Style and storage space. What you need to consider when choosing kitchen cabinets

When planning a kitchen, the aim is to create a design that is aligned perfectly with your specific needs and individual lifestyle

However, you also need to choose the right style and design so that you’ll still love the look of your cabinets many years down the line. This article outlines the value that cleverly designed kitchen cabinets – such as pull-out larder units and corner cabinets – can bring to your kitchen. It also explains how to know which of the different types of design is right for you. Browse our site for inspirational ideas and find the perfect solution for your lifestyle!

What types of kitchen cabinet are available?

Pull-out larder units, corner cupboards, base cabinets… When it comes to kitchen design, there are a multitude of solutions available, each with their own characteristics and functions. Choosing the right solution depends on your specific needs, the space available and your personal taste.

Base cabinets. Storage for bulky utensils

Base cabinets are tucked beneath the worktop and provide space for storing saucepans, frying pans, crockery and other kitchen items. These types of cabinet are available in a wide range of different sizes and designs.

Wall cabinets. Everything within reach

These types of units are mounted on the wall above the worktop and provide extra space for storing crockery, glasses, spices and other compact items.

Tall units/high boards. Extra storage space

Tall units are usually bigger, providing more room than conventional base units. Some tall units even reach up to the ceiling. These units can be used for built-in appliances, such as an oven, microwave or fridge.

Corner cabinets. Clever use of space

Corner cabinets make the most of the space in the corner, which is otherwise difficult to access. There are different types of corner cabinet, such as carousel cupboards and pull-out units. Further information about corner cabinets can be found below.

Pull-out units. For small kitchen equipment

These cabinets consist of pull-out elements and are a practical solution for storing utensils, cutlery, crockery and other items.

Shelf units. Add your own personal style

Shelves are a wonderful alternative to cabinets with closed doors and can be used for storage, decorations or other items, as well as for lining up recipe books.

Glass-fronted cabinets. Practical and aesthetic

As the name suggests, glass-fronted cabinets have glass doors, which means that the contents of the cabinet are on display. They are ideal for showcasing crockery or glasses.

Sink cabinets. Everything in one place

A sink cabinet is a special base unit underneath a sink. The cabinet provides enough space for plumbing and sink fittings, as well as storage space for cleaning equipment.

Hob cabinets

Having a cabinet beneath your gas or induction hob is a good way of creating extra storage space in your kitchen.

Waste and recycling units. The hygienic solution for rubbish

This type of base unit is specially designed to hold rubbish bins and recycling containers, keeping unsightly bins out of view. These units are often installed beneath the sink.

Larder/pantry units. Keep track of everything

Large cupboards, specifically designed to store food and pantry items.

Island cabinets. Even more space

These cabinets are often used in kitchen islands and provide additional storage and worktop space.

Pull-out larders. Underestimated all-rounders

A pull-out larder, also known as a pull-out pantry or pull-out cabinet, is a special type of kitchen cabinet designed to provide maximum storage space and easy access. It often features several narrow shelves or drawers that pull out automatically when the cabinet door is opened. The narrow shelves and drawers optimise the use of space, which is particularly useful in tight spots or difficult-to-reach areas. A pull-out larder is an efficient solution for organising and storing saucepans, frying pans, spices, food and other cooking equipment. Because the drawers or shelves slide back in when the door is shut, the pull-out larder takes up very little room.

Assembling your kitchen cabinets. Practical points to consider

Before your kitchen is installed, however, there are a number of important points to be considered. The actual design – including types and sizes of cabinet, and where they should go – is determined by multiple factors, including kitchen layout, your specific needs and your favourite style. Putting thought into these factors ensures that you will get the best use out of your cabinets and that they will be a perfect fit for the overall design of your kitchen.

How high up should kitchen wall cabinets be fitted?

The perfect height to install kitchen wall cabinets depends on a number of different factors, including the size of the kitchen, the height of those who will be using the kitchen most frequently, and the type of tasks that are going to be performed in the kitchen. However, there are some general guidelines that should be taken into account:

User-friendliness

If you are going to be the main person using the kitchen, the cabinets should be at a convenient height for you to reach things inside easily. If the kitchen is going to be used by several people, bear in mind people’s different heights and their specific needs.

Height of the ceiling

The height of the walls is a critical factor. If your walls are high and you need a lot of room, you can choose the tallest cupboards available to maximise the kitchen space. In the case of low ceilings, wall units with a lift-up door are a good option.

Design and aesthetics

The height of the cabinets also has an impact on the overall aesthetics. Striking the correct balance between wall cabinets and base units can have a positive impact on the overall design of the kitchen.

Which wall units should I choose?

Deciding which wall units to choose depends on multiple factors, including your personal preferences, your kitchen appliances and your personal style. Here are several different options, together with key points to consider:

Hinged doors?

These are the traditional types of cupboard door that open outwards. They are a versatile solution that leaves plenty of room in the cupboard.

Glass-panelled doors?

The perfect option if you want to put your crockery or decorative accessories on display. They lend your kitchen an open, airy feeling.

Fully glazed doors?

These cabinet doors are made entirely out of glass, creating a modern, minimalistic effect. They are a particularly good choice if you have high-quality crockery or glasses that you want to put on show.

Folding, lift-up doors?

These doors open upwards and provide good access to the contents of the cupboard. They are perfect solutions when you want to save as much space as possible in your kitchen.

Rolling shutters?

Cupboards with shutters have a door that rolls up and down. They are practical space savers, but you have to be careful not to overfill them as this could hinder the operation of the shutter.

