The carcass: what the cabinet box is made of
The carcass is the hidden box behind the doors. It carries the weight of worktops, sinks and appliances, so it matters more than it looks.
| Material | Strengths | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture-resistant MDF | Smooth, stable, takes paint and lacquer well, good value | Edges must be sealed; standard MDF is not suitable near sinks |
| Marine or moisture-resistant plywood | Strong, holds screws well, handles humidity better | Costs more; visible edges need banding or veneer |
| Solid wood | Natural look, can be refinished | Moves with temperature and humidity, so it is usually used for frames and details rather than whole carcasses |
Under the sink and around the dishwasher we recommend moisture-resistant boards with sealed edges, because leaks and steam are the most common cause of swollen cabinets in Dubai kitchens.
Door finishes
Natural wood veneer
A thin layer of real walnut, oak or ash on a stable board. It gives the warmth of real wood with less movement than solid timber, and suits luxury and classic kitchens.
Lacquer (matt or gloss)
Sprayed in any colour for a seamless, handleless look. Matt lacquer hides fingerprints better; high gloss reflects light in smaller kitchens.
Laminate
Hard-wearing and easy to clean, available in wood and stone patterns. A practical choice for rentals and busy family kitchens.
Acrylic
A high-gloss surface that stays very flat and bright. Good for modern kitchens where you want a mirror-like finish.
Hardware that makes the difference
- Soft-close hinges and drawer runners so doors never slam
- Full-extension drawers for deep base units and pans
- Corner solutions so blind corners are usable
- Handleless profiles or long brass and black handles for a luxury look
Our advice
Put your budget into the carcass, the hardware and the areas that get wet. Finishes can be chosen for the look you want. At the site visit we bring samples so you can see and touch each option before we quote.