When planning a luxury kitchen remodel every detail counts, especially when it comes to the cabinetry options available. Choosing between framed vs frameless kitchen cabinets isn’t just about your aesthetics, but the cabinetry style has a large impact on storage and functionality as well. These cabinets impact the overall design and feel of a space, alternating from modern or classic depending on your particular the style.
In this guide, we will explore the key differences between these two very distinctive cabinetry styles. Evaluating the different performance metrics and why frameless design has become the gold standard in many contemporary South Western homes.
What Is a Framed Cabinet?
Framed cabinets are a more traditional style of cabinetry, commonly found in many luxury kitchens across the United States. These cabinet types get their name from their design and construction. The main cabinet box is constructed to have a visible border around the front which creates a face frame. This face frame is where doors and hinges are attached.
This method of cabinetry design is often seen in a variety of styles from classic to craftsman, with many being used in luxury farmhouse-style kitchens. Framed cabinets are often used in spaces where detail and structural designs are celebrated, making them ideal for many kitchens across America.
The Pros of Framed Cabinets:
- Framed cabinets offer added structural stability with their frame construction
- Adjusting doors and hinges is easier with a framed cabinet allowing for a more versatile design
- Framed cabinets offer a wide variety of styles and are great for either traditional or transitional design aesthetics
The Cons of Framed Cabinets:
- Due to their construction, framed cabinets do offer slightly less usable storage space due to the frame structure
- Visually speaking, framed cabinets do have the potential to appear heavier or more visually segmented
- Framed cabinets are less suited for handleless or flush cabinet designs as many of them are designed for more traditional spaces.
What Is a Frameless Cabinet?
Frameless cabinets are the more modern extension of the traditional framed cabinet. Also known as full-access cabinetry, frameless cabinets eliminate the front frame altogether. Doors attach directly to the cabinet box, creating a clean and modern façade that perfectly aligns with the principles of European design.
These sleek and modern cabinets are the standard across Arete, and a hallmark of European kitchen luxury.
The Pros of Frameless Cabinets:
- The main draw to these cabinets are their sleek and minimalist appearance, the lack of traditional frame helps reduce visual clutter.
- Frameless cabinets allow for maximized interior storage due to the doors being attached directly to the cabinet box.
- Another benefit of frameless cabinets is how they fit seamlessly into modern designs. They are perfect for integrated appliances and contemporary finishes.
The Cons of Frameless Cabinets:
- Frameless cabinets do require a greater deal of precision construction and installation, however this is an area where Arete are experts.
- Due to their need for precision they are less forgiving of misalignment, especially in lower-quality builds.
Framed vs. Frameless: Design Impact in Austin Kitchens
In the Texas design-forward market, frameless cabinetry has become the clear favorite for modern homes. That said, framed cabinetry still has a place, especially in homes where transitional or classic design is preferred. With the right materials and color palette, even framed kitchens can feel sleek and modern. It is important to find kitchen designers who know what they are doing and can help you in creating a style that is welcoming, luxurious, and suits your lifestyle specifically.
Why Arete Is Proudly Frameless
For this Austin kitchen design company, frameless cabinetry is not just a design choice, but a design philosophy. Our German-engineered cabinets are built for millimeter-level precision, allowing for:
- Perfect panel alignment
- To allow for hidden hardware and soft-close systems
- Flush finishes and handleless fronts
- Innovative interior accessories that maximize every inch
The result is a kitchen that feels tailored, effortless, and elevated. Arete Kitchens specializes in luxury kitchens made with German engineering.
Which One Is Right for You?
So, how do you choose the right style for your space? It all comes down to individual preference. Here is a simple breakdown of how to choose the right cabinetry style for you:
| Preference | Best Match |
| Clean, modern look | Frameless |
| Maximum storage + seamless lines | Frameless |
| Classic or craftsman detailing | Framed |
| Farmhouse or traditional charm | Framed |
Still unsure? No sweat, the best way to decide is to see and feel the difference for yourself in our state-of-the-art kitchen showroom.
Experience It at Arete
We invite you to visit our kitchen showroom in Austin, where you can explore full-size kitchen displays featuring both framed-inspired elements and our signature frameless collections. Speak with our design consultants and touch the materials for yourself. Discover the cabinetry system that fits best for your space, and your lifestyle.