Avoid feeling overwhelmed when selecting new kitchen cabinets by focusing on these five tips. Whether a renovation is big or small, selecting your kitchen cabinets and pedestals can be one of the most difficult decisions you’ll ever make. My kitchen is one of the spaces in my apartment I go to let some steam out, and this is why i choose everything there meticulously, from the cabinets to the floor tiles.

However, there are some basic areas to consider and questions to ask yourself that will guide you along the way. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know before choosing your kitchen cabinets.

1. Determine if you want or need to go custom for your new kitchen cabinets

Many people think that because the length of a wall is unusual size, they need custom kitchen cabinets. Yet many don’t know that custom cabinets are the most expensive option, have the longest delivery time and that the same look can usually be achieved with standard-sized cabinets.

Standard-size pedestals are purchased more or less ready-made from predetermined styles. Although these cabinets are generally the least expensive option, it is important to determine the quality of materials, depending on your needs and desires. Depending on the layout of your kitchen and the options you want for your base and wall cabinets, you will not buy the same size.

2. Choose a cabinet/door combination that suits you aesthetically and functionally

In most kitchens, you’ll find base cabinets and wall cabinets, both traditionally equipped with doors rather than open shelves or drawers. Often, the upper cabinets are used more for selective display, while the lower cabinets hold the bulk of the heavier storage of pots, pans, and other dishes that might not look as good on a visible shelf.

A popular feature for low cabinets is the sliding option instead of a swinging door. Also, many modern kitchens are getting rid of upper cabinets entirely, promoting a cleaner open space that uses only low cabinets with a backsplash behind.

3. To frame or not to frame?

Another important decision to make when selecting kitchen pedestals is whether or not you want framed or unframed cabinets. Framed cabinets are most popular in traditional kitchens, where the door attaches to a front frame around the opening, and the hinges are often visible.

For cabinets where a door attaches directly to the side where no hardware or hinges are visible, you should consider frameless. This decision between framed and frameless will have a significant effect on the type of cabinet door, hinge, and hardware you can choose.

4. Evaluate the additional costs of functionality

While many kitchens work well with basic swing doors, specialized door and drawer accessories can increase functionality and cleanliness, such as a pull-out trash can or countertop compartments to hide small appliances.

As mentioned earlier, pull-out low cabinets provide easy access to pots and pans. However, be aware that the price can increase by about 20% or more due to the installation and hardware costs that come with these features.

5. Don’t forget the lighting

Whether you’re designing a new kitchen or just considering renovating an existing one, lighting is a factor that can change any space, and integrated lighting is becoming increasingly popular with cabinets.

Cabinet-integrated lighting can range from fixtures that turn on as soon as you open a door (perfect for that midnight snack) to more basic under-cabinet LED lights that can be found at a local hardware store and are easy to install.

Looking for help?

Established over 20 years ago, CabNet.Works specialises in professional cabinet making for all areas of the home. They design and manufacture innovative cabinets that suit your lifestyle and personal requirements. Whether you need kitchen or laundry cabinets, bathroom vanities, wardrobes or TV/entertainment wall units, get in touch with us to schedule your free in-home consultations. So, what are you waiting for? Give them a call or visit their website for more information.