1. Concealed (or European) Hinges

These are the go-to choice for contemporary kitchens and wardrobes. As the name suggests, concealed hinges are hidden inside the cabinet when the door is closed, offering a clean, seamless appearance.

Overlay, Half Overlay & Inset options to suit different door placements.
Soft-close mechanisms available to prevent slamming.
Ideal for frameless cabinets and minimalist interiors.

2. Butt Hinges

A classic hinge type often used on traditional cabinetry or bespoke furniture. Butt hinges are visible when the door is closed, making finish choice important for aesthetic harmony.

Available in solid brass, stainless steel, and a variety of plated finishes.
Perfect for handmade joinery and period properties.

3. Pivot Hinges

These hinges allow the door to pivot from a point at the top and bottom rather than from the side, creating a sleek, architectural look.

Commonly used on full-height wardrobe doors or special design features.
Suitable for heavy or tall doors.

4. Piano Hinges (Continuous Hinges)

Long, continuous hinges that run the full length of a door — often found on toy boxes, benches, and certain furniture pieces.

Offers even support and added durability.
Available in brass, steel, and stainless steel finishes.

5. Decorative Hinges

When your hardware is meant to be seen, decorative hinges add a touch of character. Options include H-hinges, HL-hinges, and strap hinges for a traditional or rustic look.

Often paired with antique finishes like Aged Brass or Bronze.
Great for heritage restorations or country-style cabinetry.

How to Adjust Cabinet Hinges

Even the best hinges may need adjustment over time to maintain perfect door alignment. Most modern concealed hinges feature three-way adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune the door position with just a screwdriver.

Here’s how:

Side-to-Side Adjustment
Adjusts the gap between doors.
Turn the front screw clockwise or anticlockwise to move the door left or right.
Height Adjustment
Aligns the door vertically with neighbouring doors or panels.
Loosen the mounting screws on the cabinet plate, reposition, then retighten.
Depth Adjustment
Moves the door closer or further from the cabinet frame.
Turn the rear screw on the hinge arm to set the correct depth for a flush close.

Pro Tip: If doors are slamming, opt for soft-close hinges or retrofit soft-close adapters for a quieter, smoother action.

Installation Tips for a Professional Finish

Installing cabinet hinges doesn’t have to be daunting — it just requires precision and the right tools.

Measure Twice, Drill Once
Mark hinge positions consistently across all doors (commonly 100mm from top and bottom edges).

Use a Hinge Jig for Concealed Hinges
Ensures accurate 35mm cup hole placement every time.

Check Door Overlay
Before drilling, confirm whether your hinge is full overlay, half overlay, or inset — as each affects the drilling position.

Choose the Right Screws
Always use matching finish screws and ensure they’re the correct length to avoid piercing through the door.

Test Before Final Fixing
Hang one door first, check alignment, then proceed with the rest for consistency.

Choosing the Right Finish

Cabinet hinges may be small, but their finish can elevate the look of your entire project. Match your hinges to handles, knobs, and fittings for a cohesive appearance. Popular finishes include:

Matt Black for modern, industrial kitchens
Polished Brass for classic or luxury interiors
Antique Brass and Bronze for heritage charm
Nickel and Chrome for timeless versatility

At SDS London, we offer a wide range of cabinet hinges in various styles and finishes, suitable for everything from bespoke joinery to large-scale kitchen installations. Whether you’re replacing a single hinge or fitting out a full set of cabinetry, our team can help you find the perfect match.