from our "home remodeling" project library

Families come together in the kitchen to cook and discuss the day's events. Kitchen remodeling projects are popular because they can immediately increase the comfort and spaciousness of this important room.

While a kitchen remodeling project can have homeowners tearing out floors and replacing appliances, a project as simple as kitchen cabinet refacing can have an immediate effect on your kitchen's spaciousness, utility, and beauty. Here are the basics behind kitchen cabinets.

Kitchen Cabinets: Traditional or Contemporary?

When choosing the style of cabinet for a kitchen cabinet refacing project, homeowners should keep future kitchen remodeling plans in mind.

If you aspire towards a sleek, fresh look, choose contemporary cabinetry that will fit your plans:

• Modern kitchen cabinets use metal and glass materials to provide a cutting-edge look
• French Country cabinets are another popular choice, fitting best in a kitchen with a lot of vertical space

If your goal is a traditional look, a variety of cabinet refacing options are available:

• Shaker cabinets feature a recessed middle panel, surrounded by an outer frame
• Country cabinets offer a simpler style than Shaker, foregoing ornate edgework

Consider Materials in Kitchen Remodeling Projects

Kitchen cabinet refacing material options will depend strongly on the style of cabinet chosen. Dark, strong hardwoods like oak or maple are a fine traditional choice, while lighter material like economical pine or laminate provide a polished look. Fully explore the cabinet style and material options before making your decision.