Framed Cabinets vs. Frameless Cabinets

Kitchen remodeling is full of choices. One choice you will face is choosing either framed cabinets or frameless cabinets. The difference sounds clear in their names but there are a few cabinet features that every homeowner should know before making a decision.

To begin, framed cabinets are cabinet boxes with a face frame attached to the front. The frame creates a small barrier or lip around the edge of the cabinet box, and makes access and cleaning slightly difficult. The frame also causes a small loss in storage capacity. Framed cabinets are popular in the United States due to the fact that kitchens are larger but are rarely used in European countries where cabinet space is vital.

Frameless cabinets are often referred to as “European cabinets,” and are widely used in Europe and in larger US cities because of storage maximization. Since the frame does not block access, there is more storage space and they are easier to clean. The hinges are secured to the inside of the cabinet box, allowing the edge of the door to line up with the edge of the cabinet box. This feature minimizes the space between the doors when closed. Also, frameless cabinets can move with you. Frameless cabinets can be hung from hanging strips, and removed to travel with you to your next home.

The biggest difference between framed and frameless cabinets is the drawers. When you purchase frameless cabinets the drawers do not go down in size because they are not limited by the size of the frame. A standard face frame is an inch and a half on each side, or three inches for each cabinet. The frameless cabinet box is three quarters of an inch on each side, or an inch and a half for each cabinet box. Frameless cabinets save an inch and a half of space with each drawer.  Add that up over a whole wall of well-placed drawers and your kitchen remodel might have more possibilities. More room for the higher end appliances or for an extra cabinet with a pull out spice rack.

Both framed and frameless cabinets are good choices. Each has features that will appeal to different homeowners. There are also design options for both, which you can discuss with your kitchen designer.

Kitchen Kraft, a full home design/remodeling firm, is one of the largest and most notable kitchen design firms in Columbus, Ohio. We offer a variety of cabinets in several different stains guaranteed to fit every ones style. For more information contact us on our website or give us a call at 614-449-7200.