Ready to transform your dated or dull kitchen cabinets? The right kitchen cabinet design can completely change the look, feel, and function of your space. From shaker style to glass front, two-tone to ceiling height, kitchen cabinet design ideas and options abound.
Discover the most popular kitchen cabinetry, trends, and styles. You can visit countertop stores to get inspired by stunning kitchen images showcasing creative cabinet designs. We’ll also share smart storage tips and planning considerations. Let’s explore the wonderful world of kitchen cabinet ingenuity!
Simple Shaker Style Cabinetry for Timeless Appeal
A go-to cabinet choice that delivers classic simplicity, Shaker-style cabinets feature a clean-lined recessed panel front. The subtle design provides understated elegance. Characteristics include:
- Recessed center panel with a frame around it
- Flat recessed drawer fronts and minimal hardware
- Made of wood like oak, maple, and hickory
Shaker cabinets suit a variety of design aesthetics from farmhouse to contemporary. Their fuss-free styling ages beautifully and stays on-trend for decades. Opt for painted, stained, or natural wood finishes.
Pair shaker cabinets with marble countertops and subway tile backsplash for timeless charm. Their versatile look flatters both rustic cottage kitchens and modern spaces equally.
Open Shelving Creates an Airy, Organized Feel
Open shelving ditches upper cabinets entirely to give a kitchen a lighter, airier aesthetic. Based on advice from Martha Stewart, one of the benefits of open shelving is that it instantly makes a full kitchen space feel more spacious. This storage option comes with perks like:
- Open shelving displays favorite dishes, cookbooks, and décor. This allows you to prominently showcase decorative plates, mugs, or other meaningful kitchen items in an easily visible and accessible way. Open shelves create an opportunity to add visual interest by arranging cherished cookbooks, vases, or unique glassware.
- Open shelving makes items easily accessible. Eliminating upper cabinet doors means everything is ready to grab right off the shelf. You don’t have to open and rummage through enclosed cabinets to find what you need. Open shelving creates open storage that lets you quickly access spices, cooking tools, glassware, and anything else you use regularly.
- Open shelving creates interesting visual interest on the wall. Different heights and arrangements of shelves break up blank wall space for appealing aesthetic appeal. The shapes and silhouettes of open shelves themselves add architectural interest, along with the items you place on them. Open shelving turns empty wall space into an eye-catching display that enhances the kitchen’s style.
Work with your overall kitchen style – metals and woods for a modern look; soft pastels and linens for shabby chic. Incorporate functional open shelves next to appliances. For a cleaner look, keep only essentials and hide other items elsewhere.
Proper spacing and bracket strength ensure sturdy installation and prevent shelving from sagging over time. Open shelving works well paired with a bright white kitchen with crisp white cabinetry below to keep things light.
Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinets Provide Classic Contrast
According to Elle Decor, two-tone kitchen cabinets are trending because the mix of dark and light finishes creates depth and interest. Combining stained with painted cabinets or white upper cabinets grounds the space while keeping it airy.
Two-tone cabinetry achieves visual interest by combining different stains, paints, or materials on upper and lower cabinets. Popular pairings of traditional cabinetry include:
- Bright white upper cabinets contrasted with natural wood base cabinets create an iconic two-tone look. The white uppers keep the top portion light and airy so the kitchen doesn’t feel too heavy. Natural wood bases provide warmth and tie into other wood finishes like flooring or butcher block countertops. This classic combination suits many design aesthetics.
- Pairing deep navy blue lower cabinets with bright crisp white upper cabinets forms another eye-catching two-tone kitchen. The dark navy anchors the bottom providing bold sophistication. Bright white uppers open up the space and keep it from feeling too dark. Together this look feels fresh yet grounded, ideal for modern and contemporary kitchen designs.
- Combining walnut-stained upper cabinets with bright cherry red lower cabinets makes a dramatic style statement. The rich walnut finish adds texture and depth up top while the bold cherry red on the bottom instantly livens up the space. Together they command attention while also coordinating beautifully. This fun combo brings energic color into a traditional kitchen layout.
To keep paint color and avoid it looking haphazard, repeat finishes in other areas like island base or open shelving. Two-toned kitchens often have one dominant paint color. Include hardware that coordinates with both hues.
The contrast immediately livens up plain cabinetry. Two-tone kitchens feel both timeless and on-trend. Play with different color combos and placements to find your perfect mismatched match.
Industrial Edge with Exposed Pipes and Metals
For urban loft appeal, incorporate industrial design elements like exposed metal piping, chrome hardware, and stainless steel finishes. Ideas such as:
- Iron brackets and shelving add an industrial vibe through the use of rugged metals. Iron is durable and brings a raw, unfinished look compared to other metals. Iron brackets make sturdy open shelving that provides storage with an urban edge. The metal brings a cool contrast against wood.
- Incorporating antique-style carts, Hutches, or ladders creates open storage with vintage character. Older style ladders hung on walls or repurposed carts used as shelves add crafted charm and eclectic personality. These forgotten pieces feel right at home in industrial-inspired kitchens when given new life as display storage.
