The right kitchen cabinets can have a massive impact on a kitchen design project in Wichita. When done well, cabinets will be functional, easy to use, and save you valuable space. With the right finish and style, cabinets can improve this area of the home and really transform it into a beautiful living space.
Let’s discuss more about the impact of cabinets on a kitchen design, and how to choose the right ones.
Considering Cabinet Costs:
Some homeowners don’t realize just how expensive new kitchen cabinets can be – there is a wide range of cost involved. Rather than blindly devoting $10,000 or $20,000 to cabinetry, consider the costs as a percentage of the overall kitchen design project. That way, it fits into the entire budget, and priorities can be set in relation to cabinets versus other features.
Finishes, Hardware & Door Styles, Oh My:
The ways in which kitchen cabinets can be customized to match a particular look or feel are endless. From the finish of the material (glazed, distressed and so many more), to the different styles, colors, and shapes of the hardware, to the type of door itself (flat, inset, Shaker and beyond). The good news is that the possibilities are limitless; the potential bad news is that there’s a lot to sort through to get it just right. So take your time, consider all your options, and work with your remodeling contractor to make the selection that’s best for you.
Functionality:
Are the current cabinets simply stale and outdated, or is there a problem with how functional and usable they are? Is there a need for more cabinets to be added for additional storage, or cabinets in different areas and with different shapes or capacities to accommodate different needs? Be sure to consider how the kitchen is used, and the role the cabinets play in the efficiency of the design.
Opting for Custom:
Some homeowners may be looking for something entirely custom-made. Beyond the impact on the budget, keep in mind how this affects a project’s timeline. Entirely custom kitchen cabinets may take two to three months, or longer, to be fulfilled. Semi-custom cabinetry will have a reduced time, but still expect a wait, perhaps six to eight weeks. This time is one of the added “costs” of custom work, in addition to the typically increased price tag itself. If your perfect cabinet is a custom design, try working with your remodeler and adjust timelines and budgets as needed.
Working with the Kitchen Design:
When done correctly, cabinets are the perfect highlight of a great kitchen design. So be sure all of the style decisions regarding the cabinets work with the overall look and feel of the room. Is the idea to open up the space, make it brighter, increase efficiency, or simply make the room more vibrant? Is it a modern or more traditional look? What colors will the countertops and appliances be, and what materials are used? Try to incorporate all aspects of a cohesive design, as opposed to picking out individual components and trying to blend them together after the fact.
As with all remodeling projects, be aware of the costs as well as time expectations when considering your kitchen cabinets. Work with a remodeler or kitchen design contractor who’s able to show a range of cabinetry with different styles and price ranges, ensuring that a perfect match can be made.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June, 2016 and was updated in December 2020 for accuracy.