Renovating your existing kitchen or installing your dream kitchen from scratch? Choosing the correct kitchen cupboard doors can make all the difference to your kitchen. Specialising in hand-made kitchens for over 24 years throughout the West Midlands, we understand how important kitchen doors are to both the aesthetics of your kitchen and its functionality.
Follow our handy guide to become well informed when making practical choices based on your lifestyle and home. We offer a range of bespoke doors and made-to-measure services to suit different budgets and layouts.
At a Glance
- Accurate measurement and fitting are essential for replacement kitchen cupboard doors to fit existing cabinets perfectly.
- Choosing the right door style, material, and finish shapes your kitchen’s overall aesthetic and daily usability.
- Kitchen cupboard doors come in a variety of popular styles, including shaker, handleless, flat panel, traditional, industrial, and country.
- Materials range from durable MDF to repairable solid timber and versatile vinyl-wrapped options.
- Replacing doors can be straightforward with pre-drilled hinge holes, but checking the cabinet condition beforehand is vital.
- Made-to-measure doors ensure a flawless fit and help preserve your existing kitchen layout.
Like the kitchen you see above? Click here to find out how we completed this project.
Why Kitchen Cupboard Doors Matter
Kitchen cupboard doors are an integral part of any kitchen. They complete the look of your kitchen and provide protection for your cabinets. Kitchen cupboard doors prevent your cabinets from being exposed to dust, dirt and general wear and tear. The right doors can add light to the room and really give it a touch of your own unique style.
Choose doors that are built to last and stand up to daily use. At Apartment House Furniture, we specialise in cabinetry and doors made to your required sizes. All of our cabinetry is manufactured in house, close to Bromsgrove. Many homeowners tell us that new doors give their kitchen a fresh lease of life without needing new cabinets.
Choosing Your Kitchen Cupboard Doors: Styles and Designs
Shaker Style
Minimalist in design, Shaker kitchen doors are famous for their simple styling and clean lines. Incorporating a framed border with a recessed centre panel, they have a timeless style that will fit into traditional and modern kitchens alike. Perfect for those who can’t decide which style to go for, Shaker doors are a great all round choice.
Traditional Doors
Perfect for adding warmth and character to your kitchen, traditional kitchen doors are great for period or Victorian homes. The large rectangular panels really help to give a feeling of height to your kitchen.
Flat Panel (Slab) Doors
Slab doors, also known as flat panel doors, are just that. There are no panels or detailing, just one seamless flat piece. This look works really well in modern kitchens where you want a smooth, uninterrupted line and a sleek, minimalist look that won’t fight other features such as stainless steel appliances and worktops. Contemporary designs often favour flat panel doors for their clean, uninterrupted lines.
Handleless Doors
Handleless kitchen doors. If you want a minimalist look, why not consider handleless doors? These have recessed cut-outs or use push-to-open technology. The contemporary style is combined with practicality, like easy cleaning and soft-close hinges.
Country Style
Country-Style doors. The country kitchen often looks to more rustic influences with organic materials like oak and timber. Think subtle pastel colours inspired by the earth for a warm and casual kitchen.
Plywood Style
Plywood kitchen doors are a durable, lightweight and visually appealing option made from layered wood veneers for strength and stability. Their natural wood grain adds warmth and character, making them especially effective in larger kitchens and open-plan spaces. They can suit both traditional and contemporary designs, with finishes such as clear varnish or paint available to match your chosen colour scheme. Made-to-measure and pre-drilled options can also make replacement kitchen cupboard doors easier to fit while helping achieve a clean, accurate result.
Material Choices for Kitchen Cupboard Doors
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)
Kitchen cupboard doors are commonly made from MDF. They’re durable and resistant to warping.
Solid Timber
Solid timber doors are normally more expensive, but they can be repaired if need be. They can be sanded back to give them a new lease on life.
Vinyl and Foil-Wrapped Doors
Vinyl and foil wrapped doors come in many finishes. Scratches can be difficult to repair as they can allow moisture into the MDF core.
A common substrate to consider is melamine faced chipboard, popular for its consistent finish and cost-effectiveness.
Like the shaker style kitchen you see above? Click here to find out how we completed this project.
Finishes and Colours: Choosing What Suits Your Kitchen
The finish you choose can dramatically affect the appearance of your kitchen, as well as how much cleaning is required. Light colours combined with gloss finishes reflect light, giving kitchens a lighter, more spacious feel – great if your kitchen is dark or small. On the downside, glossier finishes show fingerprints more readily, while matt finishes better hide smudges and signs of wear.
