DOORS & DRAWERS: Not All Cabinet Doors Are Built the Same, Here’s Why That Matters

Sullivans Cabinets
May 30
3 min read

You’ve decided to elevate your space with new cabinetry, now comes the fun part: design. Whether you’re transforming your kitchen, updating a bathroom, or adding a one-of-a-kind built-in, knowing the ins and outs of door construction and style options is key to creating the exact look you envision.

Before diving in, it’s helpful to get familiar with the broader differences in cabinetry styles. If you're not sure what sets modern, transitional, and traditional looks apart, this quick guide breaks it down beautifully.

Mitered Doors vs. Cope-and-Stick Joinery

This is about how the frame of the cabinet door comes together - and both have their place depending on your style and goals.

Mitered Doors: Feature 45° angled corners, like a picture frame. Ideal for showing off detailed profiles or ornate moldings. A great fit for elegant, traditional styles.
Cope-and-Stick Doors: The rails and stiles meet with a more visible joint. This is a classic cabinet construction method; durable and versatile. It's what you'll often find in shaker or more casual/transitional looks.

Left; Miter , Right; Cope & Stick

Raised Panel vs. Reversed Raised Panel

This choice is about more than just appearance; it impacts on the long-term stability of your cabinetry.

Raised Panel: This classic style features a center panel that is elevated, adding depth and traditional character. It’s not just for looks - the thickness of a raised

panel also adds structural support, which helps reduce warping and movement over time.

Reversed Raised Panel: Prefer the look of a flat center? You can still get the same level of support. A reversed raised panel uses the back side of a raised panel facing outward, giving you the clean, flat profile of a shaker-style door, but with the added benefit of a thicker, more stable panel. It’s a smart choice for homeowners who love the simplicity of a flat panel but want the durability of premium construction.

If you’re going with a painted finish, reversed raised panels are also a great choice—they hold their shape better and minimize cracking along joints.

Want to dive deeper into the styles and construction options for doors? Check out our full blog on Cabinet Door Styles & Construction to see visuals and learn more.

Edge Profile vs No Edge Profile

Sometimes the smallest detail makes the biggest impact. An edge profile is a subtle design

routed along the inside/outside edge of the cabinet frame:

With Edge Profile: Adds decorative detail that brings character and refinement. Ideal for traditional, Southern, or craftsman-style homes.

Without Edge Profile (Square Edge): Clean and

minimalist. Perfect for contemporary spaces or when you prefer a more understated look.

🆕 New Door Catalog Available

We’re excited to share our new door catalog, packed with all our available profiles, styles, materials, and edge details. Whether you’re a builder, designer, or homeowner, it’s a fantastic resource to help narrow down your options and visualize your final design.

This catalog is a work in progress—new styles are continuously being added. For the full range of options, we recommend consulting with one of our designers.

Still don’t see a profile or combination you like? We also make all our own knives in-house, so we can create a door that is unique to you!

Materials & Customizations

Thinking outside the box? Add one or more of these materials for an extra design splash:

Glass
Mirrors
Metal grates
Mullions
And more!
We do not provide the glass or mirrors but will prep your doors for an easy install!

Our team can help you personalize every detail, from edge profiles to center panel materials.

Let’s Build Something Beautiful

We know cabinetry design can feel overwhelming at first, but we’re here to help. With over 40 years of experience, Sullivans Cabinets has guided thousands of homeowners and builders through the process.

Whether you’re starting with a clear vision or just some Pinterest boards, we’ll work with you every step of the way to create a cabinetry that fits your lifestyle and aesthetic.