- Metal mesh can be integrated into cabinetry through full mesh doors, mesh door inserts, or mesh side panels. The rigid grid look allows visibility into cabinets while providing ventilation and a modern, sleek aesthetic. More delicate wire mesh feels airy when used on glass front doors or drawers. Industrial wire mesh patterns infuse kitchen cabinets with an edgy upgrade.
Mixing unfinished metals, black accents and wood creates an edgy, modern vibe. Add pops of green foliage to soften the bold industrial look.
Leave pipework unfinished for an authentic look or spray paint them black or silver. Copper piping and brass hardware also bring metallic shine. Keep wires neatly covered for safety and to prevent clutter.
Custom Glass Front Cabinets Showcase Collections
Glass front cabinetry allows you to put treasured items, collectibles, or dishware on display with proper lighting. Benefits include:
- Glass front cabinets illuminate and highlight displayed items inside the cabinets. Interior lighting shows off cherished dishware, collectibles, or glassware behind the clear glass fronts. Proper lighting draws attention to prized possessions and decor Visible inside the lit cabinet. The glass allows light to shine through and create an alluring display.
- Glass front cabinets visually enlarge small kitchen spaces through transparency. The see-through glass fronts create an airier, open look compared to solid doors. Items inside the cabinets are still neatly stored but the space feels more open and expansive. Glass fronts reduce the closed-in, boxed-in effect for a lighter aesthetic.
- Glass front cabinets can beautifully showcase collectibles like vintage mugs, antique dishes, or colorful glassware. The glass provides dust-free protection while still allowing the collections to be displayed. Glass cabinet fronts frame and highlight treasured items like enameled tea cups or ceramic figurines. The transparency keeps collectibles visible without cluttering the countertops.
Use interior cabinet lighting to draw attention to prized pieces. Try minimal glass accents like a single glass door or drawer front mixed with regular cabinets. Full glass doors and fronts work for delicate china displays.
Choose between clear glass, seeded/bubble glass, or tinted glass. Frosted glass diffuses light elegantly. Keep interiors orderly so items don’t appear chaotic behind glass.
Maximize Kitchen Storage with Floor to Ceiling Cabinetry
Need serious space for supplies and appliances? Floor-to-ceiling cabinets provide abundant storage from top to bottom. Great for:
- Fitting in notoriously hard-to-store bakeware
- Housing stand mixers, blenders, and other large appliances
- Preventing wasted vertical space between counters and ceiling
Measure carefully to make the most of the available room height. Incorporate specialty pull-out shelves for ease of access. Consider glass fronts on upper cabinets to prevent a closed-in room look.
Floor-to-ceiling storage works well surrounded by light counters and backsplash. Provide space breaks with green cabinets with windows, display shelving, or decorative filler panels between tall white cabinets throughout.
Add Originality with Boldly Colored Kitchen Cabinets
Tired of all-white kitchens? Bold, cabinet ideas and colors add serious style impact while still remaining timeless. Vibrant cabinet ideas include:
- Sapphire blue base cabinets with white uppers
- Matte black island and range hood for a modern edge
- Bright red open shelves as accent pop
Paint Kitchen Cabinets
On lower cabinets, richer hues feel grounded. Use deeper colors sparingly on top to prevent heaviness. Contrast with the light blue walls and countertops.
Painted wood cabinets also work well for adding bright color. Multi-step paint techniques like rag rolling create depth. Stained wood can also achieve more sophisticated wood tones. Color your kitchen happy!
Easy Kitchen Cabinet Ideas with New Hardware
An easy upgrade for tired cabinets, new hardware immediately refreshes the look. Swapping outdated brass drawer pulls out for:
- Sleek handlebars in matte black, silver, or iron
- Nature-inspired quartz, marble, or stone knobs
- Antique glass, porcelain, or crystal knobs
Modernize traditional cabinets by replacing ornate handles with straight slim pulls. Choose hardware that perfectly complements the cabinet style and finish.
Add interest with a mix of materials, shapes, and sizes. Choose knobs and pulls in an accent or bold color alone. New hardware offers affordable kitchen refreshments.
Wooden Kitchen Cabinets for Organic, Eco-Friendly Style
Wood cabinetry adds beautiful natural texture and warmth. Sourcing reclaimed, locally milled, or sustainably harvested wood builds an environmentally friendly kitchen.
Try eco-friendly wood species like bamboo or fast-growing lyptus. Work with naturally occurring knots, cracks, and imperfections for a rustic look. Bleaches and stains allow custom colors.
Choose wire pull handles, exposed hinges, and decorative legs for a cottage-style feel. Pair wood cabinetry with butcher block counters and backsplashes made from leftover wood pieces.
Let the smooth wood grain shine through with a fresh coat of clear sealer or whitewash pickling. Natural wood cabinets with artisan craftsmanship anchor the space with organic elegance.
