Last Updated on November 29, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford
Are you in the market for new kitchen cabinets but don’t want to spend a fortune? You’re in luck! There are many stylish and affordable kitchen cabinet alternatives available.
In this blog post, we will explore 28 different options that you can consider. From unfinished pine cabinets to sleek stainless steel cabinets, there is something for everyone!
Related: 50 Different Types of Kitchen Cabinets: Which One is Right for You?
Kitchen Cabinet Alternatives
1. Antique Hutch.
It’s not just for grandmas anymore! An antique hutch can be a great alternative to standard kitchen cabinets, adding both character and storage space to your kitchen. Here are some tips on how to incorporate an antique hutch into your kitchen design:
If you’re going for a more traditional look in your kitchen, an antique hutch is a great way to add some old-world charm.
A hutch can also be a great way to add extra storage space to your kitchen; if you don’t have a lot of counter space, consider using the top of your hutch for items like spices or cookbooks.
If you’re worried about an antique hutch not matching the rest of your kitchen, don’t be! There are plenty of ways to incorporate an antique hutch into a more modern kitchen. For example, you could paint it a bright color or use it as a base for open shelving.
2. Bar with Hanging Storage.
This bar is a great kitchen cabinet alternative because it takes up minimal space and can be used for a variety of purposes.
It can be used as extra counter space, as a place to hang pots and pans, or even as a breakfast bar. If you have a small kitchen, this is a great way to make the most of your space.
3. Bookcase.
IKEA and Target both have great selections of bookcases that would work perfectly in a kitchen. A bookshelf can be used to store cookbooks, spices, or even pantry items.
If you don’t want to splurge on a new piece of furniture, try repurposing an old bookshelf by painting it and adding some new hardware.
4. Box Shelves.
Box shelves are a great way to add some extra storage to your kitchen without spending a lot of money. You can find box shelves at most home improvement stores and they are easy to install.
Pros and cons of using box shelves:
Box shelves are a great alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets because they are less expensive and easier to install. However, there are some downsides to using box shelves.
One downside is that they do not provide as much storage space as traditional kitchen cabinets.
Another downside is that box shelves can be difficult to keep clean because dust and dirt can accumulate in the corners.
Overall, box shelves are a great option for those who are looking for an affordable and easy-to-install alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets.
5. Countertop Shelves.
Countertop shelves are a great way to get more storage space in your kitchen. They are easy to install and can be found at most home improvement stores.
Pros and cons of using countertop shelves:
If you’re considering using countertop shelves in your kitchen, there are a few things to keep in mind. On the plus side, countertop shelves can be a great way to add extra storage space to your kitchen. They’re also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
On the downside, countertop shelves can take up a lot of space, and they’re not always the most attractive option.
6. Corner shelves.
Corner shelves are great for getting those hard to reach items. They can also be used to store cookbooks or other items that you want to keep out of the way. Corner shelves are a great alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets.
There are many different styles of corner shelves available. You can find them made from wood, metal, or even glass. There are also many different sizes to choose from. You can get corner shelves that fit into the corner of your kitchen or you can get ones that stand on their own.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing corner shelves. First, you need to decide what material you want them to be made from. Second, you need to decide how big or small you want them to be. And lastly, you need to decide where you want to put them in your kitchen.
7. Cubbies.
You know, those little square shelves that are usually found in children’s bedrooms? They make great kitchen cabinet alternatives!
They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so you can really find one (or a few) that fit your needs. Plus, they’re usually pretty affordable. And if you’re feeling extra crafty, you could even make your own!
Pros and cons of using cubbies:
Cubbies are a great alternative to kitchen cabinets if you’re looking for something a little more unique and rustic.
They can give your kitchen an old-fashioned charm, and they’re also generally more affordable than traditional kitchen cabinets. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before deciding on cubbies as your kitchen storage solution.
One downside of cubbies is that they’re not as spacious as kitchen cabinets, so you may have to get creative with your storage solutions if you have a lot of cookware or other items.
Additionally, cubbies can be difficult to keep clean, since dust and dirt can accumulate in the nooks and crannies. If you’re someone who likes a tidy kitchen, you may want to steer clear of cubbies.
Overall, cubbies are a great option for those looking for an affordable and unique storage solution for their kitchen. Just be sure to consider the pros and cons carefully before making your final decision.
