Cabinet Overlay Types & Hardware
Understanding overlay styles and hardware options for perfect cabinet functionality
Understanding Cabinet Overlays
The overlay refers to how much the cabinet door covers the face frame. This seemingly small detail dramatically affects your kitchen's appearance and functionality.
Full Overlay Cabinets
Doors completely cover the face frame, creating a seamless, modern appearance with minimal gaps between doors.
✓ Advantages
- • Clean, modern look
- • Maximum storage access
- • Popular resale value
- • Wide style compatibility
⚠ Considerations
- • Requires precise installation
- • More expensive hinges
- • Door adjustments critical
- • Can show imperfections
Best For:
Modern, transitional, and contemporary kitchens where clean lines and minimal visual breaks are desired.
Full Overlay Visual
Door covers entire frame
Partial Overlay Visual
Frame visible around door
Partial Overlay Cabinets
Doors partially cover the face frame, leaving approximately 1-2 inches of frame visible around each door.
✓ Advantages
- • Lower cost option
- • Traditional appearance
- • More forgiving installation
- • Standard hinges work
⚠ Considerations
- • Can look dated
- • Visible frame lines
- • Less storage access
- • Limited style options
Best For:
Traditional, country, and budget-conscious kitchens where a classic frame-and-panel look is desired.
Inset Cabinets
Doors fit flush within the face frame opening, creating the most traditional and high-end appearance.
✓ Advantages
- • Premium, custom look
- • Traditional craftsmanship
- • Timeless appeal
- • High resale value
⚠ Considerations
- • Most expensive option
- • Precise craftsmanship required
- • Seasonal wood movement
- • Longer installation time
Best For:
High-end traditional, Shaker, and custom kitchens where premium craftsmanship and timeless appeal are priorities.
Inset Visual
Door sits flush within frame
Cabinet Hardware Selection
The right hardware complements your overlay style and enhances both function and appearance.
🔗 Hinges
Full Overlay Hinges
110° opening, requires face frame drilling
Partial Overlay Hinges
Standard hinges, more affordable option
Inset Hinges
Butt hinges or European style for flush doors
✋ Handles & Knobs
Bar Pulls
Modern look, easy grip, various lengths
Knobs
Traditional or modern, compact profile
Cup Pulls
Traditional style, finger-friendly design
✨ Finishes
Brushed Nickel
Most popular, versatile, hides fingerprints
Matte Black
Modern, bold, requires more cleaning
Brass/Gold
Trending, warm tone, statement piece
Overlay Comparison Chart
| Feature | Full Overlay | Partial Overlay | Inset |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $$ | $ | $$$ |
| Installation Difficulty | High | Medium | Highest |
| Modern Appeal | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Traditional Appeal | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Storage Access | Maximum | Good | Good |
Not Sure Which Overlay Style is Right?
Our design experts can help you choose the perfect overlay type and hardware combination for your kitchen style and budget.
Schedule Design Consultation