Renovating a kitchen can be a real game changer in your home styling, and you can be surprised how much impact it can bring. If you are planning to renovate your kitchen, there are several ways to go: changing countertops and the backsplash, changing the panels and changing the color of the walls. If you choose renovating the cabinet doors or panels, consider getting flat panels. Flat panel kitchen cabinets always make their way back into the trends and look very contemporary. Let’s consider some pros and cons to decide but first…
What Are Flat Panel Kitchen Cabinets?
Flat panel cabinets, also known as slab cabinets, have a completely flat front. Shaker cabinets have a simple trim on the edges, and other styles have more decorative trim. Flat panel kitchen cabinets have no trim at all. They may or may not have hardware, depending on the overall design of the kitchen. A line of flat panel cabinets will look like a seamless plane, unlike a set of trimmed doors that you can see individually. You can still distinguish between the doors, but they have an overall smooth appearance.
White stone countertops and sleek light-stained cabinets define this contemporary kitchen. Built-in lights add ambiance, while a glazed wall reveals beautiful garden views. Use open shelving to maintain an airy feel and showcase your favorite kitchenware.
A beautiful light stained kitchen with sleek cabinets, a white stone backsplash and countertops, black fixtures is chic.
A beautiful light-stained flat panel kitchen with a glossy white tile backsplash, a fluted kitchen island and white pendant lamps.
A black and white kitchen with matte flat panel cabinets, a neutral backsplash and white countertops plus gold handles.
A black kitchen with contrasting light-colored shelves, handles and countertops plus a burlap pendant lamp.
A blue minimalist kitchen with a grey marble backsplash and a black dining set for a gorgeous look.
A bold and contrasting black and white kitchen with flat panel cabinets, a black tile backsplash, a small kitchen island that doubles as a dining table.
Grey stone countertops and backsplash enhance the chic and cozy feel of this kitchen with stained cabinets. A fluted curved kitchen island adds a unique touch. Opt for stone surfaces to bring elegance and durability to your kitchen.
A chic and refined kitchen with tan cabinets, a white marble backsplash, a stained kitchen island and grey stools.
This chic contemporary kitchen features a black kitchen island with a white stone countertop, contrasting beautifully with the elegant white cabinets and white tile backsplash. Pendant lamps provide stylish illumination. Incorporate minimalistic decor to keep the focus on the clean lines.
A chic contemporary kitchen with white and light stained cabinets, a large kitchen island with a white stone countertop and a backsplash, a black pendant lamp.
Blush plywood cabinets add a chic, girlish touch to this kitchen. The grey tiled floor complements the design, and plenty of natural light floods the space. Use light-colored cabinets to create a bright, welcoming kitchen.
A chic light-stained kitchen with sleek flat panel cabinets, white stone countertops and a white glossy tile backsplash.
A curved kitchen island with open storage compartments serves as a focal point in this chic neutral kitchen with shaker style cabinets. A skylight enhances the airy feel. Use open storage and natural light to create a practical and inviting kitchen.
Bubble lamps bring a whimsical element to this contemporary black and white kitchen with matte cabinets. White countertops and a backsplash enhance the sleek design. Incorporate pull-out pantry shelves for efficient storage and easy access to kitchen essentials.
Pros Of Flat Panel Kitchen Cabinets
Flat panel doors are easier to clean than any other style. Because slab cabinets require less material than other door styles, they tend to be slightly less expensive. Flat cabinet doors come in a wide range of colors, including various shades of wood. Slab cabinets provide a simplistic backdrop in a kitchen with other busy elements (countertops, backsplash tile, etc.).
The flat appearance is great for many designs and styles as it’s universal and it looks especially great in mid-century modern designs, which are trendy in many areas. Slab kitchen cabinets are easy to upgrade with time, should you choose to paint or stain them. Hardware stands out strongly on flat cabinet doors, which is great if you want to accentuate that element of your kitchen.
A contemporary kitchen sleek flat panel white cabinets, open shelves, a dark-stained kitchen island and white stone countertops.
A contemporary kitchen with bold purple sleek cabinets, bright pink and yellow touches and purple chairs plus a gold pendant lamp.
A glazed wall with views of the private garden makes this contemporary white kitchen stand out. The dark countertop adds contrast and depth to the space. Consider adding a kitchen island with additional storage to enhance functionality without compromising style.
A cool modern kitchen with light-stained flat panel cabinets, a white hex tile backsplash and a black kitchen island.
White stone backsplash and countertops brighten up this contemporary kitchen with sleek white and dark stained cabinets. Add a kitchen island with built-in storage to keep your essentials within reach while maintaining a clean look.
A green and light-stained kitchen with flat panel and shaker style cabinets, open shelves, a large kitchen island and a white hood.
A large kitchen island and sleek grey cabinets define this contemporary kitchen, offering ample workspace. The white stone backsplash and countertops create a crisp, clean look, while pendant lamps add stylish lighting. Add open shelving to display decorative items and keep the space feeling open.
A light-stained minimalist kitchen with sleek cabinets, a window backsplash, a curved fluted kitchen island with a curved part and a woven pendant lamp.
A lovely modern kitchen with light-stained and green flat panel cabinets, a white hex tile backsplash and a large kitchen island.
Black and white tiles add contrast to this lovely pastel kitchen with pastel green cabinets and a pink kitchen island. Black stools complete the stylish look. Use a mix of pastel hues and monochrome elements for a balanced kitchen design.
