Cabinets take the most visual space in every kitchen and the first thing you usually see is the door profile. Which one should you go for, and which one is more convenient in terms of utility? Keep reading to find out.
- Shaker Door Profile
Shaker cabinet door profiles are among the oldest, yet still most popular options out there. This cabinet door profile has a way of looking timeless yet shabby in a classy way, and its minimalist design gives it a chameleon-like quality.
Also referred to as recessed panel doors, these are often used in farmhouse kitchen designs, taking on traditional and modern approaches alike.
“Shaker kitchen style is very versatile. It achieves so much and gives the impression that it’s an effortless look that will continue to look fresh in years to come. It can be dressed up or down, truly traditional or with a modern edge,” says Second Nature Kitchen’s senior designer, Graeme Smith. Shaker cabinet doors are perfect when you want to give your kitchen a sophisticated look and some personality.
- Beadboard Door Profile
Beadboard door profiles are often referred to as “tongue-and-groove,” and are highly popular among those who wish to get that cottage-style kitchen do-over. This type of construction features vertical slats that get fitted right into one another.
This door profile might not be the most suitable one for someone who wants a sleek and minimalist look, but it’s definitely a great choice for those searching for texture and details. The “boards” are also available in different widths, giving you a personalized design. Plus, the boards may be used inside the cabinets, which will further enhance the kitchen design.
- Flat-Front Door Profile
Also frequently referred to as the “slab door,” the flat front cabinet profile is the perfect type of door for those looking for a minimalist design. These doors have no lines and no grooves, the only detail on them being the handles.
Since the door profile has no texture, it is often used to showcase hardware (knobs and pulls). It is also the least expensive door option, as well as the easiest to clean, working perfectly in a modern kitchen.
- Plywood Door Profile
Plywood cabinets have gained a lot of popularity over the years, being appreciated not only for the fact that they are beautiful, but also for their versatility. Unlike regular lumber, they won’t shrink, warp, or expand when the environment is too humid. Plus, despite the fact that it’s not wood, it’s still very durable.
“Plywood has this very organic and warm quality that makes a space feel cozy and inviting,” says Björn Förstberg, a Swedish architect. It is a suitable choice for those needing low-cost cabinets that look natural. Moreover, a plywood door profile is highly versatile, as it may be purchased in a variety of wood patterns, all with their different finishes and colors.
- Glass-Front Door Profile
Glass-front cabinets are for those who want to add shelves in the kitchen, but still want to reap the advantages brought by cabinets. This door profile is great when you are changing your open cabinets or when you mix and match kitchen cabinet profiles. One type that it works incredibly well with is the shaker cabinet profile.
Glass-front cabinet doors have light-reflecting properties that can be very helpful in a small, dark kitchen. They can also help you display glassware or ceramics that you are proud of. However, unlike open shelves, the glass cabinet door will keep the cooking grime and humidity away from your kitchen utensils, protecting them in the long run.
- Handleless Door Profile
Handleless door profiles are very popular nowadays due to their smooth and clean design. Working either in a push or a pull system, these doors have no handles protruding from their profile, making them more aesthetically pleasing. Also, by removing the handles, they take away the feeling of clutter, visually enhancing the place.
Handleless door profiles are also the preferred choice for homes with children. Since there won’t be any handles or knobs in the cabinets, kids won’t risk injuring themselves when they play or trip and fall in the kitchen. These doors will also make your cooking much safer if you have a small kitchen.
