Cabinets

Kitchen Cabinet Selection Guide

Choosing the right kitchen cabinets is one of the most important decisions in any remodel. Here's what to consider when selecting the perfect cabinets for your space.

Construction & Material

• Solid wood — Most durable and premium, takes stain and paint beautifully
• Plywood box — Stronger and more moisture-resistant than particleboard for the cabinet box
• MDF doors — Smooth, paint-ready surface, less prone to warping than solid wood doors

Cabinet Style

• Framed vs. frameless — Framed is traditional American style; frameless (European) offers more interior space and a modern look
• Door style — Shaker, flat panel, raised panel, beadboard; shaker is the most versatile and timeless
• Inset vs. overlay — Inset doors sit flush for a furniture-like look; full overlay is cleaner and more modern

Finish & Color

• Paint vs. stain — Painted cabinets hide wood grain for a uniform look; stained cabinets showcase natural wood character
• Popular choices: white, off-white, grey, navy, and natural wood tones

Storage & Functionality

• Soft-close hinges and drawer glides — Reduce wear and noise
• Pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, drawer organizers — Maximize usability
• Deep drawers vs. doors — Drawers are often more accessible for pots, pans, and pantry items

Budget Tiers

• Stock cabinets — Pre-made, fastest and most affordable, limited sizes/styles
• Semi-custom — More size and finish options, moderate lead time
• Custom — Built to exact specs, any size or style, highest cost and longest lead time