Glass tiles and a window with a view highlight this minimal Nordic L-shaped kitchen, making it feel expansive and airy. The efficient layout is perfect for modern living. Add under-cabinet lighting to highlight the glass tiles and provide practical task lighting.
A black faucet adds a bold accent to this minimal tan kitchen with matte plain cabinets. The ribbed kitchen island and matching backsplash create a cohesive look. Opt for black hardware to add contrast to a minimal color palette.
A minimalist chalet kitchen with sleek wooden cabinets and a wooden ceiling and walls, a stone kitchen island and leather chairs.
A minimalist grey kitchen with a window backsplash and a curved fluted kitchen island with a terrazzo countertop looks ultimate.
A minimalist grey kitchen with white countertops, open shelves, a white hood, pendant bulbs is a lovely idea.
A minimalist kitchen with blue and muted blue cabinets, a mint green backsplash, a bold red kitchen island and wooden countertops.
Cons Of Flat Panel Kitchen Cabinets
Flat cabinets and doors might be too simplistic for some kitchen designs.
Some homeowners complain about fingerprints on flat panel doors, though that’s largely based on the color and finish.
Low-end slab cabinets are subject to warping, but that is the case with most low-grade materials. We use high-quality cabinetry for our kitchen remodels. If you do not want your hardware to be noticeable, flat panel cabinetry may not be right for you.
A curved kitchen island with a stone countertop is the highlight of this minimalist kitchen with stained and sleek white curved cabinets. A window backsplash adds light and openness. Use curved designs and stone surfaces for a refined kitchen look.
A wooden waterfall countertop on a sleek white kitchen island makes this minimalist Nordic kitchen stand out. Sleek white cabinets maintain a clean, modern look. Add open shelving to display everyday items while keeping the space functional and stylish.
A minimalist white kitchen with sleek cabinets, white countertops, a bright geo tile backsplash and light-stained upper cabinets.
A minimalist white kitchen with sleek cabinets, white stone countertops, a window backsplash that opens on the tropical garden.
A white backsplash brightens this mint green kitchen with plywood cabinets and black countertops. The handle-less design and built-in appliances enhance the modern feel. Choose integrated appliances and minimalistic features for a sleek kitchen.
A neutral contemporary kitchen with sleek cabinets, a colorful geo tile backsplash, a black pendant lamp and a wooden table.
Metal countertops and sleek white cabinets give this neutral Nordic kitchen a modern edge. A white table and wooden benches provide a cozy dining area, while pendant lamps add stylish lighting. Consider adding open shelving to keep essentials within reach and maintain a clean look.
Grey skinny tiles and sleek light-stained cabinetry create a stylish look in this contemporary kitchen. A large window with views of greenery brightens the space. Use open shelving to keep essentials handy and add decorative touches.
A concrete tile backsplash and sleek cabinets give this greige kitchen a contemporary feel. The cozy dining space offers a neutral palette perfect for family gatherings. Add a kitchen island for additional workspace and storage.
Butcherblock countertops and open shelves add a rustic touch to this sleek white kitchen. Cabinets provide ample storage, and a bar counter serves as a versatile workspace. Use built-in lighting to enhance the countertops and create a warm atmosphere.
A bar counter for cooking and eating maximizes space in this small minimalist kitchen. Sleek white cabinetry and butcherblock countertops add style and functionality. Consider adding under-cabinet lighting to enhance the workspace and highlight the countertops.
A white stone kitchen island stands out in this stylish contrasting kitchen with sleek black cabinets. Built-in shelves offer practical storage, and a cluster of pendant lamps adds elegant lighting. Add under-cabinet lighting to enhance the countertops and create a cozy atmosphere.
A navy kitchen island takes center stage in this stylish light-stained kitchen with a large window backsplash. Black pendant lamps and tall stained stools complete the look. Consider adding floating shelves to keep essentials within reach and maintain an airy feel.
A stylish light-stained flat panel kitchen with wooden knobs, white stone countertops, a white square tile backsplash.
A unique minimalist kitchen done in white, black and light stained wood, a sculptural geometric ceiling is a gorgeous idea and a stylish statement.
A curved fluted kitchen island with a neutral stone countertop stands out in this white minimalist kitchen. Open shelves enhance the airy feel. Opt for fluted designs and stone surfaces for a sophisticated and practical kitchen.
A white minimalist kitchen with a window backsplash, a stained kitchen island and black pendant lamps plus wooden stools.
A black glass backsplash adds contrast to this white minimalist one-wall kitchen with blonde butcherblock countertops. The integrated eating zone is perfect for small spaces. Add under-cabinet lighting to enhance the countertops and provide practical task lighting.
A white Scandinavian kitchen with a sleek white backsplash, a kitchen island with a butcherblock countertop.
An airy light wood kitchen with sleek and glass cabinets, white stone countertops and a backsplash, stainless steel applainces.
An eclectic kitchen with sleek light and dark cabinets, a red brick wall and bright turquoise chairs.
A black kitchen island and stained cabinets create an elegant look in this vintage kitchen. The white hood adds a bright contrast, while the arched window with black frames lets in plenty of light. Consider adding open shelving for a functional and stylish display.
The disadvantages aren’t many and they aren’t crucial, while advantages are great, such cabinets are amazing for many kitchens. Would you choose such panels for your kitchen, let us know in the comments!