Overlay vs inset cabinetry.

11 years ago

We are having all new custom maple cabinets built to replace our 1995 white Thermafoil overlay cabinets. My biggest design decision isn't stain or door style - it's overlay vs inset. Our builder will build inset for the same price as overlay. I like the look of the inset drawers but prefer overlay doors - can I mix the two? The gap around the inset doors bothers me.

Featured Answer

feeny

11 years ago

I would either go for the mix you want or inset for everything. As long as they are separated top/bottom it should be fine. Getting the inset for the same price as overlay is a good deal, so consider that too when you are deciding. Inset is usually more expensive.

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Comments (6)

PRO
Norm Walters Construction Inc.
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
If you mix the two the doors will be protruding beyond the drawers, as the drawers will be flush with the face frames, and the doors will be on top of the face frames. If your builder will build them for the same amount I would jump on that because it is not usually the case.
feeny
11 years ago
What style is your kitchen? I think of inset cabinetry as having a more old-fashioned look (in a nice way). Full overlay can work with either very contemporary or (depending on the hardware and cabinet style) more classic styles. If you go with overlay, just make sure it is FULL overlay.
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Becky Hofmann-Isaacs
Original Author
11 years ago
@norm: the doors are all on upper cabinets while the drawers are all on lower cabinets. The only time they are abutting one another is on the built-in hutch, which would all be inset to keep the appearance of a furniture piece.
Becky Hofmann-Isaacs
Original Author
11 years ago
@feeny: my style is traditional - going with an Italian country kitchen style. Hardware will be rod iron or bronzed pulls/handles with a raised panel design in cherry- chocolate and black cabinetry.
PRO
Norm Walters Construction Inc.
11 years ago
Becky, you may start a new trend, beauty is in the eye of the beholder 8-)