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Fitted cabinets, a popular fixture in kitchens since the 1950s, has given way to freestanding cabinets in the 21st century. Larger kitchens and the widespread use of kitchen islands have greatly influenced this change in kitchen cabinetry. To help you decide which is best for you, Desirable Kitchens and Refacing can explain the difference.
Fitted cabinets provide your kitchen with a uniform or fitted look. Wall to wall cabinetry began to emerge after World War II as a result of the innovations of mass production. Standard built-in cabinets, which allowed for maximum storage and counter space, were more economical to produce than creating custom cabinets. Due to the popularity of mass production, many talented craftsmen became cabinet installers rather than designers.
Since the 1950s, fitted cabinets have consisted of stock cabinet boxes with finished front faces and unfinished sides and back that are anchored to the walls. If you are looking to change the appearance of your kitchen, but don’t have the budget to remove your fitted cabinets, don’t worry—you have options. Begin researching cabinet refacing services near you for a quick, reasonably priced kitchen transformation. For many years, Desirable Kitchens and Refacing in Pittsburgh has been refacing kitchen cabinets for clients in the Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. Cabinet refacing allows you to install new cabinet doors and hardware to your existing cabinet boxes. From materials to colors to door surfaces, kitchen cabinet refacing can transform your kitchen in just a few days without having to completely remove your cabinets.
Freestanding cabinets date back to pre-World War II, when most items in the kitchen, except for the sink, were moveable and freestanding. These cabinets stood on legs and all four sides had finished faces; therefore, they could be moved to any area in the kitchen. This flexibility has emerged once again with the widespread use of kitchen islands. Additionally, homeowners desire the eclectic look offered by the variety of freestanding furniture. It gives the heart of the family home the appearance of a kitchen that has evolved over time.
In today’s kitchens, large islands often represent the majority of the kitchen. They are equipped with sinks, eating space, storage and, sometimes, a cooking range. Freestanding cabinets are also being incorporated around the perimeter of the kitchen for added storage and a less uniform look. Their advantages include easier cleaning, more flexibility in layout and easy installation. The cost of materials and construction can be a disadvantage as they tend to be more expensive than traditional cabinets due to their four finished faces.
If you are looking to reface your fitted kitchen cabinets or are considering freestanding cabinets, call Desirable Kitchens & Refacing in Pittsburgh at 412-515-0582. Located in the South Hills, Desirable Kitchens & Refacing has the right solution for every customer – every time!
