Cabinet Doors And Hinges

A kitchen with grey cabinets for storage and a stainless steel dishwasher with wood flooring

Consumer Information

While this may seem tedious, hinges are key to the design since you can’t open or close a door without them. From cabinet door style, wood type, and color, there are numerous decisions to be made when designing a kitchen. Sometimes, the little things can get lost or overlooked, but that does not mean they are unimportant. A proper hinge will ensure a better life for your cabinet door, as it supports the door’s weight and provides continuous mobility. We will explain the available options, which hinges go best with certain door styles, and discuss key considerations during the selection process.

Cabinet Door Hinge Types

While multiple hinge varieties are available, each with a specific purpose, we will discuss only the most common types used in cabinetry.

Concealed hinges—this type is not visible from the outside of the cabinet when the door is closed, giving the overall design a clean appearance. It is also known as a European hinge.
Semi-concealed hinges – only a portion of this hinge is visible and is mainly used with face-frame cabinets.
Wrap-around hinges – a portion of the hinge is bent to wrap around the door.
Non-mortise hinges are surface-mounted and thinner than a standard hinge.
Self-closing – not to be confused with the soft-close hinge, this type has a spring inside that helps to close the cabinet door when it is two inches away. Never worry about cabinet doors being left open again.
Soft-close – this option prevents cabinet doors from slamming shut by gently closing themselves when two inches away.

What Is One Of The Most Popular Hinges?

While different cabinets have different needs, the concealed style is one of the more popular hinge options. It is often used on frameless cabinets, but can also be used on face-frames. Since it is concealed, there is no interruption with the look and design of the cabinets, making it a great option.

Decorative Hinges

Hinges are considered practical hardware, but they can do more—they can add visual interest when used correctly. Using colors like brass or a contrasting one like black can make a statement in your design, as can different metals such as cast iron. Multiple hinge styles, such as butterfly or pivot, can also make a statement. See some of the great options we offer here.

Doors and Hinges

An array of door types requires unique hinges, including bi-fold, pocket, and vertically opened doors. We always encourage you to discuss the types of doors and any unique needs you may have for your space with your designer so they are aware and can make the necessary adjustments.

Ready, Set, Swing!

With over 20 years of experience in helping clients build custom spaces, we are ready to assist you in creating the perfect space for you and your loved ones. Our showroom, located in beautiful uptown Shelby, has multiple displays of our cabinets and the different hinges that make them work. Visit us and enjoy a complimentary beverage as you browse.

byStacey Walker/onSeptember 20, 2015/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inConsumer Information

white kitchen and brown island with hardwood floors

Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

Updating The Kitchen Work Triangle

There are multiple variants when planning a new design, but three things never change in a kitchen: the sink, stove, and refrigerator. These three pieces are standard and essential to the flow and function of this area, which gave rise to the work triangle

July 7, 2021/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker

Design Notes

Design Solutions For Your Home

At Walker Woodworking, we do custom work, which means we take the time to get to know our clients and create something that solves problems and looks great. Let’s talk about three areas in the home that often need design solutions and how we can help you solve them.

June 23, 2021/0 Comments/by Jan Blanton

A kitchen with white and blue cabinetry and glass front doors

Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

All You Need To Know About The Kitchen Work Triangle Theory

The idea of the American dream was born around that period when Jeeps hit the market, and kitchens were full of Tupperware. One of the most significant innovations in home design also happened during this period – the kitchen work triangle theory.

June 7, 2021/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker

Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

Kitchen Cabinet Trends To Avoid

When you do a renovation, you want it to last, not something that has to be redone every decade, which is why we work hard at staying up to date on current cabinet trends, checking out what is here to stay and what is merely a fad.

May 21, 2021/0 Comments/by Jan Blanton

A bathroom with a double divider drawer pulled open with makeup organized all inside

Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

Making Life Easier

Designing for Aging in Place & Individuals with Disabilities — to Make Life Easier

Custom cabinets are tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Designing cabinets that accommodate seniors who desire to age in place, as well as those with disabilities, is something more and more designers are becoming aware of.

May 14, 2021/0 Comments/by Jan Blanton