Kitchen Cabinets 101: Shapes and Styles of Cabinets

Shape of the Kitchen

Even if you could have a specific finish or style in mind, the kitchen form is where it all starts. The design is determined by the layout of the kitchen. Choose a floor plan that complements your kitchen before you begin. The majority of kitchens are L-, U-, or G-shaped, or one-wall.

The placement of the stove, sink, and refrigerator in relation to one another is crucial, regardless of the kitchen’s design. The “work triangle” is defined by these regions. Think about the shape that would work best for your renovation. Consider the floor layout that provides the most efficient flow.

L-shaped

The L-shaped kitchen design is the most adaptable of all. In a small to medium-sized kitchen, it optimizes both space and functionality. Appliances and kitchen cabinets are arranged in a “L” shape against two adjacent walls.

U-shaped

Three neighboring walls make up the U-shaped kitchen. Like the L-shape, but with an extra “leg.” This design enhances the work triangle’s efficiency and is perfect for large kitchen designs. An island maximizes countertop space, seating, and storage.

G-shaped

The “G” shaped kitchen has a single countertop peninsula for food preparation and seating, as well as four walls of counter space and cabinet storage. It gives an eat-in kitchen or breakfast nook and makes the most of counter space in bigger kitchens.

A Single Wall

Every cupboard and counter in a one-wall kitchen is positioned along a single wall. They provide a far more open environment and are typically seen in studios, open-concept kitchens, and smaller rooms.

Galley

An excellent substitute for the U-shape in smaller areas, this design is based on the kitchen arrangement seen on boats. There are two parallel walls with appliances and cabinets on either side. Usually ideal for a single chef, it offers convenience and a seamless workflow inside the work triangle.

Comprehending Kitchen Operations

Create distinct areas in your kitchen for preparation, storage, and cooking. You must take into account each one’s purpose as well as how they relate to one another.

Preparing food for cooking

The main function of a kitchen is cooking! Here, the majority of the “action” takes place when your components are transformed into delectable meals by the open flame and high temperatures. It must be safe, open, and accessible. The cooking area should probably be easily accessible from the meal preparation area. A prep space near to the range is preferred by many cooks. Think about keeping daily items near or within easy reach of the cooking area, such as pots, pans, utensils, and plates.

The storage

Both food and culinary utensils are stored in storage. Ensure that there is sufficient room and convenient access. You should be able to clean your shelves and cabinets without getting in the way of busy areas.

The Preparing

For most chefs, having enough of counter space is a widely desired kitchen feature. You will need an open, visible space for food prep so that you can get your supplies ready for cooking, lay out prepared food for simple serving, and avoid being overtaken by clutter. With your most used products kept closest, it’s also perfect to be in the middle of the cooking and storage spaces.

Cabinets

After the layout has been decided, go to the cabinets, which are the stylistic elements. The cabinets are one of the most eye-catching features of a recently renovated kitchen and may completely define the style. Keep in mind that the function is just as significant. Therefore, it is essential that you select the appropriate ones for your needs.

Resources Materials

The popularity of various wood species has fluctuated over time. throughout the past several decades, cherry, oak, alder, and maple have become popular woods for high-quality cabinets. However, timeless, useful materials that will endure throughout time are more essential than current trends.

Color and Style

It might be intimidating to choose the color and design of your cabinets. Choosing striking, stylish hues that will make your kitchen stand out might be alluring. But there’s a reason why neutral kitchens are common. Although you may show off your individuality and tastes here, it’s crucial to consider the overall kitchen design’s adaptability and resale value. Certain colors and styles will always be stylish and timeless, and they will go well with various decorating schemes if you decide to sell your house or change things up in a few years. Boring is indeed equated with neutral. Light natural wood, bright grays, and pale blues may all still look stunning.

Think about the size of the kitchen. Bright hues go well with little kitchens. You may be able to display a deeper cabinet color in larger kitchens. Think about the amount of natural light that enters your kitchen. Insufficient natural light? Select hues that will add brightness to the kitchen.

Cabinet Operation

A wall

The quantity of storage space you have might be considerably increased by wall cabinets. They may take over a space in terms of style. Consider your kitchen’s architecture when selecting your wall cabinets, as they are the most difficult to hang.

Base.

Under a kitchen island or beneath the countertops, there are base cabinets. They must be strong since they will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. Particularly for bigger, heavier kitchenware like pots and pans, small appliances, or non-perishable food items, they may offer a lot of discreet and useful storage space.

A corner

Previously, corner cabinets were unwieldy and hard to reach. They can be made incredibly practical and adaptable with a few recent improvements and minor design changes. A swing-out corner cabinet is one illustration. The lazy-susan corner cabinets provide as another illustration. These have revolving shelves that make access and storage simple.

Tall/Pantry

The size of pantry or tall cabinets varies. Tall cabinets usually reach from the floor to the ceiling. An excellent choice for pantry-style storage, it offers a significant amount of room. They are frequently created to order, which may be quite costly. Excellent choices for tall stock cabinets are still available.

Glass Door

Cabinets with glass doors are simple and elegant. Old cabinets can be updated with glass, and the majority of do-it-yourselfers could complete a DIY version at home.