Things to Consider When Planning Your New Cabinets
At Cabinet Specialty, we believe that designing or upgrading your cabinetry should be an exciting and rewarding process. Whether you’re building a brand-new home or renovating an existing space—kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, closet, or any other area—there are a few key points to keep in mind before diving into your project. Below, we’ve compiled a list of practical tips and considerations that will help you come prepared and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
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Establish a Realistic Budget
Your budget directly influences what’s possible—both in terms of materials and special features. In many new builds, a typical guideline for cabinetry is around 8–10% of the home’s overall value. This percentage isn’t set in stone, but it can help you gauge how much to allocate. Share your budget expectations with us up front, and we’ll show you options that fit, without getting carried away by ideas that might be out of reach.
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Know Your Space & Equipment
Cabinets aren’t limited to the kitchen. Consider any room where you need storage—bathrooms, closets, laundry areas, or even a home office. If you have specific appliances or equipment (like a washer, dryer, or built-in vanity sinks), bring that information to your consultation. This helps us plan the right clearances and ensures your cabinets accommodate everything you need.
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Gather Inspiration & Style Preferences
From modern minimalism to cozy traditional, your style vision is unique. Screenshots, photos, magazine clippings, or Pinterest boards can all help us understand your tastes and tailor our design to your aesthetic. Show us what you love—even if it’s just a colour scheme or door style—so we can incorporate the elements that matter to you.
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Create a Wishlist
Think about the special features and accessories that will enhance your daily routine. Some of our popular options include:
• Pull-out waste bins for easy cleanup
• Lazy Susans to make corner spaces more accessible
• Sliding shelves and roll-out trays for quick organization
• Custom spice or toiletry racks for convenience
• Appliance garages to reduce countertop clutter
Even if your wishlist is long, don’t worry. We’ll guide you through which features will best suit your space and budget.
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Bring Your Plans (If You Have Them)
If you’re working on a new build or major renovation, you likely have PDF floor plans or blueprints. These documents provide essential measurements and layout details that help us create the most efficient and accurate cabinet design possible. Having them on hand at your consultation saves time and ensures we’re working with the correct dimensions.
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Think About the Future
Cabinets are a significant investment and can last for decades. Consider how your lifestyle might change over time. Do you see yourself entertaining more? Expanding your family? Needing extra storage in a bathroom or laundry room? Opting for features like more durable finishes or adjustable shelving can help your cabinets meet evolving needs for years to come.
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Be Ready to Collaborate
Finally, remember that you are an essential part of the design process. We use Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) to bring your ideas to life, and we’ll keep you involved every step of the way. Together, we’ll determine how to blend style and functionality into a space that perfectly suits your home.
Ready to Get Started?
We’re here to help you transform your dream kitchen, bathroom, closet, or any other area into a reality. By bringing these considerations to your initial consultation, you’ll set the stage for a smoother design process and a final result that fits both your vision and your lifestyle. Contact Cabinet Specialty today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our custom cabinetry and storage solutions. Let’s create a space you’ll love coming home to!
