How to choose custom cabinet door styles
Choosing your cabinet door style might not seem like a big decision, until you're standing in your kitchen wondering why everything feels just a little off. Whether you're starting fresh or upgrading your IKEA system with Kokeena cabinet fronts, the style you pick sets the tone for your whole space.
Here’s how to narrow it down and find the style that fits your kitchen, your taste, and your lifestyle.
What exactly is a ‘cabinet door style’?
It's the shape, detailing, and structure of the door front, whether it’s sleek and flat, framed with subtle edges, or features more intricate molding. This choice plays a huge role in defining your kitchen’s overall vibe: minimalist, modern farmhouse, classic, you name it.
The right style creates cohesion between your cabinetry and everything else, your countertops, hardware, lighting, and even flooring. Here are four factors to consider when choosing cabinet door styles
Match your style and color palette. Start by looking around. Do you lean modern, traditional, or somewhere in between? Shaker doors are a safe (and stylish) middle ground, while slab fronts communicate “minimalism.” Raised panel doors add traditional charm, especially in warm wood tones.
Keep in mind that your cabinet style should complement not compete with your countertops, backsplash, and hardware. (Not sure where to start? Browse our cabinet hardware guide for ideas.)
Consider budget and material. Certain door styles like slab or shaker tend to be more budget-friendly, especially in durable paint-grade materials. More ornate styles or premium hardwoods can increase cost, but also elevate your space.
Maintenance. If you’ve got little ones (or love to cook), think about upkeep. Slab doors are easy to wipe down. Shaker styles can collect dust in their insets. Raised panels? Gorgeous, but a little more fussy. Choose what fits your daily life.
Choosing the right material. Wood types and finishes can affect the look and longevity of your kitchen. Oak, walnut, maple can each bring unique grain and warmth. Painted MDF can be just as beautiful and often more budget-friendly.
If you’re aiming for longevity and sustainability, ask about FSC-certified options and low-VOC finishes. We’re always happy to chat about what’s best for your goals.
Customization that counts
Going custom means you can choose your paint color, wood species, edge profile, and hardware finish. Maybe it’s a matte black pull on a forest green slab door. Or a brushed brass knob on a white oak shaker. The combos are endless, and that’s the fun part.
Not sure where to start? Kokeena is here to guide you through it, from selecting hardware that complements your door style to picking the right finish for your light.
3 popular cabinet door styles explained
Shaker Cabinets
Clean lines, square frame, center panel. This timeless style suits almost any kitchen from modern, transitional to traditional.
Pros: Versatile, classic, easy to match with other design elements.
Cons: Slightly more detail to clean than slab.
Slab Cabinets
Flat-front, minimalist, and totally sleek. Ideal for modern or Scandinavian-inspired kitchens.
Pros: Super easy to clean, budget-friendly, great for small spaces.
Cons: May feel too stark in more traditional homes.
Raised panel cabinet door
A central panel that’s slightly elevated, framed by decorative edging. Works beautifully in more formal or traditional kitchens.
Pros: Elegant, detailed, high-end look.
Cons: More complex to clean, usually higher cost.
Get started with your cabinet door selection
Before making your final decision, take some time to gather inspiration. Create a Pinterest board or save photos of kitchens that catch your eye. Be sure to order samples from us, too. Seeing the door style in your own lighting can make all the difference. It’s also smart to think about hardware early on, since the right knobs or pulls can elevate even the simplest cabinet door.
If you’re ready to get started, get a quote from us. And if you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’re here to help!