Cabinet design is a key element in any kitchen remodeling or design project, not only for the kitchen but also for any other areas, including bathroom vanities, workspace cabinets, and utility room cabinets. They are not just for designing but also offer functionality. However, the major challenge arises when it comes to choosing the right cabinet design. It should fit both the kitchen design and its layout. Tivoli Kitchen and Bathroom Design works closely with the clients for cabinet designs and layout plans. This guide will help you understand cabinets beyond trends. So you don’t just create chic cabinetry, but it serves its purpose too. Continue reading the following.
What Are The Different Types Of Cabinets?
While looking at the cabinet designs, you will find four main categories. Each cabinet type has a distinct purpose in kitchen design and layout planning. The right type of cabinet combines functionality, flow, and long-term value.
Base Cabinets
Base cabinets are the foundation of the kitchen. They are installed directly on the food and support countertops, sinks, dishwashers, and cooktops. Their depth makes them a perfect choice for storing heavy cookware, mixing bowls, or small appliances. In modern layouts, base cabinets often include soft-close drawers and pull-out organizers for better ergonomics.
Wall Cabinets
As the name suggests, the wall cabinets mount above the base units. They don’t consume floor space and offer storage options, but light utensils and crockery items like dishes, spices, and glassware. They are mounted within the reach while maintaining clear counter surfaces. Designers often use wall cabinets to create an aligned look with balanced open shelving and highlight backsplashes or range hoods.
Tall Cabinets (Pantry or Utility)
Tall cabinets are also known as pantry cabinets. They extend from the ceiling to the floor. These cabinet types offer a great storage space for dry goods, cleaning supplies, or built-in appliances like ovens and refrigerators. In open layouts, tall units help define the area between cooking, prep, and dining spaces
Specialty Cabinets
These cabinets are custom-designed for specific purposes. They usually are the corner cabinets, appliance garages, wine racks, lazy susans, or pull-outs. These cabinets solve awkward gaps and improve accessibility. They are designed according to the homeowner’s specific requirements, whether it means dedicated storage for baking sheets, recycling bins, or coffee stations.
Visit Our Showroom!
Experience the Tivoli Design Group’s showroom in Pine Brook, NJ. Discover our wide collection of kitchen cabinets, countertops, tiles, and accessories all in one place. Call Now!
What Are The Different Styles Of Cabinets?
Cabinet styles play an important role when designing a kitchen space. Though finishes and hardware have evolved, some cabinet styles have stayed in trend for years. They are praised by homeowners and project managers alike. The most common cabinet style includes:
Shaker Cabinets
These are the most common styles for cabinets. Shaker kitchen cabinets feature a recessed-panel design like Lait Grey Shaker Cabinet. It complements every kitchen type, from modern, transitional, to traditional kitchens. They have clean lines with minimal details, which makes them the best choice for a wide range of projects. You can get them in painted finishes, wood grains, or two-tone combinations. Shaker cabinets work equally well in compact apartments or large open kitchens.
Flat-Panel (Slab) Cabinets
They are also called slab doors. Flat panels feature a smooth surface without face frame detailing, like Luna Hunter Green Kitchen Cabinets, for instance. They provide a modern, minimalist look that is well-suited to contemporary, Scandinavian, and mid-century kitchens. Their simplicity highlights natural veneers, laminates, or high-gloss finishes. This makes them popular in modern apartments and urban homes.
Inset Cabinets
These cabinets feature the door and drawer fronts set within the cabinet frame. This unique cabinet build gives a kitchen a more refined, tailored, and architectural feel. Inset cabinets are usually custom-made and cost more, but suit high-end kitchens and luxury spaces. They work best in luxury renovations where precision and durability matter most.
Raised-Panel Cabinets
They come with a contoured center panel that adds depth and dimension, like this Signature Pearl Cabinets. They style suits classic, farmhouse, and colonial kitchens because of their cozy look and detailing. They usually feature hardwoods such as oak, maple, or cherry. Raised panels provide long-lasting beauty in more traditional homes.
Different Cabinet Styles Compared
Cabinet design and style are distinctly different from each other. Things can be confusing with too many choices. So here we are comparing different cabinet styles and how they stand compared to each other.
| Style | Look | Best For | Verdict |
| Shaker | Recessed panel, clean lines | Works in modern to traditional kitchens | Most versatile, timeless choice |
| Flat-Panel (Slab) | Smooth, minimalist | Contemporary and urban homes | Best for sleek, modern spaces |
| Inset | Flush-fit, precise | High-end luxury kitchens | Refined, premium option |
| Raised-Panel | Dimensional detail | Classic or farmhouse kitchens | Best for traditional homes |
Shaker remains the all-in-one style that adapts across designs and budgets. If you are looking for a more custom look and money is not a problem for you, then go for inset cabinets, as they can be customised according to your needs. In recent years, there has been a surge in hybrid designs, for example, Shaker doors with slimmer rails for a modern twist, or slab doors in textured wood veneers for warmth. Project managers often suggest versatile finishes like matte lacquer or thermofoil for long-term performance.
