How to Work with a Professional Designer to Create Your Dream Kitchen Cabinet Layout

 Kitchen Cabinets are one of the biggest investments homeowners make. So when you're ready to buy, you want to be sure your cabinets are a good fit for your home, budget and style preferences. You can help narrow your choices by looking for specific features.

 Emphasize your cabinet's features

Look for a finish that's easy to clean, particularly if you'll be using your kitchen often. The best cabinet finishes are splash-resistant and have a glaze that slows down wear. You'll also find a variety of decorative add-ons to emphasize your cabinet's features. These can include moldings, corbels and carvings. Another option is a wood species that's resistant to damage, such as oak or birch.

 A cabinet is constructed affects its durability and installation time

The way a cabinet is constructed affects its durability and installation time. The most durable cabinets are made of cabinet-grade multi-layer plywood. This is more expensive than particle board or MDF, but it's stronger and easier to install. It's also better for resale than painted surfaces. A less durable, and more costly, option is melamine, which is particle board coated with high-pressure laminate.

Oak and hickory are naturally strong and durable

Solid-wood cabinet materials like oak and hickory are naturally strong and durable. But they can crack, especially if exposed to frequent changes in humidity and temperature. That's why some homeowners choose to paint their cabinets. Solid-wood cabinetry that's stained or painted can be a more cost-effective option than custom cabinets made from exotic or imported woods.

 A wide range of door styles and woods

Most cabinet manufacturers offer a wide range of door styles and woods. Some even have semi-customizable options, which allow homeowners to combine different elements of their cabinets' designs. Many also offer a lifetime warranty on their products. That kind of peace of mind can give you confidence that your investment is a wise one.

 Cabinet materials

Some cabinet materials, such as birch, are more resistant to scratching than others, such as melamine. This makes them a good choice for those who plan to use their cabinets for many years and don't want to deal with the hassle of repainting or refinishing them down the road.

MDF is a good alternative to particleboard and is a recycled material, so it's environmentally friendly. But it doesn't take paint well, so it's usually painted or faced with laminate or thermofoil. This type of cabinet is usually more affordable than other woods or plywood and has a durable, easy-to-clean surface.

Conclusion

When shopping for Kitchen Cabinets, it's important to compare prices and quality. Check to see if the cabinets you're considering are listed as "framed" or "frameless." Framed cabinets feature a box (the structure inside that holds your doors and drawers) with a face frame attached, which offers reinforcement. Frameless cabinets are thinner, and can be a good fit for tight spaces.