Unique Cabinet Fronts Add Personality
Tired of cookie-cutter cabinets? Swap standard fronts for unique materials that showcase personality. Options like:
- Antique shutters for eclectic rustic charm
- Salvaged barn wood fronts with original patina
- Wire mesh fronts provide modern industrial flair
- Fabric-covered fronts soften with homespun style
Mixing salvaged or repurposed materials creates a one-of-a-kind style. Choose complementary handles and hardware. For convenience, use special fronts just on the island or open shelving units. Make a design statement!
Warm up a White Kitchen with Natural Wood Accents
All-white kitchens are timeless but can feel sterile. Inject warmth by incorporating natural wood accents like:
- Floating wood shelves or plank valance trim
- Wood thresholds on cabinet doors and drawers
- Reclaimed wood vent hood cover
- Butcher block kitchen islands
A little natural wood balances all the crisp white for cozier appeal. Matchwood and earth tones used throughout with counters, floors, or open shelving. Accent with black metal fixtures for a modern twist and contrast. Keep white dominant for airy elegance.
Angled Kitchen Cabinets Break up Linear Layouts
Angled cabinets and countertops can add texture and architectural interest to straightforward layouts. Angled components like:
- Angled countertop corners add subtle architectural interest to kitchen layouts. Cutting front corners of countertops and islands on an angle breaks up standard 90-degree lines. The angled edge can be a functional place for appliances or prep space. This simple change modernizes kitchen work triangles.
- Angling entire L-shaped or U-shaped cabinet runs creates drama through asymmetry. One side of the cabinets can Angle forward or back to shape the kitchen in a dynamic way. Angled cabinet runs make straightforward kitchens more contemporary. Careful planning ensures customized angles maximize storage.
- Tilting upper cabinetry above cooktops and ranges draws eyes to the functional cooking area. Angled upper cabinets add energy while also providing ample storage. The uniquely shaped cabinetry makes for an interesting focal point. Open shelving integrated into the Angle adds visual balance.
- Island cabinet sides and edges are great spots to incorporate angles. Just one or two Angled corners on an island break up boxy shapes. Angles help island cabinets seamlessly fit the flow of the kitchen layout. An angled edge can also create bar-height seating space.
The angles make ordinary square kitchens more dynamic. Curved cabinets also break up linear looks, but the angles feel more elegant look a bit more modern and sleek. Take measurements carefully to cut custom cabinet angles accurately.
Wrap Windows in a Cabinet Surround for Depth
Enhance a kitchen window by wrapping cabinetry around the sides and top to frame it. The cabinet surround creates:
- Interesting depth versus a flat backsplash
- Makes the window a “punch out” focal point
- Allows accessorizing windows with plants, curtains, etc
- Provides storage and counters on window sides
Leave an ample border of quartz countertop around the window for function. Wrap uppers in painted wood, stained wood, or glass front cabinets. Treat the window as a sunlit showcase.
Suspended Cabinets Add Modern Drama
Defy gravity with suspended glass cabinets! Floating cabinets make a dramatic modern statement and open up the floor space below. Great for:
- Directing emphasis upward
- Visually expanding small kitchens
- Easy cleaning under cabinets
- Highlighting unique sinks or cooktops
Use cables, rods, or metal frames for support. Offset floating cabinets at varied heights for multi-dimensional appeal. Illuminate undersides or add pendant lights. Combine with clean lines and mixed metals. Make your kitchen island cabinetry take flight!
Plan Your Dream Kitchen Cabinet Design
With so many appealing styles to consider, proper planning ensures your new cabinets are a success:
- Measure twice: Capture precise room dimensions and form factor
- Maximize functionality: Incorporate specialty organizers and pull-outs
- Set a budget: Get quotes on cabinet units plus installation
- Pick durable finishes: High-traffic kitchens need finishes that resist moisture, heat, and wear
- Factor indoor style: Consider accessibility needs and cleaning convenience
- Coordinate hardware: Choose knobs and pulls that work with the design
- Light it up: Ambient, task and cabinet lighting all impact the space
Proper planning allows you to both meet functional needs and achieve the perfect aesthetic. Enjoy personalized cabinetry that caters to your cooking, storage, and style priorities for years of kitchen enjoyment!
Final Thoughts
With so many design options to consider for your new kitchen cabinets, the possibilities are truly endless! Whether you’re looking to create a minimalist, modern feel with flat panel doors in a calming neutral hue or want to go for a more traditional look with marble countertops that perfectly complement stained cabinets, there are so many ways to craft an aesthetically pleasing space tailored exactly for you.
Take inspiration from the array of styles spotlighted here, like mixing cabinet colors for charming contrast or adding a built-in wet bar for entertaining. Envision how choices like glass fronts can showcase collectibles while making a small kitchen feel more spacious. With thoughtful design selections, the designer in you will be thrilled with how seamlessly all the elements come together!
The right cabinet update makes this essential spot as functional and fabulous as you’ve dreamed. Enjoy planning your ideal layout and personalizing it with unique finishes. Bringing your kitchen vision to life through cabinetry upgrades will make you feel at home.
