Inset Cabinets

What are inset cabinets?

Inset kitchen cabinets feature doors and drawers that fit inside the cabinet face frame openings. This type of cabinet construction gives a full view of the cabinet frame, with only minimal spacing or gaps between the cabinet components.

What are the advantages of inset cabinetry?

.Inset cabinetry offers clean lines, flush inset doors, and features that can change the look of a standard cabinet with a full overlay door. To personalize the design you can choose from either a beaded inset cabinet door or a non-beaded one. The beaded inset construction is fitted into the cabinet door, providing an edge detail that evokes fine craftsmanship.

Inset cabinets can take on a large range of additional modifications, including color and finish options, mouldings, and embellishments, enabling you to create beautiful cabinets that celebrate the heritage and simple elegance of transitional styling.

Things to consider with inset cabinets

Inset cabinets give a classic, elegant look to a space, but there are a few items to think about when deciding if they are right for you.

• Higher Cost – Inset is typically more expensive than overlay because inset requires more precise craftsmanship and special hinges.
• Reduced Storage – Because inset requires doors and drawer fronts sit flush with the cabinet frame, this results in a smaller opening compared to overlay cabinets with minimal reduction in storage space.
• Binding Potential – Changes in alignment overtime may cause doors or drawers to rub against the cabinet frame when opening or closing them. This can lead to increased wear and tear.
• Limited Adjustment During Installation - If the cabinet frames are not perfectly square or if there are inconsistencies in the installation, it may be more challenging to achieve proper door alignment, and gaps between doors may vary.

Inset vs overlay cabinets

While both styles have their own aesthetic appeal, there are key differences that should be considered when choosing between inset and overlay cabinetry.

Inset Cabinets

• Trend toward a custom, traditional, and classic look
• Doors and drawers that fit inside the cabinet frame, creating a flush surface with the frame when closed.
• Require precise craftsmanship to ensure the doors fit perfectly within the frame.
• Hinges are visible on the outside of the cabinet frame

Overlay Cabinets

• Offer more flexibility and can be used in a variety of design styles
• Doors and drawers partially or fully cover the cabinet frame, overlapping the edges.
• Hinges are usually mounted inside the cabinet and therefore hidden from view
• Can be easier to install

Your choice will likely come down to personal preference, the design style that most appeals to you, and budget. Not sure what your budget looks like? Use our budget calculator to get started