Do you feel exhausted by your outdated, messy kitchen, but feel daunted by the idea of a complete renovation? Look no further than simple kitchen cabinet design ideas to change your space without spending a lot of money. By concentrating on the appearance and usefulness of your cabinets, you can achieve a new, contemporary look that seamlessly blends with the rest of your kitchen. In this piece, we will explore various straightforward kitchen cabinet design ideas that are both practical and visually attractive. From sleek, minimalistic designs to rustic farmhouse styles, there are choices to match every preference and budget. We will delve into the use of color, materials, and hardware to enhance the overall look and feel of your kitchen cabinets. Whether you want to create a bright, airy ambiance or a cozy, warm atmosphere, the right cabinet design can make all the difference. Join us as we uncover the secrets to achieving aesthetic appeal and functionality in your kitchen through simple cabinet designs. Prepare to rediscover your affection for your kitchen
Importance of kitchen cabinet design
When considering the most crucial elements of your kitchen, what comes to mind? Countertops, appliances, sink? Of course, they’re all important. But what about cabinets? Kitchen cabinets, although often neglected, have a major impact on the overall appearance and ambiance of a kitchen. Great cabinets can make a room feel custom; bad cabinets can make a room feel cramped and unusable. So why is it important to choose the right cabinets for your kitchen? Here are some factors to take into account.
Cabinets Affect Kitchen Functionality
As a provider of designer kitchens, we recognize the significance of space in kitchen design. The wonderful thing about kitchen design is that everyone’s preferences are different. It’s not just about what you cook. That’s one of the reasons your kitchen should be the focal point of your home. Good kitchen design starts with how you use your space. And your kitchen cabinets are what determine how much space you can have. If you have a lot of storage space in your kitchen, you can use that space to store other items, such as appliances or for personal styling.
Convenience
Kitchen workers know that searching for a bread knife all over the kitchen can be a pain. Easily accessible kitchen cabinets make things easier for those who cook every day or use the kitchen occasionally.
Many homeowners choose to install kitchen counters with drawers for utensils and upper cabinets for spices or other ingredients. There’s no point in spending extra time looking for the right item when you can quickly find it in the cabinets. Kitchen cabinets can be your best friend in this situation.
Adding Design Aesthetics
Well-designed, quality kitchen cabinets can add a touch of elegance to your home.
The purpose of kitchen cabinets is to be functional. The design aesthetics of the kitchen are less well-known and appreciated than those of the bedroom or living room. As homeowners become more sophisticated in style and personalization, their preferences change over time, and so does the need for stylish and functional kitchen cabinets.
There are many kitchen cabinet designs to draw inspiration from across a variety of design categories. These cabinets can have a contemporary, modern, minimalistic, or even sleek design.
New kitchen cabinets offer homeowners more options to personalize their kitchen space.
Sanitation & Organization
Your kitchen utensils should never be left unattended in the kitchen. Kitchen cabinets are essential. The primary function of kitchen cabinets is as a storage space.
Kitchen cabinets can also help keep the kitchen clean. Kitchen cabinets can be used to store all your kitchen utensils and dishes. Kitchen cabinets will help you organize your kitchen space.
Organizing your kitchen cabinets will make it easier for you to find your items. This will make it easier for your guests to find utensils, glasses, and other items quickly. Guests tend to be more attracted to a clean and organized kitchen.
There may be more options than you think when choosing kitchen cabinets. Will they be wall-mounted, freestanding, or both? Will it be wall-mounted or recessed? This choice can open up more possibilities for maximizing your floor space, allowing you to be more creative. It doesn’t matter if it’s your floor space or storage for your dishes. The functionality of your kitchen is determined by the functionality and design of your cabinets.
The kitchen’s focal point
This summarizes the significance of your cabinets. They greatly influence your kitchen’s overall appearance. Your cabinets don’t have to match your countertops’ material, but they should complement each other. Whether they match or contrast, their impact should not be underestimated. Your kitchen cabinets are the first thing visitors notice in your home. Dark wood cabinets can provide a traditional feel, while cream or white doors offer a more modern look. You can enhance your cabinets by using materials cleverly. For instance, frosted glass can create the illusion of more space.
