Cabinets typically account for about 50 percent of a kitchen- remodeling budget because they set the room’s tone. There are three basic categories: stock, semi-custom, and custom – all featuring outstanding choices.

Stock cabinets, usually made with laminates and veneers but not solid wood, run the gamut for styling with widths ranging from 9 to 48 inches. Stock usually is the most economical choice, plus these are readily available and usually arrive to be installed within a week.

Semi-custom versions are built to order, featuring a wider range of styles, construction materials, and colors. They can be made in any size. If you’re willing to pay more and wait a few weeks longer, these are an excellent choice. Custom units are built to match your exacting standards. You pick the material – usually a hardwood such as maple, cherry, walnut, or oak – in the desired size, shape, and configuration, along with a finish. With an unusual kitchen or wall shape, these are the answer. Naturally, they’re the most expensive and may take several months, but the result is one-of-a-kind.

For bath cabinetry, consider checking out the kitchen department. Home centers stock a variety of pre-made cabinets, including base units, wall units, matching medicine cabinets, and even floor-to-ceiling storage units as alternatives to more traditional single-sink vanities.

Custom cabinetry is also a bathroom option. Again, it will cost more, but you’ll be assured of a precise fit. Additionally, cabinets and countertops often come from separate manufacturers; it’s wise to purchase from the same supplier for a proper fit. Finally, another option is cabinet refacing—a wonderful option that is often far less time consuming than a complete cabinet re-do.

2008 Trend Watch:
Cabinetry

Resurgence of white and high-contrast combos such as a white and dark chocolate, white and black

White painted cabinetry

Bronze hardware and more bronze rustic finishes often with top overtone such as copper

Knotty alder wood for a rustic, craftsman feel

Furniture pieces being used for storage in powder rooms and master baths

Color is all over the board; glazes remain strong; not much red in wood tones, rather brown shades like coffee

Contemporary baths featuring sleek stainless looks and hardware

Glass products for doors with texture choices such as waves and lines or antique glass styles for storage obscurity

Article provided by and reprinted with permission from Urban Home Magazine (Issue: Winter 2008).

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