top of page
Search
Writer's pictureChan Alan

What's a cabinet side panel and how do i choose to have them in my interior design projects?

Updated: Mar 17

Before we dive into the importance of the side panel, lets us first make sure we both have the same understanding of what a side panel is. Some part of the world calls this an end panel, and where I practice my interior design (Malaysia & Singapore) we call them side panels, they are the same. Referring to a panel that is usually installed at the end of a cabinet, usually is the same depth as the depth of the cabinet. There are more than enough posts on the internet about why and where should you have them, you can read more about “the use of side panels” on Google & YouTube, they are everywhere. Here that I share how I chose to do it, and why I think the side panel works for my interior design, detail down to the following 2 aspects: 1. Cover the GAP How I do it The depth of the side panel is the same as the cabinet (including the door/drawer panel). Why Regardless of the cabinet with casement doors/drawers, the gap between the cabinet door/drawer front may not be equally distanced from the cabinet body, hence, in my opinion is not pleasant to see this gap. The side panel, in this case, hides the gaps away, creating a neat and clean-looking cabinet.


To add to this point, covering this gap, also gives an illusion of good workmanship. I use the word illusion does not mean that the gap itself is due to lousy workmanship, the gap is technically required, but the size and consistency of the gaps are very subjective to site conditions.

2. Neat cabinet and wall skirting joinery How I do it Side panel for the base unit (sit on the floor unit), I will have them all down to touch the floor (for non-wet areas only). Why This allows different heights for both skirting boards & the cabinet toe-kick and allows them to meet without technical & aesthetic flaws.




interior design carpentry side panel end panel singapore johor Malaysia
Side panel touches the floor for our project @ The Crest, Singapore

If you feel the same, the side panel idea does make sense to you, then keep in mind that this add-on does come with a price. It's not skyrocket-expensive to have it (at least in Malaysia & Singapore), but an aspect to consider if you are looking at a budget-friendly project.

In all my current & future interior design works, the side panel is not a need-to-have, but a very good-to-have feature. What's your thoughts? would you prefer to have the side panel or without? Welcome to get in touch :D If you would like to see my work & some tips & interior design sharing, follow my Instagram. If you would like to see a complete collection of my works, check out my website. If you prefer long form reading to learn about interior design, check out my blog. Good Luck!!






36 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page