There are many options when it comes to modern kitchen cabinets. Trends come and go, so pick a design you enjoy.
For example, if you love the fluted look on traditional doors, create consistency by using it for your lower cabinetry as well. Designer Karen Swanson did so in this sleek blue kitchen with black pulls to play up the shapes.
Slab Cabinets
Slab cabinets are a key component of modern kitchen design. They are full-access cabinetry that lacks a face frame, which creates a much simpler look. This allows other design elements, like modern hardware and an industrial light fixture, to stand out without causing the eye to get overwhelmed by too many details.
Homeowners looking to create a truly modern kitchen should consider slab doors paired with simple cabinet hardware, such as tubular or rectangular bar pulls. These types of cabinet knobs and handles are easy to clean and accentuate the flat panel cabinet door style.
Another way to keep the look of your kitchen modern is by opting for darker cabinet colors. Black kitchen cabinets are a popular choice among homeowners who want to achieve a contemporary feel. These kitchens pair well with sleek appliances and modern hardware. In addition, dark cabinet colors can help create a sense of depth and openness in the space, making it appear larger and more spacious.
Thermofoil Cabinets
Thermofoil cabinets are a popular option for modern kitchens. They come in a variety of finishes and colors and can mimic the look of natural materials like wood. Glossy finishes reflect light and make spaces feel bright and large. However, they also show dirt and scratches more easily. Matte or flat finishes hide smudges and fingerprints better.
Another benefit of thermofoil is that it is moisture resistant. This makes it an ideal choice for high-moisture areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It also resists warping, which is common in solid-wood cabinets. Thermofoil doors can also be cleaned with simple soapy water.
Older thermofoil cabinets may contain levels of formaldehyde that are too high for safety standards. However, newer materials and technology lower formaldehyde exposure risks significantly.
Painted Cabinets
If wood cabinets are too traditional for your modern kitchen, consider painted shades that meld with the color palette. Vibrant hues like pinks and oranges provide high energy and warmth, while softer neutrals like blues create a relaxing backdrop. When you go with a bold shade for your cabinets, consider limiting it to the island for a more subdued look.
If you’re painting your own cabinets, use a low-VOC paint that’s easy to clean and doesn’t have a strong odor. Using a dropcloth to catch drips is essential, as is sanding the surface and priming before painting.
Opt for a paint-grade wood that doesn’t have heavy grain patterns or knots, which can show through the finish and detract from the overall aesthetic. Also, select a stain-blocking oil-based primer to ensure the paint will hold up and resist stains over time. When you’re ready to start painting, begin with the back sides of the cabinet boxes.
Wood Cabinets
Wood cabinets bring warmth and natural character to a modern kitchen, highlighting design elements such as wood grain. Solid wood cabinet materials like cherry and walnut are premium choices that complement modern styles well. They’re strong and rot-resistant and offer a variety of warm tones, including red to dark brown and reddish gray.
For a more contemporary look, consider combining solid wood lower cabinets with white uppers for a two-toned cabinet look. This approach maximizes storage space while maintaining a clean, airy feel. Add a brushed nickel light fixture for visual balance and to tie in the cabinet hardware.
Wood cabinets can also be refaced in modern style with a high-pressure laminate or melamine finish. These man-made materials are durable, water resistant, and less expensive than solid wood. They can also be painted in a solid color or with a faux wood grain pattern. However, they don’t hold up as well to dents and scratches as solid wood or engineered wood.
