In the US, framed cabinets have been the staple for kitchen design for decades. Framed cabinets have a solid wood frame on the front of the cabinet box to provide structural support and make the installation process easy.

But in recent years, there’s been a shift towards frameless cabinets. Frameless cabinets, also referred to as European-style cabinets, don’t include a front frame. Instead, the cabinet doors cover the entire face of the cabinet box to create a streamlined and modern look. This type of cabinet has been popular in Europe for quite some time, but it’s starting to gain popularity in the US as well. So why are frameless cabinets becoming increasingly popular? Let’s explore some of the reasons behind this trend.

What Are Frameless Cabinets?

Frameless cabinets or European-style cabinets have a simple design that involves attaching the cabinet doors and drawers directly to the cabinet box without a front frame. This creates a clean and seamless look because there aren’t any visible lines or edges between the doors and cabinet boxes.

Frameless cabinets can use only full overlay doors. This is because the doors need to cover the entire face of the cabinet box for structural support. Full overlay doors completely cover the front of the cabinet, leaving only a small gap between the doors.

This can affect the design options available, but rest assured there are still plenty of design possibilities with this style. You can choose from a variety of materials, finishes, and hardwares to get the look and functionality you want.

The Benefits of Frameless Cabinets

These cabinets might not be the norm in the US, but they offer several benefits to homeowners. Here are some advantages of choosing frameless cabinets for your kitchen:

More Storage Space

Since frameless cabinets don’t feature a front frame, they offer more interior storage space compared to their framed counterparts. This is because the frame takes up some space in traditional cabinets, whereas frameless cabinets use the entire cabinet box for storage. The larger openings of frameless cabinets also allow for a wider drawer box compared to framed cabinets of the exact same width. And the lack of center stile allows full access to the interior of the cabinet, which makes storing and retrieving items easier.

If you have a small kitchen, frameless cabinets can be a great option to maximize storage space without sacrificing style.

Modern Aesthetic

Frameless cabinets have a sleek and contemporary look that is popular in modern home design. The lack of visible frames creates clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, making them perfect for achieving a modern or industrial feel in your kitchen.

For those looking to upgrade their kitchen design, frameless cabinets can give your space a fresh and modern appearance.

Durability

It’s a common misconception that frameless cabinets are less sturdy than framed cabinets. Like framed cabinets, frameless cabinets are built with high-quality materials such as plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). They can withstand daily wear and tear and last for many years with proper care.

Ideal for Small Spaces

Another advantage of frameless cabinets is that they are perfect for small kitchens or spaces with limited square footage. The lack of front frames makes them appear slim and lightweight, which creates the illusion of a less cluttered, larger space.

Customizable Options

Just like framed cabinets, frameless cabinets come in a variety of materials, finishes, and styles. This means you can still achieve the design and aesthetic you want for your kitchen while enjoying the benefits of frameless cabinets.

From traditional wood finishes to sleek, high-gloss options, there are many customizable choices available.

Are Frameless Cabinets Right for Your Kitchen?

With homeowners’ preferences shifting to more modern and minimalist designs, it’s no wonder why frameless cabinets are gaining popularity in the US. Frameless cabinets also offer impressive functionality and durability, making them a practical option for any kitchen renovation or remodel. If you’re looking to give your kitchen a fresh and contemporary look, frameless cabinets may be just the trend to consider.

However, it’s important to remember that although they’re growing in popularity, frameless cabinets aren’t the best fit for every kitchen. Here are the factors to consider before deciding if you want to install frameless cabinets in your home:

Budget

Frameless cabinets can cost more than traditional framed cabinets because the frameless design requires a different construction method and uses a thicker material. Installation will also cost more due to the additional labor and precision needed to mount the cabinets without a front frame.

Nevertheless, investing in quality frameless cabinets can also add value to your home in the long run, making them a worthwhile investment. If you have the budget for it, frameless cabinets can be a great choice.

Installation

Installing frameless cabinets requires a different approach and skill set compared to installing framed cabinets. It’s important to hire experienced professionals who understand how to properly install frameless cabinets for the best results.

Personal Style

Ultimately, your personal style and preference should be the deciding factor when it comes to choosing between framed and frameless cabinets. While frameless cabinets offer a modern and sleek aesthetic, some may prefer the traditional look of framed cabinets in their kitchen design.

By considering these factors, you can determine if frameless cabinets are the right choice for your kitchen. Whether you choose framed or frameless cabinets, what’s most important is that your kitchen reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs.

Frameless cabinets have become increasingly popular for their modern aesthetic, efficient storage qualities, durability, and customizable options. They’re also a great option for small spaces that cannot accommodate several cabinets or homeowners looking to achieve an open and airy feel in their kitchen design.

If you think that frameless cabinets are the right fit for your kitchen, browse Legacy Cabinet’s selection for your next kitchen remodel. We make our Euro-style frameless cabinets with painted MDF doors, which gives them a sleek, modern look that will add European flair to your kitchen. You can customize the cabinets with a variety of finishes and styles to bring your dream kitchen to life. Find a Legacy Cabinet dealer near you to learn more about installing frameless cabinets in your kitchen today.