Are Raised Panel Cabinets Out Of Style? (Find Out Now!)

Ossiana Tepfenhart
by Ossiana Tepfenhart

Raised panel cabinets were one of the most common staples in the 60s, 70s, 80s, and early 90s. It was a look that is noted for having a raised panel that is in the middle of the cabinet door, often surrounded by a carved border to accentuate the panel’s look. It’s a popular look, but is it dated?

While raised panel cabinetry is fairly “old school,” it’s not dated. Raised panel cabinets are considered timeless, particularly when you want to have traditional European, antique American, or contemporary kitchen design.

It’s important to realize that raised panels aren’t fads, but that they can still offer up a punch of style for the right kitchen. Now that we’ve given our intro, it’s time to dive in.

Related Guide: Shaker Style Cabinets vs. Raised Panel

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Are Raised Panel Cabinets Trendy?

Not really. However, I think I should point out the reason why.

Raised panel cabinets aren’t trendy because of what the word insinuates. When people say the word “trendy” in the world of home design, they tend to mean a particular style that has the risk of falling out of style. In some cases, “trendy” tends to mean that the design itself becomes tied to a certain era—much like seeing starburst chandeliers or honey oak in kitchen cabinetry.

Should I Pick A Trendier Type Of Cabinet Instead?

Trendy cabinets can be a great pick, if you’re okay with running the risk of your kitchen looking dated later on. Raised panel cabinets are more about the benefit of getting something that can handle a variety of styles. The versatility makes raised panel cabinets a timeless pick.

Are Raised Panel Cabinets Dated?

The one thing that raised panel cabinets are not is dated. I’ve seen homes with this type of cabinetry from the 1800s, and I’ve also seen them from the 1990s. Even in the 2010s and 2020s, they’re still fairly popular. Dated means you can tell what era they’re from, and that isn’t doable with raised panel.

Though they’re not dated, I feel like it’s still important to point out that they not ultra-modern. If you want to make your kitchen have a “space age” vibe, then raised panels might not be the right pick for you.

What Kind Of Styles Work Well With Raised Panel Cabinets?

The good thing about raised panel cabinets is that they are versatile as can be. That’s why they are the most popular type of cabinetry found on the market right now. With that said, there are some looks that tend to work better with them than others. These include the following:

  • Victorian/Baroque. If you are going for a very old, antiquated look to your home, then it’s basically a staple of this type of interior design. Historic homes sometimes even have a mandate requiring owners to stick to raised panel cabinets, by the way.
  • Contemporary American. American contemporary kitchens are what you will see in most homes across the country. If you feel like your home is an “average” home, then chances are that your home will fit under this category and that raised panel cabinetry is right for you.
  • British Cottage. With all the hubbub and hullaballoo about “cottagecore,” it’s not surprising that many people are trying to channel their inner fantasy witch. Raised panel cabinets give cottage homes that classic vintage vibe.
  • Rustic. If you have a home that was styled around your inner cowboy, then you should look into raised panel cabinetry for your home.

Are Raised Panel Cabinets Better Painted Or Stained?

This is all dependent on the countertops, furnishings, and decor that they have around them. The cool thing about raised panel cabinets is that they can work with a wide range of different colors. Many designers are currently on a white painted cabinet kick. Of course, if you want to go for a stately mahogany stain, you absolutely can.

What Are The Drawbacks Of Raise Panel Cabinet Doors?

Raised panel cabinet doors don’t really have any drawbacks in terms of style or durability. They’re all fairly solidly built, and most people will not raise an eyebrow at this choice of cabinetry. So, it’s not like it will take away from the value of your home or harm your cabinet’s structural integrity.

The only real drawback that we can think of is the price. Foot by foot, raised panel cabinets will cost a bit more than a typical shake or slab style door. This is due to the fact that it takes more labor to make them than it would for a simple slab or shake.

Do Raised Panel Cabinets Improve Home Value?

While they might cost more than other types of cabinet doors, the truth is that they are not seen as a major home value booster. They are more or less just there to make your kitchen look good. So, if you were hoping to get a home upgrade prior to a sale, you might want to look for other adjustments.

How Much Do Raised Panel Cabinets Cost?

Obviously, this will vary greatly depending on the type of wood that they are made from. Walnut, for example, will always lead to a pricier cabinet than hickory or oak. On a similar note, if you have MDF cabinets, you’ll be able to get raised panels for a fraction of the cost.

On average, a 10 x 10 kitchen that has raised panel cabinets will cost $3,372 for the materials and panels alone. Most companies will also charge an additional $2,000 for the install. No matter how you look at it, it’s a pricey install.

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Related Questions

How long should you expect raised panel cabinets to last?

Though they may be a bit more popular than other types of cabinetry, the truth is that there is no significant increase in lifespan from raised panels on your cabinet doors. Like all other types of wood cabinet doors, you should expect raised panel cabinets to last a total of 10 to 20 years at the very least. With good maintenance, they can last 50 years or more.


What’s the difference between shaker doors and raised panel doors?

Shaker panels have a carved dent in the center of the doors. With a raised panel door, there will be a dent and a panel that is placed in the center of the dent. Shakers are a little less substantial in appearance, but still offer a nice clean look to a kitchen or a bathroom setup.Cost-wise, there is a slight difference between the two as well. Most shaker cabinet doors will be lower in price than a raised panel door bought at the same size and material. If you’re on a budget. then it’s better to get a shaker cabinet.


Are flat panel cabinet doors popular?

While we’ve spoken at length about raised panel cabinet doors, but flat panels are also worth a look-see. In recent years, this door style became fairly popular. It’s trendy, offers a clean line that carries throughout your kitchen, and also helps make your room look a little larger.This is a good choice for people who want to have a look that’s very modern and clean. If you are looking for a home upgrade that is a bit more 2020 than 1920, then this is a good pick.

Ossiana Tepfenhart
Ossiana Tepfenhart

Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Her interests include art and real estate investments.

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