Since we have already discovered that the greatest cost in a new kitchen is the doors of the cabinetry, not the cabinets themselves, check out the door styles when you are in the big box store. Some of the lower line cabinets have the same doors as the more expensive ‘custom’ cabinets. We already know what the term custom means, and while you may be limited as to your choice of cabinet sizes, almost certainly you will be able to find a door which is of high quality and very good durability.
Don’t fret if the sales associate mentions veneer for a centre panel. Usually in a wood door, the centre panel, if it is flat, is a veneer. Some raised panel doors are veneer also but you should be able to pick these out quite easily because of their varied color compared to the stiles and rails and also by the way the edges of the design area look. Check a solid panel, check a veneered panel and you will see the difference.
In a do-it-yourself kitchen, you will probably have to put up with fewer choices for cabinet sizes. A good designer will help you get creative in your use of the available cabinets. Using uppers for lowers is a good way to utilize space. The lower priced lines almost always offer both 30 and 42 inch uppers so you should be able to create an attractive and exciting kitchen for yourself at very low cost.
Here’s a tip when you are in the box store. Don’t take the first offer that comes along when someone asks you if you need help. Stop by on a Saturday when the store is crowded and listen. Listen to what the designers are telling customers. Listen to the customers. Are they frustrated? Does the designer listen to them and does she/he know what they are talking about? If you have taken the time to read my series of articles, you will be quite an expert when it comes to picking out a designer who will be able to help you. Don’t expect to talk to the designer of your choice on a Saturday, but do try to make an appointment later in the week. Doing this will save you untold amounts of heartache and frustration in your design adventure.
Oh, by the way, these designers don’t work on commission so don’t worry about turning down someone in order to get to the one you want. Box stores put totally inexperienced designers on
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