Luxury Kitchen Design: Framed V.S. Frameless Cabinets

​One simple detail can change the look of your kitchen completely, and choosing between framed and frameless cabinets is a big one!  Once all is said and done, your new luxury cabinetry should be something that represents your personal preference as well as the needs of your particular household. The best way to figure out what you like is to visit a luxury cabinetry showroom and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each style with your designer.  Below are the basics to get your toes wet in the world of cabinetry. 

​What is a Framed Cabinet?
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Framed cabinetry has a 1.5-inch to 2-inch border or frame and is constructed to hide the edge of the cabinet box. The face frame adds strength and sturdiness with the cabinet door attached to the frame's side. Doors can be mounted to the inside of the frame, creating a flush-mounted look, or to the front of the frame, leaving a reveal.

Framed Cabinets Pros

• Conventional look - Framed cabinets are ideal for traditional-style kitchens. They may also be better for resale value, given that many buyers are not accustomed to the look of frameless cabinets.
• Sturdier - Framed cabinets are generally considered more structurally sound.

Framed Cabinets Cons

• Less storage - Because of the frame, these cabinets have narrow door and drawer openings, leaving less storage space.

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• Bulky - These cabinets can typically be heavier to handle. but do stay square

​What is a Frameless Cabinet?
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In frameless construction (also known as euro), there's no face frame and the cabinet doors attach directly to the sides of the cabinet box. Doors typically cover the entire cavity and box in a full-overlay. Because they don't require a frame, frameless cabinets feature full access, allowing maximum use of space

Frameless Cabinets Pros

• More storage - Because there’s no frame to create a narrower opening, frameless cabinets offer more storage space. Frameless cabinets are sometimes referred to as “full access cabinets.”
• Faster to construct - Frameless cabinets are quicker and easier to build because there is no frame to construct, but can be trickier to install because they are harder to keep square.
• Modern look - They have a clean look that compliments modern kitchens.

Frameless Cabinets Cons

• Unconventional - Because frameless cabinets are uncommon in the United States, the look is different than what most homeowners are used to seeing.
• Fewer cabinet makers - Many custom and semi-custom cabinet makers only do framed cabinets; they don’t have expertise with frameless. (Luckily Amber Golob Interiors is a supplier!)
• Not as sturdy - Many experts say frameless cabinets are not as sturdy because they do not have the frame for support​

​Whatever your needs are, be sure to talk with your designer. They’ll be able to bring that extra expertise, creativity, and flair to your home.
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Get a complimentary kitchen quote now!

Live in Chicago or the North Shore? Schedule a consultation with luxury interior designer, Amber Golob, by contacting her at Amber@AmberGolob.com or calling. 773-960-0498.
​Live your luxury.
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Written by Aija Rozentals