The biggest difference in available space is in the drawer box size.

“Is there really a difference in available interior space between inset construction and frameless construction?”

Yes, there is, but the amount varies depending on what part of the cabinet we are talking about.

For example, looking at the width of the interior of the cabinet itself, the dimensions are within 1/8 of an inch of each other! The biggest difference will be in the drawer box sizes. We build our face frames with 1 1/2″ wide lumber, therefore the opening will be 3″ less. (A 27″ cabinet will have a 24″ opening, etc.) The drawer box, of course, has to fit within that opening. And we are able to maximize the drawer box size with our undermount full extension drawer slides. With our combination of inset construction methods, a rough rule of thumb to find the interior width of the drawer box is: Cabinet width minus 6. So a 27″ cabinet will have a drawer box with an interior width of almost 21″. (It is not exact due to slide hardware requirements)

With frameless construction the general rule of thumb for drawer box interior width is: Cabinet width minus 3. Going back to that 27″ cabinet, but in frameless, our drawer box interior width will be approximately 24″. (Once again, not exact due to drawer slide hardware requirements)

So while the perception may be frameless construction yields greater available space, the gain is primarily in the drawer box sizes. The much greater area of cabinet interior is virtually the same.

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This tall, Shaker-style cabinet is crafted in traditional inset construction

“Is there such a thing as frameless Shaker style cabinets?”

Well…while it is possible to build them, perhaps the real question is “How would they look?” Generally speaking, it’s a conflict of styles. Take the vintage, old world Shaker style, but manifest in a contemporary construction. Like putting mag wheels on a Model T.

Now, don’t misunderstand, we’re not saying you shouldn’t do it. After all, it’s your home, and if you like it, then that’s all that matters. Seriously.

Want to weigh in with your opinion, feel free to add a comment! We’d love to hear from you!

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