kitchen island and cabinets

Installing new kitchen cabinets is a big decision. After all, it’s a significant investment. So you want to get it right.

But how do you know which style of cabinets is best for your home? Here are four kitchen cabinet design styles to consider for your project.

1. Shaker

The Shaker style cabinets are named after the Shakers, who valued simplicity. As the name suggests, these cabinets are meant to be simple but functional. Hundreds of years later, Shaker cabinets are still popular. What a testament to the strength and beauty of this style!

In fact, you’ve probably seen Shaker cabinets many times before. They are known for their rails and styles design. You’ll also recognize their recessed door panels. If you enjoy minimalist styles with tons of functionality, Shaker cabinets are right for you.

In terms of construction, Shaker cabinets often use durable woods from the Northeastern United States. For example, cherry, oak, maple, and hickory all work well. It follows that many homeowners choose to stain or glaze their cabinets to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. But painting is an option, too. White and gray are popular choices.

2. Modern/Contemporary

Modern and contemporary cabinets are also popular choices. They’re perfect for those who enjoy a minimalist look. That’s because they feature flat panels. There are also minimal or no fixtures. This lack of visible hardware creates a sleek design that many homeowners find relaxing.

Additionally, because all the surfaces in these cabinets are flat, they work well in small spaces. It’s easy to create taller cabinets with this style. And you’ll enjoy using every inch of cabinet space. Plus, the sleek design helps small spaces feel larger.

We recommend using maple wood because modern and contemporary cabinets are typically painted. However, composites are also an option. White, gray, and black are popular color choices.

3. Country/Rustic

Country/Rustic cabinets are one of the most popular cabinet styles here in North Carolina. If you love the country, farmhouse, or cabin look, this is the style for you.

Country/Rustic cabinets put the beauty of natural wood on display through paints, glazes, and stains. That’s why maple, hickory, oak, and pine are popular choices.

Additionally, many homeowners choose to include elements like mesh, tin, and decorative panels to increase the country/rustic charm of these cabinets. They also combine especially well with iron, copper, and granite features in your kitchen.

4. Traditional

Do you love beautiful, ornate cabinets? Then traditional cabinets are the style for you. They incorporate a variety of adornments and embellishments to give a grand appearance. Arches, moldings, and raised panels are popular choices. So are ornate wrought iron or bronze fixtures and glass panels.

Traditional cabinets typically give a formal look to your kitchen. That’s because they typically feature elaborate European designs. Alternatively, combine traditional ornate decor with a more country/rustic appearance. Tuscan and French Country kitchens are perfect examples of this style.

When it comes to wood, cherry, oak, and maple are good choices for traditional cabinets. Some homeowners choose a stain or glaze to bring attention to the natural wood. Others paint the cabinets and give them an antique or distressed look. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to make a statement with traditional cabinets.

Here at Edgewood Cabinetry, we offer all of the above styles of kitchen cabinets. And we’re happy to discuss your vision for your kitchen and help you choose cabinets to match.

As you think about the cabinet style you want, take a moment to consider the type of hardware you like, too. Hardware is like the icing on a cake. It completes the look of your cabinets. Need some inspiration? Check out these hardware styles to see which is best for you.

When you’re ready to begin your new kitchen project, we’re ready to help. Just fill out this form to get started.