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Discover innovative cabinet face options to transform your kitchen or living space.
If you’re in the market for a new kitchen or bathroom cabinet, you know that the face of your cabinet can make or break the overall look and feel of your space. But, did you know that there are countless options available to choose from?
From classic wood finishes to modern metal accents, I’ve rounded up 20 unique and budget-friendly cabinet face options for your next home renovation project.
So, whether you’re looking for a simple upgrade or a complete overhaul, these ideas are sure to inspire. Let’s dive in!
Shaker Style
Shaker style cabinets are a popular choice for homeowners who want to achieve a classic and timeless look in their kitchen. These cabinets feature simple, clean lines with minimal ornamentation, making them versatile enough to fit into any design scheme.
Shaker-style cabinet doors typically have a recessed center panel surrounded by a frame that is wider at the edges and narrower towards the center. This creates an elegant yet understated look that can be dressed up or down depending on your decor preferences.
Shaker-style cabinets are available in various materials such as wood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), or laminate finishes which makes them budget-friendly options for those looking to renovate their kitchens without breaking the bank.
Glass Front
They can be used in the kitchen, dining room, or even in the living room. Glass-front cabinets come in different styles and designs such as clear glass, frosted glass, seeded glass and stained glass.
Clear-glass fronts provide an unobstructed view of your dishes while frosted-glass offers a more subtle look that still allows you to see what’s inside without revealing everything at once. Seeded-glass has tiny bubbles trapped within it which gives it a vintage feel while stained-glass adds color and texture to your cabinetry.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing this type of cabinet is that they require regular cleaning since fingerprints and smudges tend to show up easily on them.
Beadboard
It features narrow, vertical planks with a small ridge or indentation (known as the “bead”) between each plank. Beadboard cabinets can be painted in any color to match your decor style, from classic white to bold hues like navy blue or forest green.
This style of cabinetry works well in traditional and farmhouse-style homes but can also add charm and character to modern spaces when paired with sleek hardware and clean lines. Beadboard cabinets are relatively easy to install for those who enjoy DIY projects, making them an affordable way to update your home’s look without breaking the bank.
Flat Panel
These cabinets have a simple, sleek design with clean lines that create an uncluttered look. Flat panel cabinets come in various materials such as wood, laminate or MDF (medium-density fiberboard).
They can be painted or stained to match any color scheme and style of the kitchen. One advantage of flat-panel cabinetry is that they are easy to clean since there aren’t any grooves or crevices where dirt can accumulate.
They work well with different hardware styles like knobs and pulls which allows you to customize your kitchen’s look even further!
Distressed Finish
Distressing involves creating intentional imperfections on the cabinet surface to give it an aged appearance. This technique can be achieved by sanding down certain areas of the wood, adding dents and scratches with a hammer or chain, and applying layers of paint that are sanded off in specific spots.
The beauty of this finish is that it adds character and charm to any kitchen while also hiding wear-and-tear over time. You can choose from various levels of distressing depending on your preference – light distressing will create subtle texture while heavy distressing will make your cabinets look like they’ve been around for centuries.
To achieve this look yourself, start by removing all hardware from your cabinets before sanding them down with coarse-grit sandpaper until you reach desired level of roughness. Then apply several coats of paint (or stain) followed by another round(s)of sandpaper until you get desired effect.
Louvered Doors
They feature horizontal slats that allow air to circulate, making them perfect for cabinets that store items like linens or dishes. Louvered doors can be made from various materials such as wood, metal or even glass.
One of the benefits of louvered doors is their ability to add texture and depth to a space while still maintaining an open feel. They also work well in coastal or tropical-themed homes due to their resemblance to shutters commonly found on beach houses.
When it comes time for cleaning, louvered doors may require more attention than other styles because dust can easily accumulate between the slats. However, this minor inconvenience is outweighed by the unique look they bring into any room.
Rustic Wood
The natural texture and warmth of the wood add character to any kitchen or bathroom. You can choose from different types of rustic woods such as knotty pine, hickory, or alderwood to achieve your desired look.
To enhance the rustic feel even more, consider adding metal hardware with an antique finish like oil-rubbed bronze or wrought iron handles and knobs. Keep in mind that while this style may be trendy now, it’s also timeless and will never go out of fashion!
Two Tone Cabinets
This style involves using two different colors or finishes on the upper and lower cabinets, creating a striking contrast that can make your space feel more dynamic. For example, you could pair white upper cabinets with navy blue lower ones for a classic nautical look, or go bold with black uppers and bright red lowers.
Another approach is to use one color on the perimeter of your cabinetry while choosing another hue for an island or standalone piece in the center of the room. The possibilities are endless when it comes to two-tone cabinet design!
Open Shelving
Not only does it allow you to display your favorite dishes and accessories, but it can also make the space feel more open and airy.
One of the best things about open shelving is that there are so many different ways to style it. You could go for a minimalist look with just a few carefully chosen pieces on each shelf or create an eclectic mix of colors, textures, and shapes.
When choosing what items to display on your shelves, think about both form and function. Consider using decorative bowls or vases as well as practical items like jars of spices or cooking utensils.
Another benefit of open shelving is that it’s relatively easy (and inexpensive) to install yourself if you’re handy with tools.
Slab Front
They feature a flat, smooth surface without any raised or recessed panels. This creates an uncluttered look that is perfect for contemporary spaces.
