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The secret to a clutter-free and space-efficient kitchen is ample storage units. And what defines a good storage unit? Yes, it’s the space but also the strength and durability of the shutters. Your kitchen cabinet shutter should be strong and easy-to-use. But how can you be sure of the strength of your kitchen cupboards shutters? At Livspace, we conduct multiple tests to guarantee the durability of our kitchen cabinet shutters. In this article, we talk about our tests as well as different shutter techniques. Read on.
What are the types of kitchen cupboard shutters?
| Shutter Type | How It Works | Best For | Key Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hinge/Swing Shutter | Traditional doors that swing open outward | General storage, pantry units | Easy to install, cost-effective, wide opening access | Requires clearance space, can obstruct walkways |
| Lift-up Cabinet | Opens vertically upward, stays parallel to ceiling | Wall-mounted units, overhead storage | Space-saving, easy access, modern aesthetic | Limited to lighter items, requires ceiling clearance |
| Soft-Close Mechanism | Gentle closing action prevents slamming | Any cabinet type (upgrade feature) | Noise reduction, protects hardware, child-safe | Higher initial cost, requires quality hardware |
| Roller Shutter | Rolls up into compact cylinder at top | Appliance storage, breakfast bars | Maximum space efficiency, hides clutter completely | Can be noisy, segmented appearance when closed |
| Flap-up Cabinet | Single or double panels that flip upward | Compact wall units, tight spaces | Space-efficient, works in low-ceiling areas | Limited weight capacity, awkward for tall users |
| Retracting Drawers | Self-closing drawers that automatically retract | Base units, frequently used storage | Convenience, self-organisation, smooth operation | Higher maintenance, complex mechanism |
How does Livspace test the durability of kitchen cabinets?
At Livspace, we pride ourselves on providing durable and long-lasting kitchen cupboards, cabinets and shutters. All our cabinet shutters undergo 80,000 open and close cycles. Moreover, our shutters are designed to be soft closing and anti-finger jamming, tested and checked in European labs using robotics. We also use Zinc coating to prevent corrosion.
What is a lift-up cabinet shutter?
A lift-up cabinet shutter is a modern and space-efficient solution for kitchen design that opens vertically upward rather than swinging out like traditional doors. These innovative shutters for kitchen cabinets feature a smooth lifting mechanism that allows the kitchen cupboard shutter to glide effortlessly upward, staying parallel to the ceiling when fully opened. This design is particularly beneficial in compact kitchens where conventional swing-out doors might obstruct walkways or interfere with other appliances.
Unlike a kitchen cabinet roller shutter that curves around a cylindrical mechanism, lift-up cupboard shutters maintain their flat profile throughout the opening motion. The roller shutter kitchen cupboard concept shares the space-saving benefits, but lift-up shutters offer easier access to the entire cabinet interior without the segmented appearance of rolled panels.
Popular in contemporary kitchen design, these shutters provide a sleek, minimalist aesthetic whilst maximising functionality, making them an excellent choice for modern homes where every inch of space matters and clean lines are prioritised.
Why choose soft-close mechanisms?
Why put up with the jarring slam of kitchen cupboard shutters when you can enjoy the gentle whisper of soft-close bliss? These clever mechanisms transform your shutters for kitchen cabinets into smooth operators that close with ballet-like grace, protecting little fingers and preventing that heart-stopping bang from your kitchen cabinet roller shutter.
Soft-close technology not only saves your cupboard shutters from wear and tear but instantly elevates any roller shutter kitchen cupboard to five-star luxury status – because your kitchen design deserves that satisfying, zen-like glide rather than chaotic slamming!
What do you need to know about roller shutters?
What’s the secret weapon transforming kitchens everywhere? Kitchen cabinet roller shutters are space-saving superstars that tuck neatly into compact cylinders, making your kitchen cupboard shutter disappear like magic! Perfect for tight spots, these shutters for kitchen cabinets roll upward instead of swinging out, turning your roller shutter kitchen cupboard into the ultimate multitasker. From sleek contemporary to industrial-inspired cupboard shutters, these rolling marvels bring serious style to your kitchen design whilst solving storage puzzles you never knew existed – and that smooth rolling action is surprisingly addictive!
Mass hardware systems VS durable soft-close systems
Mass hardware systems are like monsoon umbrellas from the roadside vendor – they’ll work until the first real storm hits your kitchen cupboard shutters, then leave you soggy and scrambling for replacements every few months. Durable soft-close mechanisms for your shutters for kitchen cabinets are the premium raincoats of kitchen design – they cost more upfront but keep performing flawlessly through years of Indian humidity, heavy usage, and those inevitable kitchen adventures!
#1: Hinge/swing shutter
If you like old-school designs, then swing door shutters are your go-to option. But, that does not mean you have to deal with creaking hinges. Fit your cabinets with high-quality hardware that lasts longer and does not harm the shutters in the long run. Get creative and play around with the handles or go sleek with handle-less cabinets. You can also choose between a solid shutter and a frosted glass one to add to the aesthetics of your kitchen.
#2: Simply lift-up
Most of us want to optimise storage in our kitchens by adding maximum wall units and lofts. If you notice the latest modular kitchens in most homes, you will see lift-up cabinets on the walls. This is great for people who want everything within easy reach. When you’re busy with your cooking sessions, you need to literally lift a finger to open these cabinets. They are very smooth to use and are noiseless, too.
#3: Effortless soft close
Modern day families are very conscious about noisy cutlery trays and shutters and drawers that make a thud when you close them in a hurry. If you find yourself in this category, then get the soft close mechanism for drawers. No matter how hard you push them, they never bang against the carcass. This not only makes your modules last longer, but also helps reduce the operational noise in your kitchen.
#4: Roller-up for appliances
Tandem units or roller shutters, as they are more commonly known as, are one of the best inventions for your kitchen cupboards. Why, you ask? Well, practically speaking, it can be a challenge to keep your kitchen looking neat and clean on a daily basis, especially if you love cooking. Roller shutters can help you hide away all your appliances when not in use while keeping your counters free. It is very smooth and does not make a lot of sound as you might feel, looking at it.
#5: Easy flap-up
Flap-up cabinet shutters come in two variants — single and double flap. An extension of the lift-up mechanism, this is perfect for wall units when there is not enough space for a swing door cabinet. Both variants of this mechanism are equally convenient and you can choose any one depending on your preference and height of the overhead cabinet. A glass or frosted glass shutter looks the best with this one.
#6: Retracting drawers
Retractable drawers are a lazy chef’s best friend. And, it’s not just us who say this. During a recent casual banter, one of our clients from Gurgaon said that he loves the retracting drawers in his kitchen because he often tends to leave them open. The fact that they slowly close on their own is what he admires the most. So, you can cook peacefully while drawers close on their own.
How can Livspace help you?
- Livspace kitchens come with DuraBuild cabinets, AquaBloc and AntiBubble technologies and precision-engineered manufacturing
- Our wide range of kitchen designs have a flat 10-year warranty* on them (modular and semi-modular products)
- With 146 quality checks, we ensure our kitchens are of superior quality
If you’re looking for ways to transform your house with beautiful designs, book an online consultation with Livspace today.
Our team of seasoned and creative designers is ready to collaborate with you to bring your vision to life.
*For select finishes on modular products. For full scope of warranty, please visit livspace.com/in/service
If you want to look at more stunning kitchen designs, check out more designs here, or find a Livspace experience center near you.
Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. In addition, the designs showcased within the story are subject to availability and will vary based on the year the homes were designed in. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing, availability and latest designs.
