With so many different types of cabinets to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start when planning your kitchen. The style and look of cabinets can have a big impact on the overall feel of the space. As well as being practical, cabinets are also one of the most important design features in any kitchen. You need the right kind of cabinetry for your kitchen to optimize storage and ensure you have everything you need close at hand. Whether you want classic or contemporary, there is a perfect set of cabinets for your needs and tastes. Let’s take a look at 10 popular cabinet styles that might suit your home.
Contemporary
A contemporary kitchen often includes several materials, so it makes sense that cabinets also incorporate various materials. Contemporary cabinets are often made of wood, but can also encompass laminate, glass and other materials. Most often found in open-plan kitchens, these cabinets are often designed to suit an island bench. The island bench can be a great design feature, but it’s important to keep in mind that having a large island bench can take away from the space in your kitchen. While a contemporary kitchen often uses natural materials, the overall aim is to create a sleek, modern look.
Corner-fitted
These fitted cabinets are designed to fit snugly into the corners of a room. They’re great for small kitchens, especially if you want to maximize limited space. Corner cabinets are available in both freestanding and wall-mounted varieties. While corner cabinets may not be the best choice for a formal kitchen, they do have their advantages. Corner cabinets might not be as decorative as other options, but they often come in cheaper options that can be a good choice for people on a budget. Corner cabinets are particularly useful if you have a small kitchen where space is limited and corners are not being used.
Open shelving
Open shelving is a popular design choice for kitchens in all styles, but is particularly popular in minimalist and modern kitchens. Open shelving allows you to maximize your storage capacity while creating an airy, stylish kitchen. Open shelving is perfect where you need to store items that are used regularly, but don’t need to be kept in closed cabinets. Containers, cookbooks, and other appliances are all perfect for open shelving. Open shelving also allows you to use more of your wall space for items that suit an open display, such as artwork or posters.
Built-in cupboards
Built-in cupboards are the perfect solution if you want to maximize your storage space. Built-in cabinets are often used to incorporate kitchen appliances such as fridges and freezers, but they’re also a great option for storing items such as baking trays and baking dishes. Built-in cupboards are great for smaller kitchens where appliances are often cluttering up counter space. Studies have shown that people who have built-in appliances tend to use them more. This means that a built-in fridge will likely be more useful than one that is constantly being pushed out of the way.
U-Shape cabinets
This type of cabinet is a design staple that can be incorporated into any kitchen style. U-shaped cabinets are often found above a kitchen island or in a peninsula bench. U-shaped cabinets are great for storing large items that would otherwise be cluttering up your counters. This includes pots, pans, and heavy baking trays that would otherwise be difficult to store in lower cabinets. U-shaped cabinets are also ideal for storing items that are used infrequently, such as serving platters and candlesticks. These items are not necessary for daily kitchen use, but they can still be kept close at hand.
Island Cabinets
If you have an island bench, then you likely have room for island cabinets. Island cabinets are built from the same materials as traditional cabinets, but they are often slightly taller to suit an island bench. Depending on the size of your island, you can choose to include a single cabinet or a larger cabinet. Island cabinets are a great option for a galley-style kitchen, but they work well in most kitchens.
Storage above the fridge
If you’re short on space in your kitchen, storage above the fridge is a great option. Above-the-fridge cabinets are often designed as open shelving, so they’re perfect for storing items that are used on a daily basis. Above-the-fridge cabinets are the perfect place to store baking trays and baking dishes. These items can often be removed to make space for larger appliances, but they can be tricky to store in traditional cabinets. Above-the-fridge cabinets are also a great place for infrequently used items. These are items that are not necessary for daily kitchen use, but that you still need close at hand.
The style and look of cabinets can have a big impact on the overall feel of the space. As well as being practical and functional, cabinets are also one of the most important design features in any kitchen. Most people start by deciding on the style of kitchen they want, and then choosing the cabinets that fit that style. Once you’ve decided on a general style, it’s time to explore the design and type of cabinetry that will suit your needs.