What’s one of the first things that you notice when you see a kitchen? Chances are, high on your list will be the cabinetry. If it looks dated, dysfunctional, drab, or doesn’t suit the style of the rest of the kitchen, this can really impact the overall aesthetics of the space.

Cabinetry selected will contribute to a kitchen’s look, feel and, importantly, its functionality for storage and overall organisation. Essentially, cabinets really define the character of your kitchen. They also make up a significant part of your kitchen budget, so it’s a very important decision that needs to be explored in detail with your professional kitchen designer.

Cabinetry options

Melamine:

Commonly used for door and drawer fronts, melamine is made from resin-impregnated decorative paper bonded onto Medium Density Particleboard or Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF). Also known as laminate, it’s available in a wide variety of colours, textures and wood grains.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pro: Melamine is known for its scratch and moisture resistance, durability and quality finish on a budget. It’s also easy to clean.

Care: Wipe with warm, soapy water on a soft damp cloth, and follow with a streak-free cleaner on a soft cloth. Apply cleaning products directly onto the cloth, rather than the cabinet surface. Never use abrasive cleaning products.

Tip: Contrast overhead cabinets with different laminates on the lower cabinetry.

 

High-gloss board/vinyl-wrap cabinetry:

A thin vinyl sheet is vacuum-sealed onto MDF.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pro: Sophisticated, modern, glossy, more affordable than two-pack and highly durable, and withstands everyday wear and tear.

Care: Wipe with warm, soapy water on a soft damp cloth or sponge, and allow to air dry. Avoid using chemical cleaners, as these may damage the vinyl.

Tip: Vinyl-wrap doors are great for a seamless look, as there are no edges.

 

Two-pack polyurethane:

A technique and paint solution applied to cabinetry. Several different surface finishes are available, for example, high gloss, semi gloss, satin or matt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pro: Two-pack allows any custom colour to be selected.

Con: May be vulnerable to chipping.

Care: A clean microfibre cloth to gently wipe over the surface. For a more thorough clean, use warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth. Never use abrasive or solvent-based cleaners.

 

Timber:

In a classic, country-style kitchen, chances are it will feature timber cabinetry, boasting popular timber types such as Tasmanian or American oak.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tip: Solid timber cabinetry is generally expensive so to keep costs down, use timber in just a couple of features, for example, benchtops or shelving.

Care: Mix a 50/50 solution of vinegar and warm water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray onto cabinets, let sit for a minute or two and then wipe clean with a soft cloth.

 

Timber veneer:

Thin slices of timber are applied to boards and sealed with clear two-pack.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pro: Timber veneer allows for the beauty and warmth of timber without the high cost.

Con: Ask your kitchen designer about the edging, which can get damaged. However, high-impact resistant ABS edging doesn’t chip or peel.

Care: All spillages should be cleaned with a damp cloth as soon as possible, as moisture may damage the coating.

Tip: Timber veneer can be used to really encapsulate the much-loved Mid-Century Modern aesthetic.

 

The finish makes the difference

There are still more decisions to make, and these centre around the type of finish.
A semi-gloss finish provides some light-reflective qualities, durability and easy cleaning.
If looking to make a space appear larger and lighter, high-gloss cabinetry is a top choice as it reflects light. With its shiny finish, it is a staple of the contemporary-style kitchen.

Matte-finish cabinetry doesn’t reflect light, looks more flat and can give a more consistent-looking and muted colour. We especially love matt finishes in a traditional or country-style kitchen.
When it comes to colours, a simple cabinetry colour palette of blacks, greys and whites will work well in a contemporary design. Light tones such as classic white has the potential to make a smaller kitchen feel larger, while darker shades add a sense of drama.

 

Door styles

The cabinetry door style is a highly visible element of your kitchen’s design, and the style needs to marry with the overall aesthetic of not only your kitchen, but your entire home.
Simple and stylish, flat-panel doors are the ideal choice for a modern or contemporary kitchen.
Shaker-style doors are a simple and timeless design that suits most décor, and is considered a cabinetry classic.
One of the most expensive door styles, inset kitchen cabinet doors are a classic look. It’s set inside the cabinet frame and requires exposed hinges.
Glass doors with frosted, transparent or textured glass is another way to add an interesting visual element to your kitchen, while ensuring that the contents of the cabinets are visible – great for convenience and practicality.

When it comes time to decide on well-designed, functional kitchen cabinetry that meets all of your needs, the team at Mint Kitchens can help you with your kitchen renovation. If you need more help, speak to one of our professional kitchen designers at Mint Kitchen Group. Alternatively, come into our showrooms today to see how we can help you.
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