What's cooking on the table of kitchen design? Well, quite a lot, it turns out! If you're hoping to brighten up your kitchen space be sure to give some serious thought to your kitchen cabinet design. What's the point? Let's get into the finer details of why kitchen cabinets are essential for both aesthetic as well as functional aspects of your kitchen design.

The crucial issue lies in how the kitchen cabinet design affects the larger kitchen design. Cabinets aren't a separate entity; they're an integral part the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. They should be a part of any kitchen's style, whether modern traditional, rustic or even transitional.

Studies in the field of interior design indicates that the style of the cabinets can affect the perception of space. A study published in the Journal of Interior Design suggests that a coordinated design between cabinets as well as other components of the kitchen will make the area appear bigger and more inviting.

When it comes to colors, it's a totally different ball game. The color of your cabinets can change the entire atmosphere for your kitchen. The cabinets that are light-colored give an open airy look, ideal for kitchens that are smaller or that aren't flooded with sunlight. Contrarily, darker cabinets can bring an elegant and cozy atmosphere to larger kitchens.

A survey in 2020 conducted by Houzz, a home design platform, found that white remains the top option of kitchen cabinets, with 41% of the respondents. However, two-toned designs, with contrast colors used for the upper and lower cabinets as well as the island, have been increasing in popularity.

Now let's get to the practical, since it is important that a kitchen cannot be only beautiful. It must also be functional too! This is where the technical analysis comes into play. For instance, in the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) has set guidelines on the most suitable sizes and layouts of cabinets to guarantee the highest performance and accessibility.

Based on these guidelines, one should think about the items you're packing and customize the kitchen cabinet design as per your needs. For example, large pots might require deep drawers and glassware that is delicate might be better exhibited in glass-fronted cabinets.

Space utilization is yet another crucial feature of the design. Innovative kitchen cabinet design can enhance the storage capabilities of your kitchen. For instance studies in Ergonomics suggests the advantages of cabinets that are floor-to-ceiling for reducing physical strain and improving accessibility.

Then there's the choice of materials. Durability and the appearance of your cabinets depends largely on the materials you use. Solid wood, plywood particleboard, and MDF all have advantages and drawbacks. For one, solid wood can provide high-end aesthetics and durability however, it is pricier in price tag. MDF however, on one of the other hand is more economical and can replicate the style of real wood. However, it could be vulnerable to moisture damage.

And lastly, it's all the small details. The hardware you select--handles knobs, pulls could tie your entire design. This is the area where design science gets interesting: research has shown that seemingly small details like the shape and texture of cabinet hardware, can significantly affect the user's perception of the room.

This is why kitchen cabinet design is not solely an art. It's also a science as well. It's a fascinating mixture of aesthetic principles along with ergonomic considerations, as well as technological advances in materials. While you're on an kitchen design adventure, remember to make the experience fun and enjoyable as, at the end, your kitchen is an expression for you. It's your place, what you want it to be.