When considering a kitchen remodel, there are many cabinet styles to choose from that will dictate the aesthetic and functionality of the space. From Shaker to raised panel, beadboard to louvered, the options are endless. We’re now seeing a growing reappearance of a certain trend, glass-front cabinets, showing that what’s old is new again. Now with a modern twist and an elevated level of sophistication, glass-front cabinets are making a comeback as a frequent request from homeowners to display items and make their spaces feel larger and brighter. However, it’s important for designers to consider how they will impact both the performance and style of a kitchen. Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of choosing glass-front cabinets in modern kitchens.
In terms of aesthetics, glass-front cabinets enhance visual openness and light in the kitchen, while offering a stylish and modern look. Unlike traditional cabinets which occupy a lot of space on a wall, the open glass provides some visual depth and allows natural light to shine through. However, it’s important to remember that glass can quickly accumulate dust and fingerprints – especially if you have a house full of young children or pets – so regular cleaning is essential to maintaining clarity and a pristine aesthetic.
Photo credit: Bakes & Kropp
Many homeowners gravitate toward the style as an excellent balance between open shelving and traditional closed cabinets, allowing for the display of dishware while keeping visual clutter to a minimum. Glass-front cabinetry provides a great opportunity to display your favorite glassware or collected china, allowing them to become part of the kitchen decór. It can also be a great way to practice minimalism, organization and mindful storage practices. On the contrary, it requires a careful and curated selection of items – and not all kitchenware may look appealing. It’s best to store like-minded items together and stick to one color scheme, preferably one that matches your kitchen design, and remember that less is often more.
Whether frosted, fluted or clear, glass-front cabinets offer a sense of spaciousness by increasing transparency and allowing you to showcase beautiful dishware or decorative items without the heaviness of solid cabinet doors with various framed and frameless options. The high-end look offers flexibility in design, able to blend with a number of interior design styles from contemporary to transitional to more traditional; however, it can often be more expensive than solid cabinetry as there’s consideration given to texture and lighting inside the cabinet.
Photo credit: Bakes & Kropp
A kitchen remodel is always a significant project, so it’s important to plan in advance and weigh your options carefully before making a decision. Conduct research, find inspiration photos, and consult with seasoned design professionals for personalized advice on cabinetry choices to see if glass-front cabinetry fits your or your client’s particular aesthetic and lifestyle.
—By Bob Bakes, co-founder and head of design at Bakes & Kropp
