What Are Full Access Cabinets?
Discover the Difference Between Full Access and Face Frame Cabinets
When planning a custom kitchen, bathroom, or storage space, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is the type of cabinetry construction. While most builders and cabinetmakers stick to face frame cabinets, we specialize in full access cabinetry—also known as frameless cabinets.
These two cabinet types differ in structure, space efficiency, aesthetics, and even the tools and equipment required to build them. Understanding the difference can help you make the right decision for your home—and we’re here to help walk you through it.
Tailored Details. Timeless Design.
A Side-by-Side Look at Style, Space, and Construction
Full Access Cabinets vs. Face Frame Cabinets
Feature
Full Access
Face Frame
Construction Thickness
¾" material
½" material
Cabinet Face
No front frame
Framed front with stiles and rails
Interior Space
Up to 15% more usable storage
Less usable interior space
Aesthetic
Clean, modern, European-style
Traditional, visible frame
Door & Drawer Fit
Crisp reveals, flush elevation
Wider spacing between components
Access to Storage
Full-width openings
Framed openings limit access slightly
Adjustability
More precise and customizable fit
Less flexibility in spacing
Choose Face Frame Cabinets If:
You love the look of traditional cabinetry with visible frames
Your home’s style leans classic or rustic
Slightly less storage and wider door spacing isn’t an issue
Choose Full Access Cabinets If:
You want maximum storage and functionality
You prefer a cleaner, more modern aesthetic
You value crisp fit and finish
You want something that feels custom, high-end, and efficient
High-Functioning Design for Kitchens, Baths, and More
Where Full Access Cabinets Work Best
While full access cabinetry can be used throughout the home, there are certain spaces where it's benefits truly stand out.
- Kitchens – Maximize storage and create clean visual lines for a modern, efficient layout
- Bathrooms – Use every inch of space in tight quarters while maintaining a sleek finish
- Mudrooms & Laundry Rooms – Get more functional storage with fewer bulky elements
- Closets & Dressing Rooms – Create a tailored, upscale feel with full accessibility
- Offices or Built-Ins – Achieve a furniture-quality look with crisp, continuous elevation
Specialized Tools & Expertise—The H+H CaRpentry difference
Why Most Builders Don’t Offer Full Access Cabinets
Building full access cabinetry requires specialized machinery, tight tolerances, and expert-level precision. Most cabinetmakers default to face frame construction because it’s simpler, more forgiving, and doesn’t require the same high-level tooling and skill.
We’re not most cabinetmakers.
Our shop is equipped with advanced machinery that many builders simply don’t have access to, allowing us to produce full access cabinets with unmatched precision and fit. We don’t just offer full access cabinets—we specialize in them, delivering quality and consistency that sets our work apart.
Classic Cabinetry with a Style That Still Has Its Place
Can You Still Get Face Frame Cabinets?
While we specialize in full access, we can build face frame cabinetry if your project calls for it. Some clients prefer the traditional, furniture-style aesthetic of face frame cabinets, especially for farmhouse, craftsman, or vintage-inspired homes.
When building face frame cabinets, we hold them to the same high standards of craftsmanship, fit, and finish as our full access work. Every detail—from joinery to installation—is built with care, accuracy, and durability in mind.
Let’s Create a Cabinet System That Fits You Perfectly
If you're looking for cabinets that are durable, efficient, and designed with intention, full access cabinetry might be the perfect solution for your home. We’ll help you design and install a system that reflects your lifestyle and makes the most of your space.
