When planning a kitchen remodel, one of the most important design choices is the cabinet overlay. The overlay determines how much of the cabinet frame is visible and plays a significant role in the kitchen’s overall appearance. Whether you prefer a traditional look, a sleek modern design, or something in between, selecting the right cabinet overlay will help you achieve your desired aesthetic and functionality.

What Is a Cabinet Overlay?

Our custom cabinets feature different construction methods for customizable looks. A cabinet overlay refers to how the cabinet doors and drawers sit on the cabinet frame. The overlay style affects the overall look of the cabinetry, the amount of frame that is visible, and how the doors function. There are three primary types of cabinet overlays: full overlay, partial overlay, and inset cabinetry. Each option offers unique benefits and considerations.

Full Overlay Cabinets: A Sleek, Modern Look

Full overlay cabinets cover almost the entire face frame of the cabinet, leaving very little space between doors and drawer fronts. This style creates a seamless, streamlined appearance that works well in contemporary and transitional kitchens.

Benefits of Full Overlay Cabinets:

Modern Aesthetic: The minimal gaps between doors and drawers give a clean, sleek look.

More Storage Space: With a larger door covering more of the cabinet face, there’s more accessible interior storage compared to partial overlays.

Customizable: Full overlay cabinetry can be used with framed or frameless cabinets, making it a versatile option for various kitchen styles.

However, one consideration with full overlay cabinets is that since there is minimal space between doors, you may need special hardware or finger pulls to open them comfortably.

Marginal Overlay Cabinets: Provides a look similar to full overlay while incorporating any of our decorative corner treatment options.

Marginal Overlay cabinets maintain tight gaps and clean lines between cabinet doors and drawers. This construction method hides most of the face-frame for a more modern design style.

Benefits of Marginal Overlay Cabinets:

Modern Look: Marginal overlays work well in traditional, transitional and modern kitchens.

Flexible Styling: All of our standard corner treatments are still available with Marginal Overlay so you can put your personal touch on your cabinets.

Standard Overlay Cabinets: A Traditional and Cost-Effective Choice

Standard overlay cabinets, also known as standard overlays, leave a portion of the cabinet face frame exposed between doors and drawers. This design is a classic choice for traditional kitchens and is often a more budget-friendly option.

Benefits of Standard Overlay Cabinets:

Classic Look: Partial overlays work well in traditional, farmhouse, and transitional kitchens.

Lower Cost: Because they require less material than full overlay cabinets, they are typically more affordable.

Easier to Open: The exposed face frame allows for easier door and drawer operation without requiring additional hardware.

However, the visible gaps between doors and drawers mean that partial overlay cabinets don’t offer the same seamless look as full overlays. If you prefer a more integrated design, you may want to explore other options.

Inset Cabinets: A Timeless, Custom Look

Inset cabinets are designed so that the doors and drawers fit flush inside the cabinet frame rather than sitting on top of it. This style requires precision craftsmanship and offers a distinctive, high-end appeal.

Benefits of Inset Cabinets:

Custom Appeal: Inset cabinets provide a handcrafted, furniture-like appearance that works beautifully in traditional and high-end kitchen designs.

Durability: Since the doors sit within the frame, they are well-supported and less prone to misalignment over time.

Classic and Timeless: The elegant, refined look of inset cabinets ensures they won’t go out of style.

On the downside, inset cabinetry typically costs more than full or partial overlay cabinets due to the craftsmanship involved. Additionally, because the doors fit within the frame, there is slightly less interior storage space in most cabinet lines. For this reason, Thompson Price builds our full-inset wall cabinets 13″ deep for no extra charge to make up the lost storage space.

Choosing the right cabinet overlay depends on your budget, style preferences, and kitchen functionality needs. If you want a sleek, modern look with maximum storage, full overlay cabinets may be the best fit. If you prefer a traditional style with a budget-friendly approach, partial overlay cabinets offer great value. For those seeking a high-end, timeless design, inset cabinets provide an elegant solution.

No matter which option you choose, working with a professional kitchen designer can help ensure that your cabinetry aligns with your vision and functional needs. Contact us today to explore the best cabinet overlay options for your kitchen remodel! You can also read more information about cabinetry in our Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Cabinets.