They also create a softer look that can work well if you’re aiming for a modern feel. Giving some consideration to colour and finish will help you pick kitchen doors that work with the rest of your kitchen, and reflect both natural and artificial light well.
Like the traditonal style kitchen you see above? Click here to find out how we completed this project.
Measuring and Fitting Replacement Kitchen Doors
Replacement kitchen cupboard doors are designed to fit directly onto existing kitchen cabinet carcasses. The most common sizes of kitchen cabinets throughout the UK are 300mm, 400mm, 500mm and 600mm widths. However, when measuring for replacement doors, you should take exact measurements to ensure a perfect fit.
Here are some simple steps to follow when measuring:
- Measure from the inside of the frame on one side of your cabinet door to the opposite edge using a tape measure. Write down the height and width of each cabinet door.
- Don’t forget to measure the position and diameter of the hinge holes if you are looking to reuse your existing hinges.
- Measure drawer fronts and end panels. You may need to replace these, too.
- Double check if there are any additional borders or overlaps when measuring the size.
When ordering replacement kitchen doors, check hinge positions against your existing doors and cabinets to avoid re-drilling. Ordering replacement kitchen doors in standard sizes can reduce lead times and simplify the installation.
Most cupboard replacement doors are pre-drilled with hinge holes. This simplifies the process even more and ensures that each door is the correct size.
Installation and Checking Cabinet Condition
Kitchen cabinet door replacement is usually pretty simple and can often be done by yourself. If your cabinet doors have hinge holes already drilled, you’re all set, but you should inspect your cabinets to make sure they aren’t damaged before installing your new doors. Professional cabinet door installers will make sure everything fits perfectly.
We take great care and pay close attention to every detail when we install your cabinet doors so they function beautifully for years to come with minimal disturbance to your life. Our installation process covers careful inspection of the carcasses and professional fitting of replacement kitchen cabinet doors to make sure everything operates smoothly. You only need to replace kitchen cabinet doors if the carcasses are damaged beyond repair.
Practical Considerations When Choosing Replacement Doors
- Kitchen layout. The overall layout of your kitchen will dictate what door styles and sizes would best fit your space.
- Integrated appliances. You’ll want doors and appliance panels to seamlessly integrate with your design and allow ventilation and easy usage.
- Door handles. Door handles are both functional and aesthetic components.
- Natural/artificial light. Certain finishes will shine or reflect light differently as the sun moves across the sky.
- Durability. Think about daily wear and tear. Which materials and finishes can stand up to frequent use, water/moisture, and cleaning?
- Door thickness/frame. Consider if you want the new cabinet doors to have the same face frame thickness as your existing cabinetry. You’ll want to make sure they line up properly.
- Additional border. Cabinet doors come with the option of an additional border around the door panel. This gives the frame a more “fat” appearance.
Consider the range of kitchen unit doors available when matching handles, finishes and door thickness.
Types of Kitchen Unit Doors and Their Impact
Kitchen cabinet doors, drawer fronts and end panels make up your kitchen units. The cabinet doors, along with drawer fronts and end panels, create the appearance and functionality of your kitchen. Replacement kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts that match will keep your kitchen units looking and running smoothly.
When you order made-to-measure kitchen unit doors, we guarantee that drawer fronts and end panels will line up. We stock replacement kitchen cabinet doors which have matching drawer fronts and end panels.
Made to Measure: Why It Matters
Made-to-measure kitchen cupboard doors are fitted to your current kitchen cabinet frame so there will be no gap, misalignment or funny edges. Bespoke cupboard doors also give you the freedom to choose whatever style, finish and materials you want from contemporary to shaker style. Opting for made-to-measure or bespoke doors reduces the headaches of replacing kitchen cabinet doors that don’t line up with existing frames.
Replacing Kitchen Doors: When to Upgrade or Refresh
Kitchen cupboard door replacement can be an inexpensive way to improve your kitchen without resorting to an entire kitchen renovation. A number of homeowners have discovered that installing new kitchen doors can change the entire atmosphere and feel of their kitchen area.