Storage & Durability
It’s important to keep your appliances and work area clean and out of children’s reach. While a cluttered utensil-filled kitchen may seem appealing initially, it can be problematic during an earthquake or when a curious child tries to reach for a jar on a shelf.
Proper storage also ensures safety. Fragile utensils should never be left unattended, especially around children. Restaurants keep utensils out of reach of children due to space constraints. Flammable materials should also be considered, as they can pose an immediate hazard if placed near the stove.
Effective storage is crucial for the longevity of kitchen utensils. Kitchen tools should be stored in compact cabinets. Some pots are unsuitable for storage in humid areas. Delicate china should be stored in areas where they are shielded from dust and less likely to be knocked over.
Key elements of simple kitchen cabinet design
When aiming for a simple kitchen design, space is often limited. In small kitchens, storage can be a major issue. Carefully planned and designed simple cabinet designs can provide ample storage space for all your items. Pull-out drawers can hold more items than cabinets and can create a more organized and space-saving arrangement.
Functionality in storage is important for simple small kitchen cabinet designs, but appearance also plays a significant role. Alternating white and black cabinets create a unique geometric design style, while single color cabinets offer a more streamlined look. Bolder colors such as green, navy, or black can also be chosen. Appliances can significantly alter the overall look of your cabinets, so keep that in mind if you want to change things up without spending much.
Whether you prefer a contemporary or traditional kitchen design, certain elements should be included in your kitchen cabinet design. We will discuss these essential design elements further.
Drawers
There’s no reason why your kitchen cabinets shouldn’t have drawers. They are easy to make, use, and visually appealing. They can store everything from cutlery to cooking utensils. They are also the easiest type of kitchen compartment to open and can be operated with one hand. They complement all kitchen cabinet designs and are easy to update as needed.
Pull-Out
While open trash cans work well, they can be inconvenient, especially if you need a large trash can for your kitchen. Pull-out trash cans keep the trash out of sight and enhance cleanliness as they are less visible than a separate trash can. With the right front panel design, pull-out trash cans can be seamlessly integrated into traditional cabinet designs.
The same can be done for spice racks. Slim pull-out shelves can replace wall-mounted shelves and can accommodate essentials like salt, pepper, and cooking oils, as well as dried herbs and pastas. Slim compartments like pull-out spice racks enable you to maximize storage and make the most of your space.
Vertical Dividers
Utilizing vertical dividers maximizes vertical space in cabinets, making it easier to store and access large, wide items. This includes large trays, pizza pans, and cutting boards. Storing these items individually also helps prevent dents and moisture trapping, which can occur when flat items of different sizes and shapes are stacked. Removable vertical dividers allow for easy adjustment of storage width based on the items being stored.
Selecting the Right Materials for Your Kitchen Cabinets
A poorly designed kitchen with inferior materials can make cooking a dreaded experience and compromise safety. Quality kitchen cabinet materials have the power to transform a mediocre kitchen into a functional and enjoyable space. Let’s explore the best materials for kitchen cabinets:
Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)
MDF is a high-grade composite material made from recycled wood fibers and resins. It is CNC milled under high pressure, often in a single-piece frame with a center section cut out for a hidden panel. This dense, heavy product is almost synonymous with IKEA cabinets, as the Scandinavian company has dominated the global supply of their kitchen collections for years. Consumers are drawn to MDF due to its resistance to cracking and peeling, making it easy to repaint. Additionally, MDF is smoother than plywood.
Plywood
Plywood is an engineered wood made from sheets of veneer stacked perpendicular to each other. Despite its relatively expensive price tag, plywood has become one of the most popular kitchen cabinet materials due to its strength. Manufacturers favor plywood cabinets not only for its relatively inexpensive nature but also for its better moisture resistance and stability compared to MDF. The individual boards that compose plywood cabinets are stacked in layers like a sandwich, with thin layers of wood glued together on top of each other. An exposed plastic laminate, wood veneer, or thermofoil coats the exterior for added protection.
Particleboard
Particleboard cabinets represent a somewhat unconventional construction method. To create particleboard, wood chips and particles are combined with an adhesive, which are then bonded together into panels. This mixture is the least durable of all the options because it is essentially shredded wood that has been ground into small pieces, and the only thing really holding it together is the glue.
