Are you designing or installing cabinets for your home? There are several factors to mull over, like color, proportions, number of cabinets to fit your kitchen, and more. But all these pale in comparison to the biggest choice of all: which type of cabinet do you want?
There are many varieties, such as shakers, mullion frames, and recessed panel cabinets, and they all have their benefits. But what about inset cabinets? Believe it or not, all these styles mentioned can be installed as custom inset cabinets.
If you’re looking to create an elegant, seamless feel in your kitchen, this might just be the perfect choice for your kitchen. So stick with us as we cover everything from what an inset cabinet is to the pros and cons of inset cabinets—all in their seamless glory. You may never go back.
What Are Inset Cabinets?
Inset cabinets, also called flush cabinets, are built with their doors and drawers sitting inside the cabinet frame (‘inset’ into the frame) rather than overlaid on top. As such, the hinges on inset cabinetry often aren’t visible, and opening them requires a pull system of knobs or handles.
This design is not beginner DIY-friendly, and it’s best to leave the crafting to carpentry professionals! Each part of the cabinet must be precisely placed for proper alignment and leveling. It’s too easy to end up with inset doors that look askew, and drawers that won’t smoothly open or close.
Because of the precision required to install inset cabinetry, these can cost up to 30 percent more to install than traditional overlay cabinets.
But don’t balk at the price tag just yet. These cabinets are durable and highly customizable for homeowners who value longevity and aesthetic simplicity with a touch of luxury.
Inset kitchen cabinets feature simple, functional designs, which complement the Shaker and Mission styles beautifully. They also look great in a modern or minimalist home when paired with sleek hardware. See for yourself how these maple Lafayette inset cabinets transformed a cramped kitchen space.
The Pros and Cons of Inset Cabinets
As no style of cabinetry is 100% foolproof, the pros and cons of inset cabinets are worth considering.
“An inset kitchen has an aesthetically rich, luxurious look that honors the original craftsmanship of cabinetry,” says Bob Bakes, head of design at Bakes and Kropp. This timeless charm and clean finish pairs well with any type of kitchen, especially those emulating an ‘expensive’ feel.
Aside from their impressive craftsmanship, inset kitchen cabinets are hard-wearing. Because of their minimized exterior space, they face less risk of scratches, dings, and chips than overlay cabinets. This bodes well for their lifespan and upkeep!
Alas, there are some downsides to insets. Due to the complex carpentry required to craft, fit, and finish these cabinets, they can cost more for homeowners. We also wouldn’t recommend you attempt a full DIY build and fitting yourself—one wrong step and the doors and drawers could come out dysfunctional. And if storage is important to you, remember that the snug doors reduce interior space.
A word to maximalists: these are favored in simple, minimalist settings, and as such don’t offer that zesty aesthetic you might desire.
Should You DIY or Call a Pro to Install Inset Cabinetry?
If you’re a confident, experienced DIYer, you can do the installation yourself. But if you’re unsure, we’d recommend hiring a pro rather than doing it all yourself.
Inset kitchen cabinets have a minimal gap between the door and drawer edges and face frames, so they require precise installation. What’s more, heat and humidity can also cause the wood to swell and the doors or drawers to stick.
If you do feel confident about taking on the project, you can purchase insets in standard, pre-assembled, or ready-to-assemble (RTA) formats.
At iCabinetry, we offer custom-made inset cabinetry at wholesale prices. Pick your favorite style, place your order, and have them shipped right to you. We love helping DIY homeowners install their dream kitchen cabinets.
Pro Tip: Want to save on your budget? If your current cabinets are structurally sound, you can reface them yourself by swapping out hardware, replacing doors, and painting or staining them.
Alternative Options in Frameless and Overlay Cabinets
Not quite sold on the inset cabinetry idea? Frameless and overlay cabinet styles are nice alternatives to consider.
Alternative: Frameless Cabinets
Frameless cabinets, also called ‘European-style’ cabinets, eliminate the face frame and attach directly to the cabinet box, offering a contemporary look frequently featured in Scandinavian interiors. The doors and drawers are slightly wider for a full-access layout and more interior space. These frameless styles are loved for their efficient use of space in small kitchens.
Without a supportive frame, high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship are paramount here. Along with this comes a higher price tag. And just like with insets, frameless cabinets are limited in style, typically coming in the slab or Shaker aesthetic.
Alternative: Overlay Cabinets
Overlay cabinets feature doors and drawers that cover the cabinet frame with a full, pull, or partial overlay. Full overlay doors fully cover the frame, while partial overlay leaves some of the frame visible.
Overlay cabinets are the most budget-friendly option. They also maximize interior storage space if that’s a priority for you.
When considering inset, frameless, and overlay cabinets, the latter is the most versatile in cost and style. Overlay cabinets work with every design and budget.
Which Cabinet Style Is Best for You?
If you love a sleek, expensive look and don’t mind hiring out for your installation, inset cabinetry is a worthwhile splurge.
Overlay cabinets strike a nice balance of budget-friendliness and flexible design.
Frameless cabinetry is ideal if you’re after a sleek, contemporary style similar to inset but want a bit more storage space.
Still on the fence? Consider these factors before investing in a major kitchen cabinetry remodel:
- Style choice: Aesthetics are subjective, so it’s okay if you don’t like what every other homeowner likes. Do you crave that minimalist look? Insets may be perfect for you. But if you’re concerned about your budget or want to DIY your own cabinets, an overlay cabinet design is a great choice.
- Cabinet budget: Insets are more expensive than overlay cabinets. If you have a tight budget, but you still want insets, consider combining them with overlay cabinets for the best of both worlds and a nice savings.
- Space requirements: If storage is your main concern, overlay cabinets may be a better option, as they provide more storage. Frameless cabinets also have ample storage space.
Now that you know the pros and cons of inset cabinets. ready to start your dream kitchen install? Get a free quote or call us at 877-800-0420. We’ll take over from there!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean inset cabinet doors?
To clean inset cabinet doors, start by wiping them down with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust, especially around the edges where grime likes to settle.
Mix a little dish soap with warm water, then use a soft cloth to gently clean the surface. Clean the corners and tight spots where the door meets the frame with a soft toothbrush. Be sure to dry everything with a clean towel to avoid water damage. If your cabinets are wood, you can follow up with a wood-safe polish to keep them looking fresh.
How much does an inset cabinet cost?
Inset cabinetry ranges in price from $150 to $1,200 per linear foot. However, the installation complexity adds up to 30 percent more to the cost of the cabinet.
In comparison, overlay cabinets range in price from $5,000 to $20,000. Frameless cabinets are more expensive, from $6,000 to $30,000.
What can I do to tighten door hinges?
Over time, the door hinges may need some fine-tuning. Simply tighten the screw to realign your door to its original position. Make minor adjustments as you go, checking the door’s alignment frequently.
If the problem remains after multiple adjustments, you may want to replace the hinges or consult with a professional. This is also a good time to check cabinet handles and other hardware for adjustments.
