The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Kitchen Cabinetry

By Krystal Kitchens, Basingstoke, Hampshire

Choosing the right kitchen cabinetry is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when designing or renovating your kitchen. Cabinets aren’t just about storage – they set the tone for the entire room, influence how you use the space, and can even add value to your home.

At Krystal Kitchens, based in Basingstoke, Hampshire, we know how overwhelming the choices can be. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you choose cabinetry that suits your style, needs, and budget.

 

1. Know Your Kitchen Style

Cabinetry plays a huge role in defining your kitchen’s aesthetic. Start by identifying the overall look you want:

  • Modern & Minimalist: Clean lines, flat-panel doors, and sleek handles.

  • Classic & Timeless: Shaker-style cabinets with subtle detailing.

  • Rustic & Farmhouse: Wood finishes, open shelving, and vintage charm.

  • Contemporary: Mix of materials (like wood and gloss), handleless designs, and bold colour choices.

💡 Tip: Not sure what style suits you best? Pop into our large Basingstoke showroom to browse real kitchen displays and get free advice from our friendly design team.

 
2. Choose the Right Material

Cabinets are an investment – the materials matter. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard): Affordable and smooth, great for painted finishes.

  • Solid Wood: Durable and traditional, with a natural grain that adds warmth.

  • Laminates: Easy to clean, cost-effective, and available in many finishes.

  • Gloss or Matt Finishes: Gloss reflects light and makes small kitchens feel bigger, while matt offers a more understated, tactile feel.

 
3. Function First: Storage & Layout

Think beyond looks – your cabinetry needs to work for your lifestyle.

  • Pull-out larders make accessing pantry items easy.

  • Corner solutions (like carousels or magic corners) maximise space.

  • Soft-close drawers and doors add a premium feel and prevent wear and tear.

  • Integrated binscutlery dividers, and pan drawers improve organisation.

👷‍♂️ Our design consultations are free, and we can create a smart layout that maximises your kitchen space – whether you’re working with a compact apartment or a large open-plan home.

 

4. Consider Colour Carefully

Cabinet colour can transform your kitchen:

  • White or cream for a light, airy feel.

  • Navy, forest green, or charcoal for a bold, dramatic look.

  • Two-tone kitchens (e.g. dark lowers, light uppers) are trendy and stylish.

Not sure which will work best in your space? Our in-store designers can walk you through samples and mock-ups.

 

5. Set Your Budget – and Stick to It

Cabinetry typically makes up a significant portion of your kitchen budget. At Krystal Kitchens, we offer flexible finance options to help you spread the cost. Plus, we have in-store offers available now – so your dream kitchen could be more affordable than you think.

 

6. See It Before You Commit

Come and explore our large showroom in Basingstoke – with free parking and multiple full-size displays, you can see and feel the quality of our cabinetry before making any decisions.

Our expert team will guide you through the whole process, and our design service is completely free – with no pressure, just honest advice.

 

Visit Krystal Kitchens Today

Whether you’re just starting your kitchen journey or ready to finalise your choices, Krystal Kitchens in Basingstoke is here to help. With a wide range of quality cabinetry options, expert designers, in-store offers, and flexible finance, we make creating your dream kitchen simple and stress-free.

🚗 Free Parking | Friendly Experts | Free Kitchen Design | Exclusive Offers

📍 Visit us today at Krystal Kitchens, Basingstoke, Hampshire
📞 Call or email to book your free design consultation

 

 

Choosing the right kitchen cabinetry is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when designing or renovating your kitchen. Cabinets aren’t just about storage – they set the tone for the entire room, influence how you use the space, and can even add value to your home.

At Krystal Kitchens, based in Basingstoke, Hampshire, we know how overwhelming the choices can be. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you choose cabinetry that suits your style, needs, and budget.

 

1. Know Your Kitchen Style

Cabinetry plays a huge role in defining your kitchen’s aesthetic. Start by identifying the overall look you want:

  • Modern & Minimalist: Clean lines, flat-panel doors, and sleek handles.

  • Classic & Timeless: Shaker-style cabinets with subtle detailing.

  • Rustic & Farmhouse: Wood finishes, open shelving, and vintage charm.

  • Contemporary: Mix of materials (like wood and gloss), handleless designs, and bold colour choices.

💡 Tip: Not sure what style suits you best? Pop into our large Basingstoke showroom to browse real kitchen displays and get free advice from our friendly design team.

 
2. Choose the Right Material

Cabinets are an investment – the materials matter. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard): Affordable and smooth, great for painted finishes.

  • Solid Wood: Durable and traditional, with a natural grain that adds warmth.

  • Laminates: Easy to clean, cost-effective, and available in many finishes.

  • Gloss or Matt Finishes: Gloss reflects light and makes small kitchens feel bigger, while matt offers a more understated, tactile feel.

 
3. Function First: Storage & Layout

Think beyond looks – your cabinetry needs to work for your lifestyle.

  • Pull-out larders make accessing pantry items easy.

  • Corner solutions (like carousels or magic corners) maximise space.

  • Soft-close drawers and doors add a premium feel and prevent wear and tear.

  • Integrated binscutlery dividers, and pan drawers improve organisation.

👷‍♂️ Our design consultations are free, and we can create a smart layout that maximises your kitchen space – whether you’re working with a compact apartment or a large open-plan home.

 

4. Consider Colour Carefully

Cabinet colour can transform your kitchen:

  • White or cream for a light, airy feel.

  • Navy, forest green, or charcoal for a bold, dramatic look.

  • Two-tone kitchens (e.g. dark lowers, light uppers) are trendy and stylish.

Not sure which will work best in your space? Our in-store designers can walk you through samples and mock-ups.

 

5. Set Your Budget – and Stick to It

Cabinetry typically makes up a significant portion of your kitchen budget. At Krystal Kitchens, we offer flexible finance options to help you spread the cost. Plus, we have in-store offers available now – so your dream kitchen could be more affordable than you think.

 

6. See It Before You Commit

Come and explore our large showroom in Basingstoke – with free parking and multiple full-size displays, you can see and feel the quality of our cabinetry before making any decisions.

Our expert team will guide you through the whole process, and our design service is completely free – with no pressure, just honest advice.

 

Visit Krystal Kitchens Today

Whether you’re just starting your kitchen journey or ready to finalise your choices, Krystal Kitchens in Basingstoke is here to help. With a wide range of quality cabinetry options, expert designers, in-store offers, and flexible finance, we make creating your dream kitchen simple and stress-free.

🚗 Free Parking | Friendly Experts | Free Kitchen Design | Exclusive Offers

📍 Visit us today at Krystal Kitchens, Basingstoke, Hampshire
📞 Call or email to book your free design consultation

Call us now to book a design visit 01256 898463