Handleless, shaker or in-frame: choosing a kitchen style

Handleless

Handleless kitchens have flat door fronts with a recessed or integrated grip instead of handles. The look is clean and contemporary, with uninterrupted lines that suit modern and open-plan spaces. They come in matt and gloss finishes, and flat surfaces are generally easy to wipe down.

Shaker

Shaker doors have a simple recessed panel within a flat frame. It's a timeless shape that works in both period homes and modern ones, depending on the colour and handles you pair it with. Painted finishes and brass or black hardware can move it in a traditional or a contemporary direction.

In-frame

In-frame kitchens set the doors inside a solid frame rather than over it, which gives a bespoke, furniture-like look. They tend to be associated with painted finishes and traditional detailing, and suit larger rooms and period properties well.

How to choose

• Look at the style of the rest of your home, and pick something that sits comfortably with it
• Think about maintenance: how much cleaning are you happy to do?
• Consider the room size, because bold colours and detailed doors behave differently in small and large spaces
• Look at real installed kitchens, not just brochure images
• Ask to see door and worktop samples in your own lighting