When it comes to kitchen design, few features are as contented as kitchen cabinets. Frequently subject to debate from designers, it's unlikely that experts unanimously agree on colors, materials, and finishes – and glass-fronted cabinets are the latest to be the subject of discussion.
The question as to whether glass-fronted kitchen cabinets are still on trend has sparked many a conversation this 2024, but its latest supporter, Carrie Underwood, may have just made a case to end the debate.
The singer shared a glimpse into her Tennessee kitchen, where she has found a way to blend a glass front with a wooden front, in that she has glass windows above the white-painted doors. This allows her to keep some everyday essentials (plates, glasses, etc) hidden while simultaneously showcasing some more curated accessories. It's a perfect balance: private enough that some ordinary items are out of sight but personal enough to bring a sense of her individual style to the room.
'Glass-fronted kitchen cabinets are a top choice for homeowners seeking to add visual interest to their space,' says Charlie Smallbone, the founder of Ledbury Studio.
In Underwood's case, she has (as mentioned) opted for a balance between solid wood doors with clear glass windows, allowing her to bring only a small selection of items on display. However, Smallbone says we can take this a step further by replacing our wooden doors with glass and bringing all our pieces onto display (if we so wish).
'Unlike solid wood or opaque cabinetry, glass doors introduce depth and dimension, breaking up the monotony and transforming your storage into a stylish display. With glass-fronted cabinets, your beautiful dishware, glassware, or decorative pieces become a part of your kitchen’s decor, enhancing its overall aesthetic,' Smallbone says.
As Underwood's choice of handpicked accessories shows, the ability to customize glass-fronted cabinets is perhaps its biggest asset. However, we can also play with customization through the type of glass type we choose. 'You can tailor them to your specific taste, choosing from a variety of glass types – whether clear, frosted, tinted, or textured - and selecting the perfect framing material. This flexibility allows you to personalize your kitchen in a way that truly reflects your style.'
'Among the various glass options, ribbed glass stands out for its unique benefits. It diffuses light to cast a soft glow throughout your kitchen, while the ribbing adds movement and visual intrigue, even when the cabinets are closed. This feature ensures that your kitchen remains dynamic and engaging at all times,' Smallbone recommends.
In Underwood's case, she has chosen clear glass, meaning everything is on display. In this case, the pieces we include should look and feel curated. But that doesn't mean they can't be functional. Below, we handpicked some pieces that would look great for display and general kitchen function behind any glass front.
These glass jars are not just for sipping; they can be safely used for canning and storage of syrups and sauces.
The canister that does exactly what its name suggests: holds everything. The glass body and wooden lid are a pefect, time-honored combo that will look good everywhere.
With its rich stoneware texture, this canister is the perfect way to bring a modern farmhouse aesthetic to our shelves, cabinets or countertops.
While Underwood's kitchen is far from compact, Smallbone reassures that glass-fronted cabinets are just as impactful in small kitchens, too. In fact, as well as their personalization benefits, they can ever offer space-enhancing effects that can make the room feel airier.
'In smaller homes or apartments, kitchens can often feel cramped or cluttered. Glass-fronted cabinets help alleviate this by creating an illusion of spaciousness,' he says. The transparency of the glass draws the eye beyond the cabinet doors, making the room feel larger and more open.'
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