Kitchen Cabinet Other Terms

Kitchen Cabinetry: Essential Other Terms

When remodeling or updating your kitchen, it's important to familiarize yourself with the various terms used to describe kitchen cabinetry. These terms can help you make informed decisions and ensure that you get the most out of your investment.

Cabinet Doors

The doors of your kitchen cabinets are the most visible element and play a significant role in the overall look and feel of the kitchen. There are several different types of cabinet doors to choose from, including:

Shaker-style: This classic style features a simple, five-piece construction with a recessed center panel.
Flat-panel: These doors have a smooth, flat surface with no raised or recessed panels.
Raised-panel: These doors have a raised center panel that is framed by a recessed border.
Glass-front: These doors have a transparent or frosted glass panel that allows you to see the contents of the cabinet.
Inset: These doors fit inside the cabinet frame, creating a flush appearance.
Overlay: These doors overlap the cabinet frame, creating a more traditional look.

Cabinet Finishes

The finish of your kitchen cabinets will determine their appearance and durability. Common cabinet finishes include:

Paint: Paint is a versatile finish that can be applied in any color and can be easily touched up if needed.
Stain: Stain allows the natural grain of the wood to show through and can be used to create a variety of looks, from classic to modern.
Laminate: Laminate is a durable, low-maintenance finish that is available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Veneer: Veneer is a thin layer of wood that is applied to a substrate, giving it the look of solid wood.

Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware includes the knobs, pulls, and handles that are used to open and close the cabinets. Cabinet hardware can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, ceramic, and plastic. It is important to choose cabinet hardware that is both functional and stylish.

Cabinet Moldings

Cabinet moldings are decorative elements that can be added to the exterior of the cabinets. Moldings can be used to create a variety of looks, from simple and understated to ornate and elegant.

Cabinet Accessories

Cabinet accessories can be used to improve the functionality and organization of your kitchen cabinets. Common cabinet accessories include:

Shelving: Adjustable shelves can be added to cabinets to increase storage space.
Lazy Susans: Lazy Susans are rotating trays that can be placed inside cabinets to make it easier to access items.
Drawer organizers: Drawer organizers can be used to divide drawers into different compartments, making it easier to find what you need.
Pull-out baskets: Pull-out baskets can be added to cabinets to create easy-to-access storage for items like spices and condiments.

Conclusion

By familiarizing yourself with the various terms used to describe kitchen cabinetry, you can make informed decisions and create a kitchen that is both stylish and functional. Whether you are remodeling an existing kitchen or building a new one, it is important to work with a qualified professional to ensure that your kitchen cabinets meet your specific needs and budget.