Cabinets

Kitchen Cabinets

Because kitchen cabinets are subjected to frequent use and must withstand constant opening and closing, they need to be durable and resistant to heat, moisture, and heavy wear. They typically require more storage for various kitchen items such as cookware, utensils, food items, and small appliances. We offer features like soft-close hinges, pull-out shelves, and lazy Susans can enhance functionality.

Kitchen cabinets often involve higher costs than other rooms due to size, materials, and additional features.

We suggest sturdy materials like hardwood, plywood, or high-quality MDF with durable finishes such as laminate, thermofoil, or wood veneers.

We usually recommend professional installation due to the complexity and need for precision (especially for upper cabinets and aligning with countertops). If you intend to buy the cabinets and install them yourself, make sure you have the proper layout and spacing, including the work triangle between the sink, stove, and refrigerator.

Kitchen cabinets often define the overall style of the kitchen (e.g., modern, traditional, farmhouse). Consider how the color and finish will work with countertops, backsplashes, and flooring. We offer a free two-hour design consultation.

Bathroom Cabinets

Bathrooms have high humidity levels, so bathroom cabinets need to be more resistant to moisture to prevent warping or damage. Bathroom cabinets usually have less storage space and are designed for toiletries, towels, and personal care items. Good ventilation is crucial to avoid mold and mildew, especially in enclosed spaces like medicine cabinets.

Bathroom cabinets are generally smaller in size and less complex than other rooms, so installation for bathroom cabinets is usually easier to DIY and is more budget-friendly when it comes to professional installation.

We recommend materials like marine-grade plywood, PVC, or moisture-resistant MDF with water-resistant finishes like acrylic or laminate. For our clients we also suggest a protective coating to guard against water damage and humidity.

Bathrooms often have limited space, requiring careful measurement and possibly custom sizing. Because bathrooms have significant plumbing, make sure cabinets don’t obstruct plumbing and have cutouts where needed.

Bathroom cabinets are often smaller and more space-efficient. Floating vanities or narrow profiles can save space in smaller bathrooms. We recommend designs that complement bathroom fixtures and overall décor.

Builtins / Custom Cabinets

Custom built-ins are designed to fit specific spaces and meet unique needs, whether in a kitchen, living room, or bedroom. They offer flexibility in design and material choice. Built-ins often need to match or complement the existing décor and architectural style of the room. Custom built-ins are typically more expensive due to the tailored design and materials.

The cost can vary significantly depending on design complexity, materials, and labor.

Material choice depends on the function and location of the built-in. For example, a library built-in might use fine wood veneers, while a mudroom built-in might use more durable, easy-to-clean materials. We also recommend that the finish matches or complements other elements in the room.

Custom built-ins should be measured and installed to fit perfectly in the designated space, which usually requires professional installation. We can help to ensure that the design meets your specific needs, whether for storage, display, or multi-functional use.

Custom built-ins offer the most freedom in design. Consider how they’ll integrate with the room’s flow and function.

Inset Cabinets

Inset cabinets feature doors and drawer fronts that are set flush with the cabinet frame when closed. The doors fit inside the frame openings, providing a clean and classic look. This style is often associated with traditional and fine cabinetry. The flush design creates smooth lines and a sophisticated aesthetic. Since inset cabinets require precise craftsmanship to ensure that the doors and drawers align perfectly within the frame, they are often more expensive.

Pros Elegant, fine look; hinges can be visible or concealed, depending on design preference.

Cons Less storage space inside the cabinet due to the door being inset; requires precise installation, which can add to the cost; can be more expensive due to the craftsmanship required.

Full Overlay Cabinets

Full overlay cabinets have doors and drawer fronts that completely cover the cabinet frame. This style creates a seamless appearance because very little or none of the cabinet’s face frame is visible. Full overlay cabinets are popular in modern and contemporary designs due to their clean, smooth lines and maximized use of space. This style allows for larger doors and drawers, which can provide more storage space inside the cabinet.

Pros Maximizes storage space inside the cabinet; sleek, continuous appearance with minimal gaps between doors and drawers; easier to clean due to fewer crevices and gaps.

Cons Slightly more difficult to install compared to partial overlay; requires precise alignment to maintain the seamless look; more expensive than partial overlay cabinets, but typically less than inset cabinets.

Partial Overlay

Partial overlay cabinets (also known as standard overlay) feature doors and drawer fronts that only partially cover the cabinet frame. A portion of the face frame remains visible around each door and drawer front. This style is traditional and can be found in many older homes. The visible frame can be an appealing design element, offering more of a classic or rustic look. Partial overlay cabinets are often easier to install and more forgiving with alignment compared to full overlay or inset styles.

Pros Generally more cost-effective; easier installation and alignment; frame visibility can add a traditional design element.

Cons Less modern appearance compared to full overlay or inset; gaps between doors and drawers can be more difficult to clean; slightly less storage space inside the cabinet compared to full overlay.