• Home
  • Blog
  • Keep Your Kitchen Looking Custom with Hinges That Fit

Keep Your Kitchen Looking Custom with Hinges That Fit

When designing your dream kitchen, every detail counts. From the cabinets to the countertops, each element of your kitchen contributes to the overall look and functionality. One often overlooked detail that can have a big impact? Cabinet hinges.

With so many hinge styles available, it can be tricky to know which options are best suited for your kitchen cabinets. The right hinges will complement your cabinetry, while hinges that don’t fit properly can make even high-end cabinets look sloppy. Read on to learn how to select hinges that enhance your kitchen’s custom aesthetic.

Getting to Know Cabinet Hinges

Before diving into the different hinge types, let’s review some hinge basics. Cabinet hinges consist of two hinge cups, a mounting plate, and an arm connecting them. They are typically made of steel or brass. The job of a cabinet hinge is simple—allow smooth opening and closing of doors and drawers.

kitchen cabinets hinges types

Hinges for kitchen cabinets generally fall into two main categories: inset or overlay. Inset hinges fit into the cabinet door, so no part of the hinge is visible when the door is closed. Overlay hinges mount onto the surface of cabinet doors and are partially visible even when closed.

Common Types of Cabinet Hinges

Some of the most popular kitchen cabinet hinge types include:

Key Considerations for Choosing Hinges

Keep the following factors in mind when selecting kitchen cabinet hinges:

Matching Hinges to Cabinet Design

To keep your kitchen cabinets looking seamless and custom, it’s crucial to choose hinges designed for your specific cabinet style.

Hinges for Inset Cabinet Doors

For a completely flush, built-in look, inset cabinet doors require equally seamless inset hinges. Inset hinges feature a recessed cup design that allows them to fit inside the door rather than overlapping it. This creates a smooth, uninterrupted line when closed. While the end result is attractive, inset hinge installation tends to be more complex than other types.

Hinges for Full Overlay Doors

Full overlay cabinet doors completely cover the face frame, leaving just a small reveal around the edges. Basic overlay hinges are ideal for this type of design. The hinge cups mount to the surface of the door and part of the mechanism remains visible. Overlay hinges tend to allow for easier DIY installation compared to more complex inset hinge variations.

Hinges for Frameless Cabinets

For a minimalist, contemporary look, many kitchens feature frameless cabinet construction. These cabinets have no face frame, just sides connecting straight to the doors. Maintaining a clean, integrated aesthetic calls for concealed hinges. Concealed hinges provide the same unseen functionality as inset hinges, but mount inside frameless cabinet boxes with access holes in the cabinet sides.

Choosing Finishes to Match

Along with functionality, cabinet hinge finishes have a big impact on kitchen décor. Try to match hinge finishes to other hardware and fixtures for consistency. The most common finishes are stainless steel and brass, but other options like bronze, chrome and nickel are also available.

For painted cabinetry, look for hinges with finishes designed to complement the cabinet color. Or, hinges can be painted to achieve a custom match. Just be sure to use high-quality paints and primers formulated for metal.

Enhance Convenience with Specialty Hinges

Self-Closing Hinges

For those who appreciate hands-free convenience, self-closing hinges provide added function to cabinet doors. Integrated springs in these hinges automatically pull doors shut after they’re opened. Great for busy cooks and kitchens with kids, self-closing hinges eliminate having to manually close every cabinet door.

Soft-Close Hinges

Soft-close hinges prevent cabinet doors and drawers from slamming shut. Through engineered hydraulic dampening, soft-close hinges gently slow the closing motion for smooth, quiet operation. These high-end hinges lend a luxury feel and prevent jarring slammed doors.

Achieving a Flawless Fit

Proper hinge installation is key to keeping gaps and alignment issues from detracting from your kitchen cabinets’ custom look. Carefully follow hinge template measurements, allowing adequate depth for hinge cups. Adjust hinge plates as needed until doors align correctly within the opening.

Most hinges allow for some degree of adjustability, like side-to-side and depth positioning. Soft-close and self-closing hinges will require a bit more finesse to install just right. For complex specialty hinges, don’t be afraid to call in a professional installer.

When designed thoughtfully, even the most functional cabinet hinges impart style. Concealed hinges keep lines clean and seamless, while decorative ornate hinges can provide charming traditional flair. Take time to choose the right hinges for your kitchen cabinets. With all components harmonized, your kitchen will exude customized sophistication.

For exceptional kitchen cabinets paired with perfectly fitted hinges, consult an experienced kitchen designer. An expert can identify optimal hinge selections for your specific cabinet materials, configurations and aesthetic vision. Thoughtful details like hinges may seem minor, but they make a major difference in creating a refined, custom kitchen space.