By Suzana Mikolova 
Once you’ve decided to remodel your kitchen, it’s not long before you’re dreaming of the new kitchen look and design. Cabinets are a vital component of your new kitchen, as they set the tone for the entire room. For those with an open concept, the look of the cabinets carry through to the design of adjoining dining and family rooms, as well!
OPTIONS, OPTIONS, OPTIONS
Before you settle on a design and style of cabinetry, you need to determine if you’re choosing pre-made cabinets, or if you’ll opt for an entirely custom design. Both options have their pros and cons, and before you can decide, you must weigh them for yourself.
PRE-MADE ADVANTAGES
Those who choose pre-made cabinets often have budget constraints that make that option attractive. Because these cabinets are made in various standard sizes (by manufacturer), they can be mass-produced, resulting in a lower price point. Even if one has the budget for custom cabinets, they may choose pre-made simply to devote money to higher grade flooring or countertops.
Pre-made cabinets are ideal for those kitchens with an open concept and flexibility in design space. These rooms often have two to three walls with an open flow to the dining area, which makes hanging cabinets not custom-designed easier.
High-quality pre-made cabinets can be engineered to be just has moisture-resistant and strong as their custom, solid-wood counterparts. These cabinets are made in solid wood as well as press board, so you can take your personal preferences into account.
CUSTOM DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING ADVANTAGE
It doesn’t take too long to explain the advantages of opting for custom cabinets, manufactured to your exact specifications and preferences. After all, you get cabinets that are specially designed to fit and flatter your kitchen space. You can specify specialized shelving and cabinetry that meet your family’s needs.
Companies that specialize in custom cabinets should be vetted for the quality of work they perform. You can ask for photos of previous work, as well as testimonials attesting to their expertise in building and installing custom cabinets.
THE BOTTOM LINE: WHICH TO CHOOSE?
The factors to consider when choosing between custom cabinets and pre-made are several. Take into account the size and shape of your kitchen, and understand what kind of flexibility you have in choosing pre-made cabinets. If you have limited space and flexibility of design, you may be better off choosing custom cabinets to optimize your space and functionality.
If budget is your primary concern, then pre-made cabinets are hard to turn down. Additionally, choosing pre-made cabinets makes budget room for higher-end finishes like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.
Well-made custom cabinets are a fine option for those who truly seek an absolutely unique kitchen design. There is something to be said for demanding the highest-quality, and some will be thrilled to pay extra for the custom experience. Handsome custom cabinets will definitely stand the test of time.