Cabinet doors define the style of your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry space. They’re the most visible part of cabinetry, so the choice you make will set the tone for the entire room. Here’s a quick guide to the most common types, how they differ, and which might be the right fit for your project.
1. Shaker
- Look: Clean, square edges with a flat center panel.
- Style Fit: Works with traditional, transitional, and modern designs.
- Pros: Timeless, versatile, easy to pair with most hardware.
- Cons: Visible seams can collect dust; requires more cleaning than flat-slab doors.
2. Slab (Flat Panel)
- Look: Smooth, unbroken surface.
- Style Fit: Modern and contemporary spaces.
- Pros: Minimalist appearance, easy to wipe clean.
- Cons: Lacks decorative detail; fingerprints show easily on glossy finishes.
3. Raised Panel
- Look: Center panel is higher than the frame, often with contouring.
- Style Fit: Traditional and classic kitchens.
- Pros: Adds depth and elegance; pairs well with crown molding.
- Cons: More complex profile means more cleaning time.
4. Glass Front
- Look: Frame with a glass insert (clear, frosted, or textured).
- Style Fit: Transitional or contemporary; also works as an accent in traditional kitchens.
- Pros: Displays dishware or décor; brightens a room visually.
- Cons: Requires organized storage; glass needs frequent cleaning.
5. Beadboard
- Look: Vertical grooves within the panel.
- Style Fit: Cottage, farmhouse, coastal.
- Pros: Adds texture and charm; great for casual spaces.
- Cons: Grooves can trap dust; better suited for low-traffic or accent cabinets.
6. Louvered
- Look: Horizontal slats.
- Style Fit: Coastal, Mediterranean, or tropical designs.
- Pros: Allows ventilation — useful for pantries, laundry rooms.
- Cons: Harder to clean; higher cost due to labor.
Which Type Is Best?
There’s no single “best” for everyone — the right choice depends on your style, budget, and maintenance preferences.
- For timeless versatility: Shaker doors are hard to beat. They work in almost any setting and age gracefully.
- For sleek and easy cleaning: Slab doors shine in modern kitchens.
- For decorative impact: Raised panel doors give a sense of craftsmanship and formality.
If resale value is important, Shaker is the safest investment. It’s the most requested style among buyers and rarely feels dated.
Tip: Your cabinet door choice should match both the architecture of your home and your willingness to maintain it. A beautiful design that fits your lifestyle will always feel like the “best” choice.
