Kitchen units are an essential part of any kitchen renovation. They not only provide storage space for all your kitchen essentials but also have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your fitted kitchen. From the style and construction to the materials used, choosing the right kitchen units is crucial for creating your ideal kitchen. In this guide, we'll explore the various types of kitchen units available, their pros and cons, and provide helpful tips to help you make the best choice for your space.
How to Pick the Right Kitchen Units
Consider how you use your kitchen, the available space, your style preference, and your budget when choosing kitchen units. [Image Credit: Adobe]
When choosing the best kitchen units for your space, it's essential to consider your kitchen usage, available space, style preference, and budget. While the color and style of kitchen cabinets are often in focus, it's equally important to factor in functionality and practicality. Let's explore these elements further.
Budget
Your budget plays a significant role in determining the type of kitchen units you can choose from. Different retailers offer kitchen ranges at various price points, catering to the diverse budgets of their customers. These ranges typically provide options that vary in cabinet sizes, designs, color choices, door finishes, and construction. By determining your budget, you can find the best kitchen units that suit your financial capacity and needs.
Space and Use
For compact kitchens, it's essential to maximize storage space efficiently. Consider internal solutions like wire racks in corner cupboards or pull-out larders to make the most of limited space. Opting for full-extension drawer units over traditional cupboards can provide better accessibility and visibility of your kitchen items. Remember, you don't necessarily need to fill a large kitchen with units; instead, focus on buying what you need for storage and consider coordinating units for other areas of your home. Utilize larders, breakfast cupboards, and worktop-mounted units with hidden doors to hide clutter when entertaining guests.
Style
Choosing the right color and style for your kitchen units is fun but requires careful consideration. Some door and drawer finishes are more durable than others and can be easily repainted, giving you the flexibility to update your kitchen's look in the future. For low-maintenance kitchens, opt for units with minimal detailing that are easy to clean.
How Much Do Kitchen Units Cost?
The cost of kitchen units varies depending on the material chosen, location, and kitchen company. Here's a breakdown of the average cost of standard-sized kitchen units in the UK (excluding installation and door handles):
- Melamine-faced chipboard (MFC): From £50
- Medium-density fibreboard (MDF): From £130
- Plywood: From £200
- Timber-faced MDF or chipboard: From £300
- Solid wood: From £350
What Are the Top 5 Kitchen Units Available?
The material of your kitchen cabinet affects its durability, maintenance, and cost. Here are some popular types of kitchen units:
Solid Wood
- Average price: From £350 per unit
- Durability: Highly durable and long-lasting
- Maintenance: Easy to clean with mild soap and water; can be repainted to refresh the look
Solid wood cabinets are a popular choice for those seeking longevity and traditional craftsmanship. They are usually delivered fully assembled and rigid, made with durable timbers like oak, tulipwood, maple, or ash. Solid wood cabinets can be easily repainted to give your kitchen a fresh look. However, it's important to avoid harsh cleaners and use gentle cleaning methods to preserve the wood's natural beauty. Prices for solid wood cabinets start at around £350 per unit.
MDF
- Average price: From £130 per unit
- Durability: Depends on quality, thicker construction can be very durable
- Maintenance: Easy to clean with mild soap and water; can be painted
MDF, or medium-density fibreboard, is a popular and affordable material for kitchen units. It offers stability in humid environments and has a smooth surface that's easy to paint. Quality MDF cabinets are sturdy and can last for a long time. They are also more environmentally friendly, often made from recycled wood fibers. Cleaning MDF cabinets is similar to solid wood, using mild soap and water or a vinegar solution. Prices for MDF units start at around £130 per unit.
Plywood
- Average price: From £200 per unit
- Durability: Highly durable and resistant to water damage
- Maintenance: Easy to clean with mild soap and water; can be painted, waxed, or lacquered
Plywood is made by bonding thin layers of wood together, resulting in a strong and sturdy material for kitchen units. It is highly resistant to moisture and has good heat resistance. Plywood cabinets are heavier than chipboard, so it's important to ensure proper hinges and runners are used. Cleaning plywood cabinets is similar to solid wood and MDF, using mild soap and water. Prices for plywood cabinets start at around £200 per unit.
MFC
- Average price: From £50 per unit
- Durability: Some lower-priced units can be flimsy, good-quality units last longer
- Maintenance: Melamine facing is scratch-resistant and easy to clean
MFC, or melamine-faced chipboard, is an affordable option for kitchen units. It consists of chipboard covered in melamine foil, offering moisture resistance and scratch resistance. While some lower-priced MFC cabinets may lack durability, good-quality MFC units with thicker facing can have a longer lifespan. Cleaning MFC cabinets is easy with a quick wipe. MFC carcasses start at around £50 per unit.
Timber-faced MDF or Chipboard Units
- Average price: From £300 per unit
- Durability: Depends on the quality of the material under the veneer
- Maintenance: Easy to clean, scratches can be harder to refinish
Timber-faced units are made from MDF or chipboard with a veneer of real wood. They offer the look of solid wood cabinets at a more affordable price. Timber-faced units are stable in fluctuating temperatures and humidity. The veneer can be varnished, oiled, or painted. Cleaning these units is similar to solid wood. Prices for timber-faced units start at around £300 per unit.
What Are the Standard Kitchen Unit Sizes?
If you're buying ready-to-fit kitchen units, it's helpful to know the standard sizes to estimate how many cabinets can fit in your space. While most units have standard heights and depths, there are variations in width. Here are the standard kitchen unit sizes in the UK:
[Table of standard kitchen unit sizes]
Typical Kitchen Unit Door Styles
When it comes to kitchen units, both the carcass and the door contribute to the overall style. There are three main door designs to consider:
Shaker
Shaker-style cabinets feature doors with a framed central panel, offering a timeless and classic look. They come in various colors and can be made with or without handles.
Slab
Slab cabinets have smooth doors without any framed features. They are ideal for those looking for a modern design and come in a range of colors and finishes. Slab doors can be used with handles or in a handleless design.
J-pull or Integrated Handles
J-pull cabinets have a smooth surface like slab cabinets but feature a J-shaped curve that serves as an integrated handle. They offer a sleek and modern look, eliminating the need for external handles.
What Hardware Do I Need for My Kitchen Units?
When purchasing kitchen units, you may need to consider additional hardware such as door handles, hinges, and runners. Handles come in various designs, colors, and finishes, allowing you to personalize your kitchen further. Hinges and runners are essential for smooth functionality and durability. Your chosen kitchen company may offer a range of accessories and inserts to maximize storage space, such as pull-out shelves, waste bins, and drawer organizers.
Which Is Best: Rigid or Flat Packed Kitchen Units?
When selecting kitchen units, you typically have two options: rigid or flat packed cabinets. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to consider your preferences and circumstances.
Rigid kitchen units are pre-assembled in a factory and delivered to your home ready for installation. While they may take longer to manufacture, they save time during the installation process. On the other hand, flat pack kitchen units are delivered in boxes and require assembly on-site. They are more affordable but may require more effort to assemble.
Our Recommendation
For a balance of value, finish options, and ease of maintenance, MDF cabinets and plywood cabinets are the top choices. Both materials are durable, resistant to humidity, and reasonably priced. Choose the best quality you can afford, and your kitchen will remain functional and stylish for years to come. It's recommended to view the carcasses in person and request quotes from different suppliers to make the best choice within your budget.
In conclusion, selecting the right kitchen units is a crucial step in your kitchen renovation journey. Consider your budget, space, style preferences, and desired level of maintenance to find the perfect units that will complement your space and meet your needs. With the right choice, your kitchen will become a functional and beautiful space that you can enjoy for years to come.