If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Asheville, Weaverville, or Western North Carolina, one of the most important decisions you’ll make isn’t just cabinet color. It’s cabinet construction.
Let’s discuss three primary cabinet styles:
Each option affects your kitchen’s appearance, craftsmanship level, and overall renovation budget.
Here’s what you need to know before choosing.
1. Partial Overlay Cabinets
How to Choose the Right Cabinet Style for Your Kitchen Renovation
The right choice depends on:
• Your renovation budget• The age and structure of your home• Whether you prefer traditional or modern design• The level of craftsmanship you value
What Are Partial Overlay Cabinets?
Partial overlay cabinet doors sit on top of the cabinet face frame while leaving part of that frame visible. This creates noticeable spacing between doors and drawers and gives a more traditional appearance.
Price Range
💲💲 Mid Range
Partial overlay cabinets are typically the most budget friendly option in semi custom and production cabinetry.
Pros of Partial Overlay Cabinets
• More affordable• Traditional, familiar look• Easier to adjust over time• Forgiving in older homes with minor framing irregularities
Cons of Partial Overlay Cabinets
• Visible gaps between doors• Less seamless appearance• Can feel dated depending on door profile
Best for: Traditional homes or budget conscious kitchen remodels in Asheville and surrounding areas.
2. Full Overlay Cabinets
What Are Full Overlay Cabinets?
Full overlay cabinet doors cover almost the entire cabinet face frame. The doors and drawers sit very close together, leaving minimal gaps.
The result is a cleaner, more updated look.
Price Range
💲💲💲 Higher Investment
Full overlay cabinets cost more than partial overlay due to increased material use and tighter alignment requirements.
Pros of Full Overlay Cabinets
• Sleek, modern appearance• Minimal gaps between doors• Feels custom without premium inset pricing• Extremely popular in transitional kitchens
Cons of Full Overlay Cabinets
• Higher cost than partial overlay• Requires precise installation
Best for: Homeowners wanting an elevated, clean lined kitchen remodel without going fully custom inset.
This is the most common cabinet style we install in Weaverville and Asheville homes.
3. Inset Cabinets
What Are Inset Cabinets?
Inset cabinet doors sit flush inside the cabinet frame. Each door fits precisely within its opening.
This requires expert craftsmanship and exact measurements during both manufacturing and installation.
Price Range
💲💲💲💲 Premium Custom
Inset cabinetry is the most expensive option due to its precision construction.
Pros of Inset Cabinets
• Flush, furniture like appearance• Timeless and classic• High end custom feel• Exceptional craftsmanship detail
Cons of Inset Cabinets
• Highest price point• Slightly smaller cabinet opening• Requires stable home framing and expert installation
Best for: Historic Asheville homes, high end kitchen renovations, and homeowners seeking heirloom level cabinetry.
4. Frameless (European-Style) Cabinets
Frameless cabinets (often called European-style cabinets) do not have a face frame at all. The doors attach directly to the cabinet box.
This allows for:
Where It Fits
Frameless cabinets are typically full overlay by default, because there’s no frame to partially expose.
Price Level
💲💲💲 to 💲💲💲💲Depends on manufacturer and finish quality.
Best For
Modern kitchens, slab doors, minimalist designs.
If you’re doing something sleek and contemporary, this is usually the route.
How to Choose the Right Cabinet Style for Your Kitchen Renovation
The right choice depends on:
• Your renovation budget
• The age and structure of your home
• Whether you prefer traditional or modern design
• The level of craftsmanship you value
Planning a Kitchen Renovation in Asheville or Weaverville?
We specialize in custom kitchen renovations throughout Western North Carolina and would love to guide you through cabinet options that fit your home and investment level.
