What Are Slat Doors?
Learn all about slat doors, their unique design, why they’re trending in cabinetry, and how to use them to create standout, modern designs.
Are you curious about the latest trends in cabinetry and how to incorporate them into your projects? As a cabinet maker or contractor, staying ahead of design trends can set you apart, but it can also feel overwhelming. You might wonder: What exactly are slat doors? Why are they so popular in modern cabinetry? And how can you use them without making costly mistakes?
At Cutting Edge, we’ve spent the past year creating and supplying over 50 custom slat cabinet doors for feature projects. Though the numbers might seem small, these doors often serve as statement pieces in high-end designs. We know what works and are here to help.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this article:
- What are slat doors in cabinetry?
- How slat cabinet doors differ from louvered doors.
- Why slat doors are trending in kitchen design.
- The two main types of slat doors
- How to choose the right type for your design.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of slat doors, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your projects with confidence.
Slat Doors Have Vertical Slats That Add Texture and Character
Slat doors are flat slab doors with vertical strips of wood attached to the surface. These strips, or slats, add depth and texture, creating a visually striking feature. Often used as decorative elements, slat cabinet doors have become a staple in Scandinavian-inspired designs. However, with the right material and finish, they are also versatile enough to suit contemporary and modern aesthetics.
Characteristics of Slat Doors
- The slats are typically aligned vertically, creating a clean and structured appearance.
- While wood is the most common choice, slat doors can also be painted to blend into various design schemes.
- These doors can complement minimalist kitchens or add warmth to industrial spaces.
The beauty of slat cabinet doors lies in their simplicity, making them an ideal choice for contractors aiming to elevate their designs with a touch of understated elegance.
Slat Cabinet Doors vs. Louvered Doors: Understanding the Difference
It’s easy to confuse slat doors with louvered doors, especially since some suppliers use these terms interchangeably. However, the two serve different purposes and have distinct appearances.
| Feature | Slat Doors | Louvered Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Orientation | Vertical slats on a solid base | Horizontal slats angled for airflow |
| Functionality | Decorative | Ventilation and privacy |
| Common Use | Feature cabinetry | Closets, pantries, utility rooms |
| Design | Clean, modern look | Traditional, practical appearance |
Slat cabinet doors are purely decorative, with no gaps between the slats. On the other hand, louvered doors prioritize function, allowing air to flow through angled openings. Understanding this distinction can save you from design mishaps and ensure your projects exceed your client’s expectations.
Why Are Slat Cabinet Doors One of Today’s Kitchen Trends?
The current kitchen trends favour textured and layered surfaces, and slat doors are a perfect match. These doors bring a sense of dimension to flat cabinetry, breaking the monotony of smooth finishes. The natural wood tones often used for slat doors also tie into the growing demand for organic materials in interiors.
- Slat cabinet doors add visual interest without overpowering a design.
- They fit seamlessly into various styles, from rustic to ultra-modern.
By incorporating slat doors, you can offer clients a fresh, on-trend option that enhances their space. But what options are available within the slat cabinet doors umbrella?
You Can Choose From Two Main Types of Slat Doors
When choosing slat doors, you’ll encounter two main options. Understanding these options will help you recommend the best choice for each project.
1. Slat Cabinet Doors Featured on Prefab Vanities and Cabinets
This type of slat door is fastened onto a prefab or stock vanity or cabinet, which is preassembled and comes ready to install. They are widely available but have limitations.
Pros:
- Cost-effective.
- Easy to source and install.
- Ideal for budget-conscious projects.
Cons:
- Limited material options (often not solid wood).
- Lower quality compared to custom options.
- Limited sizes available.
Prefab slat cabinet doors work well for quick installations but may not meet the standards of high-end projects.
2. Custom Slat Cabinet Doors Built to Your Specifications
As a cabinet maker or contractor working to become known for high-quality products, prefab cabinets don’t meet the grade. Instead, you should consider ordering custom slat doors.
Custom slat cabinet doors meet your specific design, size, and material requirements. These are often the preferred choice for feature cabinetry.
Pros:
- Fully customizable dimensions and finishes.
- Higher quality materials and craftsmanship.
- Ideal for unique or high-end designs.
Cons:
- Longer lead times.
- Higher cost.
- Require more labour.
While custom slat doors may take more time and cost more, they allow you to demonstrate your skill to your customers.
How to Use Slat Cabinet Doors to Elevate Your Designs
Now, you might be wondering where to use slat cabinet doors. How can you ensure you use these products in a way that aligns with kitchen trends without overwhelming your design?
Here are three tips to get you started:
- Use slat doors as accent pieces to create focal points in kitchens or bathrooms.
- Mix slat doors with flat or shaker-style cabinetry for a balanced look.
- Try staining or painting the slat cabinet doors to match or contrast with the cabinetry.
Learn How to Price Out Your Slat Doors Online
Slat doors offer cabinet makers and contractors like you an exciting way to stay on top of design trends. From their vertical slats that add depth to the variety of styles available, slat cabinet doors are a must-know element in modern cabinetry. However, a lack of knowledge can cause you to make mistakes that frustrate your customers and harm your reputation.
At Cutting Edge, we’ve seen firsthand how slat cabinet doors can elevate a project’s design – and how a lack of knowledge can lead to costly mistakes. If you’re ready to confidently incorporate this trending style into your cabinetry projects, your next step is to learn how to price out your slat doors online today.
