How Frameless Cabinets Are Built
The frameless design relies on the cabinet box itself for structural strength. Sides, top, and bottom panels connect directly together, typically using dowels, cam locks, or confirmat screws. The door hinges mount directly to the side panels rather than to a face frame. This frameless full access construction has been standard in Europe for decades and delivers excellent durability when properly assembled.
Our cabinets use thick side panels (typically 5/8" to 3/4") to provide the strength needed for hinge mounting and shelf support. The backs are either matching material or finished plywood, depending on the cabinet type. All frameless cabinets include adjustable shelf pins, so you can customize interior spacing based on what you're storing.
Because there's no frame blocking the opening, you get about 10-15% more usable space inside compared to framed cabinets of the same exterior dimensions. This matters most in smaller kitchens where every inch counts.
Material and Finish Options
We offer three main finish categories for frameless cabinets:
- HPL Laminate is a high-pressure laminate that's extremely durable and easy to clean. It resists moisture, scratches, and daily wear better than most other cabinet materials. Available in solid colors and wood grain patterns.
- Wood Veneer gives you real wood appearance with the stability of an engineered core. Popular options include walnut, oak, and other hardwood species. The veneer is approximately 1/32" thick and can be finished natural or stained.
- Lacquer Finish provides a smooth, consistent color in either matte or gloss options. The lacquer is applied in multiple coats for a furniture-quality finish that's more refined than standard paint. Popular colors include white, gray, navy, and black.
Not sure which finish is right for your kitchen? Order a sample of any material to see the quality and color in person before committing to a full cabinet order.
All door styles are flat slab panels, which is the signature look of modern frameless kitchen design. We don't carry traditional raised panel or shaker styles as those are typically paired with framed construction.
Custom Sizing and Design Flexibility
Standard cabinet dimensions work for many kitchens, but most spaces have at least a few areas that need custom sizes. We build frameless cabinets in 1/8" increments for width and height, so you can fill awkward gaps or accommodate existing appliances.
Custom sizing costs less than you might expect because we're manufacturing the cabinets rather than reselling stock products. You'll work with our team to confirm exact dimensions, and we'll build each piece to order. Typical lead time is 3-4 weeks for custom sizes.
You can also mix finishes and materials within the same kitchen. Some customers use wood veneer on lower cabinets and HPL laminate on uppers for a two-tone design. Others match everything for a more uniform appearance. The modular nature of RTA cabinets makes it easy to add or replace individual pieces later.
Ordering and Shipping
We ship frameless RTA cabinets nationwide from our Las Vegas location. Each cabinet is packed flat in protective cardboard with foam corners. You'll receive everything needed for assembly including hardware, hinges, shelf pins, and detailed instructions.
Because these are RTA (ready to assemble), shipping costs stay reasonable even for complete kitchen orders. Smaller orders typically ship in standard boxes, while larger projects may ship via freight crate. Manufacturing time is usually 3-4 weeks for custom cabinets, followed by 5-7 business days for delivery to most US locations. We provide tracking information once your order ships. Contact us for current lead times, as production schedules can vary.
FAQ
What makes frameless cabinets different from regular cabinets?
Frameless cabinets don't have a wood frame on the front of the cabinet box. The doors mount directly to the side panels, which gives you full access to the interior space. This construction style originated in Europe and is now popular in modern US kitchens for its clean lines and efficient use of space.
Are frameless kitchen cabinets worth it?
Frameless construction makes sense if you want a modern aesthetic and need to maximize storage space. They're particularly valuable in smaller kitchens where the extra 10-15% interior space helps. The construction is also simpler to assemble compared to some framed cabinet systems, which can save installation time.
Can I customize frameless cabinet sizes?
Yes, we build frameless cabinets to your exact measurements in 1/8" increments. This applies to both width and height, so you can fit any space. Custom sizing typically adds 3-4 weeks to the standard lead time but costs significantly less than having a local cabinet shop build from scratch.
Do frameless cabinets ship fully assembled?
No, our frameless cabinets are RTA (ready to assemble). They ship flat-packed with all hardware and instructions included. Most people can assemble a base cabinet in 20-30 minutes once they've done the first one. The flat-pack shipping also reduces freight costs compared to assembled cabinets.
How hard are frameless cabinets to install?
The assembly process is straightforward with basic tools like a drill and screwdriver. The cabinets then mount to your wall using standard installation methods. If you can follow detailed instructions and have some DIY experience, frameless RTA cabinets are manageable. Many homeowners handle the installation themselves, though contractors can also do it if you prefer.
Get Started with Your Kitchen Project
Ready to start your kitchen project? Browse our frameless base cabinets, wall cabinets, and tall pantry units to see available sizes and finishes. Need help determining what you need? Our team can review your kitchen layout and recommend the right combination of cabinet types. Contact us with your measurements for a detailed quote, or order standard sizes directly online for faster delivery.
