Choosing cabinetry is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when designing a kitchen or any built-in space in your home. One of the first choices you’ll face is the type of cabinet door overlay — specifically, whether to go with inset or full overlay cabinets. Each option offers its own aesthetic and functional benefits. So, which one is right for your home? Let’s break it down.
What Are Cabinet Overlays?
A “cabinet overlay” refers to how the doors and drawer fronts are positioned on the cabinet frame. This small detail has a big impact on the overall style, spacing, and construction of your cabinetry.
There are three common types of overlays: inset, partial overlay, and full overlay. At Pryde Designs, we focus on inset and full overlay cabinetry — both are popular in high-end and custom cabinetry designs.
Inset Cabinets
Full Overlay Cabinets
What Are Inset Cabinets?
Inset cabinetry features doors and drawers that are set inside the cabinet frame, flush with the face of the cabinet. This creates a clean, tailored look that feels timeless and architectural.
Options for Inset Cabinets
If you’re considering inset cabinetry, you’ll also have the opportunity to personalize the look even further by choosing between beaded and non-beaded (plain) styles — and even exposed hinges for a classic, furniture-inspired finish.
Non-Beaded Inset Cabinets
Non-beaded inset offers a clean, minimal look with no decorative routing around the door openings. This version maintains the flush-fit appearance of inset but with a more streamlined and modern profile.
Beaded Inset Cabinets
Beaded inset includes a decorative bead—essentially a routed groove—cut into the inside edge of the cabinet face frame. The doors and drawers sit flush within the frame, with a fine bead outlining each opening. This detail adds texture and dimension, perfect for more traditional or historic homes.
Exposed Hinges
Inset cabinetry also allows for the option of exposed cabinet hinges, which are mounted on the outside of the frame rather than concealed inside. Exposed hinges offer a decorative, classic detail reminiscent of heirloom furniture and early American cabinetry. Available in a variety of finishes—from oil-rubbed bronze to polished nickel—exposed hinges can tie into your overall hardware scheme or serve as a subtle accent.
Benefits of Inset Cabinets:
Elegant, traditional appearance
Inset doors are a favorite for classic, Craftsman, or shaker-style kitchens.Precision craftsmanship
Because the doors fit within the frame, inset cabinetry requires tight tolerances and high-quality construction.Timeless appeal
Inset cabinets never go out of style and add long-term value to your home.
.
Considerations:
Slightly less storage space inside the cabinet boxes compared to overlay styles.
Typically a higher investment due to the craftsmanship required.
Doors may need adjustments over time to stay perfectly aligned, especially in humid climates.
Examples of Inset Kitchen Cabinets
What Are Full Overlay Cabinets?
With full overlay cabinetry, the doors and drawer fronts completely cover the cabinet face frame. This creates a seamless, uniform look with minimal gaps between doors.
Benefits of Full Inset Cabinets:
Sleek, modern appearance
Full overlay is ideal for transitional, contemporary, or minimalist designs.Maximized storage space
Since the doors sit over the frame, the interior space is slightly more generous.Smooth lines and consistent reveals
Great for creating a streamlined, high-end look.
Considerations:
Hinges are usually fully concealed, adding to the clean aesthetic.
While modern in feel, full overlay can still be styled for more traditional homes with the right finish and detailing.
Examples of Full Overlay Kitchen Cabinets
What Cabinet Overlay is Right for Your Home?
The choice between inset vs. full overlay cabinetry often comes down to your design style, budget, and how much detail you’re looking for.
Choose inset cabinets if:
You love a classic, furniture-like look.
You’re investing in a timeless, detail-rich kitchen.
You prefer clean lines and visible craftsmanship.
Choose full overlay cabinets if:
You want a more modern or transitional aesthetic.
Maximizing interior cabinet space is a priority.
You prefer a seamless, uniform front with minimal door gaps.
Let Pryde Designs Help You Decide
At Pryde Designs, we help homeowners across Long Island create custom cabinetry that fits their style, space, and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of inset or the sleek look of full overlay, we’ll guide you through every step — from material selections to finish details and hardware options.
Contact us today to schedule a design consultation and explore our American-made custom cabinetry offerings.
