What Is a Modular Kitchen? (with pictures)

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A modular kitchen is one that is made up of pre-made cabinet parts. These parts are fitted together to create a whole, functional kitchen design. Modular cabinets are popular in kitchen remodeling projects and are available in two main types: upper and lower units. There are also full units such as closets or pantries that fit from floor to ceiling, or almost to the ceiling. Since a modular kitchen is prebuilt and purchased ready made in sections, often flat packed for home assembly, it's the opposite of a custom made kitchen that is built on site.

A modular kitchen can be much less expensive than a custom made kitchen since everything is already constructed. The interesting thing about having a modular kitchen is that it can still be somewhat unique because different combinations of upper, lower and full units can be grouped to fit each kitchen's size and style. There are also many different cabinet finishes, counter top materials and handle hardware available to make each kitchen look like it was custom built to the homeowner's taste.

Upper or wall modular cabinets are available in single or double door styles. Door choices include smooth, beveled edge or glass panel. Glass panel doors on modular kitchen cabinets are often used on several of the cabinets in modular systems to add variety, a sense of airiness and a place to display attractive dishware. Some glass doors may be frosted or etched in a frosted-look pattern. The main part of the modular cabinet is called the box and most boxes have predrilled holes so buyers can choose the number of shelves to fit into the holes depending on the distance they want between each shelf.

Stacking cabinets are popular in modular kitchens, as they increase kitchen storage. These are small, narrower cabinets that stack on top of a counter. They may conveniently store items within easy reach, such as spices and coffee cups.

Lower or floor cabinet units made for modular kitchens are available to serve many functions. For example, some have sinks included on the top surface with storage cupboards below. Other lower modular kitchen units are narrower and fitted with a pull-out wire shelving mini-pantry system to hold food products.

Full or tall modular kitchen cabinets may have a single door and be used for a closet or have two or more doors so the unit is divided into separate storage areas. A tall kitchen cabinet may also be double wide. Wire storage drawers or wooden shelves may be fitted inside these cabinets.