Construction Door Styles (March 22, 2009)

Besides door type, you¡¯ll want to consider different door shapes and styles. One cabinet manufacturer may offer hundreds of door styles in an endless array of finishes.

Search for shapes and materials that contribute to, rather than detract from, your overall style preference. If your kitchen has a minimal stainless steel look, consider a slab door. If ornate details cover your kitchen, take a look at a raised cathedral panel to complement this style.

Your options for cabinet door style include:

Slab
If you like clean lines, a slab door may be the choice for you. A flat door that essentially looks like a slab of wood, metal or other material, these doors eschew panels. Add pizzazz to an MDF door by routing a detailed edge profile.

Raised Panel
A panel, usually made by joining pieces of solid stock lumber with adhesive, is secured to the door's frame. Raised panels generally measure between 1/2" and 3/4" thick. A routed edge profile tends to give the door a more elegant appearance.

Recessed Panel
The recessed panel door is a flat panel affixed inside a frame constructed with miter or mortise and tenon joints. The resulting appearance has a picture frame-type look and a simpler, more country or transitional appearance.

Curved Panel
The top portion of this door¡¯s decorative panel curves upward in a gentle arch. The panel itself is generally raised.

Cathedral Panel
A cathedral-type arch is incorporated into the upper rail of this raised or recessed panel.

Beadboard Panel
Typically found in a recessed panel, beadboard uses routed beaded details to create a casual country style.

Routed
A single piece of engineered wood material (such as MDF) is shaped to take on the appearance of a recessed or raised panel within the door, then painted or covered in laminate.

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