Homeowners upgrading to a modern kitchen design project will soon realize that most of their focus and budget will be dedicated to cabinetry. Cabinetry is a central component of most kitchen layouts. It also accounts for most of the remodeling expense (typically around 30%).

Those embarking on a kitchen remodel should plan their cabinetry design focusing on the layout, colors, finish, style, and other design aspects.

Kitchen & Cabinetry Design

There are several aspects of cabinetry design, and each will affect your modern kitchen design budget. Here are some to consider.

Design: The kitchen design will depend on how large the space is. But don’t despair, small kitchens can be surprisingly efficient and functional.  Our designers take the room measurements, talk with you about your vision, and offer options for your kitchen design. The kitchen design will also include sink and appliance placement.

Customization: Cabinets are typically available in standard sizes and can be arranged to give a custom look to your kitchen. Style and finish options enable endless opportunities to create a unique kitchen design.

Cabinet Door and Style: Cabinet door styles typically fall into six categories: flat, raised panel, recessed panel, and shaker frame. Choose the one best suited to your modern kitchen design and personal taste.

Cabinet Accessories: Cabinet accessories refer to organizers such as racks and dividers. They are placed inside cabinets and drawers to make it easier for items to stay organized.

Molding and Trim: Molding and trim are cabinet details that enhance the aesthetics and take the kitchen design from ordinary to extraordinary. Options typically include crown, light rail, base, toe kick, scribe, and edge modeling.

Hardware: Hardware refers to the handles, pulls, hinges, and drawer rails of your kitchen cabinetry. Selecting the right hardware is an important detail in finishing a kitchen design. Hinges and drawer rails are usually included with the selected cabinetry.

Flooring: Depending on the type of flooring selected, it may be installed under the cabinets or around the cabinets. Different types of flooring can be used, or contractors can install cohesive flooring throughout. Choose flooring based on which type best complements your cabinets.

Lighting: This often-overlooked aspect of kitchen design impacts the atmosphere of the kitchen. Consider how natural light impacts the kitchen and changes throughout the day. What lighting is needed in the evening? Maybe under-cabinet lighting makes sense for your kitchen design.

Moving or Adding Utilities: It’s not unusual for electrical, plumbing, and heating systems to be moved during a kitchen design. Review the kitchen design with your contractor to learn more about the system upgrades needed to make your new kitchen design a reality.

Cabinet Trends for a Modern Kitchen Design

Choosing a cabinet design can be overwhelming for some people. The various options make it difficult to determine which is right for you. For a little inspiration, homeowners can explore kitchen cabinets through the decades:

1970s kitchen trends were dictated by earth tones and muted colors. Dark oak and oak laminate were complemented by gold, brown, and dark green paint. Who can forget the gold and avocado green appliances? Raised panel cabinet doors were integrated to mimic the look of colonial-style homes.

The 1980s were the height of modernism in kitchen design. Bright, light, and all-white kitchens were trending. Raised panel cabinets were still popular, but curved stiles were incorporated to enhance the elegance. Butcher-block countertops were very popular.

In the 1990s, homeowners shifted to minimalist kitchen design. Light oak stains and white paint colors often complemented this new trend. Raised panel cabinets were still popular, but recessed panels and flat panels were favored.

The early 2000s saw an 80s revival as white kitchens reemerged. White was incorporated into every element, from the cabinets to the natural stone countertops. The decade also carried over the minimalist appeal of the 1990s with slab cabinets that lacked ornate details. Stainless appliances became popular.

Today’s home designers are breaking out of the box and becoming creative with colors and style. Although wood tones are still popular, various wood species and stain combinations are integrated to add interest.

One popular design trend is a playful approach to colors and finishes. Designers choose one color or finish for their perimeter cabinets, and another for their island cabinets. Or they may choose a dark color or finish for their base cabinets to achieve an upscale appeal, and a lighter color or finish for their wall cabinets to keep the room looking light and airy.

Indisco and Modern Kitchen Design You’ll Love

Indisco understands the kitchen design process can feel overwhelming. We will be there every step of the way.

The journey to a kitchen you’ll love begins with a single step – contacting us to schedule an appointment. Give us a call at 207-883-5562 to schedule your free consultation.

If you’re in the area, visit our showroom in Scarborough to explore cabinetry options and chat with our designers.

We’re here to help you “Love your Kitchen” again.