Inset vs. Overlay Cabinets: Which is Right for You?

Today we’re diving into the world of kitchen cabinets. If you’re planning a kitchen makeover, this post is for you. We're breaking down the differences between inset and overlay cabinets to help you decide what's best for your kitchen remodel. Get ready to transform the heart of your home with these insights!

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Inset Cabinets: A Sleek and Minimalist Choice

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When it comes to kitchen design, inset cabinets are all about sleek style and minimalism. These cabinets have drawers and doors that are flush with or inset from the cabinet frame. This creates a smooth, clean look that works well in traditional, modern, and farmhouse kitchen styles. The exposed cabinet frame adds a touch of sophistication, making your kitchen cabinetry look refined and elegant.

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Pros of Inset Cabinets:

• Clean Lines: Inset cabinets offer a streamlined appearance with minimal clutter.
• Durability: Since the doors and drawers are inset, they will not get as nicked or chipped.
• Space Savers: Ideal for small kitchens, these cabinets consume less external space, making your kitchen look more spacious.

Cons of Inset Cabinets:

• Cost: They tend to be 15-30% more expensive than overlay cabinets.
• Reduced Space: The inset design means slightly less storage space inside the cabinets.
• Hardware Required: You’ll need cabinet hardware to open these doors and drawers since they sit flush with the frame.

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Overlay Cabinets: Versatile and Accessible

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Overlay cabinets are a popular choice for kitchen remodelers. These cabinets have doors and drawers that sit on top of the cabinet frame, creating a seamless, cohesive look. They’re available in full and partial overlay styles, giving you plenty of options to suit your floor plan and design preferences.

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Pros of Overlay Cabinets:

• Extra Storage: Full overlay cabinets maximize interior storage space.
• Variety: Widely available at big box stores, making them easy to find and often more affordable.
• Modern Look: Full overlay cabinets provide a sleek, modern appearance without the higher cost of inside cabinets.

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Cons of Overlay Cabinets:

• Visible Gaps: Partial overlay cabinets can have visible gaps between doors and drawers, which might not appeal to everyone.
• External Space: They add an extra 7/8 inch on the exterior, which might make your kitchen feel a bit more crowded.

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Choosing the Right Cabinets for Your Kitchen Makeover

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So, how do you decide which cabinet style is right for your kitchen? Think about your priorities and what matters most to you in your remodeling projects.

Are you aiming for a minimalist, high-end look? Inset cabinets might be your best bet. Do you want maximum storage and an easy, accessible option? Overlay cabinets could be the way to go.

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Bringing It All Together

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No matter which style you choose, updating your kitchen cabinetry can transform the heart of your home. Whether you prefer the sleek design of inside cabinets or the versatility of overlay cabinets, both options can help you create your dream kitchen.

Remember, the kitchen is the heart of the home. From the latest kitchen appliances to energy-efficient sink faucets and natural stone countertops, every detail matters. Working with professional kitchen remodelers in Long Beach can help you navigate these choices and bring your vision to life.

Pro Tip: Always plan your floor plan and select your kitchen appliances before deciding on your cabinet layout. This ensures everything fits perfectly and functions efficiently.

Are you based near Long Beach, CA and ready to start your kitchen makeover? At Shore Construction, we're qualified kitchen remodelers - give us a call and one of our dedicated team members will help you turn your idea into reality.

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About Shore Construction:

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Shore Construction is a fully licensed general contractor that specializes in luxury custom kitchen and bathroom remodels. For 40 years, we’ve served as qualified kitchen contractors in Long Beach and provided remodeling services to clients in Naples and Belmont Shore as well as coastline estates from Palos Verdes to Huntington Beach.