A kitchen cabinet is a cupboard built into a kitchen space meant to store dishes, silverware and utensils. However, a cabinet is not just a means to an end- it can also add style and purpose to a kitchen. A cabinet layout done well will add a certain appeal to the kitchen. There are different cabinet styles available for consumers. Here is a list of them:
Three basic types
Cabinets come in three basic types. Depending on the kitchen layout and personal preference, one can choose to go for a certain type. The three types are: Wall, base and tall. These are the structural foundations upon which modifications and variations can be made. For example, some consumers prefer to display their cutlery like art whereas others simply want a space to store them. Furthermore, budget needs to be considered as many cabinets can be custom made- either fully or partially.
Base cabinets
Base cabinets are the most popular type of cabinets in most kitchens simply because they are mounted on the floor and are strong and sturdy. They are referred to as lower cabinets in the installation industry and can be used to store not just kitchen utensils but also everyday essentials. A base cabinet is an essential component of any kitchen because without base cabinets there wouldn’t be any countertops.
Wall cabinets
Wall cabinets are also called upper cabinets and unlike a base cabinet they are hung on the wall of a kitchen. One aspect to a wall cabinet is that many customers install them for aesthetic value as they often add beauty and décor to a kitchen. Another aspect is that they can also come in many styles and designs as the dimensions (height, width and depth) can be customized based on personal preference.
A wall cabinet is attached to the wall with screws and can only be used to store lightweight appliances. Most importantly, they are used as showpieces and often add a certain class to the kitchen. A survey done on kitchen décor stated that most consumers buy the most basic base cabinets but splurge money on wall cabinets.
Tall cabinets
Tall cabinets are also known as utility or pantry cabinets. They are mainly used to store food and are usually vertically tall; some even extend all the way from the floor to the ceiling. They are used to accommodate anything from canned food to small kitchen appliances and even microwaves and ovens.
Tips to consider before installing a cabinet
A kitchen cabinet, regardless of which option one goes for, is quite a hefty investment, not to mention the work required to make and install it. Preparations should be done before taking the plunge which should include creating and setting a budget and measuring the physical dimensions where the cabinet will be installed. A cabinet usually constitutes to 50 percent (if not more) of the entire kitchen budget. Likewise the space requirement should be measured and each of the three different types requires different dimensions and material. Cabinet doors and drawers are additional expenses but often add a certain visual appeal that defines a consumer’s personal style. Whether the cabinet would be custom made or semi custom also needs to be decided prior to taking action. Enough space needs to be considered for essential kitchen products like stove, refrigerator, and microwave. Another budgetary concern is the material. Most cabinets are made from a combination of many materials which not only make the product durable but also cost efficient. Plywood and wood are common materials.
Epilogue
Buying a new kitchen cabinet is quite a challenging prospect for many consumers. One has to have a thorough knowledge of kitchen space and the kind of décor that will appeal to personal tastes. Then there is the fact that there are plenty of options available in the market. However, a kitchen cabinet is a necessity in most homes and often adds a certain quality not just to the kitchen space but to the entire house. It combines the aspects of beauty and function. Many people have a habit of ignoring the kitchen when looking around a house and often relegate the cabinet to just a box on the wall to store stuff. But it is so much more than that.
