Full-Overlay vs. Frameless vs. Inset Cabinetry: What’s the Difference?
When planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, cabinetry style plays a major role in both how your space looks and how it functions every day. Three of the most common options you’ll hear about are full overlay, frameless, and inset cabinetry.
At Nix Flooring & Design, we believe great cabinetry isn’t just about choosing the right style, it’s about expert design and expert installation. That’s why we offer exclusive cabinet lines, including RiverRun Cabinetry, Brighton Cabinetry, and Crystal Cabinetry, Understanding the differences helps you make confident decisions and ensures your finished space looks as good in real life as it does on paper.
Full-Overlay Cabinetry
Full overlay cabinetry features doors and drawer fronts that cover most (or all) of the cabinet face frame, leaving minimal space between doors. This creates a clean, cohesive appearance that works beautifully across many design styles.
Why homeowners love it:
- Sleek, modern look with fewer visible seams
- Works well in transitional and contemporary homes
- More forgiving than inset cabinetry while still feeling refined
- Typically more budget-friendly than inset options
Why installation matters:
With full overlay cabinets, even gaps and consistent alignment are what separate a good install from a great one. Because our installers are trained in-house, our team knows how to fine-tune spacing and door alignment so your cabinets feel intentional, not rushed.
Best for: Homeowners who want a polished, modern look without stepping into fully custom pricing.
Frameless Cabinetry
Frameless cabinetry eliminates the face frame entirely, allowing doors and drawers to attach directly to the cabinet box. This construction provides wider openings and maximizes usable storage.
Why homeowners love it:
- Maximum drawer and storage space
- Clean, minimalist aesthetic
- Excellent accessibility and function
- Ideal for modern and contemporary designs
Why installation matters:
Frameless cabinets demand extreme precision. Without a face frame to hide inconsistencies, even minor misalignment is noticeable. Our in-house installers are experienced with frameless systems and understand how to achieve perfect reveals, smooth drawer function, and long-term durability.
Best for: Clients who value function and efficiency.
Inset Cabinetry
Inset cabinetry features doors and drawers set inside the cabinet frame, sitting perfectly flush with the cabinet face. This style is considered the most craftsmanship-driven option available.
Why homeowners love it:
- Timeless, furniture-quality appearance
- Exceptional attention to detail
- Ideal for classic, farmhouse, and luxury homes
- Adds architectural character and charm
Why installation matters:
Inset cabinetry leaves no room for error. Gaps must be perfectly even, doors must sit flush, and allowances must be made for natural wood movement. This is where our in-house installation team truly shines—our installers are trained to deliver precise alignment, consistent spacing, and long-lasting performance that inset cabinetry requires.
Best for: Homeowners seeking a custom, heirloom-quality finish with timeless appeal.
The Nix Flooring & Design Difference
Choosing the right cabinet style is only part of the equation. At Nix Flooring & Design, we combine thoughtful design, quality materials, and in-house trained installers to ensure your cabinetry is installed with precision, down to the smallest gap and alignment detail.
Because our installation team is part of our company (not outsourced), designers and installers work together from start to finish. The result? Cabinets that look intentional, function smoothly, and stand the test of time.
Ready to start designing your space? Contact Nix Flooring & Design today to explore cabinetry options that fit your style, your home, and your lifestyle or visit our cabinetry services page to discover what our team has to offer.