Corner wall units?

These cupboards are specifically designed for the corners of your kitchen and therefore optimise a space that would otherwise be left unused. They are the perfect solutions to efficiently use space.

Wall-mounted shelf units?

A wall-mounted shelf unit provides an open space that is useful for storing frequently used kitchen utensils or spices close at hand.

A unit for your microwave?

If you’d like to use a wall-mounted unit to store your microwave, choose a cabinet that has been specifically designed for this purpose to ensure that the microwave fits well and has sufficient ventilation.

A built-in extractor hood?

If you want to integrate your extractor hood in a wall unit, you need to make sure that the cabinet is equipped for this and has the necessary ventilation.

Integrated LED lighting?

Wall units with integrated LED lighting are a great solution for lighting up your worktop. Make sure that the lighting corresponds to your needs and kitchen lifestyle.

How much space should there be between the worktop and the wall units?

The space between the worktop and the wall units should be 565 mm so that the splashback can fit between the two.

Special cupboards. What types of solution are available for corners?

Corners can often be difficult to access, which is why solutions for the corners of your kitchen need to be clever choices to maximise the use of this space. It is important to consider your specific needs and your cooking habits before deciding which corner solution to go for.

Carousel cupboard – revolving shelves

A carousel cupboard is a revolving kitchen cabinet with round shelves.

LeMans cupboard – practical pull-out shelves

The name ‘LeMans’ refers to the famous racing track in France and is meant to reflect the curved movement of the cupboard’s pull-out shelves. Contrary to conventional corner solutions, which are accessed by opening the cupboard doors, the LeMans cupboard features an innovative pull-out shelf system that facilitates access to pots and pans.

The perfect kitchen cabinets – also a matter of style

Different kitchen cabinets go well with different styles of kitchen, because every design comes with its own aesthetics and characteristics. Here are some examples of successful combinations between the type of cabinet and style of kitchen. These recommendations are intended to provide inspiration, but you can also mix and match different styles and different elements to create a unique look. It is important to choose cabinets that coordinate with the other elements of the kitchen, such as the flooring, worktop, lighting and the colour of the walls, in order to achieve a harmonious overall design.

Modern kitchens. Sleek and simple

Sleek lines and minimalistic design characterise a modern kitchen. Flush-fitting, handle-free units with smooth cabinet doors and drawer fronts – either in matt or high-gloss – are perfect for this style of kitchen. Grey, white or black fronts can further emphasise a modern style, while white creates a timeless elegance.

Farmhouse kitchens. Rustic and cosy

Kitchen cabinets with rustic details are the perfect choice for farmhouse kitchens. Smooth or lightly textured fronts made from solid wood or imitation are options to consider here, while glass-fronted cabinets can lend kitchens an additional touch of charm.

Industrial kitchens. Minimalistic and stylish

Metallic handles add authenticity to industrial-style kitchens. Open shelving or kitchen cabinets with sleek lines and an unfinished, urban look are characteristic of this type of kitchen design.

Scandinavian style. Practical and snug

Pale, light colours are trademarks of the Scandinavian style. White or pale wood tones can be used to emphasise authenticity. Wall cabinets and base units with simple, minimalistic details, as well as open shelving, are all typically Nordic.

Mediterranean kitchens. Natural and elegant

Wooden cabinet doors and drawer fronts in warm colours are a good choice for Mediterranean vibes. Ornate or textured details can be used to support the rustic aesthetics. Glass-fronted cabinets with cast iron fittings give off an elegant, Mediterranean feeling.

Classic kitchens. Timeless and harmonious

Wooden cabinet fronts with elaborate designs, shaker doors and traditional handles all go well in a classic kitchen. Cream, white or pastel-coloured kitchen cabinets accentuate the traditional style.

Which colour should I choose for my kitchen cabinets?

Choosing the colour of your kitchen cabinets depends on a number of factors, including personal taste, kitchen design, size of the kitchen, lighting and the atmosphere you are wishing to create.

Neutral colours

White, grey, beige and cream are all versatile and timelessly beautiful. White not only makes a kitchen look particularly clean and elegant, but it also combines well with other colours and materials.

Wood colours

Natural wood tones create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Wood comes in a variety of different shades and textures, allowing you to create a rustic, modern or classic atmosphere.

Dark colours

Cabinet doors and drawer fronts in black, dark grey or dark blue create a modern, sophisticated look. They can make a kitchen look smaller, however, which is why it is important to ensure that there is enough light.

Accent colours

Accentuate certain parts of the kitchen with the clever use of colour. For example, you could combine coloured cabinet doors with neutral, white cupboards to create intriguing visual dynamics.

Creating contrasts

Combining light and dark shades, or using different colours entirely, can create an exciting contrast.

High-gloss finish

Cabinets with a high-gloss finish lend kitchen furniture a radiant, modern look. They reflect light and make the kitchen look more spacious.

Pastel shades

Soft pastel shades such as Pastel Blue, Fjord Green and Antique Rose create a happy, friendly atmosphere.

Personal style

You also need to take your specific style and preferences into account when choosing a colour. If you have a penchant for bolder colours, such as vibrant reds, bright yellows, gold and bronze you can use these to add a unique personal touch to your kitchen.

Conclusion

Don’t forget that the colours of the cabinets need to be coordinated with other elements in the kitchen, such as the colours of the walls, worktops, flooring and appliances. It can be a good idea to use colour samples or consult a professional designer to make sure that your chosen colours go together perfectly and create the atmosphere that you have in mind.

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