Glass panelled mullion cabinets are unique statement pieces that have been a popular choice for many years. Not only are they stylish, but they also have many practical uses. Whether you put them in your kitchen or bathroom, there are plenty of reasons to pick them. On the fence about glass panelled cabinets? Let’s break down some of the pros and cons.
Glass panelled cabinets have plenty of benefits. They have become a staple in homes for a reason. Here are some of their biggest advantages:
Let’s start by getting the obvious one out of the way. Glass panelled cabinets can instantly enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen. They add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space, making it feel more open and bright. They also let you showcase a variety of items in your kitchen or bathroom. Show off plates, a perfume collection, or anything else too pretty to hide but too precious to leave out.
Glass cabinets can make a kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere appear larger and airier. The transparent or frosted glass helps reflect light, giving the appearance of more space, similar to a mirror or window. This has made them particularly beneficial in small or cramped spaces that need to be opened and brightened up.
Glass cabinets can encourage organization. Think about it, who wants their messy drawers on full display? Knowing that the contents will be visible, and being aware of where everything is can motivate you to keep everything neat and tidy. However, for the same reason, we never recommend you make every cabinet glass.
To keep wood, stains, and paints lasting through the years, you have to be mindful of what you put on them. Getting them too wet or using chemicals that are too harsh can impact their integrity. On the other hand, you can clean the glass on your glass panelled cabinets just like you would any other glass surface in your home. They are also stain resistant, so you don’t need to worry as much about spills, especially if you go for darker wood mullion. However, you should keep in mind that glass panelled cabinets do pick up smudges easier than other cabinets.
All of our cabinets are customizable, but there are never-ending options when it comes to glass cabinets. Glass cabinets come in various styles, from clear and ultra-clear glass to textured or frosted options. You can choose the type of glass that suits your design preferences. You can also pick between different mullion cabinet styles. From classic straight lines to swooping circles, you can truly express yourself with glass cabinets.
If we haven’t made ourselves clear, we love glass panelled cabinets. However, they aren’t always suitable for every person or every space. Here are a few of the most common reasons why people steer away from glass panelled cabinets:
Glass cabinets require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Fingerprints, smudges, and dust can be more noticeable on glass surfaces, which means more frequent maintenance is necessary to maintain a clean and polished appearance. This can be especially tricky in the kitchen.
In spaces like bathrooms, where personal hygiene products are stored, glass cabinets may not provide the desired level of privacy. You might prefer solid cabinets to conceal these items from view. It’s always good to have at least a few cabinets that are not glass panelled so you can hide anything you may not want guests to see.
Obviously, glass is more fragile than wood. It can break or shatter upon impact, posing a safety risk, especially in a busy environment. While the glass we use on our cabinets is sturdy and durable, you will want to avoid glass panelling in areas that are more susceptible to bumps. Over time, even the strongest glass can wear down. We wouldn’t recommend glass panelling on lower cabinets, especially if you tend to be rough in the kitchen or bathroom.
Glass panelled mullion cabinets are a beautiful and unique addition to any home. While they do have some limitations, there are few spaces that this cabinet style can’t enhance. At Florkowskys’ Woodworking & Cabinets, we have ample experience in designing enduring glass panelled mullions that will be able to stand the test of time!
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