Do Cabinets Need End Panels?

Required End-Panels

• The term “end-panel” is used to describe the side piece that indicates the end of a cabinet or a set of cabinet units. In other words, the end-panel also serves as the side panel of a cabinet. This means that the end cabinets have an automatic end panel, since the cabinet must have a closed side panel for a full frame. Depending on the kitchen design and layout, you may have both end-panels visible. You have several options in terms of what you wish to do with the end-panel.

End-Panel Finishes

• The end-panel is often just a flat surface that serves as the side panel in the cabinet’s frame. However, visible end-panels may be decorated to make it more visually appealing. For instance, you can paint the end-panel the same color as the remaining cabinets or add the same design or molding to the end-panel as the cabinet doors. Creating the same design on the end-panels as the cabinet doors provides consistency and cohesion in the room.

End-Panel Shelves

• Another option is to add end-shelving to the end-panels to provide additional storage options. These shelves are often 90-degree angles in the cabinet and wall corner and circular around the shelves’ edges. These end-panel shelving are common on both base cabinet ends and wall-mounted cabinet ends. In addition, these shelves take attention away from the end-panels if they are built with plywood or less than appealing wood sheets.

Hiding End Panels

• If you have no room for storage shelving, you can hide your end-panels by adding a flower or vase with decorations on the floor next to the end-panels. You can hang a painting to your upper cabinet’s end-panels, if you desire.