Cabinet styles / Inset
Inset cabinets
On an inset cabinet the door sits flush within the face frame rather than overlaying it, so the frame stays visible around every door. It is the most precise and traditional way to build a cabinet, and the least tolerant of movement.
Inset is a construction method rather than a door style, and it is the one that most clearly signals craftsmanship — because the tolerances leave nowhere to hide.
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What are inset cabinets?
Cabinets where the door and drawer front sit inside the face-frame opening, flush with the frame, instead of overlaying it. The frame remains visible as a border around every door, producing the look of traditional furniture-grade casework.
What is the difference between inset and full overlay?
Full overlay doors sit on top of the frame and cover almost all of it, leaving only narrow reveals between doors. Inset doors sit within the opening. Full overlay gives more usable door area; inset gives a visible frame and a more traditional appearance.
| Inset | Full overlay | |
|---|---|---|
| Door position | Flush inside the frame | On top of the frame |
| Frame visible | Yes, around every door | Only as narrow reveals |
| Tolerance | Very tight — least forgiving | More forgiving |
| Look | Traditional, furniture-like | Contemporary to transitional |
| Interior access | Slightly reduced | Fuller opening |
Does IQ+ offer inset cabinets?
The published 2026 RTA lines are full overlay across Premium, Frameless and Slim Shaker. If inset is essential to your project, raise it during the design consultation and our team will tell you what can be arranged.
Frequently asked
Inset cabinets — your questions answered
Why are inset cabinets less forgiving?
Because the gap around a flush door is visible from every angle. Any movement in the box or the door shows immediately as an uneven reveal.
Are the IQ+ RTA lines inset?
No. All three 2026 lines are full overlay. Ask during your consultation if inset matters to your project.
Does inset reduce storage?
Slightly. The door sits within the opening, so the clear access is marginally narrower than a full overlay equivalent.
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