Are you wondering what European-style cabinets or slab cabinetry are? They are sleek and elegant cabinets, perfect for homeowners who prefer minimalist designs.
You most likely find some type of design on most kitchen cabinets—often a contoured style that provides dimension via a recessed panel. You will usually see this with shaker-style cabinets, the most dominant kitchen cabinet design in the U.S. compared to other kitchen cabinet styles.
It’s very traditional, and people carelessly assume it’s the only cabinet variety available. But theirs is a self-defeating naiveté – one should always know all their options…
Flat panel doors, also known as “slab cabinet” doors (or more commonly as Euro-style cabinets), have gradually been pushed to the forefront as they steadily gain popularity.
The modern look they give any kitchen or bathroom puts them in demand. They have been the mainstay in Europe for decades, and their presence in the U.S. is increasing.
The Popularity of European Style Cabinets
Let’s look at some of the potential reasons why slab cabinet doors are gaining traction:
Like the Shaker style, there are various methods for constructing flat panel doors, each dictating a certain cost. Of interest is the lack of frames in all flat panel cabinet styles. They are just as their names – sleek, solid slabs.
The most costly is naturally the most durable and, of course, will be of extremely solid construction. In such a case, solid hardwood is formed from boards and glued up edgewise.
But only in custom work can you get high-end quality doors like these. Doors of this construction are typically counterintuitive, as they may still warp and would typically be heavier than their MDF counterparts.
Additionally, one of the major benefits of using solid wood is seeing the natural grain.
MDF (or Medium-Density Fiberboard) is the standard material used for flat doors, which are then painted. It may also serve as the core center for doors covered by laminate or thermofoil.
European-style flat panel cabinets also have visual advantages—they lend completely different looks to the kitchen or bathroom. They can be modern and sleek or plain and purely practical.
In a modern-style kitchen, it would be best to use laminate or wood veneer flat panel doors on the cabinets. Either one can create a smooth and clean aesthetic reminiscent of contemporary design.
On the other hand, some of the lowest-cost doors you’ll find are also made of low-density fiberboard, more commonly known as particleboard, that is then covered with thermofoil.
Possibly lower grade and often with a modestly attractive white finish, they are a totally reasonable component for a laundry room or a bathroom that sees little use. If you are on a tight budget, they are not a bad option. In fact, they may be ideal.
Often, we hear concerns about flat panel doors being prone to warping. This may emerge as an issue under certain alternative construction methods, but when produced in normal conditions, it is just not a problem.
As long as the laminate or thermofoil maintains itself, MDF will resist warping. When they are sealed properly with paint or stain, the potential for contorting is not even an issue.
Most cabinet manufacturers offer various options to help make slab doors more universal. Our faithful version of the classic flat panel “slab” door is affectionately referred to as “Euro Style”.
They’re available in thermofoil and laminate, each with a range of colors to choose from, such as the popular Cocoa and Milan finishes. Also in high demand from our selection are the high gloss white and/or charcoal.
Our flat panel kitchen cabinets can be ordered pre-assembled or ready to assemble (RTA). This is the way to go when cost is an issue and you have some related skills. Naturally, an experienced do-it-yourselfer can endeavor to build flat panel cabinets themselves.
But with pricing so competitive in today’s market, there’s really no reason to. Nearly every homeowner today can afford to improve their kitchen with European-style cabinets! Look at our European flat panel kitchen cabinets line on our website and decide which is the best for you.