8. Dresser.
A dresser is a great kitchen cabinet alternative because it provides ample storage space for all of your pots, pans, and other cooking utensils. Plus, the added bonus of having drawers means that you can keep your countertops free from clutter.
Another benefit of using a dresser in your kitchen is that it can double as a buffet or sideboard. This means that you can use it to serve food at parties or other gatherings.
9. Floating Shelves.
These can be found at most home improvement stores and are relatively easy to install. Floating shelves provide a great way to display kitchen items, such as dishes or glassware, while also freeing up space on the countertops.
Pros and cons of using floating shelves:
-Pros:
-Can be made of a variety of materials including wood, metal, and glass
-One of the most affordable options for kitchen shelving
-Easy to install
-Cons:
-May not be as durable as other options
-May not be able to hold as much weight
-May not be as stable
10. Frosted Glass Doors.
They provide both privacy and style, making them a great addition to any kitchen.
Frosted glass doors are available in a variety of styles and designs, so you can find the perfect one to complement your kitchen’s décor.
If you’re looking for a more modern look, consider frosted glass doors with sleek, minimalist lines. For a more traditional look, try frosted glass doors with intricate designs.
Pros and cons of using Frosted Glass Doors:
Frosted glass doors have become a popular kitchen cabinet alternative in recent years. They offer a sleek, modern look and can be customized to fit any kitchen style.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to using frosted glass doors that you should be aware of before making a decision for your own kitchen.
One potential downside of frosted glass doors is that they may not be as durable as other options. Glass can scratch or chip more easily than other materials, so it’s important to be careful when using frosted glass doors.
Another potential downside is that frosted glass doors may not provide as much privacy as you might like. If you’re concerned about privacy, you may want to consider another option for your kitchen cabinets.
11. Hanging Baskets.
An oft-forgotten kitchen storage solution is the hanging basket. Hanging baskets can be used to store anything from fruit and vegetables, to herbs and spices. They are especially useful if you have a small kitchen, as they free up valuable counter space.
Another advantage of hanging baskets is that they can help to keep your kitchen organized. If you tend to keep your fruit and vegetables in the fridge, hanging baskets can help you to remember what needs to be used up first.
Hanging baskets are also a great way to show off your green thumb. If you have a Herb Garden, why not display your herbs in a hanging basket? Not only will they look beautiful, but they will also be within easy reach when you need them.
12. Kitchen Rails.
They are an inexpensive and easy way to get the look of kitchen cabinets without actually having to install kitchen cabinets. Kitchen Rails can be installed in a matter of hours and they add a lot of character to your kitchen.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing kitchen rails is that they come in different heights. So, if you have high ceilings, you might want to choose a taller rail. Conversely, if you have low ceilings, you might want to choose a shorter rail.
Another thing to keep in mind is that kitchen rails can be installed either horizontally or vertically. If you install them horizontally, they will create a more traditional look. If you install them vertically, they will create a more contemporary look.
13. Ledges.
They are the perfect alternative to kitchen cabinets and they come in a variety of styles to fit any kitchen.
Ledges can be used to display cookbooks, spices, or anything else you need to keep organized in your kitchen. They are also great for adding extra storage space to small kitchens.
Pros and cons of using Ledges:
If you’re looking for a kitchen cabinet alternative that will give your kitchen a unique, rustic look, then ledges might be the way to go. Ledges are shelves that sit flush against the wall, and they can be made from a variety of materials including wood, stone, or metal.
One of the pros of using ledges is that they’re relatively easy to install. You can either mount them directly onto the wall, or you can hang them from the ceiling using hooks or chains.
Another pro is that ledges are very versatile. You can use them to display anything from dishes and cookware, to herbs and spices, to family photos and artwork.
One of the cons of using ledges is that they’re not as sturdy as cabinets. If you have heavy items that you want to store on the ledge, you might need to use brackets or supports to keep them from toppling over.
Another con is that ledges can collect dust and dirt more easily than cabinets, so you’ll need to clean them more often.
14. Lockers.
They’re not just for school anymore. In fact, they make great kitchen cabinet alternatives. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one to fit your needs. Plus, they’re usually very affordable.
Lockers are a great way to add extra storage to your kitchen without taking up too much space. And, if you choose the right style, they can even add a bit of charm.
15. Metal Storage Racks.
They come in all shapes and sizes, and can be used to store everything from pots and pans to dish towels and table linens. And best of all, they’re usually much cheaper than traditional kitchen cabinets.
