When it comes to cabinetry, one name that often stands out is Kraftmaid. Known for its quality and style, it's no surprise that consumers often compare different ranges within the brand. Two popular lines that often pit against each other are the Vantage and the, well, Kraftmaid range. Let's delve into a detailed comparison of Kraftmaid Vantage cabinets vs standard Kraftmaid cabinets.
To make an informed decision, we need to understand the unique features of each. So, let's look at what sets them apart and what they have in common.
Cabinet Design and Style
The most apparent difference between Kraftmaid Vantage and Kraftmaid cabinets lies in their design and style. The Vantage range offers a more transitional or modern look, while the standard Kraftmaid cabinets often lean towards a more traditional or classic style.
Vantage cabinets feature clean lines, flat doors, and a simpler profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic. In contrast, Kraftmaid cabinets typically come with more ornate designs, including raised-panel doors and detailed moldings, which suit a more classic or traditional interior design.
Door Styles
Kraftmaid Vantage cabinets offer door styles like Shaker, Slab, and Full-Overlay, which are sleek and minimalist. These designs allow the cabinet's color and texture to take center stage, providing a clean, modern look.
On the other hand, standard Kraftmaid cabinets boast a wider variety of door styles, including Raised Panel, Arch, Cathedral, and more. These styles add depth and dimension, catering to those who prefer a more traditional, ornate look.
Finish Options
Both ranges offer a broad spectrum of finish colors, from neutral to bold. However, the Vantage line introduces a unique, textured finish called Laurentian Hammered Copper, which adds a modern, industrial touch to any kitchen.
Standard Kraftmaid finishes, while varied, typically lean towards classic colors and textures, such as kendal maple and cherry stain, catering to a more traditional palette.
Construction and Quality
Both Kraftmaid Vantage and standard Kraftmaid cabinets are constructed with quality in mind, reflecting the brand's commitment to durability and longevity. However, there are some differences in their build.
The main difference lies in the box construction. Vantage cabinets feature a full-access, face-frame-less design, which means you get more storage space and easier access to every inch of your cabinets. This design is also lighter, making it easier for installers to handle.
Cabinet Box Construction
Standard Kraftmaid cabinets, on the other hand, typically come with the traditional face-frame construction. While this design might look more traditional, it can also limit access to some interior space, especially with larger drawers.
Both ranges use solid wood on the face frame (for standard Kraftmaid) and the door, and plywood or veneer for the box construction. Yet, some higher-end models in the Vantage range might use solid wood for the entire cabinet box.
Hardware Options
Both ranges offer a wide array of hardware options, including knobs, pulls, and hinges, allowing for plenty of customization. However, the Vantage range offers more modern, sleek hardware options that complement its transitional style.
Standard Kraftmaid cabinets offer a wider range of traditional hardware styles, from classic to ornate, to match their varied door styles.
Customization and Configurability
Both Kraftmaid and Vantage cabinets offer a high degree of customization, with various configurations available. However, the Vantage line particularly shines in this aspect.
The Vantage range offers an innovative storage system called the Vantage Lineal, which supplies endless possibilities for drawer dividers. This system makes the most of every inch of your kitchen space and provides excellent organization.
Vantage Lineal Storage System
The Vantage Lineal system is not available in the standard Kraftmaid cabinets. However, Kraftmaid offers numerous other storage solutions, such as pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and built-in organization systems, ensuring no storage need goes unmet.
In both ranges, you can also customize your cabinets with various features like soft-close doors and drawers, full-extension drawer glides, and more to suit your specific needs and preferences.
In the end, choosing between Kraftmaid Vantage cabinets and standard Kraftmaid cabinets largely depends on your personal style and specific storage needs. Both ranges offer excellent quality and durability. The key is to decide whether you prefer the clean lines and modern aesthetic of the Vantage range or the traditional, ornate style of standard Kraftmaid cabinets. Then, you can start envisioning the perfect kitchen to suit your tastes and lifestyle.