How to Choose Kitchen Units That Work Day to Day

The Dilemma

Kitchen units are a significant visual and functional element. Choosing the wrong combination of door style, colour and layout can make the entire space feel off — even if everything else is well considered.

Homeowners often bounce between Shaker, flat-panel, timber, painted, handleless, matt, gloss… and soon lose sight of what matters. The real dilemma is not which style is “in”, but which style supports the architecture and daily use of your home.

The Options

Option 1: Shaker Units

A timeless choice that suits almost any property.

Pros:

• flexible

• characterful without being fussy

• works with both modern and traditional interiors

Cons:

• visible lines and joints

• not as minimal as flat-panel options

Option 2: Flat-Panel (Slab) Units

Clean and contemporary.

Pros:

• crisp lines

• easy to maintain

• ideal for modern homes

Cons:

• needs good alignment and installation

• fingerprints show more on some finishes

Option 3: Timber or Timber-Effect Units

Warm and tactile.

Pros:

• natural appeal

• pairs beautifully with mid-tone floors

• hides wear

Cons:

• can feel busy if combined with heavily patterned worktops

The Decision Criteria

1. Layout First, Always

Before choosing colour or style, get the layout right.
Ask:

• Is prep space where it needs to be?

• Is the fridge accessible without dominating?

• Is the dishwasher directly next to the sink?

• Are there pinch points?

2. Daylight and Unit Colour

Dark units look their best with ample natural light.
Pale units suit smaller kitchens or rooms with limited daylight.

3. Worktop & Splashback Relationship

Your worktop and splashback must feel intentional.
A quiet worktop gives you flexibility with bold units.
A patterned worktop needs quieter units.

4. Handles vs Handleless

Handleless channels give a minimal look but require precise installation.
Handles add detail and character.

5. Material Balance

If your flooring is busy, keep units minimal.
If your flooring is plain, textured units can add depth.

The Recommendation

Start with your home’s architectural language.
A Victorian terrace may suit a contemporary take on Shaker.
A modern extension may lean naturally towards flat-panel.

Choose a palette where flooring, units and worktop relate without competing.
And remember: kitchens age well when they are calm, balanced and human rather than hyper-stylised.

A Quick Tip

Gather samples — unit door, worktop, flooring — and photograph them together in daylight. This reveals undertones immediately.