What Are European Style Cabinets?
And How are they Different from Traditional, Transitional And Shaker Styles?
European Cabinets. Frameless Cabinets. Slab Door Cabinets.
All are fully acceptable ways to address this style of cabinetry! European style cabinets are characterized by the their simplistic slab style doors. Unlike some styles that focus on intricate and beautiful detail, European Cabinets take the “less is more” approach.
European style cabinets are also frameless meaning the frame where the door hinges would usually be screwed onto, in most American cabinets, is removed and the hinge is instead screwed directly on the box. Doing this increases the range and efficiency of the cabinet. Since the frame is removed this type of cabinet can be placed directly on an enclosing wall, and not jam, or rub against that wall. In turn reducing the quality of your cabinet, and potentially damaging your wall.
This style of cabinetry is versatile as far as how you can design it since it is common to see them in natural wood and non-natural wood colors such as concrete. But you can combine them with other colors or styles of cabinets to form some pretty unique spaces. This style suits a person who appreciates the minimalistic design. On the other hand, if you prefer something more flamboyant. Then it gives you the flexibility to be able to customize your home in a way that satisfies your unique taste!
Shaker Cabinets
Shaker style cabinets are the closest in terms of style to European Cabinets. These cabinets are well known for their simplistic style with the only defining detail being a rectangular divot in the middle, some having a seam on the border where the joints connect. The Shaker Style Cabinets are different from the European Style Cabinets because of their style, but most Shaker Style Cabinets have a frame compared to frameless European Style Cabinets.
Transitional Cabinets
Transitional Style Cabinets take on various designs, some resembling Traditional, some border lining Shaker. It is a very in between style and even I have trouble distinguishing Transitional Cabinets from some Shaker and Traditional Cabinets. These Cabinets will also typically have a frame and suite those who want to get something updated but not completely modern.
Traditional Cabinets
Traditional Cabinets have long been incorporated into American Cabinetry. It often consist of rectangular bevels and decorated crown molding. Traditional Cabinets are far more elaborate in design as compared to European Cabinets that capitalize on minimal detail in way of the build. Traditional Cabinets give a lot more options than European Style Cabinets but the choice on whether you go with them is completely up to personal preference.
If you know what “feel” of cabinets you want but aren’t sure of the style then the scale below will offer some insight as to what style would be right for you.
The main difference between European Style Cabinets and the rest is not having a frame, and the full slab style door. If you are looking to have a completely modern or smart home then the European Style Cabinets will work perfectly in your design! But there are so many ways to customize your space by mixing and matching styles
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