Handbook

When selecting kitchen furniture, one crucial factor often overlooked is the appearance of the cabinet fronts. While size and functionality are important, the aesthetic appeal of the cabinet doors can significantly influence the overall look of your kitchen. These doors can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), and particleboard. While metal and plastic are also used in some designs, their properties generally don’t match the versatility and warmth provided by wood-based materials.

Many might think choosing the right material and color for their kitchen based on personal taste, budget, and overall design theme is straightforward. However, it’s not as simple as it seems. For instance, darker and glossy laminated surfaces might show fingerprints and stains more prominently. Similarly, MDF doors can easily reveal scratches and chips, and furniture chosen without professional guidance may quickly lose its appeal due to various external factors.

 

Let’s discuss the main materials used in kitchen cabinet fronts:

 

Wood

 

• Wood is a beautiful, long-lasting material, perfect for adding a touch of nature and elegance, especially in country-style homes or rustic settings.
• The main downsides are its sensitivity to moisture and UV rays, and the fact that it’s often custom-made, which can be more expensive.
• However, if budget is not a constraint, wood is an excellent choice for those seeking durability and a timeless look.

 

MDF Fronts with Various Coatings

 

• MDF is a cost-effective alternative to solid wood. It can be just as attractive, especially when veneered.
• Veneered MDF looks almost indistinguishable from real wood but is more affordable.
• MDF coated with enamel paint is flexible and durable, making it a good choice for various kitchen styles.
• PVC film-coated MDF is another affordable option, capable of mimicking wood, tile, or even stone textures. However, it’s less durable under high temperatures.

Particleboard Fronts

 

• Particleboard is cheaper and less eco-friendly than wood or MDF, but it shouldn’t be disregarded. When covered with HPL (High-Pressure Laminate) plastic, it can be quite attractive and resistant to external factors.
• The primary issue with particleboard is that the interior of these doors is typically white, which might not appeal to everyone.

 

Types of Fronts

 

• Kitchen cabinet fronts are either solid or frame-based. Frame-based fronts can incorporate glass, plastic, or other materials for a more diverse look.

 

Selecting the right kitchen cabinets can be challenging. If you’re struggling to choose, I, Olesya Blashchenko, can assist you. We can experiment with colors and textures using computer modeling programs. Once we’ve decided on the exterior, I can provide detailed sketches and layout plans for your kitchen furniture.