Pros and cons of using Metal Storage Racks:
-Pros: Inexpensive, easy to find and install, great for small spaces
-Cons: Not very attractive, can be noisy, not as durable as other options
16. Open Shelves.
They’re all the rage in kitchen design these days. And for good reason! They offer a variety of benefits over traditional kitchen cabinets.
First, open shelves are much easier to install than cabinets. All you need is a few basic tools and some DIY know-how. Secondly, they’re more affordable than cabinets. You can save hundreds of dollars by opting for open shelves instead of cabinets.
Third, open shelves offer a more versatile design. You can easily change the look of your kitchen simply by rearranging the items on your shelves. Lastly, open shelves are easier to clean than cabinets. Dust and dirt accumulate in the nooks and crannies of cabinets, but shelves can be quickly wiped down.
If you’re considering kitchen cabinet alternatives, open shelves are a great option to consider. They offer many benefits over traditional cabinets and can easily be installed by the average homeowner. Plus, they’re more affordable and easier to clean.
17. Pegboard.
It’s not just for the garage anymore! This handy material can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen, from hanging pots and pans to creating a chic backsplash. And best of all, it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
Pros and cons of using Pegboard:
Pegboard is a great way to organize your kitchen, but it does have some drawbacks. First, it can be difficult to keep the pegs in place and second, it can be hard to find matching Pegboard accessories. However, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort, Pegboard can be a great addition to your kitchen.
Another option is to use baskets. Baskets are a great way to organize your kitchen because they’re easy to move and can be used for a variety of things. However, baskets can be difficult to keep clean and can also be expensive.
18. Pull Out Pantry.
If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your kitchen cabinets, consider a pull out pantry. A pull out pantry is a great alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets because it offers easy access to all of your food and spices. Plus, it’s a great way to save space in your kitchen.
19. Recessed Shelves.
These are shelves that fit snugly into the space between two studs in your wall. They’re perfect for storing small items or displaying decor, and they give your kitchen a clean, minimalist look.
Pros and cons of using Recessed Shelves:
Recessed shelves can be a great way to add storage to your kitchen without taking up valuable counter space. They can also help you keep your counters clutter-free. However, there are some things to consider before installing recessed shelves in your kitchen.
One thing to consider is the depth of your cabinets. Recessed shelves need to be at least six inches deep in order to be functional. If your cabinets are shallower than this, you may want to consider another storage option.
Another thing to keep in mind is that recessed shelves can make it difficult to clean behind your appliances. This is because the shelves sit flush with the cabinets, making it hard to reach the back. If you have a lot of appliances, this may not be the best option for you.
Finally, recessed shelves can be more expensive than other storage options. This is because they require special cabinets that are deep enough to accommodate the shelves. If you’re on a budget, you may want to consider another storage solution.
20. Repurposed Crates.
I absolutely love finding new ways to repurpose old things. Crates are great for so many different projects. You can use them for storage, shelves, planters, and so much more.
I recently came across some adorable milk crates that I just had to have. I knew immediately that I wanted to turn them into something special for my kitchen.
I decided to use them as an alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets. I love the way they turned out! They add a unique touch to my kitchen and they were very easy to make. If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to spruce up your kitchen, I highly recommend giving repurposed crates a try.
21. Rolling Kitchen Cart.
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets, then a rolling kitchen cart may be a good option for you.
These carts are usually made of wood or metal, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles. You can use them for extra counter space, storage, or as a mobile island.
Pros and cons of using Rolling Kitchen Cart:
There are a few pros and cons to using rolling kitchen carts. On the plus side, they can be very helpful in terms of increasing your counter space. They can also be used as extra storage for things like pots and pans, or even small appliances.
On the downside, however, they can be quite difficult to keep clean, and if not used properly, can actually damage your floors. Overall, though, if you’re short on space and need a little extra help in the kitchen, a rolling cart can be a great solution.
22. Shelves with Baskets.
You can find these at most home stores and they make great kitchen cabinet alternatives. They are easy to install and come in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. You can use them to store dish towels, pots and pans, or even food.
23. Sideboard.
A sideboard, also called a buffet, is a type of cabinet that’s usually placed against a wall in a dining room. Sideboards are often used to store dishes and linens, but they can also be used to hold other items, such as serving platters and utensils.
Pros and cons of using sidebard:
Sideboards can be a great alternative to kitchen cabinets, especially if you’re working with a limited budget.
