If you're giving your kitchen a fresh look, picking the right cabinet door style can feel like choosing toppings at your favorite pizza place—so many options, and they all seem like a good idea. But don't worry, we're here to break it down.

Whether you’re going for a beachy, laid-back vibe that fits life on the Emerald Coast or something sleek and modern, your cabinet doors will play a big part in the overall feel of your kitchen.

Why Cabinet Doors Matter (A Lot)

Cabinet doors aren't just a pretty face. They're the first thing you see when you walk into a kitchen, and they get a ton of daily use. Choosing the right style helps bring together your whole design, from countertops to flooring. Plus, the right materials and finishes mean your cabinets will hold up to everything from spaghetti night to spring-cleaning sprees.

Top Cabinet Door Styles (And What They Say About You)

Here are a few popular choices that homeowners in Fort Walton Beach love:

• Shaker: Clean lines, minimal details. Great for traditional or modern kitchens.

• Raised Panel: More classic, often with extra detailing. Think timeless and elegant.

• Flat/Slab: Sleek, modern, easy to clean. Perfect if you love a minimalist look.

• Beadboard: Cozy, cottage-style charm. Especially popular in coastal or farmhouse kitchens.

• Glass-Front: Want to show off your pretty dishes? These add an open, airy feel.

Each of these styles can shift your kitchen in a whole new direction. Love the cozy cottage style? Beadboard's your buddy. Dreaming of a modern, magazine-worthy kitchen? Slab doors might be the way to go.

Match Your Kitchen’s Personality

Are you all about coastal charm, or do you lean toward something more classic and warm? Consider your kitchen’s personality—and yours. Fort Walton Beach homes often reflect the sunny, relaxed Florida lifestyle, and that might mean white shaker doors with brushed nickel hardware or light-stained wood for that natural, beachy feel.

Think about your countertops, floors, and appliances too. Your cabinet doors should complement—not compete with—these elements.

Materials Matter: Style Meets Durability

You want your cabinets to look good, but they also need to last. Some common cabinet door materials include:

• Solid Wood: Long-lasting and can be stained or painted.

• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Smooth and budget-friendly, great for painted finishes.

• Thermofoil: Easy to clean and resistant to moisture, though not great near heat sources.

In humid Florida, it’s smart to consider moisture resistance. Willie’s Custom Kitchen Cabinets can help you choose materials that hold up to our Gulf Coast climate.

Don’t Overlook Hardware and Finish

That final touch—knobs, handles, hinges, and the finish—can make or break your cabinet look. Matte black hardware offers a bold, modern look, while brushed brass feels warm and vintage.

Willie’s team can show you how the right combination of finish and hardware can pull everything together, whether you're going full coastal or just want a subtle refresh.

Need Help? Just Ask Willie’s

There’s a reason Fort Walton Beach homeowners trust Willie's Custom Kitchen Cabinets—they’re experts in making your dream kitchen come to life. From design to installation, they’ll walk you through every step. Stop by the showroom or schedule a consultation to see door samples, explore color combos, and get expert advice from locals who know the area (and its weather) best.

Bonus Tips Before You Choose:

• Bring photos of kitchens you love

• Consider how much cleaning you want to do—some styles hide smudges better!

• Think about resale value if you plan to sell in the future

• Ask for samples to see how finishes look in your lighting