Not only is cabinetry a lifesaver when it comes to storing all those pots and pans that you've accumulated over the years: it's usually the first thing that your and your guests' eyes are drawn to whenever entering the kitchen. It'd better look cohesive!
When you choose cabinetry, you can't afford to overlook functionality nor materials and design. Sounds like a lot? Not if you follow our expert tips!
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Consider what you need to store as well as the layout of your kitchen and your existing cabinets in order to choose cabinetry that complements them. If you don't have many, you'll probably need a couple of different types:
Wood
Wood is the most common material when it comes to kitchen cabinetry: it's durable, non-toxic and incredibly versatile, perfect to complement all kinds of décors.
While it's obviously available in lots of different styles and finishes, the main choice will be between solid wood and laminate.
The former is a beautiful traditional option that can make your kitchen unique thanks to its natural variations but is a bit more expensive and could get damaged by humidity and drastic temperature changes, so make sure you ventilate your kitchen; laminate is a more affordable and modern alternative that is quite durable and a bit easier to maintain.
Veneer wood
If you love the idea of wooden cabinetry but were after a more budget-friendly option, veneer woodis a good compromise: it consists of sheets or slices of solid wood glued onto a different material.
However, it's not as durable and it can discolor over time when exposed to direct sunlight for years.
PVC
Poly-vinyl chloride is an affordable option consisting of plastic sheets. Easy to install, waterproof and, unlike most woods, termite-proof, it's certainly a practical solution.
Unfortunately, it's not available in many color options, and it can yellow a bit with age.
Metal
Cabinetry made of metals like stainless steel or aluminum is generally more expensive but certainly strong and incredibly durable, as it's unaffected by humidity and heat.
Their surfaces are also easy to clean, but you might need to wipe them more often as fingerprints show more clearly, and metal cabinets aren't usually available in lots of finishes.
Glass front
Shaker doors are one of the most popular designs for kitchen cabinetry: featuring a central panel, they're perfect to create a cozy and traditional look. You can either opt for classic raised panels or more versatile recessed-panel designs;
Flat or slab doors follow a more streamlined and minimalist design, usually without any type of decorative elements;
If you want to go for an even more minimalist approach and a sleek look, you can consider no-handle models, as long as you're happy to wipe them more often;
Instead of the traditional hinged doors, you might want to opt for a sliding alternative if you have a particularly small kitchen that wouldn't leave you much room to move around when you open a couple of cupboards.
