Beautifully designed open floor plan kitchen features painted Shaker cabinets in White and Black.

The Difference Between “Nice kitchen” and “Wow!”

We asked our designers what they use to create that special look and feel. They agree; the extra touches dress up standard cabinets. Here are their top five recommendations:

Mullion Doors

Shipped ready for glass inserts, mullion doors dress up any kitchen. They can be fitted with a wide range of glass styles, and typically are lit from within. With or without mullion bars, a section of glass door cabinets serves both as a focal point and display case.

Crown Molding

Available in styles to complement any design, crown molding creates an elegant effect across the upper line of cabinetry. Observe the carefully mitered corners. Installation is a job for a skilled finishing carpenter!

Light Rail

A narrow band of light rail trims the lower edge of wall cabinets, concealing under-cabinet light fixtures.

When choosing task lighting, ask your designer for recommendations on which of the many types of light fixtures will work for you.

Ends Finished With Door Panels or Beadboard

When the end of a bank of cabinetry is finished with matching door panels or beadboard, it carries the eye across the line, adding a complete, neatly finished look.

Vary Depth of Cabinets

By modifying cabinets to be either deeper or shallower than standard dimensions, you can break up the horizontal line, adding visual interest and a custom, furniture-like effect.

What do you think? Have you admired a special decorative feature in a kitchen design? Share your thought with our readers!