How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Cabinets
Picking out the right kitchen cabinets is a critical decision when renovating or designing a kitchen. The cabinets not only serve a functional purpose by providing storage space but also greatly influence the overall aesthetic and tone of the kitchen. From understanding your specific needs to considering factors like budget, style, materials, and functionality, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to help you make informed decisions when selecting kitchen cabinets.
1. Understanding Your Kitchen Cabinet Needs
**Determine Your Storage Requirements**
Before diving into the world of kitchen cabinets, take a good look at your current kitchen setup. Do you have a ton of pots and pans, or are you more of a minimalist cook? Do you want cabinets or would you rather have more drawers? At Madewell Designs, we prefer drawers over cabinets on the base as they’re easier to access and you tend to not lose items at the back of a drawer. We also like to put pots and pans in drawers as it saves your back from kneeling down and stretching to get to the back of a lower cabinet! We also LOVE a clean and clutter-free workspace so drawers can help hold more items than a cabinet.
All drawers on lower cabinets plus a pull out spice rack next to the range for easy access.
2. Setting a Budget for Your Kitchen Cabinets
**Establishing a Realistic Budget Range**
Let's be real - kitchen cabinets can be a major investment. Set a budget range that you're comfortable with and consider where you’re placing the cabinets, whether that’s your house you live in every single day, or whether it’s a rental house or a lake house that is used occasionally. For budget friendly kitchens, there are some drop-in kitchen cabinets priced right. Here are a few we’ve found:
IKEA has some ready made cabinets that are a great alternative to custom cabinets. IKEA also has a kitchen planner tool online that is helpful when laying out your design.
Home Depot has ready to assemble and install kitchen cabinets at an affordable price. Just be sure you read the instructions and are ready for a weekend of DIY!
3. Choosing the Right Cabinet Style and Design
Are you more of a shaker-style cabinet person, or do sleek and glossy modern cabinets catch your eye?
The style of cabinet doors can greatly affect the overall vibe of your kitchen and understanding the differences between traditional and modern styles can help you create a kitchen that reflects your taste. There are so many cabinet panels to choose from but at Madewell Designs, here are our 6 basic types of cabinet doors we use: shaker, recessed panel, flat, arched, glass, and beadboard. Shaker is a transitional feel while recessed and arched are more traditional. Glass, depending on where you use it can be traditional or transitional. Flat is modern.
Shaker style cabinet with drawers on lower part of kitchen for better storage and easy access
4. Selecting the Best Material for Your Cabinets
**Comparing Wood, MDF, and Other Options**
Wood, MDF, laminate - oh my! Each material comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it's essential to weigh your options carefully to find the best fit for your kitchen's needs and your budget. MDF is the cheapest but won’t hold up well over time and it does NOT do well with any type of water. Solid wood is beautiful and can give you a more traditional or rustic feel but it’s expensive and very susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature. Plywood is engineered for strength and resistance to cracking and warping, making it a reliable choice for cabinets. Plywood is also has great durability and is most compatible with bolts and screws. We mainly use plywood for cabinets as it’s well-rounded!
5. Considering Color Schemes and Finishes
Whether you're into classic stained cabinets, white cabinets or bold, statement-making colors, the right color scheme and finish can tie your kitchen's design together. Don't be afraid to get creative with your cabinet choices!
For soft white cabinets, we love Sherwin Williams Alabaster or White Snow color. For a bold blue cabinet, try their gorgeous Indigo.
6. Maximizing Storage Space with Features
When designing your kitchen cabinets and drawers, think about how you can make the most of your space. Look for cabinets with features like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and built-in spice racks and sheet pan storage for maximize efficiency.
The Container Store has some really great storage solutions for kitchens drawers! We love their roll-out drawers and their clear drawer organizers.
Kitchen Drawer Organizers from The Container Store
7. Choosing the Right Hardware for Functionality and Design
Don't overlook the importance of cabinet hardware. Select knobs, pulls, and hinges that not only match your kitchen's aesthetic but also offer functionality and durability. Consider factors like ease of use and maintenance when choosing hardware. You can also mix and match cabinet pulls and knobs giving your space a more unique feel.
8. Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cabinets
To keep your cabinets looking their best, clean them regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. Additionally, consider applying a protective coating or polish to maintain the beauty of your cabinets for years to come.
By carefully evaluating your storage needs, budget constraints, design preferences, and durability requirements, you can confidently choose kitchen cabinets that enhance both the functionality and beauty of your kitchen space. Remember to consider all aspects, from material selection to design layout to maintenance tips, to ensure that your investment in quality cabinets pays off in the long run and provides you with a kitchen that meets your needs and reflects your personal style. Here at Madewell Designs, we’d love to work with you to create your dream kitchen with the perfect layout, cabinets and drawers, and the most gorgeous paint color to anchor your space. Reach out to us HERE and we’ll start collaborating with you!