Buying cabinets isn’t just about the specific cabinet style, but about transforming the aesthetics and efficiency of your kitchen. Top considerations when buying modern cabinets for your kitchen include functionality, long-term value, and your overall budget.
In this article, the dedicated experts at iCabinetry Direct will explain the many nuances of buying kitchen cabinets that fit perfectly into your lifestyle and space, such as quality, style, and budget. By the end, you’ll be ready to explore design inspiration in our project gallery and begin your hunt for new kitchen cabinets.
Quality Counts
When planning a kitchen remodel, quality matters because it affects your long-term savings and resale value. House flippers often choose more budget-friendly materials because their primary goal is to sell the home. In contrast, homeowners who intend to stay in their home for life will consider how these products fit into their everyday lifestyle.
The first factor in high-quality cabinets is the cabinet material. Many homeowners choose medium-density fiberboard (MDF) because it is sturdy and water-resistant. It’s an exceptional choice for busy families, as it requires minimal maintenance and can withstand wear and tear. Plywood is another good option for high-traffic kitchens as it is very strong, and the cabinet box can handle a lot of weight.
On the other hand, homeowners might choose solid wood for its beauty and traditional aesthetic. However, wood will need significant maintenance, like oiling and polishing, and will naturally expand or contract with humidity.
Joinery is another factor in kitchen cabinet buying. Strong joints, like dovetail joints, will keep the cabinet strong for years or even decades. Stock cabinetry typically has glue and screws to hold it together, meaning it may not last as long.
Lastly, explore the finish durability. If you have a busy family and a high-traffic kitchen, you might choose a matte finish, which will hide fingerprints and doesn’t require as much cleaning. A high-gloss finish will quickly show wear and is better for a quieter kitchen space.
Our professional designers will learn more about your lifestyle and kitchen use to help you determine what materials and finishes will work best for you.
Style Matters
When you envision your dream kitchen, you likely think most about the design style, and rightly so. The right cabinets can completely revitalize the space while adding a touch of elegance. However, you’ll also want to consider design harmony to create a cohesive look. Elements to consider include color, material, finish, hardware style, and door types.
Contemporary styles prioritize clean lines, with minimal decorations and streamlined hardware. Frameless cabinets are a popular option for those who trend toward a European style. The doors and drawers attach directly to the cabinet box rather than being fitted into a face frame. This also provides full access to the cabinet interior, which is very convenient if you want to store larger items in your base cabinets.
For framed cabinets, inset cabinet doors are very popular and timeless. This approach works well for any design era, whether traditional, transitional, or contemporary. Because insets require expert construction, they are more common in custom cabinetry rather than stock options.
Newer kitchen remodels often use slab cabinet doors because they are sleek, low-maintenance, and integrate well with your other design choices. When paired with brushed-nickel pulls and door hinges, they can make your kitchen look like a brand-new space.
Lastly, contemporary designers love matte finishes to provide a soft, naturalistic look. They are easier to clean than other finishes, which is invaluable for a busy kitchen.
To get the most out of your kitchen renovation, balance trendiness with timelessness, as this will ensure your kitchen doesn’t start to look dated in a few years.
Stock, Semi-Custom, or Custom?
There are three different types of new cabinets you can purchase, depending on your budget and customization needs. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to understand their use cases.
- Stock Cabinets: These are the kind you’re likely to see in a buying guide from your local showroom. They come fully assembled and offer limited customization options, but they cost significantly less than semi-custom or custom cabinetry. They’re a good choice for homeowners who intend to sell their home soon or find themselves overwhelmed by the many design choices they could make.
- Semi-Custom Cabinets: With this option, you get more design freedom and a range of choices, such as door style and finish. While there are fewer customization options, you also enjoy a lower price, making semi-custom a good balance between cost and design options.
- Custom Cabinets: Custom cabinetry gives you full autonomy over the overall design, including extra features like soft-close drawers, specialized storage solutions, and finishes. Master craftsmen typically make these for your exact measurements and specifications, making them a good option for those with unusual kitchen layouts. Though they do cost more, they will also last for years.
Our experts can help you decide which option will best meet your needs through a personalized consultation. Contact iCabinetry Direct at 877-613-1458.
Budget Planning for Modern Cabinets
No matter how large your budget, you want to ensure you get your dream kitchen at the best price point. These pointers will ensure you get the best kitchen remodel without breaking the bank.