Stainless Steel
While stainless steel imparts a desirable contemporary look to a kitchen, it is, for some reason, not as appealing as wood. Stainless steel is more commonly found in professional kitchens, but it can be difficult to clean off fingerprints and scratches. Stainless steel does not expand and contract like wood, making it a great choice for humid areas.
Solid Wood
Although solid wood has traditionally been used for kitchens, interior design experts no longer recommend it as the base material for modular kitchens. This is because exposure to moisture can cause wood cabinetry to swell or warp over time.
Do you want to know the benefits of wood cabinetry? Well, it is sturdy and solid as long as it is not easily exposed to water. Additionally, each grain of the wood is unique, which can make your kitchen look stunning. However, these reasons aren’t sufficient to build a kitchen that could swell or warp in humid weather conditions or prolonged exposure to water.
Popular Styles for Simple Kitchen Cabinet Design
The primary design element of any kitchen renovation is the cabinets. With numerous options available and a wide range of coveted color choices, it can be overwhelming to decide on a style and color. To help you navigate through the choices, here’s a quick overview of the most popular kitchen cabinet styles. Additionally, we will share the best color combinations to help you create the perfect kitchen more easily.
Traditional
Drawing inspiration from the European Golden Age, the traditional cabinet style is the most formal, often embellished with intricately carved details. The doors typically feature raised panels, sometimes with arched designs. Traditional cabinets are commonly crafted from richly colored woods, but the carved details can also be given an antique or burnished effect.
Shaker
The Shaker cabinet design is the most versatile in terms of style. Due to its simple frame and panel structure, it complements both traditional and contemporary looks. This style originated with the Shaker religious group who migrated to the American colonies in the 1780s; known for their simple, utilitarian, and clever designs, including the famous peg rail.
Shaker cabinets are constructed with five-panel doors, consisting of a four-piece frame with a flat panel in the center. These cabinets are traditionally made of high-quality American hardwood, but it is now quite common to see them painted in any color. For a more modern appearance, some homeowners opt to paint the upper cabinets one color and use a different paint or wood stain for the lower cabinets.
Country or Farmhouse
Country and farmhouse style cabinets are essentially identical and represent more casual versions of traditional cabinets. These styles often incorporate more casual materials, such as beadboard, shiplap, tin metal, reclaimed wood, and sometimes glass doors or open shelving to enhance that charming feel. Country or farmhouse style cabinets are almost always painted, with white being the most popular color, although other colors such as yellow, red, charcoal gray, and black are also gaining popularity. There may be some mixing and matching of cabinet colors and styles throughout the room, but the overall color concept is driven by casual comfort.
Modern
Modern cabinets are the least detailed of all the styles. The doors are typically flat panels with full veneer and little to no molding or trim, creating an uncomplicated, clean look. Naturally stained woods with very little grain, such as maple, are very common for this style of cabinetry. When painted, the most popular colors range from navy blue to black, white, and gray, but almost anything will work. Bright yellow or orange can easily be used in a modern kitchen, and cabinets can also be painted with a gloss paint or varnish for a very sleek effect.
Maximizing storage space in your kitchen cabinets
You’ve arrived at the correct location if you are thinking about renovating your kitchen. When it comes to kitchens, knowing how to maximize cabinet space is crucial. From designing vertically to kitchen storage ideas, this guide will aid you in planning your kitchen like a pro. We’ve gathered everything you need to make the most of every square inch.
- Use Technology to Your Advantage
With our user-friendly kitchen layout planner, you can create the kitchen of your dreams from the comfort of your home. The software allows you to input measurements, windows, and doors into the planner. It provides a realistic 3D kitchen design to help you create your new layout. If you want to add more cabinet space to your kitchen, online kitchen design technology is essential. Being able to design your own kitchen will save you a significant amount of time and money. You’ll be able to rearrange things and coordinate with contractors. Your kitchen planner will be reliable and precise, ensuring that it is to scale and achievable.
- Think Vertical
When it comes to kitchen design, it’s crucial to recognize that there’s untapped space everywhere, including vertically. If your current cabinets don’t reach the ceiling, consider taller cabinets that allow for more storage. You’ll be surprised at how much cabinet space you have above. You can store items like holiday decorations, wine glasses, china, or decorative items that you may not use every day. If you need more cabinet space, don’t limit yourself to just cabinets. Consider adding a pantry or open shelving. The more you can utilize all the way to the ceiling, the more storage space you’ll have.