Slab front cabinets can be made from various materials such as wood, laminate or even metal to achieve different textures and finishes.
One of the benefits of slab front cabinets is their versatility in terms of color choices. They can be painted in any shade to match your kitchen’s color scheme or left unpainted for a natural wood finish.
Another advantage is that they are easy to clean since there aren’t any grooves where dirt and grime can accumulate over time. However, it’s important to note that fingerprints may show up more easily on this type of cabinet face than on others with more texture.
Mirrored Panels
Mirrors can make the space look larger, brighter, and more luxurious. You can choose from different types of mirrors such as clear, tinted or antique finishes depending on your style preference.
Mirrored panels work well with both modern and traditional designs.
One way to incorporate mirrored panels is by using them as inserts in cabinet doors or drawers. This will create an interesting visual effect while also providing a functional purpose by allowing you to see inside the cabinet without opening it.
Another idea is to use mirrored tiles on the backsplash area behind open shelving units which will reflect light into your space making it appear brighter and more spacious.
Reclaimed Wood
This type of wood has been salvaged from old buildings, barns, and other structures that are no longer in use. The unique character of reclaimed wood comes from its age and the natural wear and tear it has endured over time.
Using reclaimed wood for your cabinet faces can add warmth and texture to your kitchen design. You can choose to leave the original patina on the surface or have it sanded down for a smoother finish.
Reclaimed wood also offers environmental benefits as it reduces waste by repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
When using reclaimed wood as a face option, keep in mind that each piece will be different due to its history and previous use.
Custom Artwork
You can hire an artist or do it yourself if you have the skills. The possibilities are endless when it comes to custom artwork on cabinet faces.
You could paint a mural, stencil a design, or even decoupage family photos onto the doors.
One idea is to use chalkboard paint and draw your own designs with chalk markers for an ever-changing look that’s unique and fun! Another option is using vinyl decals in various shapes and sizes for added texture.
Frosted Glass
Frosted glass has a translucent appearance that diffuses light while obscuring the view of the contents inside. This type of cabinet face works well in modern or contemporary kitchens, where clean lines and minimalism are key design elements.
You can choose from different levels of frosting depending on how much opacity you prefer for your cabinets. Frosted glass pairs well with other materials such as stainless steel or wood accents for added visual interest in your kitchen decor scheme.
Patterned Laminate
Laminate is a durable and affordable material that can mimic the look of wood, stone, or even metal. With patterned laminate, you can choose from an endless array of designs and colors to create a unique look in your kitchen or bathroom.
Some popular patterns include geometric shapes, floral prints, and abstract designs. Patterned laminate works well on both flat panel doors as well as shaker style cabinets with recessed panels.
It’s important to note that while laminate is durable it may not be able to withstand heavy wear-and-tear over time so it’s best suited for low-traffic areas in your home such as guest bathrooms or laundry rooms rather than high-use kitchens where durability should be prioritized over aesthetics alone.
Stainless Steel
It provides a sleek and contemporary look that complements stainless steel appliances and other metallic finishes. Stainless steel cabinets are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
They can be paired with various countertop materials such as granite or quartz to create an elegant yet functional space. However, it’s important to note that fingerprints and smudges may be more visible on stainless steel surfaces compared to other options like wood or laminate.
To maintain their shine, regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended along with avoiding abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that could scratch the surface of the metal finish over time.
Chalkboard Paint
It allows you to write notes, grocery lists, or even draw pictures directly on your cabinets. This type of paint comes in various colors and finishes, so it can fit any style of kitchen or room decor.
Chalkboard painted cabinets are perfect for families with children who love to doodle or leave messages around the house. They also work well in home offices as a creative way to keep track of tasks and deadlines.
To make sure the chalkboard surface is smooth enough for writing, be sure to sand down your cabinet doors before applying the paint.
Wire Mesh
This style features metal wire mesh panels in place of traditional solid wood or glass doors. The open design allows for easy visibility of the items inside, making it perfect for displaying decorative dishes or glassware.
Wire mesh can be paired with various materials such as wood, metal, and even concrete to create an industrial look or a rustic feel depending on your preference. It’s also relatively affordable compared to other custom cabinetry options while still providing a high-end look that will make your kitchen stand out from the rest!
Bamboo
It has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its durability, strength, and unique texture. Bamboo cabinets can be stained or painted to match any decor style from modern to rustic.
They are also resistant to moisture and warping which makes them ideal for kitchens or bathrooms where humidity levels tend to be high. Bamboo is easy on the budget compared with other hardwood options like oak or maple making it an excellent choice for those looking for affordable yet stylish cabinetry solutions that won’t break the bank!
Inset Cabinetry
This style features doors that are set inside the frame of the cabinet, creating a flush surface. The door sits within the frame, rather than overlapping it like other styles such as overlay or partial overlay cabinets.
Inset cabinetry requires precise measurements and installation to achieve its seamless look.
One benefit of inset cabinetry is that it provides more storage space compared to other styles because there’s no overlap between doors when they’re closed. This type of cabinet face offers a timeless aesthetic that can work well in both traditional and modern settings.
However, inset cabinets tend to be more expensive than other options due to their intricate construction process and custom sizing requirements. They also require regular maintenance since any changes in humidity or temperature can cause them to expand or contract slightly over time.
If you’re looking for an upscale look with plenty of storage space but have room in your budget for higher-end materials and installation costs then inset cabinetry may be worth considering!
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