Cabinet Faces and Frames 101: Choosing the Perfect Style for Your Home

Written By Nohealani Sentenac

When it comes to cabinets, the design of the face and frame plays a huge role in the overall look of your space. Whether you're designing a sleek modern kitchen or a cozy farmhouse mudroom, understanding the options can help you choose the perfect style. Here's a quick guide to cabinet faces and frames, including how they look, where they work best, and how they impact your budget.

Types of Cabinet Faces:

cabinet styles face framing shaker inset overlay

1. Shaker

  • Style: Classic and simple, with a flat center panel and square edges.

  • Best For: Almost any style! Great for modern, transitional, or farmhouse kitchens.

  • Cost: Budget-friendly to mid-range, depending on materials.

2. Recessed Panel

  • Style: Similar to shaker but with more detailed edges around the panel.

  • Best For: Transitional or traditional designs.

  • Cost: Mid-range, due to the extra detailing.

3. Raised Panel

  • Style: Center panel is raised, often with detailed edges.

  • Best For: Traditional or formal kitchens.

  • Cost: Higher, due to craftsmanship.

4. Flat Panel

  • Style: Sleek and smooth, with no detailing.

  • Best For: Modern or minimalist spaces.

  • Cost: Typically the most budget-friendly.

5. Beadboard

  • Style: Features vertical grooves for a cottage-like charm.

  • Best For: Farmhouse or coastal designs.

  • Cost: Mid-range, depending on material.

6. Glass Panel

  • Style: Features glass inserts to showcase your dishes.

  • Best For: Displaying items in traditional or contemporary spaces.

  • Cost: Higher, especially with specialty glass.

7. Louvered Panel

  • Style: Horizontal slats that add texture and ventilation.

  • Best For: Laundry rooms, mudrooms, or tropical-inspired spaces.

  • Cost: High, due to the labor involved.

8. Arched

  • Style: Curved top panel adds a decorative touch.

  • Best For: Traditional or European-style kitchens.

  • Cost: Mid to high range, as they’re more intricate.

Types of Face Frames

1. Full Overlay

  • Look: Doors cover almost the entire cabinet frame, creating a seamless appearance.

  • Best For: Modern and transitional kitchens.

  • Cost: Slightly higher than partial overlay due to extra material.

2. Partial Overlay

  • Look: Part of the cabinet frame is visible, giving a more traditional appearance.

  • Best For: Budget-friendly designs.

  • Cost: The most affordable frame option.

3. Inset

  • Look: Doors sit flush with the frame for a clean, custom look.

  • Best For: High-end, traditional, or craftsman-style kitchens.

  • Cost: High, due to precise craftsmanship.

Finding Your Perfect Match

Choosing the right cabinet face and frame comes down to your style, space, and budget. For example:

  • Modern Kitchen: Flat panel with full overlay for a sleek look.

  • Farmhouse Charm: Shaker or beadboard with partial overlay.

  • Formal Dining Area: Raised panel with inset framing for timeless elegance.

By mixing and matching these elements, you can create a space that feels uniquely yours while staying within budget. Need help? Contact us at Sentena House Interiors to bring your vision to life!

Questions?

We’re an open book! Schedule a call or fill out the inquiry form below if you’re ready to start.

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Nohealani Sentenac
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