Kitchen Cabinets
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Freestanding Kitchen Cabinetry
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment can affect behavior. Before consulting privately, I received my MA in writing and ran a design boutique in Los Angeles.
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment... More »
Built-in cabinetry is mostly considered the paragon of an elegant and proper kitchen—but are they overrated? In smaller dwellings, or kitchens that work best with spacial flexibility, freestanding cabinetry may be the key.
I use this term loosely, to refer to anything not permanently built into the wall. From modern modular design to islands to farmhouse hutches, the options of materials can be as varied as how you arrange them. A favorite example is an apartment kitchen whose only permanent structure was the sink, allowing for most of four walls to be filled and changed as desired--one wall was covered with commercial chrome open shelving, and a steel surface island graced the middle of the room.
Whatever the look, freestanding cabinetry can give a flexibility to a room usually not so described. As your needs change over the years and even from week to week, freestanding can help make the kitchen a malleable place to create and gather.
I use this term loosely, to refer to anything not permanently built into the wall. From modern modular design to islands to farmhouse hutches, the options of materials can be as varied as how you arrange them. A favorite example is an apartment kitchen whose only permanent structure was the sink, allowing for most of four walls to be filled and changed as desired--one wall was covered with commercial chrome open shelving, and a steel surface island graced the middle of the room.
Whatever the look, freestanding cabinetry can give a flexibility to a room usually not so described. As your needs change over the years and even from week to week, freestanding can help make the kitchen a malleable place to create and gather.
A freestanding custom cabinet can add needed space and individuality.
Layers of work space have been added to this long room, increasing the room's functionality and accentuating its elongated shape. Sleek and ordered.
A similar effect, by adding this long kitchen island, which contributes to half of the kitchen's storage and workspace—without blocking the openness.
Yes, kitchen islands commonly come up in freestanding considerations. This one is built in, but it need not be so. Even a hefty farmhouse table can provide for extra work space—and eating space for a younger crowd during parties and holidays.
Even a skinny table along the end of a kitchen area can help separate the kitchen from the rest of the open room, and can offer a surprising amount of funcitonality.
A vast offering of adjustable shelving like this can help a more DIYer custom create their kitchen space.
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| Modern modular kitchens offer distinct pieces to fit together as desired, keeping the look sleek and functional. |
Modern with a classic color twist.
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| This farmhouse-inspired cabinetry can be custom made by a carpenter, and can fit the style of your kitchen. This classic structure goes well with the farmhouse sink. |
A piece like this easily slips into a free wall in a kitchen.
by Global Living
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A classic farmhouse look with flexibility, with the beautiful heft of a built-in.
Comments
Mark Downing Here are a few cabinets I designed for various kitchens 
3 years ago · Like
B Domings Isn't this idea a return to the hoosier?? Or the old kitchen hutch. Love the look!
3 years ago · Like
Carolyn Zone9alady I love the freestanding look, especially for the kitchen island. We are going to incorporate an old cupboard into our remodel.
3 years ago · Like
Fl!p Breskin Lately I've been restoring my 1915 Hoosier cabinet (Sellers, really), on which I've been cooking since 1971. These days it's easy to find parts for the old jewels. I'll try to take another shot with the doors open. I love the pull-out work surface! 
3 years ago · Like
nitrodi 1915 Hoosier cabinet.......adorable !!!!!!!
3 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on Nov. 7, 2010.
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