Planning kitchen cabinets: types and functions at a glance
Kitchen cabinets are an essential component of every kitchen and contribute both to functionality and aesthetics. There are different types of cabinets, each fulfilling particular needs, representing different styles, and of course covering various functional areas. The choice between different models strongly depends on specific requirements and the available space in your kitchen. In general, it is always advisable to utilize the available space optimally and efficiently, ensuring sufficient storage space while making the layout appear aesthetically pleasing and homely.
With the multitude of kitchen cabinets offered on the market, it can be easy to lose track. Base cabinet, wall cabinet, corner cabinet, tall cabinet, or top-mounted cabinet – there are many different cabinet types for kitchen planning. But which kitchen cabinet is needed where, and for what purpose in the kitchen? Which kitchen cabinets are suitable for corners? Which ones for storage? Doors or drawers?
Here is an overview and comparison of some of the most common cabinet types:
Hinged door wardrobe
Hinged door cabinets have doors that are attached to hinges and open outward. When opened, the doors require a relatively large amount of space in front of the cabinet. They can be individually designed and are available in many decors and materials. After opening the doors, the entire width of the cabinet's contents is directly visible and easily accessible. Planned as tall cabinets, hinged door cabinets provide ample storage space. Here, kitchen appliances, household aids and dishes, for example, can find their place.
Pull-out cabinet
Pull-out cabinets have, for example, drawers that can be pulled out. The pull-outs allow for better organisation and accessibility of the contents, especially in deep cabinets. Pull-out systems can be equipped with various inserts and organisational aids.
Carousel and corner solution "Le Mans"
Carousel and Le Mans corner cabinets are two specialized solutions for efficiently utilizing corner areas in kitchens. Both systems optimize storage space in corners that would otherwise be difficult to access, but each offers different mechanisms and advantages. Here is a detailed comparison of these two corner solutions: The carousel consists of circular shelves that rotate around a central axis. These cabinets are often equipped with a door that opens outward. By rotating the carousel, you can access the various segments hidden behind the corner. Contents are easily accessible by simply rotating the shelves. A carousel makes highly efficient use of the available corner space, fully utilizing it.
Named after the famous curve on the racetrack, the "Le Mans" corner cabinet consists of shelves that pull out and swivel sideways. These cabinets are often equipped with two independent moving parts. The shelves are designed to be fully pulled out of the cabinet, allowing easy access to every area.
The pull-out larder unit
A pull-out pantry unit is typically slim and tall, featuring a large, pull-out front. The design is very modern and can be integrated in different finishes. The pantry unit guarantees excellent visibility and accessibility from two sides, since the entire interior of the cabinet can be pulled out. This makes provisions easy and quick to reach, even in areas further back. Its vertical design is perfectly suited for narrow, limited spaces. Items such as oil and vinegar or various spices are often stored here. Its vertical design is perfectly suited for narrow, limited spaces. Items such as oil and vinegar or various spices are often stored here.
The pantry unit
In the classic pantry cabinet with shelves, there are stacked shelving units to store items. In contrast to the larder unit, this cabinet type does not feature pull-out drawers. Items stored at the front may therefore need to be moved slightly when reaching for food located towards the back. However, the cabinet usually provides wide surfaces for storing larger objects.
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