- Utilize Corners Efficiently
Utilize the tricky kitchen corners effectively by adding cabinets to the unused spaces. Consider installing blind cabinets to make use of the corner space while maintaining a continuous countertop. However, keep in mind that blind cabinets may leave some space unused. To address this issue, opt for Lazy Susan cabinets, which provide full storage space in the corner. These cabinets have pull-out doors and rotating shelves, making it easy to access and maximizing storage space. Additionally, consider using upper corner cabinets and installing corner shelves to maximize storage space in unused areas. Utilize software to determine the appropriate size of the corner cabinet or Lazy Susan for your space.
- Opt for Drawers Over Doors
Instead of basic cabinets with doors, invest in slightly more expensive drawers to maximize storage space. Deep drawers offer ample space for pots, pans, and other large items, making it easier to access and organize your kitchen essentials. Consider incorporating at least one or two deep drawers for efficient storage.
- Incorporate a Pull-Out Trash Can
When designing your kitchen, don’t overlook the importance of integrating a pull-out trash can. This space-saving solution keeps the trash can integrated into the kitchen, freeing up floor space and preventing it from being an obstacle. Additionally, it reduces access for kids and pets while maintaining a streamlined appearance.
- Optimize Wall Space for Storage
Make use of the untapped potential of empty walls in your kitchen or dining area by maximizing storage space. Utilize design software to determine the number of cabinets that can fit on an empty wall. Consider installing floor-to-ceiling cabinets to create efficient storage for pantry items, large kitchen appliances, and tools. This space can accommodate items such as large pots, grills, slow cookers, stand mixers, toasters, and blenders, freeing up valuable counter space.
- Use an Online Kitchen Planner to Design a Pantry
If your home lacks a pantry, consider creating one during a remodel using floor-to-ceiling cabinets. By incorporating vertical cabinets, you can efficiently use the available kitchen space for storage. These cabinets are ideal for storing large items and household supplies, providing additional storage capacity in the kitchen.
- Maximize the Use of Pull-Outs
In a tight kitchen space, take advantage of cabinets equipped with pull-out drawers to ensure easy access to all your essentials. Incorporate pull-out drawers of various sizes in your cabinets to optimize storage and organization.
- Optimize Your Island’s Storage Potential
Integrating an island into your kitchen design offers additional storage and countertop space. Utilize the right cabinets to maximize storage potential, even in a limited space. Additionally, consider the possibility of accommodating a stove or kitchen sink in the island if you plan to relocate plumbing or gas lines. Expanding the countertop will provide additional seating and preparation space.
Color choices for simple kitchen cabinet design
Selecting the appropriate color for your kitchen cabinets is a significant decision. Take the time to explore various color options and determine which ones will best suit your kitchen.
The appeal of neutral tones
Neutral colors such as white, gray, and beige are excellent choices for kitchen cabinets. These colors will always be in fashion and will complement nearly any kitchen design.
White cabinets can create a bright and pristine atmosphere in a kitchen. They complement modern and traditional styles equally well. You can incorporate colorful accents, such as a backsplash or countertops, to make your kitchen truly stand out.
Gray cabinets offer a cool, soothing ambiance. They are suitable for modern kitchens and can be paired with both light and dark accents. For example, gray cabinets with white countertops create a sleek appearance.
Cream cabinets are warm and welcoming. They are versatile and can be combined with a variety of colors and materials. Cream works well with rustic or farmhouse styles, adding a cozy feel.
Neutrals are also beneficial for resale value. They appeal to many individuals and can give your kitchen a fresh and modern look.
When to opt for vibrant colors
If you want to make a statement, bold colors like navy, green, or red might be the way to go. These colors can bring vitality and personality to your kitchen.
Navy cabinets create a luxurious, sophisticated look. They go nicely with gold or brass hardware and can be offset with lighter elements such as white walls or countertops.
Green cabinets can bring a natural, revitalizing vibe to your kitchen. Whether it’s a rich emerald or a soft sage, green can suit both modern and traditional settings. Pairing green cabinets with wood accents can create a harmonious look.
Red cabinets bring warmth and energy. They are daring and can be the focal point of your kitchen. To offset red cabinets, consider using neutral walls and uncomplicated countertops. This will allow you to incorporate the color into various parts of your kitchen.
