Choosing Cabinets for a Kitchen Remodel

Picture yourself in a newly remodeled kitchen. It’s the heart of your home and shines as a functional and breathtaking space. Daylight fills the space through a large window, shining sparkling new countertops and sleek, modern appliances. Your newly remodeled kitchen looks like something from the magazine cover, but the brand-new cabinets make your space a dream come true.

Whether it be a dream of renovating your kitchen or having a budget and timeframe in mind, choosing the right cabinet will lead the way in your kitchen remodel. Cabinets are so much more than storage units; they are the heart and soul of a room. They set the tone for the kitchen, influencing how you move, live, and create memories in this space.

What are the best cabinets for your kitchen? What is the difference between European and American cabinets? Who makes the best kitchen cabinets? This blog will answer these questions and explore cabinet design ideas and other tips to help you realize a kitchen that exceeds every expectation.

Cabinet Showdown: Shaker or Frameless

For a kitchen remodel, the two leading cabinet types that most people talk about are American Shaker and European Frameless. Gain insight into both these styles to determine which perfectly suits your kitchen design.

American Shaker

American Shaker cabinets are loved for their simple, clean lines and raised panel doors. Named for a religious group known for making simple furniture, they boast a classic and timeless appeal that complements various design aesthetics. Here are some of the advantages of this style:

• • Versatility: Shaker cabinets blend well with both traditional and contemporary kitchen interiors.

• • Toughness: The raised panel construction increases the strength and durability of these cabinets.

• • Classic: American Shaker cabinets never go out of style.

Consider American Shaker cabinetry for your kitchen remodel if you crave a vintage look or a transitional aesthetic. They are generally less expensive than their European frameless counterparts but sometimes come with a slight reduction in interior space.

European Frameless

As their name suggests, European frameless cabinets lack the outer frame featured in American Shaker cabinets. Many homeowners prefer the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of this across-the-pond cupboard style. Some of the advantages of European cabinets vs American shaker style include:

• • Modern: Frameless cabinets provide a streamlined look that really shines in contemporary interiors.

• • Storage Efficiency: The lack of a frame means you have slightly more room inside your cabinets.

• • Higher-End Look: The sleek, frameless style projects elegance that contrasts with the Shaker-inspired alternative.

European frameless cabinets generally cost more than American Shaker cabinets. The lack of a face frame may make the European-style doors more susceptible to wear and tear, especially around the edges.

The difference between European and American cabinets depends on your sense of style, budget, and desired functionality. Before you commit to either style, consider the style of your appliances, especially color, finish, and modern vs. retro aesthetics.

Palette Perfection: Choosing the Right Colors

Another essential starting point for your kitchen remodel is the color of your cabinets. The hue of your cabinetry will affect your space’s overall mood and atmosphere. Use the following factors to home in on the perfect shade for your upgraded kitchen:

• • Personal Style: What are you striving for, a time-honored appearance or a modern or futuristic approach?

• • Other Design Elements: Whether you’re doing a full gut or just replacing kitchen cabinets, consider the colors of your flooring, countertops, backsplash, and other fixtures.

• • Desired Ambiance: Do you want your kitchen to be warm and inviting or cool and minimalist?

As you weigh your options for European vs American cabinets, consider these popular color options:

• • White: Versatile and instantly brightens any kitchen

• • Grey: Modern and sophisticated, bringing a touch of elegance to your interior

• • Black: Bold and dramatic for a striking focal point for your home

• • Natural Wood: Warm and inviting for a bit of rustic appeal

• • Two-Toned: Trendy and ideal for adding visual interest by breaking up large sections of color

You can find inspiration for your dream spaces from pictures of remodeled kitchens with cabinets of similar color schemes and styles. Don’t forget to consider how natural and indoor light (if available) will impact your kitchen cabinet ideas. The best cabinets for your kitchen will also include knobs and handles that complement your overall look and feel.

Cabinet Layout: The Blueprint for Your Dream Kitchen

When choosing the cabinets for a full kitchen remodel, the layout is imperative in making the space functional and beautiful.

Storage Considerations

• • Drawer vs Cupboard: Drawers would work for utensils and linens since these things should be easy to reach. Cupboards work for dishes, glassware, pots, and pans.

• • Pantry Cabinets: A pantry cabinet would be the proper space for appliances, serving ware, and bulk items not used daily.

• • Corner Cabinets: Lazy susans or pull-out shelves really help maximize the available space, especially in tiny nooks.

• • Ergonomics: Consider the placement of upper and lower cabinets in terms of comfort of reach.

Changes to Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical

A new kitchen will be of little good without accounting for the electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems that make it all work for you and your household.

• • Electrical: Provide ample outlets around appliances and countertops. Include at least one GFCI-protected outlet designed to shut off the power in case an electrical imbalance is detected. This is usually a code requirement in the kitchen and bathrooms.

• • Plumbing: When choosing the location of sinks, dishwashers, refrigerators, and ice machines, consider the location of plumbing lines.

• • Mechanical: Ensure cooking areas are well-vented, especially installing a gas range.

Consider adding lighting and smart options that will further beautify and increase the utility of your dream kitchen.

Conclusion: Starting the Kitchen of Your Dreams

Picking the correct cabinet for a kitchen remodel is important in enhancing practicality, style, and overall property value. Understanding European vs American cabinet styles helps you find the perfect kitchen cabinet idea for your space. Select cabinet colors that blend in with the other elements of the kitchen to create the atmosphere you plan on having. With adequate planning, the proper layout can ensure that your cabinets will be functional and fashionable.

Ready to make your dream a reality? Schedule a free consultation with one of our professionals. Let us help you build a kitchen you will cherish for years.