If you are thinking about what kitchen cabinets to add to your kitchen with open shelving, three major styles can help you get started. Keep reading for the distinguishing features of each style. While modern cabinets are the best choice for open shelving design, traditional and shaker-style cabinets have their advantages too!

1. Traditional Kitchen Cabinets

Traditional kitchen cabinets never go out of style. They are known for their classic and elegant design, often characterized by intricate details and ornate trim. Let’s take a look at some key features of traditional kitchen cabinets.

Traditional cabinets typically have raised panel doors with beveled edges. They also often feature decorative hardware like brass or bronze handles and knobs, which contribute to their sophisticated appearance. Traditional cabinets are typically crafted from hardwoods like oak, cherry, or maple. Stains enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

Crown molding is a common feature in traditional kitchens. These decorative elements installed where the wall meets the ceiling add attractive detail to your space.

All in all, traditional kitchen cabinets create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

2. Modern Kitchen Cabinets

Modern kitchen cabinets are all about minimalism, clean lines, and a sleek, uncluttered look. They embrace the concept of “less is more” and often feature the following characteristics.

Flat or slab-style doors with minimalistic hardware create a streamlined and contemporary appearance. White, black, and various shades of gray are popular choices for modern kitchen cabinets. These neutral colors help create a clean, unobtrusive look.

High-gloss finishes are often used to make cabinets shine, adding to the overall modern aesthetic.

These cabinets go hand in hand with open shelving allowing you to display dishes, artwork, or decorative items, further emphasizing the minimalist approach.

Modern cabinets may have a frameless construction, where the door covers the entire front of the cabinet box, eliminating the need for a face frame.

If you appreciate a contemporary, uncluttered design and are drawn to the simplicity and functionality of a minimalist kitchen, modern kitchen cabinets are a perfect choice for you.

3. Shaker Kitchen Cabinets

Shaker kitchen cabinets are a popular choice due to their timeless appeal and versatile design. They originated from the Shaker community, which valued simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship.

Shaker cabinets feature recessed panel doors with clean, square edges, which contribute to their simple and unadorned appearance. You can also recognize them by their plain vertical and horizontal edges.

They often come in white or natural wood finishes, creating a simple, fresh look. They are manufactured with high-quality materials such as hardwood, and their doors often feature solid wood or plywood. Shaker cabinets are known for their functional hardware, which includes simple, straightforward knobs and pulls.

Shaker kitchen cabinets are a versatile option that can work well in both traditional and modern kitchens, making them a popular choice for those who seek a blend of modern and traditional designs.

If you want to redesign your kitchen with new cabinets, our experts at Excelsior Lumber Company are ready to help you on your journey. Contact us today!

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