Understanding Cabinet Styles: Frameless, Full Overlay & Flush Inset

Choosing the right cabinet style isn’t just about aesthetics—it shapes how your kitchen functions and feels every day. Whether you’re building a custom home or upgrading your current space, understanding the core cabinet construction types can help you make informed decisions that align with both your style and lifestyle.

Let’s break down the three main options we offer: frameless, full overlay, and flush inset cabinetry. Each has its own distinct look and design benefits.

Frameless Cabinets: Clean and Contemporary

Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style, offer a streamlined, modern appearance. With no face frame on the cabinet box, the doors and drawers cover the full front edge, sitting right against each other with minimal spacing.

Why it works:

• Modern design: Great for sleek, minimal kitchens.

• More access: Without a face frame, you get slightly more usable interior space.

• Smooth lines: Ideal for flat-front or slab-style doors.

This style is a great choice for clients who appreciate a clean, unfussy look with a focus on efficiency and simplicity.

Full Overlay Cabinets: Balanced and Versatile

With full overlay cabinets, the doors and drawers are slightly larger so they cover almost the entire face frame of the cabinet. While the frame is still there structurally, it’s barely visible from the front.

Why it works:

• Refined finish: Doors sit close together, creating a clean and continuous appearance.

• Transitional appeal: Works well in both modern and traditional homes.

• Popular choice: This is one of the most commonly requested styles because of its versatility.

Full overlay gives you a polished, high-end look without leaning too far into any one design style, which makes it a solid fit for a wide range of homes.

Flush Inset Cabinets: Classic and Custom

Flush inset cabinetry is the most precise option—doors and drawers sit inside the face frame, so everything is completely flush with the front of the cabinet box. It’s a style that reflects traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Why it works:

• Tailored design: Offers a clean, furniture-like finish.

• Timeless character: Perfect for classic or custom-built kitchens.

• Elegant detail: Often paired with decorative hinges or beaded frames.

This style suits clients who are after a more custom, built-in look—especially those who value traditional millwork and fine carpentry.

At a Glance:

Feature	Frameless	Full Overlay	Flush Inset
Face Frame	No	Yes	Yes
Door Placement	Covers the box edge	Covers most of the face frame	Sits inside the face frame
Look	Sleek, modern	Clean, versatile	Classic, built-in
Interior Space	Most	Moderate	Least

Which Style Is Right for You?

Each cabinet construction has its strengths, and the best fit really depends on your design preferences, layout, and how you use your space. Whether you're drawn to the clean simplicity of frameless, the versatility of full overlay, or the timeless detail of flush inset, we're here to guide you through the process and help bring your vision to life.