Vibrant colors can make your kitchen distinctive and memorable. However, it’s important to balance them with other elements so they don’t overwhelm the space.
Test colors before committing
Before finalizing a color, it’s a good idea to test it in your kitchen.
Here are some suggestions:
Utilize paint samples. Take a small sample of your chosen color and paint a small section of your cabinets. This will help you visualize how the color will appear in your space.
Try a removable color panel. These panels can be placed on your cabinets and rearranged. This way, you can see the color in different parts of your kitchen.
Consider lighting. Colors can appear different in natural and artificial light. Assess how the color looks at different times of the day. For instance, a color may look perfect in the morning but too dark at night.
Testing colors before making a decision helps ensure that you are satisfied with your choice and that it will complement your kitchen.
By considering both neutral and bold color options and testing them in your space, you can discover the perfect kitchen cabinet color that truly stands out.
Hardware and accessories for your kitchen cabinets
Cabinet hardware and accessories are the ideal finishing touches to any kitchen cabinet design. They not only add functionality but also provide the opportunity to personalize your kitchen cabinets.
When selecting kitchen cabinet hardware, take your time and consider which type of hardware will best complement your kitchen’s theme. We spend most of our time opening and closing cabinet doors. However, we often overlook the details and quality of the hardware accessories we choose. We’ll explore contemporary kitchen cabinet hardware styles and offer a comprehensive guide to hardware selection—so you won’t encounter any difficulties when choosing hardware for your next remodeling project.
If you’re unsure about whether to install cabinet knobs or handles, and whether to opt for black or brass hardware, here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you in making better decisions.
The hardware you select should complement the overall style of your cabinets and kitchen. But how do you determine which hardware will best suit your kitchen’s style? If you have a modern, contemporary kitchen, opt for sleek handles to complement the modern theme. Traditional cabinets will look best with simple, plain handles. Pairing French country style with vintage-looking hardware will give a more antique appearance.
From elegant black knobs to shiny brass handles, here are some of the striking new hardware trends you should consider:
Beautiful Brass: Brass hardware comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most elegant are the long, sleek brass handles that emit a traditional style aura. These handles can be customized to fit various cabinet styles, allowing for an easy update. Additionally, beautiful drop handles are also very stylish as sleek kitchen cabinet hardware. When combined with substantial hardware like knobs and cup holders, drop handles become even more fashionable. Another popular and trendy option is hexagonal brass knobs, which give your kitchen cabinets an antique and vintage look.
Bold Black: There’s nothing classier than the combination of white and black. Pair plain white cabinets with sleek black pull bars to give your kitchen a retro school vibe while maintaining a modern touch. Black kitchen cabinet hardware also looks bold when paired with blue cabinets, creating an eclectic vibe and breaking up a stark look.
Wild Cards: Whether you’re aiming for a boho look or opting for romantic details, painted porcelain is a timeless option to bring a bold style to your kitchen. Porcelain knobs are a great choice for small kitchens with only a few cabinets.
Consider these popular cabinet hardware and accessories:
Knobs: Cabinet knobs are a timeless option for adding a touch of sophistication to any kitchen design. They come in a variety of materials, finishes, and shapes, offering flexibility to switch them up for a new look.
Handles: Cabinet handles are a sleek and modern alternative to knobs. Like knobs, cabinet handles come in various styles, such as bar handles, cup handles, and finger handles. Handles can be a great choice for larger cabinets or drawers that require a stronger grip.
Hinges: Another crucial component of any cabinet design is the hinges. They come in various styles, including hidden and exposed. Choosing the right hinges can help your cabinets operate smoothly and without issues.
Drawer Slides: Drawer slides are another essential piece of cabinet hardware, allowing drawers to open and close smoothly and quietly. Soft-close slides are becoming increasingly popular as they prevent drawers from slamming shut.
Conclusion: Embrace Simplicity in Your Kitchen Design
Simple kitchen cabinet designs can transform your kitchen, creating a calm, organized, and functional space. It’s all about making informed choices and appreciating the beauty in simplicity. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, the result will be a kitchen that is aesthetically pleasing and meets your needs. So, why not opt for a simple approach when designing your kitchen? With careful planning and a touch of creativity, you can create a kitchen that is both stylish and practical.