They’re usually less expensive than cabinets and can be found in a variety of styles, making it easy to find one that fits your taste. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before using sideboards in your kitchen.
One of the biggest advantages of sideboards is that they take up less space than cabinets. This can be a great option if you have a small kitchen or limited counter space.
They also tend to be lighter and easier to move around, so if you’re planning on redecorating often, sideboards may be the way to go.
Another advantage is that sideboards can be used for a variety of purposes. In addition to storage, they can also be used as a buffet or serving area when entertaining guests.
One downside of sideboards is that they’re not as durable as cabinets. They’re also more susceptible to damage from water and heat, so if you have young children or are planning on using them in a high-traffic area, it’s important to keep this in mind.
24. Sliding Door Pantry.
The Sliding Door Pantry is a great kitchen cabinet alternative that offers both style and function. This pantry features two doors that slide open to reveal shelves that are perfect for storing food, dishes, or other kitchen items.
The Sliding Door Pantry is a great way to keep your kitchen organized and stylish at the same time.
Pros and cons of using Sliding Door Pantry:
Sliding Door Pantry is one of the most popular kitchen cabinet alternatives because it offers many benefits. One advantage is that it allows easy access to your stored items, as well as stylish looks. Another plus is that this type of cabinet can save space in your kitchen.
However, Sliding Door Pantry also has a few disadvantages. One is that it can be difficult to keep the doors clean, as they are constantly being touched. Another potential downside is that these cabinets can be more expensive than traditional ones.
25. Stainless Steel Slatted Shelves.
For those who want something different than the traditional kitchen cabinets, stainless steel slatted shelves are a great option.
They offer a sleek and modern look that can really change the feel of your kitchen. Plus, they’re easy to keep clean and they’re perfect for storing all of your pots, pans, and other cooking supplies.
26. Suspended Racks.
These racks are great for small kitchens because they free up space on the countertops. Plus, they add a bit of character to the kitchen with their unique look.
Pros and cons of using Suspended Racks:
-Can be used to store pots, pans, and other heavy kitchen items
-May be difficult to install
-Can add visual interest to a kitchen space
27. Wall-mounted pot rack.
You can also use a pot rack that is mounted on the wall. This is a great alternative to using cabinets, as it frees up space and makes it easier to access your pots and pans.
28. Wooden Racks.
They are an excellent alternative to traditional kitchen cabinets and they come in a variety of styles to suit any kitchen. They are easy to install and can be found at most home improvement stores.
Pros and cons of using wooden racks:
Wooden racks are a popular kitchen cabinet alternative. They have a few pros and cons that you should consider before making a decision.
Pros:
-They can give your kitchen a rustic look.
-They are typically cheaper than cabinets.
-They are easy to install yourself.
Cons:
-They may not be as durable as cabinets.
-They can be challenging to keep clean.
-You will need to regularly dust and oil them to protect the wood.
What is the cheapest way to do kitchen cabinets?
There are a few ways that you can go about doing this, and it really depends on your budget. You can either buy new cabinets, or you can refinish your existing ones.
If you’re looking for the cheapest option, then buying new cabinets is probably not the way to go. However, if you’re willing to spend a little bit more, then refinishing your cabinets can give them a whole new look.
Whichever option you choose, make sure to do your research so that you get the best results.
It should be noted that there are also a few other things to consider when choosing the cheapest option for kitchen cabinets. For example, if you’re not handy with tools, then you may want to hire someone to do the work for you. Additionally, if you’re not sure about what you’re doing, then it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional before proceeding.
Are kitchen cabinets necessary?
This is a question that I get asked a lot, and it’s one that I struggled with when we first started our kitchen renovation. We had a very small budget and cabinets seemed like such a luxury. But in the end, we decided to splurge on them and I’m so glad we did! Here are three reasons why I think kitchen cabinets are worth the investment:
First, they provide a lot of storage. We were able to declutter our countertops and store all of our pots, pans, and other cooking essentials in the cabinets. This freed up a lot of space and made our kitchen feel so much more organized.
Second, cabinets can really help to make your kitchen look more polished and put together. Without them, our kitchen would have looked unfinished and a bit like a work in progress. But with the cabinets in place, it feels like a complete and stylish room.
Finally, cabinets can actually save you money in the long run. If you take care of them and treat them well, they will last for many years. This means that you won’t have to replace them as often, which can save you a lot of money over time.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this exploration of kitchen cabinet alternatives. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to help you make your dream kitchen a reality. Thank you for reading!