Cabinet Design According to Kitchen Layouts
Cabinet design plays an important role in creating a beautiful yet functional kitchen layout as well. When thinking about the designs of cabinets, you should also consider the layout. Here is how your cabinet designs should align with the layout plan.
| Layout | Best Cabinet Choices | Why It Works | Pro Tip |
| L-Shaped | Base cabinets along both walls; wall cabinets on one side; specialty corner units | Maximizes corner space and efficiency | Anchor the shorter wall with a tall pantry cabinet |
| U-Shaped | A combination of base, wall, and tall cabinets | Surrounds the cook on three sides, everything within reach | Avoid wall cabinets on all three sides to keep space open |
| Galley | Slim base cabinets; wall cabinets on one side only | Creates an efficient corridor and workflow | Use light finishes to prevent a closed-in feel |
| Island | Base cabinets in the island; tall cabinets on the walls | Island adds storage and doubles as a gathering spot | Opt for drawers in the island for easy access |
| Open-Plan | Tall cabinets for appliances; minimal uppers; open shelving | Keeps the design airy and blends with the living space | Match cabinetry finishes with adjacent furniture |
The right design of a cabinet depends less on trends and more on how the kitchen layout supports workflow, storage, and aesthetics. So choose accordingly. Tivoli Design Group works with the best kitchen cabinet brands, including Fabuwood Cabinetry, J&K Cabinetry, Forevermark Cabinetry, and Holiday Kitchens Cabinetry. All of these brands offer great modern, contemporary, and traditional cabinetry, including semi-custom options to fit your layout plan. You can contact us directly to learn more about our cabinet installation and products.
What Are The Material and Finish Choices For Kitchen Cabinets?
Cabinet materials play an important role in both durability and style. The most common materials used in cabinet design include:
Solid Wood:
Solid wood, like oak and others, offers a long-lasting, refinishable surface. Not only does it last longer, but it is also a versatile option that works with any design.
Metal and Glass Accents:
Used sparingly for modern kitchens. Mostly used for decorative purposes, except meta, which is also used as a structural material.
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)
This is a smooth surface for paint and resists cracking.
Thermofoil
It is an engineered surface that is affordable and easy to clean, but cannot withstand heat.
Plywood
It is stronger than particleboard and stable in humid kitchens. It offers modest durability but budget-friendly pricing.
In recent times, sustainable materials are gaining popularity. Clients now ask for FSC-certified wood, low-VOC finishes, and recycled veneers. Tivoli Kitchen frequently integrates Brands like Fabuwood and J&K that use eco-friendly materials in cabinet designs without compromising on aesthetics.
Transform Your Kitchen and bath Into a Masterpiece with our premium cabinets
Creating beautiful, functional spaces with custom cabinetry that combines innovative design with superior craftsmanship. From concept to completion, we bring your vision to life.
Kitchen Design
Custom Cabinets remodels
Bathroom Design
Vanities & storage solutions
3D Design
Visualize before you build
Installation
Professional & precise
FAQs About Cabinet Design
Let’s answer your questions about cabinet design ideas.
What type of cabinets are best for small kitchens?
Shallow base cabinets and open wall shelving keep small kitchens functional and visually open. Tall cabinets can overwhelm limited space, so one narrow pantry is enough.
Which cabinet style will never go out of fashion?
Shaker cabinets are the most popular cabinet style. Their balanced proportions work across modern, transitional, and traditional layouts.
Are custom cabinets worth the investment?
Yes, especially in complex layouts. Custom cabinets maximize storage, fit unique spaces, and support specific appliances. Semi-custom options balance cost and flexibility.
How do I match cabinets with an open-plan kitchen?
Choose finishes that blend with living areas. Use tall cabinets for appliances and keep upper cabinets minimal to avoid breaking visual flow.
What materials last the longest for cabinets?
Solid wood, birch, and plywood cabinet construction offer the best durability. MDF works well for painted finishes. Thermofoil and laminates are affordable but have shorter lifespans.
Bottom Line
Cabinet design is not just about the cabinet door and drawers. It is about how storage interacts with layout, how proportions last over time, and how the finishes shape moods. Homeowners and project managers who consider layout, style, and material together make better choices and avoid costly redesigns later.
Shaker, slab, and inset cabinets remain timeless. A mix of base, wall, and tall cabinets provides the most practical all-in-one solution. With careful planning, your kitchen cabinets will serve not only as storage but also as the backbone of a kitchen that works for decades. Tivoli Kitchen and Bathroom Style continues to guide projects with this philosophy.
