What Are Built-In Kitchen Cabinets?

In addition to appliances, cabinetry is the most crucial part of kitchen design. Their aesthetic and functional variations can be difficult to choose, but they can make a difference in the process of enjoying your space.

Today, built-in cabinets have become a popular choice for many homeowners. Their timeless, elegant look doesn’t go out of style anytime soon. Here’s everything you need to know to decide if they’re right for you.

What Is a Built-In Kitchen Cabinet?

The doors or drawers of the built-in cabinet are designed to be mounted flush within the cabinet frame. Since there are no protruding edges or corners, a unique, elegant, and customized look is created. To open and close these cabinets, you’ll need door handles, handles, or knobs because there’s no room or edge to grab your fingers. Design enthusiasts will love choosing hardware that matches the color of the cabinet or the grain of the wood.

Built-in cabinets usually come in two appearances: recessed or beaded. The recessed frame has a standard industrial look with square edges flush with the surface of the cabinet. In contrast, the beaded frame has a border inside the cabinet opening. These create a more functional and decorative look.

Wood is the most common material used to make built-in cabinets, although many people paint cabinets in color rather than exposing the original wood grain.

The History Behind Built-In Kitchen Cabinets

The history of built-in cabinetry dates back centuries. They were popular in Europe during the Georgian and Victorian eras (18th and 19th centuries), when they were handmade by artisans. British carpenters brought design aesthetics to the United States, where they flourished ever since. By the end of the 19th century, this style of cabinetry became synonymous with simplicity and sophistication. This timeless look still offers the versatility that modern families appreciate and enjoy.

Tip: Built-in kitchen cabinets have pros and cons and are not suitable for every home. Homeowners in humid environments should consider other styles or be prepared for frequent maintenance.

Advantages of Built-In Kitchen Cabinets:

• Glamour: Custom cabinetry is a great way to showcase a traditional style or set the tone for a modern home. High quality built-in cabinets are custom-made. This modern look is a glamorous upsell for both guests and future buyers, even in older homes.
• Design flexibility: Unlike ultra-modern designs such as hinge-free cabinets, built-in cabinets are suitable for any design style, including historic homes, farmhouses, transitional homes, and modern homes. They are also available in a variety of finishes, colors, and shapes. Built-in cabinetry is perfect for those looking for a middle ground between a vintage look and a more stylish style.
• Space efficiency: Built-in cabinets take up less exterior space. They are perfect for small kitchens and narrow kitchens. When a few extra inches are important, built-in cabinetry is the best option.

Disadvantages of Built-In Kitchen Cabinets:

• Custom fabrication and installation: In order to properly install the inserts, you need to hire a professional to hang the door without gaps for a sleek appearance. This may result in time delays in production and installation.
• Hardware is important: Since the cabinet is flat, you’ll need a door handle or knob to open it. As a result, the dazzling hardware can be the most prominent feature of the cabinet. Luckily, there are a variety of beautiful finishes to choose from that can leave a lasting positive impression.

• Higher cost: Custom inlays often cost more than traditional alternatives. For a small kitchen, these costs may seem negligible. However, for a large kitchen with upper and lower cabinetry, islands, and other features, the price difference can be significant.
• Limited storage space: Cabinets with recessed doors have less storage space than other types of cabinets.
• Maintenance: Built-in cabinets are susceptible to dimensional changes due to humidity. As the wood expands and contracts, recessed doors and lintels can get stuck and stop working. Homeowners must take care to reduce humidity and moisture build-up. In addition, built-in cabinets need to take on a considerable cleaning burden to maintain a sleek, flush appearance that does not leave fingerprints.

Is Built-In Cabinetry Right for You?

The illustrations are elegant and timeless, so you can’t go wrong. Since the 18th century, they have added function, value, and character to kitchens. They’re versatile and compatible with any home décor, so you’ll never feel like your cabinet style is outdated. With slight adjustments to the colors and hardware, these cabinets can last a lifetime.

However, built-in cabinets are not suitable for damp homes. When cabinets are installed in a beach house or other homes in humid climates, dehumidification is essential for maintenance. Regular maintenance may mean adjusting the door or drawer regularly to keep the drawer flat and functioning properly.

Some heartburn can be avoided in the first place by choosing materials that are appropriate for your home environment and placing and organizing your cabinets in a way that protects them from heat and light sources.

Since most built-in cabinets are custom made and installed, you’ll want to consider these details early on to ensure you’re getting the best value over time.