making them easier to locate. If you find yourself losing lids to Tupperware containers in deep cabinets, try installing pull-out shelves that allow for quick visibility and access.
Solid wood kitchen cabinets can be costly, yet sturdy and long-lasting. Red oak and birch are two popular wood species used in cabinet construction due to their moderate price points and attractive grain patterns.
If your current cabinet shelves are full depth, narrow them by about two inches to make room for door-mounted racks – these racks are perfect for displaying beautiful plates and mugs easily while keeping them within easy reach. Furthermore, drawer inserts may also help increase storage for things such as cutlery or small appliances. Make your kitchen work better for you with these 5 kitchen cabinet storage projects which maximize storage without increasing cabinet size or adding new ones!
Style
Your kitchen cabinets’ underlying framework is responsible for their durability; the surfacing, however, determines their look. Choosing an attractive material should complement both your design aesthetic and individual tastes – which means choosing materials that complement both.
Solid wood is a timeless choice, yet expensive and susceptible to changes in humidity. Plywood offers an economical alternative that is comprised of thin slices of wood called piles alternating with adhesives before being bonded together for permanent attachment. Unfortunately, plywood may be damaged by extreme temperatures; it should therefore only be used under careful consideration.
Medium-density fiberboard, or MDF, is another popular choice for cabinet surfacing. Denser than solid wood and versatile in terms of stain options, MDF makes for easy maintenance in kitchen environments with high moisture. Plus it doesn’t warp or fade! For something with more contemporary flair high gloss thermofoil provides an attractive shiny surface that’s easier to keep clean.
