Cabinet Options
Premium cabinet design and function start with quality construction. There are two methods of cabinet construction and each offers a distinct range of choices throughout the building process, from selecting hinges and configuring shelving to picking out custom finishes. Learn the essentials now to make the right choice for your home.
Framed vs Frameless Cabinet Construction
There are two types of cabinet construction: framed or frameless cabinetry. Each method offers functional and design flexibility that adapts to any home. Let’s take a closer look at both:
WHAT IS FRAMED CABINETRY?
Framed construction is the traditional method used in American cabinetry. The naming derives from “rails” and “stiles” attached at the front of the cabinet box to form a 1-1/2 inch face "frame.” The additional material and depth give added dimension to the door front.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF FRAMED CABINETRY?
When cabinet doors are secured to a frame, a cabinet becomes stronger and more durabile. Door hinges are attached to the frame face and shelves, and adjustable doors are usually possible. Door options range from partial and full overlay to inset, allowing you full customization of your new cabinets.
WHAT IS FRAMELESS CABINETRY?
Frameless cabinet construction originated in Europe after World War II and has become popular due to its simplicity of construction, clean lines and lowcost. With simple, more contemporary cabinet designs, frameless cabinetry can offer greater accessibility and often more situational flexibility. Frameless cabinets require thicker box construction for stability, and full overlay door hinges are attached directly to the sides of the cabinet box.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF FRAMELESS CABINETRY?
By eliminating a face frame attached to the front of the cabinet box, frameless cabinets offer a streamlined, cleaner aesthetic that complements today’s home. Frameless cabinets also do away with stiles between doors, leaving shelves easier to access and more available storage space. In addition to adjustable shelving, another advantage in frameless cabinetry is larger drawers, the result of the space gained through the elimination of the face frame.
Inset Cabinet Construction
Inset cabinets, inspired by the work of skilled craftsmen and artisans of the Georgian and Victorian periods, are making a comeback. With nod to nostalgic styling, inset cabinets offer a distinctive, “heritage” look that many homeowners and designers love.
WHAT ARE INSET CABINETS?
Inset cabinetry places doors and drawers inside cabinet face frame openings. This type of cabinet construction leaves the cabinet frame exposed, reducing and sometimes eliminating the spacing or gaps between cabinet components.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF INSET CABINETRY?
With clean lines and flush inset doors inset cabinetry provides a wonderful alternative tostandard cabinets with full overlay doors. Inset cabinets allow for an endless array of design options, including beaded or non-beaded inserts to personalize and complement your home. Beaded inset construction is a permanent edge detail of the cabinet door itself. Done correctly, it evokes fine craftsmanship.
Inset cabinets also offer many additional modifications to suit your style, including color, finish, mouldings and embellishments. The end result is beautiful cabinetry that celebrates the legacy and simple, classic elegance of 19th Century styling.