If you’re in the process of renovating your kitchen or bathroom, you may be wondering what the cabinets that are mounted to the wall are called. These cabinets are commonly referred to as wall cabinets, and they serve an important purpose in providing storage space while also adding to the overall aesthetic of the room.
Wall cabinets are a type of cabinetry that are mounted to the wall and are typically installed above base cabinets. They are available in a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes to suit different preferences and needs.
Wall cabinets can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas of the home where extra storage is needed.
When it comes to kitchen and bathroom cabinetry, understanding basic terminology is important to ensure that you choose the right cabinets for your needs. Knowing the difference between base cabinets and wall cabinets, for example, can help you make informed decisions when planning your renovation.
With Leona Rodriguesi Founder Of Mornington Cabinet Makers, we will explore in more detail what wall cabinets are and their role in cabinetry, as well as provide some helpful tips on choosing the right wall cabinets for your space.
Understanding Cabinet Terminology
When it comes to understanding cabinet terminology, there are a few key terms that you should be familiar with.
Cabinet Types and Placement
There are several different types of cabinets that you may encounter, including base cabinets, upper cabinets, corner cabinets, and vanities.
Base cabinets are typically installed on the floor and provide storage and countertop space. Meanwhile, upper cabinets are mounted on the wall above the countertop and can be used for additional storage.
Corner cabinets are designed to fit in the corner of a room and can be a great way to maximize space. Lastly, vanities are typically used in bathrooms and provide storage and countertop space for grooming and hygiene products.
Cabinet Structure
When it comes to cabinet structure, there are a few key terms to be aware of.
The cabinet box is the main body of the cabinet and is typically made from materials like particle board or MDF. Meanwhile, the face frame is the decorative front of the cabinet and is typically made from solid wood.
Rails and stiles are the horizontal and vertical pieces that make up the face frame. Lastly, the center panel is the flat panel that sits between the rails and stiles.
Door and Drawer Details
Cabinet doors and drawers can be made in a variety of styles and with a range of materials.
The door or drawer face is the decorative front of the door or drawer and can be made from materials like solid wood, MDF, or particle board. Meanwhile, the drawer box is the main body of the drawer and can be made from materials like solid wood or particle board.
The drawer glide is the mechanism that allows the drawer to slide in and out of the cabinet smoothly. Lastly, hinges are the hardware that attach the door to the cabinet and can be concealed or visible. Soft close hinges are a popular option that prevent doors from slamming shut.
Materials and Aesthetics
When it comes to cabinets, there are a variety of materials to choose from. The material you choose will not only affect the look of your cabinets but also their durability and functionality. Here are some material choices and finishes to consider:
Material Choices and Finishes
Wood Species
Wood species can have a significant impact on the appearance of your cabinets. Alder and cherry are two popular choices for their rich, warm tones and attractive grain patterns. Engineered wood, particleboard, and MDF are also commonly used materials for cabinets.
Stain and Paint
Stain and paint are two popular finishes for cabinets.
Stain is a great option if you want to showcase the natural beauty of the wood. Meanwhile, paint can give your cabinets a more modern look. Both finishes come in a variety of colors and shades to match your kitchen design.
Edge Profile
The edge profile is the shape of the edge of the cabinet door. It can be simple or ornate, depending on your preference.
A beveled edge is a popular choice for a modern look, while a rounded edge is more traditional.
Color Variation and Distressed Finish
If you want to add character to your cabinets, consider a distressed finish.
This finish gives your cabinets a weathered look, with color variation and a slightly rough texture. It’s a great option for a rustic or vintage-inspired kitchen design.
Design Elements and Styles
Shaker Style
Shaker style cabinets are a popular choice for their timeless, classic look. They feature a simple, clean design with a recessed panel and minimal ornamentation.
Shaker style cabinets are available in a variety of wood species and finishes.
Full Overlay and Reveal
Full overlay cabinets have doors that cover the entire face frame, giving them a seamless, modern look.
Reveal cabinets, on the other hand, have doors that leave a small gap between the door and the face frame. This style is more traditional and can add depth to your cabinets.
Crown Molding and Baseboard
Crown molding and baseboard are two design elements that can add a touch of elegance to your cabinets.
Crown molding is installed at the top of the cabinets and can help to visually extend the height of the cabinets.
Baseboard is installed at the bottom of the cabinets and can help to create a seamless transition between your cabinets and the floor.
Custom Cabinets
If you have unique storage needs or want a specific look for your cabinets, consider custom cabinets.
Custom cabinets are built to your specifications and can include features like fixed shelves, pull-out drawers, and hidden storage. For construction and installation, you may go to Leona Rodriguesi Founder Of Mornington Cabinet Makers.