as of late, I’ve been working a lot more than usual with cabinetry and I’ve developed crushes on the “this and thats” of it. it’s not generally the type of thing that makes me jump out of bed excited, but right now in design it seems like the kind of thing where the cabinets are classic, but then there’s always one special element. then you see it everywhere, like your dreams.
cremone bolts
cremone bolts are those long, cabinet or door-length bolts that have a turn-key like handle and are usually substantial generally with a substantial amount of baroque detail that makes you melt. these have been popping up more and more on the standard shaker cabinets for that “farmhouse chic” vibe. I’ve always said that the easiest way to update your house/home/apartment is with cabinetry hardware, and cremone bolts are taking that to the next step! these are an instant design classic.
pocket doors
I had a client come in a few days ago, wanting to squeeeeeeeze the tiniest powder room you ever saw into an alcove under his stairs. his main issue wasn’t with the 3’ x 5’ footprint, or that you weren’t going to be able to turn around in the space, but that he would have to have a pocket or a hinged door that swung out. seriously, this guy almost scrapped the project because he couldn’t stand the thought of a pocket door. I almost cried because of how much I LOVE pocket doors! they’re space saving and can have beautiful elements to them. don’t get me started on french pocket doors. in all seriousness though, you can save so much space with these doors – and they have inset handles.
leaded glass
at some point, we’ve all had a crush on leaded glass. despite my recent gothic-glam type of mood, I’ve always had a penchant for leaded glass. leaded and stained glass panels are prominent in design more than ever, especially in kitchens and bath cabinetry. stray away from that standard shaker door and go for the timeless “wow” factor. just a cabinet or two with a leaded insert can make your space last forever.
mesh cabinet panels
mesh/wire/metal panel cabinet inserts are a new love for me, despite being one of the most classic. the authentic, radiator-looking ones are often found in homes from the 1800-1900’s, or you can get modern shaker cabinets with new inserts that have such a nice and refreshing look. these are so perfect for bathrooms too; you still get the cabinet privacy and functionality, but with the practicality and durability of a metal partition and an extra-special, unique stylistic element. if you’re looking to hide away some speaker equipment, these are the ideal way to do so; they won’t muffle the sound/base and that bose won’t be an eyesore that haunts your space!
mirror mullions
when designing my parents’ room, I fell in love with doors and cabinetry with mirror & mullion inserts. they have a wall of closets with horrible sliding doors along the entire wall. wanting to put a floor mirror where two thos mosers and a brass peacock table were destined to live, we needed to find a way to incorporate a mirror into a different part of the room. some 3am pinterest browsing ended up with the ultimate idea and the obsession that has yet to leave my mind: a wall of antique glass french doors with a contrasting mullion.
incorporate your floor mirror (subtlety) and add an architectural detail that will kill.
are you as into any of these cabinetry trends as I am right now? is there anything that this short list didn’t hit that you wish it did? let us know in the comments!
x – mk