Kitchen Cabinets
From frame to frameless, the options are endless
Cabinets are the key element in kitchen storage. They set the tone of the room's decorative personality and form the backbone of its organization. For this reason -- and because they represent the largest single investment in a new kitchen -- it is important to study the many options available before making a decision.
Traditional American cabinets mask the raw front edges of each box with a 1-by-2 "faceframe." Doors and drawers then fit in one of three ways: flush; partially offset, with a lip; or completely overlaying the frame.
The outer edges of the faceframe can be planed and shaped (called "scribing") according to individual requirements. Since the faceframe covers up the basic box, thinner or lower-quality wood can be used in its sides -- somewhat decreasing the cost. But the frame takes up space and reduces the size of the openings, so drawers or slide-out accessories must be significantly smaller than the full width of the cabinet -- somewhat decreasing storage capacity.
Europeans, when faced with postwar lumber shortages, came up with "frameless" cabinets. A simple trim strip covers raw edges, which butt directly against one another. Doors and drawers often fit to within 1?8 inch of each other, revealing a thin sliver of the trim. Interior components, such as drawers, can be sized practically to the full dimensions of the box.
Another big difference: frameless cabinets typically have a separate toe-space pedestal, or plinth. This allows you to set counter heights specifically to your liking, stack base units, or make use of space at floor level.
The terms "system 32" and "32-millimeter" refer to precise columns of holes drilled on the inside faces of many frameless cabinets. These holes are generally in the same places, no matter what cabinets you buy, and interchangeable components such as door hinges, drawer guides, shelf pins, and pullout baskets just plug right into them.
Stock cabinets. Buy your kitchen "off-the-shelf" and save -- if you're careful. Mass-produced, standard-sized cabinets are the least expensive way to go, and they can be a good choice if you clearly understand the cabinetry you need for your kitchen. As the name implies, the range of sizes is limited.
Traditional or European-style?
The two basic cabinet construction styles are frame and frameless.Traditional American cabinets mask the raw front edges of each box with a 1-by-2 "faceframe." Doors and drawers then fit in one of three ways: flush; partially offset, with a lip; or completely overlaying the frame.
The outer edges of the faceframe can be planed and shaped (called "scribing") according to individual requirements. Since the faceframe covers up the basic box, thinner or lower-quality wood can be used in its sides -- somewhat decreasing the cost. But the frame takes up space and reduces the size of the openings, so drawers or slide-out accessories must be significantly smaller than the full width of the cabinet -- somewhat decreasing storage capacity.
Europeans, when faced with postwar lumber shortages, came up with "frameless" cabinets. A simple trim strip covers raw edges, which butt directly against one another. Doors and drawers often fit to within 1?8 inch of each other, revealing a thin sliver of the trim. Interior components, such as drawers, can be sized practically to the full dimensions of the box.
Another big difference: frameless cabinets typically have a separate toe-space pedestal, or plinth. This allows you to set counter heights specifically to your liking, stack base units, or make use of space at floor level.
The terms "system 32" and "32-millimeter" refer to precise columns of holes drilled on the inside faces of many frameless cabinets. These holes are generally in the same places, no matter what cabinets you buy, and interchangeable components such as door hinges, drawer guides, shelf pins, and pullout baskets just plug right into them.
Stock, custom, or semi-custom?
Cabinets are manufactured and sold in three different ways. The type you choose will affect the cost, overall appearance, and workability of your kitchen.Stock cabinets. Buy your kitchen "off-the-shelf" and save -- if you're careful. Mass-produced, standard-sized cabinets are the least expensive way to go, and they can be a good choice if you clearly understand the cabinetry you need for your kitchen. As the name implies, the range of sizes is limited.
