Flat panel cabinets: a DIY dream

Flat panel cabinets are a sleek and elegant design choice that can lend an of-the-moment feel to any kitchen. This versatile style is just what it sounds like: cabinets with a flat front. The center of the door can also be framed with a border, giving it a "recessed" look that is consistent with Shaker, Transitional, or Arts and Crafts aesthetics.

If you're a DIY kind of of homeowner, choosing a recessed look is ideal because you can easily decorate the center panels by painting with vibrant accent colors, covering with handpainted wooden or plexiglass inserts, or adding fun hardware, like bejeweled knobs, handles, or pulls.

Prefer to let the experts handle your aesthetics? Many top manufacturers offer cabinets in a range of rich stains and creamy neutral tones, as well as a variety of naturally beautiful woods like oak, cherry, pine, or maple.