When you’re remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, cabinetry plays one of the most important roles in both design and functionality. Among the many decisions you’ll face, one of the first is choosing between framed and frameless cabinets.
These two construction methods differ in appearance, storage capacity, and durability. At SC Cabinetry & Design, we help homeowners and builders understand these differences so they can make the choice that best fits their lifestyle and home.
What Are Framed Cabinets?
Framed cabinets are built with a face frame—a solid wood frame attached to the front of the cabinet box. Doors and drawers are then mounted onto this frame, which provides stability and structure.
Common Characteristics of Framed Cabinets:
- Traditional American construction method.
- Visible frame around doors and drawers.
- Flexible design options: inset, partial overlay, or full overlay.
Pros of Framed Cabinets:
- Very durable and sturdy, thanks to the face frame.
- Versatile styling for traditional, transitional, or farmhouse designs.
- Wide selection of door styles and hardware options.
- Easier to adjust doors and keep them aligned over time.
Cons of Framed Cabinets:
- Slightly less interior storage space compared to frameless.
- Small gaps between doors and drawers, depending on overlay style.
What Are Frameless Cabinets?
Frameless cabinets, also known as European-style cabinets, eliminate the face frame entirely. Doors and drawers attach directly to the cabinet box, creating a seamless, modern look.
Common Characteristics of Frameless Cabinets:
- Clean lines with no face frame.
- Doors cover the full front of the cabinet.
- Often used in contemporary and minimalist kitchens.
Pros of Frameless Cabinets:
- Maximized storage space and wider drawer openings.
- Sleek, streamlined appearance.
- Great for modern, Scandinavian, or minimalist interiors.
- Provides consistent gaps between doors for a flush look.
Cons of Frameless Cabinets:
- Cabinet box must be made of thicker material for stability.
- Fewer decorative options compared to framed styles.
- Precision installation is critical to maintain alignment.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Framed Cabinets | Frameless Cabinets |
| Look | Traditional, timeless | Modern, sleek, seamless |
| Storage Space | Slightly reduced (due to frame) | Maximized interior space |
| Durability | Extra sturdy with face frame support | Strong, but relies on thicker box walls |
| Door Options | Inset, partial overlay, full overlay | Full overlay only |
| Design Flexibility | Wide variety of styles, finishes | Limited but highly modern |
| Best For | Traditional, transitional, farmhouse | Contemporary, minimalist, European |
Which One Is Right for You?
- Choose Framed Cabinets if:
You love timeless design, want maximum flexibility in door styles, and prefer the strength of traditional construction. - Choose Frameless Cabinets if:
You prefer a modern aesthetic, want to maximize every inch of storage, and like the clean, streamlined look.
Why Work With SC Cabinetry & Design
At SC Cabinetry & Design, we specialize in both framed and frameless cabinetry. Whether you’re updating a cozy bathroom, transforming a kitchen, or designing a laundry room with smart storage, our team can help you decide which cabinet style best complements your home and lifestyle.
Visit our Puyallup or Chelan showroom to see framed and frameless cabinetry in person, explore finishes and hardware, and talk with our experts about your next project.