The Differences Between Framed versus Full Access Cabinetry and Why it Matters

Up until the day you begin the process of designing a kitchen with a company like ours, you probably have not given much thought to cabinetry construction . There’s a lot of thought, time, and effort that goes into the cabinetry manufacturing process, and there’s a lot of decisions that must be made when it comes to their type of construction. The two main types of cabinetry are framed and frameless. There are many differences between these types of cabinets that are very technical, but the most important one is the existence of a frame.

Frameless Cabinetry

Frameless cabinetry is also called full access cabinetry, and the benefit is just that: full access. This type of cabinetry has the advantage of more storage space because there is no frame taking up any space. So when your base cabinet is the standard 24 inches deep, you are almost getting that entire two feet worth of storage space. Compared to framed cabinets, where you get slightly less. Full access also has a sleek look and simple lines that give your kitchen a modern look. You see this in a lot of ultra modern kitchens, European style kitchens, or kitchens with slab doors and doors. We make custom cabinetry in the frameless construction method, and find that our customers really love it!

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Framed Cabinetry

However, if you don’t like the modern look and are willing to give up the extra storage, framed cabinetry may be right for you. The frame allows for a strong, sturdy cabinet and gives your kitchen a more traditional look. If you are going with the inset door option, where your door sits within the frame, you would be getting a framed cabinet. The inset door style is a very traditional and classic look. Our shop also makes framed cabinetry, and with a custom inset kitchen you get minimal seams between cabinets which gives your kitchen an elevated look. This means that frames for adjacent cabinets are actually constructed all as one piece.

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There is no right or wrong way to go about this, it’s all about your preference and style that you are going for in your space. We have examples of all types of cabinetry construction in our showroom and are happy to be your guide through as you make these major decisions about your kitchen design. If you want to see more examples of framed and full access cabinets, you can check out our kitchen portfolio on our website.