Cupboards are versatile pieces of furniture, serving numerous functions in a wide variety of environments. Available in different styles and materials to complement various interior design aesthetics.
In its original definition, a cupboard was originally an open shelf sideboard for displaying plates. Later it came to mean any case with doors; variations include wardrobes, Schranks, Kasts and armoires.
Definition
Cupboard has come to represent any piece of furniture with shelves for storage purposes; originally it referred to an open-shelved side table used to display dishware such as plates and cups. Cupboards may either be wall-mounted or freestanding.
There are various kinds of cupboards, from the basic medieval form to European-influenced designs like dressers or armadios and Schranks. Cupboards come with different designs, finishes and materials to match various interior decor styles; some even boast lighting features to increase visibility or provide ambience.
History
Cupboards were originally used to store food and other supplies. Over time, however, their design became more intricate with details like carvings and inlays adding depth and beauty. Cupboards quickly gained in popularity among nobility who hired talented carpenters to add charm and beauty to this storage design.
Some cupboards, such as the English livery cupboard, had venting holes in their doors for ventilation purposes. Others, like the 17th-century Dutch kast or schrank and French armoire, served as massive wall-sized wardrobes where garments could be stored and worn.
Airing cupboards are another type of built-in cupboard that help circulate air around fabrics to avoid dampness.
Types
Cupboards provide extra storage space while adding aesthetic value to a living or working space. Available in various styles and designs to meet individual needs while fitting seamlessly into existing decors, cupboards can add storage capacity without taking away from it.
Cabinets are designed for displaying items and can feature glass doors, elaborate moldings and intricate hardware. They can be freestanding or built into walls.
Cupboards come in various materials, such as wood, metal and plastic. Modern cupboards often include smart storage solutions and sleek designs that maximize space utilization while creating a minimalist appearance.
Uses
Cupboards are versatile pieces of storage furniture, perfect for keeping living spaces tidy and clutter-free. Constructed into walls or standing alone as standalone units, cupboards provide stylish ways to conceal away clutter and keep living areas organized while being durable enough to withstand humidity fluctuations and temperature shifts.
Cupboards are commonly found in kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms and offices as a convenient storage solution. Many innovative cupboards are on the market with smart storage solutions and sleek designs; making them an excellent choice for clothing, dishes, kitchen utensils, linen and other household items.
Construction materials
Cabinet frames and boxes are typically constructed from wood, furniture board, or particleboard. While solid wood provides a more luxurious aesthetic, plywood or melamine are more practical choices that offer increased durability.
Plywood is composed of thin layers of wood that have been glued together into a sturdy material. Plywood cabinets are less likely to succumb to water damage than other types, while they hold mechanical fasteners (nails and screws) better than particleboard or MDF cabinets. Their multilayered construction also makes them significantly lighter compared to their counterparts – something which may come in handy for certain spaces.
Organization tips
To keep cupboards organized and functional, consider organizing items according to frequency of use. This will make frequently needed items easier to access while saving space for less-used ones at the back or higher shelves. Furthermore, try keeping cabinet doors open as much as possible for optimal air circulation and easier access.
Use dividers to organize items like cookie sheets, muffin tins and storage containers using dividers – this helps avoid an avalanche every time you open the door and saves space by enabling containers to stand upright and saves valuable floor space!
Maintenance and care
Over time, furniture experiences extensive wear and tear. To extend its lifespan and protect its finish, keep surfaces wiped with a soft lint-free cloth regularly and wipe up spills, food stains or oil and grease splatters as soon as they occur – these could permanently discolor or damage its finish if exposed for too long.
Keep cupboards away from any sources of heat as overheating may lead to warping and material damage, and inspect them regularly for signs of wear-and-tear and take immediate steps if any issues arise. Also follow manufacturer maintenance instructions so your cupboards last as long as possible!
