You have chosen to update your kitchen with new cabinets. Well, that is indeed a great decision! New cabinets can change the feel and look of an entire kitchen, all while adding both style and functionality. But let’s get real—the world of kitchen cabinets may be a little overwhelming. With so many options, the process of choosing one above the rest can be pretty overwhelming.
That is where this guide comes in. We will take you through everything you need to know before setting foot in a kitchen cabinet store. By the time you are through reading, you’ll be on your way to making confident, informed decisions regarding the new kitchen cabinets.
1. Determine Your Budget
Before getting into daydreaming about the dream kitchen, you have to set an extremely realistic budget. Kitchen cabinets are one of the biggest deals investment-wise, and knowing your financial constraints will narrow your options down quite considerably. Keep in mind it is not only the cabinet cost but also the installation, hardware, and other additional features or modifications that may be required.
2. Explore Your Style
Kitchen cabinets span from classic to modern and everything in between. Take a little time, therefore, to peruse different styles and see what you relate to. Flipping through magazines, tapping into online resources, and even reconnoitering some kitchen cabinets stores can give you a feel for the different offerings. Consider the general kitchen design and choose your cabinet style to flow with the rest of your space.
3. Cabinet types
There are three main types of kitchen cabinets:
- Stock Cabinets: These are pre-built cabinets that come in standard sizes with finishes. They are the cheapest option but allow little customization.
- Semi-Custom Cabinets: These cabinets offer a person much more flexibility to change the sizes, finishes, and modifications that will go into them. They are a good middle ground between the stock and the custom cabinets.
- Custom Cabinets: These are made to order and built to your specifications. They provide the most significant amount of flexibility in modification but come at a premium price.
4. Choose Your Material
The material of your cabinets will determine how resistant, what they look like, and how much they cost. Many of the most popular materials in this respect include:
- Wood: Wood has been used for a long time because it radiates warmth along with tremendous versatility. There are many wood species available that offer various colors and grains.
- Laminate: This is an inexpensive material, likened to wood or any other material. It is strong, easy to clean, and maintain.
- Thermofoil: A vinyl material put over a medium density of fiberboard. It comes in different colors and styles.
- Metal: This gives a sleek modern look and an industrial touch. It is strong and easy to clean.
5. Consider your storage needs
Consider how you use your kitchen and what kind of storage you need. Do you have lots of pots and pans? Do you need space for small appliances? Do you want specialized storage for spices or baking supplies? Understanding your storage needs will help you choose the right cabinet configurations and features.
6. Find a Reputable Kitchen Cabinet Store
Be it kitchen cabinets in Canada or elsewhere, the first and foremost thing that one looks for is a credible store. Research, read reviews, visit showrooms to get an idea about the quality of their products and services. A good kitchen cabinet store will have people who can help you select the right products and choose the best for your kitchen.
7. Measure Twice, Order Once
You will want to take accurate measurements when ordering your kitchen cabinets. A small mistake can become very costly. If you are not comfortable measuring, it may be best to hire someone who can make sure you have accurate measurements.
8. Plan Out Your Layout
Think of how you want to lay your kitchen out, and where the cabinets will fit in. Consider the work triangle—the space between the sink, stove, and refrigerator—and traffic flow and appliance placement. A good layout makes a kitchen work better and it’s more enjoyable to work in.
9. Don’t Forget the Details
Add some hardware, finishes, and details, and there is a dramatic difference between cabinet surfaces. Choose hardware that suits your cabinet design and personal taste. Think about various finishes—paint, stain, or glaze—that give them depth and character. Remember the extras as well, from pull-out shelves to lazy Susans and built-in organizers.
10. Enjoy Your New Kitchen!
Once your new cabinets are installed, take a step back and admire your remodeled kitchen. Observe the added style, functionality, and value that your new cabinets bring to your home.
Keep in mind that selecting kitchen cabinets in Canada is a big decision, but proper planning and research can get you the cabinets that suit your needs and style best. Happy shopping!
Kitchen Cabinet Trends to Watch
Staying on top of the latest kitchen cabinet trends can help you create a space that feels fresh and modern. Here are a few trends to keep an eye on:
- Two-Toned Cabinets: This trend involves using two different colors or finishes for your upper and lower cabinets. It adds visual interest and can help define different areas of your kitchen.
- Open Shelving: This trend involves replacing some upper cabinets with open shelves. It can make your kitchen feel more spacious and airy but requires careful styling and organization.
- Natural Materials: Wood cabinets in natural finishes or painted in muted, earthy tones are gaining popularity. This trend embraces a warm, organic feel.
- Smart Storage Solutions: Cabinets with built-in organizers, pull-out shelves, and other smart storage features are becoming increasingly popular. These features can help you maximize your storage space and keep your kitchen clutter-free.
- Minimalist Hardware: Sleek, understated hardware is in vogue. Think simple knobs and pulls in brushed nickel or black finishes.
Conclusion
Updating your kitchen cabinets is a significant home improvement project that can dramatically transform the heart of your home. With careful planning, and consideration of your budget, style, and storage needs, you can select the perfect cabinets to elevate your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. By staying informed about the latest trends and working with a reputable kitchen cabinet store, you’ll be well on your way to creating a kitchen you’ll love for years to come.
Remember, a well-designed kitchen is an investment in your home’s value and your enjoyment of everyday living.
