Framed versus frameless: which shaker kitchen is for you?
We find that many of our clients have their eye on a shaker style kitchen for their renovation and it’s easy to see why once you see the volume of beautiful kitchen cabinets and overall aesthetic this style offers. Like with everything kitchen-related, there are many different price points and variations to choose from.
The most common questions we’re asked when discussing shaker kitchens are about the differences between a framed and frameless kitchen. It can seem overwhelming due to the range of choices available, though the difference between the two is actually very simple.
Visually there is only one difference and it is given away by the name: the ‘frame’ that is attached to the carcass. Framed is what you’d imagine a traditional country kitchen to contain, whereas frameless tend to be your more modern and sleek European style.
But when it comes to functionality, there are three key points to consider to truly understand the difference in each choice. This article illustrates the differences between framed and frameless shaker kitchens.
Design and storage
In framed kitchens, the fixed frame means there is slightly less cabinet opening clearance and drawer space in comparison to frameless ones. This also makes cleaning and moving shelves a bit more dextrous and time-consuming, as there are more obstacles and tighter spaces to manoeuvre. Gaps between cabinets are tight due to the frame size being identical to the carcass, so cabinets are installed in close groupings.
Frameless kitchens, on the other hand, consist of full-width drawers and cabinets. Since the entire door opens, this style allows for full access and easy cleaning. Cabinets give the illusion of a slight gap as doors are 3mm smaller in width than the carcass to allow for a full opening rotation. There are also more frameless shaker door styles to choose from for those with preferences when it comes to aesthetics.
PAD’s pro tip: Our ultimate example of a modern frameless shaker kitchen is our Richmond collection, oozing style and simplicity.
Mechanics
Framed kitchens typically use conventional butt hinges which give the look desired for this style of kitchen, but aren’t always soft-close. Modern mechanics to give the best of both worlds – i.e. a soft-close, framed kitchen – have been developed for use by a handful of companies, including us here at PAD.
Concealed, soft-close hinges are standard for most frameless kitchen providers. The benefits speak for themself but include no nasty slams or the loud bangs that go with them. Check out our individual kitchen specifications for more information on the mechanics for each style available.
PAD’s pro tip: If you’re looking for a country-style kitchen that also benefits from soft-close, try our Oxshott collection – an in-frame traditional kitchen with Blum technology.
Cost and timescales
Frames are more complex to manufacture and therefore cost around 30% more, taking roughly six to eight weeks to make. They’re an ideal solution for those who have the time and budget to align with these expectations.
Since frameless options are easier to manufacture, there are always choices to suit all budgets. They are also slightly faster to build, taking around four to six weeks to complete.
PAD’s pro tip: If you’re still undecided about whether a framed or frameless kitchen is for you, take a look at our St John’s Wood collection for a frameless but finessed solid wood style.
More often than not, a client comes to us with already a strong preference for one style over the other, usually boiling down to the ‘look’ for their space. For some, they’re looking for chic country cooking while others are after a tidy Scandi vibe. If this isn’t the case for you and you’re more agnostic to styles, we hope the points above help you to weigh up the pros and cons of each, honing in on your preference for your own bespoke shaker kitchen.
If you need a helping hand in making your decision, reach out for our expertise. We’re passionate when it comes to providing kitchen advice and comprehensive consultations.