Cathedral Arch Cabinets Give Your Kitchen a Touch of Old World Charm

With their distinctive arched shape, cathedral arch cabinets can transform the look and feel of your kitchen by adding a touch of old world charm and elegance. The curved vaulted design draws the eye upward and creates a sense of space while also providing ample storage options. If you're looking to add a bit of architectural detail and nostalgic allure to your cooking space, cathedral arch cabinets may be the perfect choice.

From formal traditional kitchens to cozy cottage spaces, the cathedral arch shape works well in a variety of settings. The rounded aesthetic lends kitchens a more grandiose style reminiscent of old churches, libraries and classic villas. Read on to learn more about the origins of this timeless cabinetry style and how you can incorporate it into your own kitchen.

What are Cathedral Arch Cabinets?

Cathedral arch cabinets are identifiable by their arched top panel that mirrors the arched windows and doorways found in cathedrals and other old architecture. The curve creates a focal point and gives the eye a place to rest, drawing attention to the unique vaulted shape.

Unlike standard rectangular cabinets, cathedral arch cabinets make a statement. The arch itself serves both form and function, opening up interior space while also enabling attractive display storage with glass panel doors. The look evokes a sense of old world grandeur.

Unique Traits of Cathedral Arch Design

Some key features that distinguish cathedral arch cabinets include:

• Arched top creates a focal point
• Adds architectural detail and visual interest
• Evokes a sense of old world style and nostalgia
• Feels more spacious than boxy cabinets
• Provides both form and function

The curved shape stands out from the straight lines found throughout most kitchens. Cathedral arches make a subtle yet striking statement.

Types of Kitchens Suited to Cathedral Arches

While cathedral arches can work in nearly any kitchen, some styles are especially well-suited to incorporating this element. From modern to traditional, cathedral arches enable you to add a bit of drama and architectural flair.

Rustic Kitchens

The cathedral arch shape feels right at home in farmhouse, cottage and rural kitchen spaces. Warm wood finishes like oak or distressed pine complement the vaulted design. A reclaimed, weathered look adds to the vintage vibe. Touches like open shelving, woven baskets and pendant lighting enhance the rustic charm.

Traditional Kitchens

In a more formal, elegant kitchen, cathedral arches offset sleek surfaces like granite or marble countertops. Glass cabinet door fronts provide an elegant contrast and enable display of china or collectibles. The grand arch shape brings architectural detail to otherwise formal rooms.

Vintage Kitchens

For kitchens with an antiqued or retro feel, the cathedral arch shape pays homage to old world styles popular in the early 20th century. Mixing painted and wood finishes gives an authentic lived-in look, while open shelves and pendant lighting enhance the vintage aesthetic. The cathedral arch shape brings old world allure.

Cabinet Design and Material Options

When incorporating cathedral arches, carefully choose cabinet materials and accessories that complement the style.

Cabinet Door Styles

Simple Shaker-style cabinet doors allow the cathedral arch shape to take center stage. Glass panel doors enable attractive display storage for dishes and collectibles. For a seamless look, opt for inset cabinet doors. Door style should enhance the arch shape.

Wood Types and Finishes

Rustic woods like oak, alder and maple complement the cathedral look. Pine with a distressed painted finish also suits a cottage kitchen. Stain finishes in warm natural tones like walnut evoke an old world feel. The cathedral arch shape works well with both painted and wood cabinetry.

Hardware and Accessories

Vintage-style brass or bronze hardware paired with cathedral arches pays homage to early 20th century style. For added rustic flair, opt for wrought iron pulls with an aged, weathered look. Glass knobs allow interior lighting to shine through. Prioritize hardware with a timeworn, antique look and feel.

Cathedral Arch Layout Ideas

Cathedral arches can be configured in multiple ways within your kitchen cabinetry and layout. Some possibilities include:

• Arched shape over a kitchen island or range hood
• Full archway effect over the sink or stove
• Arches only on upper cabinets for a subtle touch
• Arched glass cabinet fronts for display
• Arched paned doors on base cabinets

The layout possibilities are endless. Cathedral arches can be subtle or make a bold statement depending on placement and surrounding cabinetry style.

Achieving the Cathedral Look

While new custom cabinetry enables you to design the perfect arched shape, there are also ways to convert existing cabinets or work within a budget.

Remodeling and Renovation

Some homeowners opt to modify existing cabinets by adding an arched panel or crown molding to create the cathedral arch shape. The arch can also be achieved by replacing existing cabinet fronts only. Changes to backsplash and countertop materials also help transform the space.

New Cabinet Installation

When undergoing a full kitchen remodel, splurge on built-in cathedral arch cabinets to make a bold statement. Complement them with standard rectangular cabinetry. An open concept floorplan also enables you to take advantage of the view from multiple angles. New custom cabinetry makes achieving the perfect cathedral arch shape simple.

With their architectural detail and vintage inspired style, it’s easy to see why cathedral arch cabinets have maintained their timeless appeal. The arched shape brings a kitchen to life through its nostalgic evocation of old world grandeur. If you're seeking to add character and visual interest to your cooking space, cathedral arch cabinets may be the perfect design choice for infusing your kitchen with a touch of old world charm.