Custom Kitchen Cabinet Doors
How the cabinet door fits over the cabinet box determines the door overlay and appearance of the kitchen.
Full Overlay vs. Standard Overlay
Full overlay doors have approximately 1/4” to 3/8” spacing between them— they will cover most of the cabinet frame.
Full Overlay in Rustic Alder ~ Custom Cabinets done in a model home in Blaine, Minnesota
Full Overlay door styles provide a seamless appearance by using the door and drawer front to cover the entire face frame producing a very small reveal. Full Overlay construction is dramatic when used with door styles that have five piece drawer fronts. Door/drawer hardware pulls are required.
Standard Overlay in Oak ~ Custom Cabinets made for another home in Blaine, Minnesota
In Standard Overlay door styles, the door and drawer front partially reveals the face frame of the cabinet all around the perimeter of the door and drawer. Standard Overlay construction has a 3/4″ opening between the door and drawer for easy access without the need for door/drawer hardware. This type of overlay construction is timeless and traditional.
Inset doors sit within the rails and stiles and lay flush with the front edges of the cabinet frame. Most inset doors are only available with framed construction. Note: wood may expand and contract because of humidity, making more frequent adjustment of doors necessary.
Lipped doors are routed with a slight wooden groove to fit over the face frame.
Once you have selected the type of cabinet door you want, you’ll want to think about the different door shapes and styles that are available. First thing to focus on is the shape of the door. Search for shapes and materials that contribute to, rather than detract from, your overall style preference. The options for door styles include:
- Recessed panel
- Raised panel
- Curved panel
- Beadboard panel
- Flat slab
Review your floor plan and budget with a Minnesota Custom Cabinet Maker who can help you find the perfect cabinets to fit your kitchen, lifestyle and budget today!
Once you have selected the wood, style and finish, make it uniquely yours with decorative accents, panels and moldings. Then you can start thinking about accessories, hardware, and the topping on the cake…countertops!