What are Inset Cabinets?

Do you pay strict attention to detail? Would you rather fix a flaw than hide it? Do you believe that beauty comes from top-to-bottom craftsmanship, not surface-level aesthetics?

If so, inset cabinets may be right for you. Let’s take a closer look at this quietly luxurious cabinet style. We’ll compare inset vs. overlay cabinets, the maintenance involved, and who they’re best for. 

What are inset cabinets?

Inset doors and drawers sit flush inside the cabinet frame. Therefore, the entire frame is visible, as is the minute gap between. It offers a custom, built-in look with greater emphasis on a room’s architectural details. 

Inset vs. overlay cabinets

Overlay cabinets are the most popular, familiar type of cabinet. Each door and drawer face covers the edge of the frame. They can show some of the frame (partial overlay) or barely any at all (full overlay). The look is quite different from an inset, but so is the installation, aesthetic, and maintenance. 

Inset vs. frameless cabinets

An inset reveals the entire frame; frameless cabinets have doors and drawers fixed directly to the box. However different they are in terms of appearance and structure, these two have something huge in common: they’re for discerning, design-focused owners.

Inset and frameless cabinets are more expensive than the average overlay. Both require expert installation and are often chosen for custom projects. Like frameless cabinets, the construction and craftsmanship of an inset are a main draw. 

In the case of frameless, the stability of the box alone and emphasis on a larger panel make it more demanding. Inset cabinets spotlight every part of framed construction in cabinetry, showcasing the utmost precision. 

A professional designer in your area can show you more.

Inset cabinets are the premium choice for people who appreciate precision and intention in design. If you’re working with a professional kitchen designer on your remodel, choose one who also provides quality cabinetry. The Designery offers hundreds of styles, custom lines, and experienced installation services. 

“I was thoroughly impressed by the beautiful showroom and the wide variety of cabinetry, tile, flooring, and finish options available to view in person. Every display was inspiring and made it easy to visualize possibilities for a space.”

• Carrie, Designery client

Find your local showroom for the perfect solution for your kitchen remodel. 

FAQ: Inset cabinets

Do inset cabinet doors stick in humid weather?

They do. The doors can swell slightly in humid conditions, closing the small gap and rubbing against the frame. Many people with inset cabinets live in a lower-humidity climate or control the climate in their homes. Those who do experience humidity regularly adjust the hinges to prevent this. 

Are inset cabinets harder to align than overlay?

Yes, everything must be perfectly square. Because you can see the entire frame on the box, any misalignment will stand out. Overlay cabinets are more visually forgiving. 

Do inset cabinets have less storage space?

Yes, but only very slightly. Inset cabinets have the doors sitting inside the frame. This can reduce the opening by less than an inch on each side. Many people don’t notice the inch or so of total width that they lose.

Are inset cabinets high-end?

When done well, yes, inset cabinets have an upscale, furniture-style look that’s a great fit in traditional design schemes. The craftsmanship required to install them is more apparent than with other cabinets.