Choosing the Right Cabinets for Your Kitchen

While remodeling your kitchen, choosing the right cabinets can be one of the toughest decisions to make. Choosing the right size, style, and type of cabinet not only impacts the overall functionality but also the aesthetics of your kitchen as they are the first thing guests notice when walking into the kitchen.

Remodeling the kitchen can be a costly venture. If you are moving to a new city, or bought a new house and wish to remodel your kitchen in Chicago, you should seek advice and guidance from experienced remodelers who will help to guide you through the process and material selections. For starters, here are some tips on how to choose the right cabinets for your kitchen.

Define the Budget

Budget plays an important role in making the right buying decisions for your kitchen. The very first step can be to think about the quality of the materials and styles you wish to include in your kitchen. If you are completing a gut remodel, some costs can be saved by opting for stock cabinets versus custom. Custom cabinets are made to order and tend to be more expensive than stock. A second cost-saving option is to not replace a section of cabinetry, and instead in its place hang open shelving to house your dishes, glassware, or other decorative kitchenware.

Choosing the Right Style

There is a plethora of design styles for homeowners to choose from when it comes to cabinetry. Flat panels, shaker, glass front, and raised inserts are among the most popular. The functionality of cabinetry is a huge consideration as kitchen design moves forward with technological advancements.

Use of Appliances and Gadgets

Cabinets can also be used to house smart kitchen appliances such as LCD screens, charging stands, smart speakers, and kitchen appliances. Some smart kitchen options provide high-end audio systems to be installed on flat or raised panels, giving both entertainment and voice command functionality. Smart lighting controlled by in-wall controls or directly through your cell phone can also be installed underneath cabinetry or inside so it is triggered to turn on when a cabinet door or drawer is opened.

Chicago Kitchen Cabinet Design Trends

Chicago’s kitchen cabinet design trends beautifully intertwine timeless aesthetics with modern functionality, crafting spaces that are not only visually stunning but also efficient and reflective of individual tastes. Whether nestled in a sleek downtown loft or nestled within the charm of a historic home, cabinets are pivotal in defining the overall ambiance and character of the kitchen.

Minimalist and Sleek Cabinetry

The ethos of contemporary kitchen renovations in Chicago leans heavily toward minimalism, characterized by clean lines and streamlined designs. Handleless cabinets and slab doors create a seamless look, while soft-close mechanisms ensure a quiet and luxurious user experience. Homeowners can choose from a range of finishes, from high-gloss that reflects light beautifully to matte textures that evoke a sense of softness, each exuding a unique sophistication.

Bold Colors and Warm Neutrals

While the classic allure of white cabinets remains timeless, Chicagoans are increasingly embracing bolder color palettes that make a powerful statement. Rich, deep hues like navy, forest green, and burgundy inject a vibrant personality into kitchen spaces, transforming them into lively focal points. Simultaneously, warm neutral shades—such as taupe, greige, and natural wood finishes—are becoming favored choices for their ability to create cozy, inviting atmospheres that feel like home.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

In response to a growing commitment to sustainability, eco-minded homeowners in Chicago are choosing cabinetry crafted from reclaimed wood, bamboo, and FSC-certified materials. These environmentally conscious choices not only help reduce environmental impact but also enhance the kitchen’s character. Water-based finishes and low-VOC paints add to this sustainability narrative, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship while nurturing a healthy indoor environment. As a result, these materials infuse kitchens with authenticity and warmth.

Mixed Materials and Textures

A captivating trend in Chicago kitchen cabinetry involves the creative mixing of materials and textures, adding depth and visual intrigue to designs. Pairing rich wood with sleek metal, combining matte finishes with glossy elements, or integrating open shelving with traditional closed cabinetry results in a dynamic and engaging aesthetic. Glass-front cabinets and mesh inserts introduce an element of transparency, allowing homeowners to showcase their cherished dishware while maintaining an organized and stylish appearance.

Smart Storage Solutions

Practicality is essential in today’s kitchens, and Chicago homeowners are maximizing every inch of space with innovative storage solutions. Features such as deep drawers specifically designed for pots and pans, pull-out pantry organizers that make ingredients easily accessible, hidden spice racks that keep kitchen counters uncluttered, and built-in charging stations for devices enhance daily functionality. Custom cabinetry, tailored to the specific needs of each homeowner, ensures that no space goes wasted, making kitchens both stylish and remarkably efficient.

Classic Elegance with a Modern Twist

For those seeking a timeless yet contemporary feel, traditional cabinetry with modern upgrades is currently in vogue. Designs featuring Shaker-style doors, intricate moldings, and elegant hardware—like polished brass or matte-black finishes—blend old-world charm with contemporary flair. This harmonious combination infuses Chicago kitchens with warmth and a sense of history while delivering a fresh, updated aesthetic.

In summary, the kitchen cabinet trends in Chicago are all about striking a balance between beauty and practicality. These evolving design choices—ranging from bold colors and eco-friendly materials to streamlined minimalism and clever storage solutions—allow homeowners to create kitchens that not only reflect their personal style but also resonate with the dynamic spirit of the city.

Contact Our Chicago Kitchen Remodelers

If you are in the Chicago area and considering a kitchen remodel, maintenance and repair for your home then contact Areté Renovators today at 773.683.3033 to schedule a free consultation.

(Updated 5/12/2025)