When designing or remodeling a kitchen, one of the most important decisions is selecting the cabinetry. Cabinets frame the workspace, hold essential tools and ingredients, and set the overall aesthetic of the cooking space. Most standard cabinets come with doors attached to conceal the contents inside. However, doors are not required for cabinets to function properly. So what are some alternatives to regular cabinet doors?
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Curtains
One easy substitute for cabinet doors is to install curtains. Choose from a variety of fabrics like linen, cotton, or polyester blends. Curtains give a soft, homey feel to a kitchen and make the contents of the cabinets easily accessible. Here are some benefits of using curtains instead of doors:
- Less expensive than doors
- Variety of colors/patterns to suit any decor
- Easier to install than hinged doors
- Contents visible at a glance
- Curtains can be tied back to leave cabinets open
Measure carefully and use quality curtain rods suited for the inside of cabinets. Be aware curtains may not block dust and grease splatters as effectively as solid doors. Overall, curtains lend a relaxed, casual look perfect for cottage or farmhouse kitchens.
Shelves
Another alternative is to forego doors entirely and install open shelves. This allows full access and visibility to whatever is stored inside the cabinets. Shelving works especially well for frequently-used items like dishes, cookbooks, spices, or cooking utensils. Consider these upsides to open shelving:
- Contents easily seen and grabbed
- No doors to open/close
- Cabinets appear larger and kitchen feels more open
- Can display decorative dishware or cooking tools
- Easy to clean exposed surfaces
The main downside is open shelves do not hide clutter or messes. Make sure to use sturdy brackets, properly spaced for the shelf size and weight bearing capacity. Also be diligent about keeping shelves neatly organized. A mix of open shelving up top and doors on lower cabinets for hidden storage is a smart design compromise.
Glass Doors
For those who like the clean look of no doors but also want the option to conceal contents, glass cabinet doors are the perfect choice. Glass doors are available in styles such as:
- Framed – glass panes in wood frames
- Frameless – a single glass sheet with no frame
- Frosted – opaque glass that obscures contents
- Patterned – decorative etched or textured glass
- Tinted – glass with a colored hue
Glass doors maintain visibility to find items easily, but can be closed to hide clutter when needed. Other advantages include:
- Retains open, airy aesthetic
- Glass reflects light to make kitchen brighter
- Easier to clean than solid doors
- Variety of styles to suit any kitchen
Hinged glass doors do cost more than curtains or open shelves. The glass also breaks more easily than other materials if impacted. But overall glass cabinet doors are an excellent blend of form and function.
Rolling Doors
Rolling doors offer a modern, industrial look for contemporary kitchens. These doors consist of slatted panels or a solid sheet that rolls up and down on a track, similar to a garage door. Consider rolling doors if you want:
- Sleek, on-trend aesthetic
- Convenient push-button or remote control operation
- Doors hidden away when open
- Full access to interior cabinet space
Drawbacks include a higher price tag than hinged doors and the doors in the down position can obstruct surrounding cabinets or counter space. But for cooks desiring a minimalist, uncluttered look, rolling doors are a compelling choice.
Barn Doors
Another modern style gaining popularity are barn doors. These use a sliding mechanism to open and close. Benefits include:
- Doors mount on wall versus cabinet face
- Save space with doors that don’t swing out
- Industrial, rustic appeal
- Convenient slide access
- Come in wood, metal, glass, and other materials
Measure carefully as barn doors require adequate surrounding wall space to slide open and closed. The wall-mounted track should be sturdy enough to handle repeated use. While barn doors do cost more than standard hinged doors, their space-saving slide function and charming farmhouse look make them a great option.
Cafe Doors
Cafe doors are comprised of two small wooden doors mounted horizontally that swing open from the middle. Benefits of this style include:
- Doors open independently for easy access
- Compact size ideal for narrow spaces
- Vintage bistro aesthetic
- Allows view of contents when closed
- Inexpensive compared to other door styles
Be sure to measure carefully so the doors can fully swing open and closed without hitting adjoining cabinets or walls. And check door size in relation to cabinet dimensions so the doors properly fit the opening. With their charming retro flair, cafe doors infuse your kitchen with European bistro character.
No Doors
Finally, you can forego doors entirely and leave cabinets open. This allows full visibility and access. Reasons to go without doors include:
- Minimalist, uncluttered look
- No hardware needed
- Cabinets appear larger
- Contents always in sight
- Easy cleaning of cabinet interior
The lack of concealment means you must be diligent about always keeping the open cabinets clean and neatly organized. Uninterrupted lines and surfaces give a sleek, contemporary style. So for those desiring a streamlined, modern space, open cabinets make a striking design statement.
Conclusion
Cabinet doors are certainly not required for cabinets to function properly. Many attractive alternatives provide both aesthetic appeal and practical access. Consider your kitchen’s size, layout, and style preferences when weighing door options. Any of these substitutes lend visual flair while offering customized access:
- Cafe doors – Retro, European bistro charm
- Curtains – Soft, casual cottage feel
- Glass doors – Stylishly blend concealment and visibility
- Barn doors – Rustic, industrial sliding access
- Rolling doors – Sleek, modern automated operation
- Open shelves – Full visibility and grab-and-go convenience
- No doors – Minimalist, contemporary open concept
With this range of options, you’re sure to find the perfect door design to match your personal taste and kitchen needs.