Introduction
Kitchen cabinets play a crucial role in any kitchen design. They provide storage, contribute to the aesthetic, and help organize essential items that get used daily. When it comes to kitchen cabinets, “classic” options never go out of style. Classic kitchen cabinets offer versatility, durability, and an elegant look that withstands changing trends. Here is an in-depth guide on everything you need to know about classic kitchen cabinets.
What Defines Classic Kitchen Cabinets?
Classic kitchen cabinets are characterized by certain qualities that set them apart from contemporary or modern options.
Timeless Styles
Classic cabinets feature styles like Shaker, Craftsman, and Traditional that adhere to simplicity and utility. These styles have remained popular for decades due to their clean lines, ease of coordination, and versatile appeal.
Durable Materials
Quality materials are a hallmark of classic cabinets. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory ensure lasting beauty and functionality. Classic doors often feature durable raised or recessed wood panels.
Neutral Finishes
Understated finishes like wood stains, natural wood grains, painted whites, and other neutral hues allow classic cabinets to fit various aesthetics. Stained wood and painted white finishes are especially versatile.
Quality Craftsmanship
Expert carpentry and joinery set classic cabinets apart. Features like dovetail joinery, full-extension drawers, and soft-closing hinges demonstrate impeccable craftsmanship.
Functional Hardware
Classic cabinets incorporate hardware like handles and knobs that are subtle, sturdy, and emphasize utility. Materials like brushed nickel, iron, and rubbed bronze offer an understated yet high-quality look.
Benefits of Choosing Classic Kitchen Cabinets
From practical perks to aesthetic appeal, classic kitchen cabinets offer many benefits that make them a smart choice.
Timeless Look
A classic style guarantees your kitchen will retain its elegance and avoid looking dated. Their versatile design allows mixing classic cabinets with trends.
Durability
Quality materials and construction ensure classic cabinets last for decades rather than needing replacement after just a few years. This makes them a sound long-term investment.
Easy Coordination
A classic style with neutral finishes blends seamlessly with various colour palettes and themes. This makes coordinating the cabinets with countertops, floors, and backsplashes simple.
Flexible Functionality
Classic cabinets work well in any kitchen layout. Their storage solutions and accessibility features adapt well to how you cook and live.
Value
While classic cabinets carry more upfront cost than stock cabinets, their durability saves money over time. And if selling your home, classic cabinets add value for potential buyers.
Elements to Consider When Choosing Classic Cabinets
Cabinetry constitutes a major portion of your overall kitchen remodeling budget. Making well-informed choices ensures your investment yields optimal results. Consider the following elements when selecting classic kitchen cabinets.
Design Styles
While Shaker and Traditional styles are most common, also look at English and Country options if aiming for a classic look. Visit showrooms to view cabinet door styles and test out various looks.
Materials
Choose hardwoods like maple, oak, alder or cherry which withstand daily wear-and-tear and deliver a polished look. Opt for painted or stained finishes that complement your color scheme and mood.
Quality and Budget
Look for indications of quality like plywood box construction, soft-close hinges and drawers, and dovetail joinery. Set a realistic budget and remember classic cabinets offer long-term value.
Storage Solutions
Evaluate how you use your current cabinets and cooking habits to determine optimal storage. Add specialty pull-outs, lazy susans, drawer dividers, and other functional elements.
Aesthetic Details
Small aesthetic details like moulding, glass door inserts, open shelving, and hoods emphasize the classic style. Incorporate unique details that reflect your personality.
Types of Classic Kitchen Cabinets
Beyond the overall door style, many specific cabinet types fall under the classic category. Consider how each type fits your kitchen’s layout and needs.
Base Cabinets
The standard starting point, base cabinets provide storage close to countertops. Full-extension drawers maximize access to contents. Optional roll-out trays further improve functionality.
Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets deliver storage higher up while defining the kitchen’s architecture. Glass door inserts add style. Consider taller wall cabinets to maximize space.
Pantry Cabinets
Offering specialized storage for food items, pans, or small appliances, pantry cabinets provide an organizational boost. Roll-out shelves allow easy access.
Island Cabinets
Island cabinets adapt storage to this high-traffic area. Specialized cabinets for trash/recycling, wine, etc. add function. Open-shelving gives an airy feel.
Peninsula Cabinets
Optimizing workspace and storage, peninsula cabinets essentially connect the island to perimeter cabinets for a spacious layout.
Desk Cabinets
Designed as a pull-out workstation, desk cabinets create a convenient homework/office nook without eating up space when closed.
Design Tips for Incorporating Classic Cabinets
A few design techniques help you flawlessly blend classic cabinets for a cohesive and stylish kitchen that avoids looking outdated.
Mix Materials
Combine classic cabinetry with durable modern countertops like quartz. Include contemporary metals like stainless steel appliances for contrast.
Add Warmth
Warm-toned wood cabinets nicely balance cool hues like grays and blues. Nestle wood into cool tones to add depth.
Incorporate Glass
Glass cabinet inserts, mirrors, and pendant lights introduce elegance while keeping the look light and bright.
Use Neutrals
Stick with neutral backsplashes and floors that easily match classic cabinets in various wood stains or painted hues.
Accent with Hardware
Hardware offers affordable opportunities to showcase personality. Seek timeless materials like copper, nickel, and brass.
Feature Molding
Crown molding tops off cabinetry with elegance. For a transitional vibe, use simple profiles or limit to just a few areas.
Include Open Shelving
Strategically placed open shelves break up cabinetry while offering a place for accent pieces and pretty dishware on display.
Add Architectural Interest
Use trim details, corbels and columns for architectural appeal suited to traditional and craftsman style cabinets.
Highlight Craftsmanship
Showcase quality craftsmanship by allowing natural wood grains to take center stage. Opt for full overlay doors for a seamless look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular classics kitchen cabinet styles?
The Shaker, Traditional, Craftsman, Cottage, and Country styles rank among the most sought-after classic kitchen cabinet designs.
What finish options work well for classic cabinets?
Painted finishes in whites, grays, and blues are popular. Wood stains like cherry, walnut, and oak also suit classic cabinets.
What wood is best for durable classic cabinets?
Oak, maple, hickory, alder, and cherry all make excellent cabinet woods that withstand years of use. Opt for plywood construction.
Should I choose custom or stock classic cabinets?
Custom cabinets offer personalized style and fit but cost more. Quality stock cabinets deliver classic appeal if you don’t need fully customized options.
What hardware finishes complement classic cabinets?
Matte metals like black iron, brushed nickel, and rubbed bronze work well. Aged brass and copper also pair nicely for a traditional vibe.
How can I add storage to my classic kitchen?
Optimize base cabinets with roll-outs, dividers, and lazy susans. Add specialty pull-out cabinets for plates, pans, etc. Extend wall cabinets to the ceiling.
Conclusion
Classic kitchen cabinets offer beauty, function, and quality that withstands the test of time. Their versatile style works in kitchens of all sizes and seamlessly coordinates with various materials and finishes. Taking the time to evaluate your family’s needs and researching cabinet construction will ensure satisfactory results. Investing in well-made classic cabinets from reputable brands results in kitchen storage that will serve your family efficiently for decades before requiring replacement. With proper care, your classic kitchen cabinets will become a beloved staple in your home.
