Beaded Inframe Kitchen
The bead creates a decorative detail that highlights the join between the frame and the door. This style feels more ornate, adding character, depth, and a sense of traditional craftsmanship.
What is Beading & Unbeading?
Inframe Kitchens Explained
When planning a new kitchen, the details can feel endless, from layout to finishes to the overall style. One design choice that often raises questions is the inframe kitchen. Known for its elegance and timeless appeal, the inframe kitchen differs from other cabinet styles by the way the door sits neatly inside a surrounding frame.
Within this design category, you will often hear two important terms: beaded and unbeaded. While they may sound like small details, they play a major role in defining the overall look and feel of your kitchen. This article explains what these terms mean, how they compare, and what might suit your home best.
What is an Inframe Kitchen?
An inframe kitchen is one where the cabinet doors are built to sit within a solid frame, rather than overlapping the cabinet front. This creates a strong, traditional structure and a refined aesthetic. The frame provides not only durability but also a sense of craftsmanship that is instantly recognisable.
By contrast, many modern kitchens use what is known as a “lay-on” style, where the doors sit on top of the cabinet carcass. This is a simpler construction, but it does not offer the same framed detail that characterises an inframe design.
What is Beading in Kitchens?
Beading refers to a slim moulding or trim applied to the inside edge of an inframe kitchen cabinet. This subtle detail defines whether your kitchen feels more classic or more contemporary.
Unbeaded Inframe Kitchen
In this design, the door meets the frame directly with no additional trim. The result is a sharper, more streamlined appearance, perfect for modern or transitional interiors.
Beaded vs Unbeaded: Pros and Cons
Both beaded and unbeaded inframe kitchens bring their own unique strengths. Understanding the differences will help you decide which style best suits your home.
Beaded Inframe Kitchens
- ✅ Adds decorative detail and visual softness
- ✅ Works beautifully in traditional or period-inspired homes
- ✅ Highlights the craftsmanship involved in cabinet making
- ⚠️ Requires a little extra cleaning around the bead edge
- ⚠️ Leans towards a more classic, less contemporary feel
Unbeaded Inframe Kitchens
- ✅ Clean, crisp lines for a minimal aesthetic
- ✅ Ideal for modern or transitional interiors
- ✅ Easier to maintain with fewer edges for dust to settle
- ⚠️ Requires exacting precision in manufacture and installation, a level of craftsmanship that Dovetail Interiors specialises in.
- ⚠️ Can appear plain if you prefer a more decorative look
Design Considerations for Beaded and Unbeaded Kitchens
When choosing between beaded and unbeaded inframe kitchens, these points will help guide your decision:
01
Your Home’s Character
Farmhouse and heritage homes often suit beaded frames, while modern builds tend to work well with unbeaded designs.
02
Your Lifestyle
If low-maintenance is a priority, unbeaded may be more practical. If craftsmanship and decorative detail are what you love, beaded will stand out.
03
Your Overall Design Vision
Do you prefer a timeless, decorative feel, or do you lean towards clean, contemporary lines? This choice will set the tone for your entire kitchen.
LET US HELP
If you are considering a new kitchen and want to explore the differences in person, visit our showroom or browse our Projects Gallery for inspiration. Our team will guide you through the options, ensuring your kitchen is not only functional but also a beautiful reflection of your home.
