Kitchen Cabinetry Made Easy

Basics to help you choose your cabinetry design.

Trendy vs. Traditional

With so many choices, figuring out what your cabinets should look like can be perplexing. Basically there are two main classifications of cabinetry style, traditional and contemporary.

Traditional

Traditional cabinets have an altogether more detailed look. A variety of woods and finishes are available, with some standard styles. Cherry, Oak, and Pine are the most commonly used. Moldings and trim provide the traditional look of this cabinet style, giving that feeling right at home look.

Contemporary

Contemporary cabinets have an overall uncluttered look. Clean lines and strong but simple shapes make up the contemporary cabinet. Stainless-steel sinks and glass shelving work well with these type of cabinets. Generally the cabinets themselves are constructed of modern materials rather than traditional solid woods.

Contrary to traditional cabinets, contemporary cabinets are accented with simple trims or none whatsoever. Using hardwoods for these cabinets will suit any modern style you might have in mind and give the warmth of the traditional style with a modern look.

So Which One Should I Choose?

From a designer standpoint it's always best to choose the cabinet style that complements the existing styles in your home. For instance, if your present style is contemporary with modern looking living areas, installing dark wood cabinets with detailed trim and crown molding will seem out of place. If your home flaunts a traditional style from an era gone by, installing stainless steel and European-styled cabinets will a convey a sense of confusion in the overall flow.

Accessories and Enhancements

The accessories available for today's kitchen cabinetry is almost endless and growing everyday. Pull-out tables and trays, the Lazy Susan, corner systems, cabinet and drawer organizers, trash and recycling options, pullout pilasters, cabinet lighting, the list goes on and on.

These kitchen enhancements and accessories will go a long way to maximize your efficiency and organization. One very useful and almost a "can't go without it" accessory is the pull-out tray. No more stooping and bending to find out what's in that cabinet or drawer. Why not let everything come to you? If you only pick one enhancement for your cabinetry, pull-outs are a must have.

A well placed accessory will make your living space more enjoyable on an everyday basis. A Lazy Susan can help you conveniently thumb through those kitchen cleaners under the sink, rather than digging through an unsorted and messy cabinet. Corner systems maximize what would otherwise be an almost unusable space or a haunt for forgotten items.

Take a look through your existing kitchen cabinets. Make a list of it's weak points. Now imagine what would enhance the design to increase efficiency, space and convenience in your new remodeled kitchen.

Hardware Choices

Think of hardware as jewelry for your cabinets. As modern jewelry from today would clash with a woman's outfit from say the 1940's so it is same with kitchen cabinetry. A modern, minimalist looking cabinet handle would look out of place on a wood cabinet with highly detailed molding.

When considering hardware, be sure that in addition to appearance you pick a style that is functional as well. Do you prefer round knobs or handles? Is child safety a consideration? Some cabinets can be fitted with a spring loaded hinges, allowing the door to be opened simply with a moderate push.

There are many materials to pick from for your hardware. Iron, brass, gold, porcelain, ceramics and wood knobs/handles work well with traditional styled cabinets. While silver, glass, plastics and all kinds of metal knobs/handles work well with contemporary designs.