New doors can look fantastic, whether they’re just replacing old doors, are matched with new handles or are being used with built in appliances. Replacing kitchen doors can also be much more affordable than renovating your kitchen. Kitchen door replacement is popular with many homeowners who want a new look but don’t want a brand new kitchen. We have a range of door styles to make updating easy.
Additional Considerations for Replacement Doors
- Hinge holes: Check that the new doors will fit your existing cabinet hinges. They should come with pre-cut hinge holes. If not, you’ll need to move your hinges when fitting.
- Same size: It’s easiest to replace doors with ones that are the same size as your current doors.
- End panels: You may want to order matching end panels to disguise any mismatched sides on exposed kitchen units.
- Drawer fronts: Remember to replace/dress your drawer fronts as well as cupboard doors.
- Supply doors: Some companies sell doors separately from kitchens, so you can replace the doors on certain units without buying a full set.
If your existing doors are an unusual size, replacing kitchen cabinet doors with made-to-measure options is a practical solution. Replacement kitchen cabinet doors are often pre-drilled to match existing hinges.
Maintaining Your Kitchen Cupboard Doors
Taking care of your kitchen cupboard doors will ensure they last for years to come. You should wipe down your cupboard doors every so often with a gentle detergent. Abrasive towels and wipes should be avoided. Solid timber cupboard doors can be refinished as needed. Vinyl wrapped cupboard doors should be treated gently.
Like the kitchen you see above? Click here to find out how we completed this project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Cost of Replacing Kitchen Cabinet Doors?
Prices differ based on the size of the kitchen, the type of doors you choose, the materials used and any additional fittings required. Replacement kitchen doors, made-to-measure options and the complexity of the installation can all affect the final price. Contacting one of our kitchen specialists will allow you to get a quote tailored specifically to your kitchen and needs.
How Do I Choose Kitchen Cabinet Doors?
Think about your kitchen's style, space and function. Choose door styles and finishes that suit your home, while focusing on durability, easy maintenance and long-term practicality. You should also measure carefully and make sure the overlay will work with your existing cabinets.
Can You Buy Kitchen Cupboard Doors Only?
Yes, independent retailers often sell kitchen cupboard doors separately. Replacement doors are one of the most common ways to refresh a kitchen without buying completely new kitchen units. Made-to-measure kitchen cupboard doors can be cut to fit your existing cabinets, helping you update the look of your kitchen more cost-effectively.
Are Pre-Drilled Kitchen Doors Available?
Yes, many replacement kitchen cupboard doors are available pre-drilled for hinges, making them compatible with most cabinet hinges. This can make fitting simpler and helps ensure the doors you buy will work with your existing kitchen units.
What Else Should I Consider When Replacing Kitchen Doors?
Check that the new doors will fit your existing cabinet hinges and look for pre-cut hinge holes where possible. It is usually easiest to replace doors with the same size as your current doors, but made-to-measure options can be a practical solution for unusual sizes. You may also want to order matching end panels and drawer fronts so the finished kitchen looks consistent across all visible areas.
How Do I Maintain Kitchen Cupboard Doors?
Taking care of your kitchen cupboard doors will help them last for years to come. Wipe them down regularly with a gentle detergent and avoid abrasive towels or harsh cleaning wipes. Solid timber cupboard doors can often be refinished when needed, while vinyl wrapped cupboard doors should be treated carefully to help protect the surface.
Next Steps with Matthew James Kitchens
Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen with new cupboard doors or you’re planning a new bespoke kitchen from scratch, why not bring along a list of your room measurements and your wish list to our Birmingham or Bromsgrove showrooms? Here, we can design you locally made cabinets and doors using high-quality materials with strong build standards.
Talented joiners construct our cabinets, and you’ll benefit from named project managers who will oversee every aspect of your kitchen from start to finish. Complete your kitchen experience by booking a consultation or arranging for a free design visit.
Your Next Step to a Bespoke Fitted Kitchen
Visit one of our showrooms with your room measurements and ideas, or book a design appointment. Our professional team will take you through every stage of the design and fitting process to help make your dream kitchen a reality, providing clear costs and exceptional skill. Visit or appointment can be booked by emailing info@matthewjameskitchens.co.uk or by calling Birmingham on 0121 271 0808 or Bromsgrove on 01527 836 985.
- Award-winning designs featured in Beautiful Kitchens magazine
- Over two decades of experience
- Bespoke kitchen designs tailored to individual tastes and lifestyles
- Wide range of styles
- Fully equipped showroom
- Finance options
