Choosing Between Face Frame and Frameless Cabinets for Your Home

When designing or remodeling a home, cabinets play a significant role in both functionality and aesthetics. At LSC Cabinetry, we specialize in crafting high-quality face frame and frameless cabinets to suit a variety of styles and needs. Choosing between these two options depends on your design preferences, storage requirements, and the overall look you want for your space. Here’s a closer look at the differences to help you make an informed decision.

What are Face Frame Cabinets?

Face frame cabinets are a classic style that features a frame on the front of the cabinet box. This frame, typically made from solid wood, surrounds the cabinet opening and provides structural support. Face frame cabinets have a traditional and timeless look, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.

Benefits of Face Frame Cabinets:

1. Versatility in Design: Face frame cabinets work well in traditional, farmhouse, or transitional-style homes. They provide a clean, framed appearance that pairs beautifully with ornate details and decorative hardware.
2. Durability: The front frame adds extra stability to the cabinet, making it a robust option for busy households.
3. Customization Options: With face frame cabinets, you can choose between full overlay doors, which cover most of the frame, or partial overlay doors, where part of the frame remains visible. This allows for varying levels of design flexibility.



Face frame cabinets are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a classic, sturdy cabinet design that adds character to your kitchen, bathroom, or other spaces.

What Are Frameless Cabinets?

Frameless cabinets, often referred to as European-style cabinets, have a sleek and modern design. Unlike face frame cabinets, they do not feature a front frame, which allows the doors to attach directly to the cabinet box. This creates a seamless and minimalist appearance, perfect for contemporary homes.

Benefits of Frameless Cabinets:

1. Maximized Storage Space: Without a front frame, frameless cabinets provide more usable storage space, especially in smaller kitchens or bathrooms.
2. Modern Aesthetic: Frameless cabinets offer a clean, streamlined look that complements modern and minimalist design styles. The flush alignment of doors and drawers enhances their sleek appearance.
3. Full Access Design: The absence of a frame allows for wider openings, making it easier to access items stored inside.

If your design vision leans toward a minimalist, contemporary look with an emphasis on functionality, frameless cabinets might be the perfect fit.

Key Considerations When Choosing

Both face frame and frameless cabinets have unique benefits, so the choice often comes down to your personal preferences and how you plan to use the space.

1. Aesthetic Preferences:

• For a traditional or transitional home, face frame cabinets provide a timeless charm.
• For a modern or minimalist space, frameless cabinets deliver a sleek, streamlined look.

2. Storage Needs:

• If maximizing storage space is a priority, frameless cabinets offer more interior room.
• Face frame cabinets, while slightly less spacious, provide extra support and durability.

3. Budget:

• Frameless cabinets may require higher precision in manufacturing and installation, which can affect the cost.
• Face frame cabinets are often more budget-friendly while still offering plenty of customization.



4. Room Style:

• Consider the overall design of your space. LSC Cabinetry can help you match the cabinet style to your home’s interior, ensuring a cohesive and polished look.

LSC Cabinetry: Crafting Cabinets Tailored to You

Since 2007, LSC Cabinetry has been creating custom cabinets for homeowners in San Jose, CA, and surrounding areas. With over 25 years of experience, founder Larry Chivers personally oversees every project to ensure precision and quality. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of face frame cabinets or the sleek design of frameless ones, we’ll work with you to bring your vision to life.



Our process begins with a thorough consultation, followed by collaborative design sessions where you’ll have the opportunity to review CAD drawings and make revisions. From construction to finishing and installation, we ensure every detail aligns with your needs and preferences.

Ready to Get Started? Let LSC Cabinetry help you choose the perfect cabinetry style for your home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin designing custom cabinets that combine beauty, functionality, and quality craftsmanship.