Inset Cabinetry

Defining feature: Doors and drawers fit inside the cabinet frame, sitting flush with the face of the cabinet.

  • Look: Classic and elegant, often associated with traditional or high-end custom kitchens.

  • Benefits: Clean, furniture-like appearance with precise reveals.

Considerations: Requires skilled craftsmanship and tight tolerances, which can mean a higher price point.

Framed Cabinetry

Defining feature: A face frame surrounds the cabinet box opening, and the doors are mounted on this frame.

  • Look: Timeless and versatile. Styles include full overlay (doors cover most of the frame) or partial overlay (some frame remains visible).

  • Benefits: Extra strength from the frame, easier installation on uneven walls, and a wide range of design options.

  • Considerations: Slightly less interior space compared to frameless. Reveals may be slightly larger given the space needed between cabinet doors.

Frameless Cabinetry

Defining feature: Also called European style, there is no face frame; doors attach directly to the cabinet box.

  • Look: Sleek and contemporary with tight, consistent gaps between doors.

  • Benefits: Maximizes interior space and offers smooth, modern lines. Excellent for contemporary or minimalist kitchens.

  • Considerations: Requires precise installation and sturdy cabinet boxes, often built from thicker materials.

What’s the Difference Between Inset, Frameless, and Framed Cabinetry?

When designing a new kitchen or updating an existing one, the cabinetry you choose sets the tone for both style and function. One of the first decisions you’ll face is selecting the construction style: inset, frameless, or framed. Each option has its own character, craftsmanship, and practical benefits. Here’s how they compare.

Choosing the Right Style

  • Traditional or transitional kitchens: Inset or framed cabinetry provide a timeless, furniture-like feel.

  • Modern or contemporary spaces: Frameless cabinetry delivers clean lines and efficient storage.

  • Custom design goals: Your lifestyle, desired aesthetic, and budget will guide the decision.

At Pointe Cabinets and Design, we help clients navigate these choices every day. Whether you love the handcrafted detail of inset, the flexibility of framed, or the modern simplicity of frameless, our designers can create a kitchen that reflects your style and works beautifully for your home.