Frameless vs. Framed Kitchen Cabinets

Finding the right cabinets for your kitchen is one of the most important elements that can define the overall style and functionality of the entire space, and a really important decision that you need to make in this process is choosing between frameless or framed kitchen cabinets.

Framed kitchen cabinets tend to have 1.5 to 2-inch frames attached to the front side of the cabinet box, providing additional support and also serving as a mount for drawers and doors. This type of construction is generally known for being traditional, classic in appearance, and pretty durable.

Frameless kitchen cabinets, on the other hand, don’t have a face frame at all. Rather, drawers and doors are attached directly to the sides of the cabinet box – this leads to a more modern, sleek appearance, as well as additional storage, making it popular in contemporary design circles.

Both types of cabinet offer advantages and disadvantages, it just depends on your needs, your budget, and your preferences.

We’re going to explore exactly what each type of cabinet is, as well as pros and cons of frameless and framed kitchen cabinets so that you’ll be prepared to make an informed choice about kitchen cabinets that aligns with your practical needs and your style preferences.

What Are Framed Kitchen Cabinets?

Also referred to as face-frame cabinets, framed kitchen cabinets are a traditional style of cabinetry that boasts a frame made out of horizontal rails and vertical stiles that are attached to the front side of the cabinet box.

This frame creates a solid, stable cabinet and is ideal for mounting both doors and frames. Normally, the frame is between 1.5 and 2 inches wide, and the drawers and doors are attached to the frame, either completely covering the frame or only partially covering the frame.

Key Features of Framed Kitchen Cabinets

• Traditional Look: Framed kitchen cabinets offer more of a traditional, classic aesthetic, which tends to be popular in American homes in particular.
• Flexible Overlays: You can choose from either full or partial overlays when you go for framed kitchen cabinets, providing a certain amount of flexibility.
• Structural Support: The frame adds additional durability and stability, and these types of cabinets tend to be able to support heavier countertops than other types.
• Durability: The frame provides extra support, contributing to the cabinets’ overall longevity and robustness.
• Variety in Design and Customization: Framed kitchen cabinets are available in a variety of materials, finishes, colors, and more.

Pros of Framed Kitchen Cabinets

• Structural Integrity: The frames make the cabinets extra strong and stable.
• More Storage: The cabinet has a flush interior surface and, consequently, more storage space.
• Adjustable Shelves: Shelves are often adjustable, allowing customizable storage space.
• Easier Installation: Framed cabinets tend to be quicker and easier to install.
• Traditional/Classic Look: They tend to offer a classic, traditional aesthetic.
• Durability: The frame of the cabinet makes he furniture extra durable and resistant to wear and tear.
• Cost-Effective: They tend to be more budget friendly without (necessarily) compromising on quality.

Cons of Framed Kitchen Cabinets

• Less Flexible: These cabinets are less likely to be able to be modified or adjusted.
• Heavier: The frame makes the cabinet extra heavy.
• Reduced Access: Sometimes, the frame creates a lip that makes it more difficult to access things in the back of the cabinet.
• More Visible Sams: The frame of the cabinet can lead to seams and joints that are more visible than normal which, for some people, is an undesirable characteristic.
• Less Modern Look: Framed kitchen cabinets tend to look quite traditional.
• Limited Design Options: You can’t be as creative and flexible with the layout of the cabinet due to the frame.
• More Expensive to Repair: If the cabinet is damaged, the entire frame may need to be fixed which can be expensive.

What Are Frameless Kitchen Cabinets?

A frameless kitchen cabinet, also known as a European-style cabinet, is a cabinet that doesn’t have a frame – this means that the hinges are attached directly to the sides of the cabinet box.

 

Overall, these cabinets tend to be more modern looking, they offer increased storage space, and there are generally more options for designs.

Key Features of Frameless Kitchen Cabinets

• Box Without a Frame: The cabinet doesn’t have a built-in frame.
• Hinges Attached Directly to Sides of the Box: The hinges are attached directly to the sides of the cabinet rather than the frame.
• More Storage Space: They offer more storage space since there’s no frame or rail to obstruct the space.
• Modern Appearance: They tend to look more modern and lass classic/traditional.
• Versatile Design Options: They’re more versatile in terms of use since they’re not constrained by the structural issues that the frame would necessitate.
• Concealed Hinges: A frameless kitchen cabinet can have concealed hinges, allowing for a sleeker look.
• No Center Rails: A frameless cabinet doesn’t have center rails so it’s completely open in the center.

Pros of Frameless Kitchen Cabinets

• More Storage: More interior space for storing kitchen items since there’s no frame to waste space.
• Easy Access: The full overlay of the doors allows for easy access to the contents of the cabinet, and it’s also easier to adjust shelves.
• Versatile: Frameless cabinets can be used in just about any setting, be it modern, traditional, transitional, contemporary, or anything else.
• Modern Aesthetic: Frameless kitchen cabinets offer a seamless design that provides a clean, minimalistic aesthetic.
• Easy to Clean and Maintain: The doors can easily be removed for cleaning or maintenance.
• Open-Shelf Storage: If you like, you have the option to take the doors off completely and just have a cabinet with shelves.

Cons of Frameless Kitchen Cabinets

• More Expensive: They tend to be more expensive than framed cabinets since they’re more modern.
• Professional Installation: They require precise installation to make sure they’re properly aligned.
• Limited Design Options: They offer a modern look, but they may not be suitable for a more classic style.
• Not Too Sturdy: Since they don’t have a frame for extra support, frameless kitchen cabinets are a little less sturdy.
• Can’t Be Made from Just Any Materials: You need to be quite specific about the materials used to make this kind of cabinet.
• Less Customizable: Fewer options for making this kind of cabinet look unique.

Final Thoughts of Frameless Vs. Framed Kitchen Cabinets

Framed kitchen cabinets and frameless kitchen cabinets offer a variety of different features as well as a mixture of pros and cons, but at the end of the day, it all comes down to your personal preferences and exactly what you’re looking for – whether it’s a modern look with loads of storage or a traditional aesthetic that’s strong and durable.