For many people, browsing the kitchen department of the local big box home improvement store is enough to satisfy their research when planning a new kitchen. This approach however, may leave them feeling shorthanded when they discover their new kitchen isn’t exactly what they dreamed of. 

Remodeling your kitchen can be one of the best investments a home owner can make in their residential property. New home buyers often look at a new kitchen with a sigh of relief, knowing this is one area that can be a real pain to tackle. How disappointing, however, when that new kitchen starts to show real wear and tear in just a few short years.

It is important to understand the differences between stock, semi-custom and custom cabinetry when planning your new kitchen. If your first concern is your budget, it still does not mean you should go running for the least expensive option. You would be best advised to do some research, and understand what it is you are getting for your money. I have always believed in taking your time to plan, save enough money and buy great quality once rather than buying something that will only last a short time.

When first installed, stock cabinetry may look very nice. With normal use, a homeowner may find that the particleboard and thin veneers are not meant to last for decades. Often you will see the surface layer start to chip away in areas that may come in contact with water. The bottom kickboards of the cabinets may be the first to show this, with the surface literally peeling away. The long-term visual appeal of the cabinets is not the only area to be concerned with. Mass-produced cabinetry will usually have stapled or glued joints, which can pull away. The drawer pulls are often made of plastic, and can break or become difficult to function. Lastly, the come in very limited sizes. This may often waste valuable space in a kitchen, with the use of fillers to cover up gaps left behind.

Another option is what is considered Semi-Custom cabinets. The quality of these cabinets can differ depending on the manufacturer. But often times, in my opinion, the quality is not much different from stock cabinetry. These are typically made to order, from a kitchen design plan and may take up to 8 weeks to be delivered. They will offer many more options than a stock cabinet, from hardware to door styles, to wood finishes. Where it gets tricky, however, is really researching what the quality is beyond the door. You may get the option of a full wood door, installed onto a “box” made of particle board and veneer. Some offer the option of a full wood “box”, but possibly will be glued or stapled. There are many levels of quality within the semi-custom category, and you really want to do your homework.

If unsurpassed quality, solid craftsmanship, and cabinets built to last are more apt to suit your style, then it is worth it to consider cabinetry custom built for your kitchen. The benefits to designing a kitchen with custom cabinetry are many, but topping the list starts with utilizing every possible square inch of your space. Cabinets can be custom sized to fill in gaps that may otherwise be left while using stock cabinetry. A professional designer will consider your space and opt for the best layout to maximize function, flow and practicality. They may include details such as, staggered upper cabinets to add visual interest, antique glass door fronts, crown molding and specialized cabinet lighting to highlight the beauty of the glazed finish. Typically, once they have presented an initial layout, they will continue to work closely with you to fine tuned each feature to your lifestyle. Are you a left handed gourmet cook? They will gladly place a spice rack insert to the left versus the right. Do you love to have your utensils at close reach? They may design a special drawer that fits under the range top. With custom cabinetry, you can truly create a space that works for you.

Custom Cabinetry allows you to select from a myriad of hardwood choices such as Rosewood, Maple, Hickory, Ash, Beech, Oak, Cherry, Poplar and Walnut. Each of these hardwoods can be finished in a limitless combination of stains to further customize the look of your kitchen. Your custom cabinet builder will help to educate you on the many differences between cabinet door styles including raised panel, flat panel, and frames with mullions. Arched, Shaker, Contemporary, the choice is yours. They may even create a unique style all your own!

Once a design has been finalized, and selections for wood species, finishes and hardware are made, then construction will begin on your cabinets. Building your cabinetry from scratch will take time, and each company will have its own estimated delivery time. But it will be worth the wait as each cabinet will be constructed out of heavy duty plywood, and then finished with your choice of hardwood doors and drawer fronts. Most custom cabinet craftsman offer high end details such as dovetailed joints. The drawer glides will also be of superior quality to the plastic drawer glides on many stock cabinets. When installing, your custom cabinets will be handled with great care and attention to detail. Much like that of a fine furniture craftsman, they will ensure the highest level of carpentry.

If quality, durability, and beauty are important to you, then custom cabinetry is likely the best option for you. With professional design and expert craftsmanship and installation, your gourmet kitchen will be the focal point of your home!