Top Kitchen Cabinet Materials: Best Kitchen Cabinets 2016
Choosing the right kitchen cabinet material is a big decision, as it affects the look, feel, and longevity of your kitchen. There are a lot of options out there, but the most common include wood, laminate, and thermofoil. Each has its own pros and cons, so let’s dive into the details!
Wood Cabinet Materials
Wood cabinets are a classic choice, known for their natural beauty and durability. They can be stained or painted to match any style, and they offer a timeless elegance.
Here’s a breakdown of some popular wood cabinet materials:
- Solid Wood: This is the most expensive option, but it also offers the highest quality and durability. Solid wood cabinets are built to last and can be refinished multiple times, making them a good investment. Common solid wood choices include cherry, maple, oak, and walnut.
- Plywood: A more affordable option than solid wood, plywood is made up of layers of wood veneer glued together. This construction provides stability and strength, and it’s less prone to warping than solid wood. Plywood cabinets are a good choice for those who want the look of wood without the high price tag.
- Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF): MDF is made from wood fibers that are pressed together with resin. It’s a very dense material, making it resistant to moisture and scratches. MDF cabinets are also very affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. However, MDF is not as durable as solid wood or plywood and can be difficult to repair.
Laminate Cabinet Materials
Laminate cabinets are made with a core of particleboard or plywood covered with a plastic laminate. This material is very durable and resistant to scratches, heat, and moisture. Laminate cabinets are also very affordable, making them a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.
Here are some key things to know about laminate cabinets:
- Durability: Laminate is known for its resistance to scratches, heat, and moisture, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens.
- Cost: Laminate is one of the most affordable cabinet materials, making it a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.
- Aesthetic: Laminate cabinets come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, offering flexibility to match any kitchen style.
Thermofoil Cabinet Materials
Thermofoil cabinets are made with a core of particleboard or plywood covered with a thin layer of plastic that is heated and pressed onto the surface. This creates a smooth, durable finish that is resistant to scratches, moisture, and heat. Thermofoil cabinets are also very affordable and easy to clean.
Here’s what you need to know about thermofoil cabinets:
- Durability: Thermofoil is very durable and resistant to scratches, moisture, and heat.
- Cost: Thermofoil cabinets are a very affordable option, making them a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
- Aesthetic: Thermofoil cabinets come in a variety of colors and finishes, but they often have a more modern or contemporary look.
Choosing the Right Kitchen Cabinet Material, Best kitchen cabinets 2016
When choosing the right kitchen cabinet material, it’s important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.
Here are some tips for making the right choice:
- Budget: Laminate and thermofoil cabinets are the most affordable options, while solid wood cabinets are the most expensive.
- Lifestyle: If you have a busy family or frequently entertain, you may want to choose a durable material like laminate or thermofoil.
- Aesthetic: Consider the overall style of your kitchen and choose a material that complements it.
Kitchen Cabinet Styles and Trends
In 2016, kitchen cabinet styles were as diverse as the cooks who used them. From the timeless elegance of traditional designs to the sleek minimalism of contemporary styles, there was a cabinet for every taste and preference.
Popular Kitchen Cabinet Styles in 2016
The year 2016 saw a continued popularity of classic cabinet styles like Shaker, Contemporary, and Traditional. These styles offered a blend of functionality and aesthetics, making them perfect for modern kitchens.
- Shaker Cabinets: Known for their simple, clean lines and recessed panel doors, Shaker cabinets exuded a timeless appeal. They were often crafted from wood like maple or cherry, with a natural finish that enhanced the wood’s grain. Shaker cabinets could be dressed up with decorative hardware, or kept simple with minimalist pulls.
- Contemporary Cabinets: Contemporary cabinets were characterized by their sleek, minimalist designs. They often featured flat panel doors, with no visible hardware or simple, flush-mounted pulls. The focus was on clean lines and a sense of uncluttered space. Contemporary cabinets were frequently made from materials like lacquered wood, high-gloss acrylic, or stainless steel.
- Traditional Cabinets: Traditional cabinets offered a more ornate and elaborate look, with detailed moldings, raised panel doors, and decorative hardware. They were often made from hardwoods like oak or mahogany, and finished with a warm, rich stain. Traditional cabinets provided a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication.
Design Elements that Define Kitchen Cabinet Styles
Each kitchen cabinet style was defined by specific design elements that contributed to its overall look and feel.
- Door Profiles: The shape and design of the cabinet doors played a significant role in defining the style. Shaker cabinets featured recessed panel doors, while contemporary cabinets often had flat panel doors. Traditional cabinets showcased raised panel doors or elaborate moldings.
