Full overlay cabinets are everywhere in the 2020s. Designers love them, homeowners want them, and for good reason—they look sharp, feel modern, and make the most of your space.
If you’re comparing cabinet styles, this one is worth understanding. As Northern Colorado’s most experienced cabinet makers, Harris Timberworks can build a set for you to match your unique vision and style. Here’s more information on full overlay cabinets.
What Is Full Overlay Cabinetry?
Full overlay cabinetry features doors and drawers that cover nearly the entire face frame of the cabinet. Only a thin sliver of the frame is visible—if any at all. This creates a smooth, uniform surface across the entire run of cabinets. Gaps between doors are tight and consistent, which gives the whole setup a clean, high-end appearance. There is no visual clutter. It feels modern, but not cold.
How Full Overlay Compares to Other Cabinet Styles
Here’s how full overlay stacks up against the other main types you might be considering:
Partial Overlay
- Leaves parts of the frame exposed
- Most common type of cabinets
- Easier to install, slightly more forgiving
- Gaps are wider and more noticeable
- Generally cost less than full overlay
Inset Cabinets
- Doors sit inside the frame, flush with the front
- Clean, tailored look with tight spacing
- High-end feel, but tricky to build
- Less room inside the cabinet
- More expensive and time-consuming to install
Full Overlay
- Doors cover almost the whole face frame
- Minimal gaps, modern lines
- Gives more interior space than inset
- Needs precision but doesn’t overcomplicate the build
Why Full Overlay Works
Full overlay cabinets offer a high-end look that fits effortlessly into any design style, from modern to transitional. You get that clean, minimalist feel without the price tag of inset cabinets. Plus, these cabinets maximize interior space—without a bulky face frame taking up valuable room, you get more storage.
The smooth lines mean fewer gaps, so you’ll have less dust and grime building up in hard-to-reach spots. And the beauty of full overlay is its versatility—the style pairs well with just about any finish, wood type, or door style. Whether you’re going for a contemporary theme or something more rustic, full overlay cabinetry adapts to fit your vision and can be built to fit any room in your home.
Construction Considerations
Like all cabinets, construction of full overlay cabinets requires precision. They’re not a simple weekend project. The installation demands accurate measurements and careful attention to detail, making it best suited for professionals. In some cases, you may also need specialized hardware or hinges to achieve that smooth, seamless appearance. This can add time and cost to the process.
Full overlay cabinets can be less forgiving on older homes or uneven walls. Any imperfections in your space will be more noticeable with this design. Additionally, full overlay cabinets aren’t always compatible with every cabinet box. Custom solutions are often necessary, which can add to the complexity.
Install Your Dream Cabinets with Harris Timberworks
Full overlay cabinetry adds a modern touch to any new or existing space. At Harris Timberworks, we apply our decades of woodworking experience to every cabinet build, ensuring our work is built to last with high-quality materials and finishes. Harris custom cabinetry is always made to fit your space and your style—we guarantee you’ll love your custom cabinets. Let’s talk today to see what we can build for you!