Kitchen Cabinet Doors: 8 Modern Options

1. Painted MDF

Painted doors are made of MDF (wood fiber) with a furniture enamel and lacquer coating. Thanks to this formula, the colors are bright and vivid, making the kitchen shine in a literal sense. However, if you're not fond of this glow, you can choose from matte or pearl tones or metallic finishes.

Pros: Even if it's hard to please everyone, the variety of colors, forms, and textures is so wide that you're sure to find something to your taste. An important point: in case of damage, there's no need to worry about replacement – the door can be easily restored.

Cons: The main risk is fading of the coating under the influence of sunlight and high temperatures. Also, be cautious with maintenance: painted MDF doors are sensitive to alkali, so read the composition of cleaning products carefully.

2. PVC Laminated MDF

This type of door is made by applying a PVC film to the surface. The film protects MDF not only from deformation and moisture but also from sun exposure and dirt. The film comes in various textures: with or without patterns, glossy or matte, including styles mimicking marble, granite, and wood.

Pros: These doors are cheaper than painted ones and cause fewer concerns about durability – they are resistant to moisture, high temperatures, and mechanical impact. They also require minimal maintenance, as they can be easily cleaned with regular cleaning agents.

Cons: Unfortunately, even such low-maintenance material as film has a major drawback – it can peel off at high temperatures. Of course, keep in mind that if you choose a wood or marble style, it’s just a replica and far from the real look.

3. Plastic-Laminated MDF

Plastic lamination offers as many choices in color and texture as painted MDF, including imitations of natural materials. In terms of durability, it significantly outperforms the previous options.

Pros: Besides attractive appearance, plastic is not affected by UV light or humidity and is highly resistant to mechanical damage – it takes some effort to damage it. Cleaning plastic doors is also easy and hassle-free.

Cons: Naturally, such durable doors come at a higher price. Unfortunately, this isn't the only drawback: over time, plastic edges may peel off. If you choose a glossy surface, be aware that greasy stains are very visible; if you go for matte, expect more cleaning work.

4. Natural Veneer-Laminated MDF

Natural veneer doors are the case where imitation of expensive wood species is as close to reality as possible, but at a much lower cost. Thanks to special technology and chemical composition, such doors are very durable and nearly immune to moisture.

Pros: For those who dream of solid wood doors but aren't ready to spend a lot, natural veneer is an excellent alternative. Undoubtedly, the advantages include moisture and mechanical resistance.

Cons: Of course, it's not cheap, and we won't hide that. It’s also important to choose a reliable manufacturer: if you get poor-quality work, the veneer may peel off over time. Despite good performance, natural veneer doors won’t withstand constant contact with water or sunlight.

5. Particle Board (DVP)

Particle board doors are the most budget-friendly option but won’t offer eye-catching colors or textures.

Pros: In terms of cost, DVP is clearly the most affordable, but its advantages end there.

Cons: Not distinguished by impressive appearance, DVP is also not particularly eco-friendly. Its loose structure causes fast loosening of fasteners in holes. Also, curved doors are impossible to make – only strict geometric shapes are possible.

6. Acrylic

Manufacturing doors from acrylic is a relatively new technology: MDF boards are used as the base, with an acrylic plastic layer on the outside and white laminate on the inside. This creates luxurious glossy surfaces in rich, deep tones.

Pros: Besides looking stylish, glossy doors look great in small kitchens, visually expanding the space. The durability of such doors and their resistance to water, sun, and high temperatures are impressive. Scratches that appear over time can be easily removed by polishing, and maintaining a glossy surface is simple.

Cons: You’ll pay a premium for such high quality, but the only drawback is that cleaning glossy surfaces can be time-consuming (if you choose this option). Also, keep in mind that it’s not possible to create irregularly shaped elements with acrylic doors.

7. Glass

Glass doors are a great field for experimenting with kitchen design. Transparent, matte, colored, patterned, or with a matting paste or film – the eye is overwhelmed! You can add hidden lighting or use aluminum profiles to frame the glass.

Pros: Glass handles moisture and high temperatures perfectly. Moreover, it’s hard to damage or spoil with cleaning agents.

Cons: Besides the obvious high cost, expect to spend a lot of time on cleaning glass doors – smudges and fingerprints will be clearly visible. If the glass breaks, it can’t be restored.

8. Metal

If you're drawn to the cold shine of metal or want something to combine with wooden surfaces, consider doors made from stainless steel or aluminum.

Pros: Metal allows for sliding doors in the style of wardrobes. In general, metal doors have a much longer lifespan than average and do not deform under moisture or high temperatures.

Cons: You’ll pay more for the beautiful look and functionality, but otherwise, you’ll only need more careful cleaning. Also, keep in mind that aluminum profiles may tarnish over time.