- Hardware: Cabinet hardware, such as pulls, knobs, and hinges, could significantly impact the overall aesthetic. Shaker cabinets often used simple, minimalist hardware, while contemporary cabinets favored sleek, modern pulls or hidden hardware. Traditional cabinets were adorned with decorative hardware, like ornate knobs or elaborate hinges.
- Finishes: The finish of the cabinets also played a crucial role in defining the style. Shaker cabinets were often finished with a natural stain that highlighted the wood’s grain. Contemporary cabinets were frequently lacquered or painted in bold, solid colors. Traditional cabinets were often stained with rich, warm tones or painted in classic colors.
Current Trends in Kitchen Cabinet Design
Kitchen cabinet design was constantly evolving, with new trends emerging regularly.
- Two-Tone Cabinets: This trend involved using two different colors or finishes for the upper and lower cabinets, creating a visually interesting and modern look. This technique could add depth and dimension to the kitchen, and allowed homeowners to express their personal style.
- Open Shelving: Open shelving was becoming increasingly popular, offering a more open and airy feel to the kitchen. It allowed homeowners to display their favorite dishes and decorative items, creating a personalized and inviting space.
- Integrated Appliances: Integrated appliances, like refrigerators and ovens, were seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry, creating a sleek and modern look. This trend emphasized a minimalist aesthetic and maximized the use of space.
Considerations for Choosing Kitchen Cabinets
Choosing the right kitchen cabinets is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the functionality, aesthetics, and overall value of your kitchen. There are numerous factors to consider, and a thoughtful approach can help you make informed choices that align with your needs, style, and budget.
Budget Considerations
It’s essential to establish a clear budget before embarking on your cabinet selection journey. Cabinets represent a significant investment, and understanding your financial constraints will help narrow down your options.
- Determine the overall budget allocated for kitchen renovations, ensuring a portion is dedicated to cabinets.
- Consider the cost of materials, finishes, hardware, and installation.
- Research different manufacturers and brands to compare pricing and features.
- Explore financing options or explore DIY solutions to potentially save on labor costs.
Space Constraints
The layout and size of your kitchen play a crucial role in cabinet selection.
- Measure the available space accurately, taking into account existing appliances, doorways, and windows.
- Consider the functionality of each cabinet and how it will be used.
- Optimize storage solutions by selecting cabinets that maximize vertical space and utilize corners effectively.
- Explore custom cabinet options to tailor designs to your specific space requirements.
Lifestyle Considerations
Your lifestyle and daily routines should guide your cabinet choices.
- Think about your cooking habits and the frequency of meal preparation.
- Consider the number of people you cook for and their dietary needs.
- Evaluate your storage needs, including the types of items you frequently use and their sizes.
- Choose materials and finishes that are durable and easy to clean, reflecting your lifestyle and preferences.
Cabinet Manufacturers and Brands
- Research reputable manufacturers and brands known for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.
- Explore reviews and ratings from previous customers to gauge the reliability and performance of different options.
- Consider factors such as warranty, lead times, and availability of customization options.
- Compare prices, features, and styles to determine the best value for your investment.
Resources and Tips
- Consult with a kitchen designer or contractor to get expert advice and guidance on cabinet selection.
- Visit local home improvement stores and cabinet showrooms to see samples and get a feel for different materials and finishes.
- Utilize online resources, such as websites and forums, to gather information, compare prices, and read reviews.
- Attend home improvement shows or events to connect with manufacturers and get personalized recommendations.
Best kitchen cabinets 2016 – The best kitchen cabinets in 2016 were all about functionality and style. From sleek, modern designs to traditional, farmhouse-inspired looks, there was something for everyone. And just like the kitchen, the bedroom was also undergoing a transformation, with homeowners seeking out the latest trends in design and comfort.
For inspiration on how to create the perfect master bedroom retreat, check out this article on best master bedrooms 2016. But back to the kitchen, remember that well-designed cabinets are the heart of any home, so choosing the right ones is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics.
Choosing the right kitchen cabinets in 2016 was all about finding the perfect blend of style and functionality. But before you get too caught up in the details of cabinet finishes and hardware, consider the overall design aesthetic you want to achieve in your home.
A cohesive style will tie everything together, from your kitchen cabinets to your bedroom décor. Take a look at this article on what style should my bedroom be to get some inspiration for your overall design vision, which will ultimately influence the type of kitchen cabinets you choose.
Once you’ve got a clear picture of the style you want to achieve, you can then confidently select kitchen cabinets that perfectly complement your home’s overall aesthetic.