- Set Your Priorities: Some homeowners will not be particularly concerned with whether they purchase partial overlay or inset doors, while for others, this is the most important detail. Consider what’s most essential to you, such as material, finish, and knobs or pulls.
- Avoid Overspending on Trends: Some trends may not look right in your kitchen, depending on your lifestyle. For example, white cabinets are beautiful, but they may become dated quickly if you have a busy household, and the clean look will not last. Consider the big picture when selecting your options.
- Account for Delivery and Installation Costs: Components like shipping, removing old cabinets, and installing the new cabinets can be expensive. Speak about this with your supplier to ensure your budget can accommodate these costs, too.
Authorized online dealers like iCabinetry Direct can significantly cut your cost, giving you exceptional value at a lower price. Contact us today to learn how much you can save on kitchen cabinet buying.
Space and Storage Optimization
When planning a kitchen remodel, your cabinets should fit your layout rather than the other way around. Consider elements like the work triangle—the space between the fridge, stove, and sink—to improve your kitchen ergonomics. For example, having a countertop and cabinet between your stove and sink will give you a convenient prep space without feeling cramped.
Maximizing your cabinet space with efficient storage options can enhance your workflow and add a touch of sophistication. Consider both horizontal and vertical storage to make the most of every inch.
Pull-out shelves offer easy access to flatware, while Lazy Susans in corner cabinets ensure that less frequently used items, like small appliances, aren’t lost in the cabinet. Hidden compartments, like tip-out drawers for garbage cans, also help your kitchen look neat and organized.
iCabinetry Direct offers customizable cabinets for any kitchen layout or size, ensuring you can maximize convenience.
Finishes, Materials, and Hardware Options
Different finishes and materials will impact the appearance, longevity, and maintenance of your new cabinetry, so these factors are key considerations.
Matte finishes offer a soft, muted look that hides smudges, making them low-maintenance and durable. On the other hand, glossy finishes require more cleaning and may need to be retouched more often, but they are a bold design choice that can work well in ultra-luxurious kitchens. Woodgrain gives a more natural appearance, but does require regular maintenance.
Solid wood is sturdy and long-lasting, but it needs to be cared for with regular polishing. For busy families who need highly durable, low-maintenance cabinets, laminate or Thermafoil can be a great choice. These also resist humidity well, which is important if you do a lot of cooking. Finally, plywood is extremely durable and long-lasting; it also can work with a variety of finishes, giving you more versatile design choices.
To upgrade your kitchen aesthetic, consider adding features such as soft-close hinges or integrated handles that enhance both style and convenience.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Choices
Homeowners are increasingly concerned with their carbon footprint, which is why iCabinetry partners with brands focused on sustainable craftsmanship. For eco-conscious kitchen cabinet buying, consider FSC-certified wood, which is harvested using sustainable methods that improve the environment.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are ubiquitous today, and they also contribute to climate change, especially when manufactured on an industrial scale. Consider choosing low-VOC finishes to reduce the impact of your cabinetry on climate change.
Finally, energy-efficient manufacturing ensures that your cabinets are both beautiful and sustainable. Our team at iCabinetry Direct considers itself an environmental steward and is always happy to discuss our focus on sustainable manufacturing methods.
Why Buy Modern Cabinets from iCabinetry Direct
iCabinetry Direct offers maximum convenience and customization at a better price than you can find in a showroom. Our wholesale pricing means you get the same quality craftsmanship without the retail markup, and the cabinets are shipped directly from the manufacturer to your home.
You’ll also enjoy expert consultations about our wide range of designs, with personalized support throughout every step of the process. Explore our curated collection of beautiful modern kitchen cabinets, each made by trusted names in the cabinetry industry, then request a free quote to get started revitalizing your kitchen.
FAQs about Buying Modern Kitchen Cabinets
Key features include streamlined designs, smart storage optimization, and thoughtful minimalism to suit a busy lifestyle.
To choose the best material, consider your lifestyle and budget. If you need low-maintenance options, consider Thermafoil or veneer, which are moisture-resistant and require only simple cleaning. Those who need heavy-duty materials that can handle bulky pots might select plywood, renowned for its strength. Solid wood can also be a premier choice for those who want elegant, timeless style and don’t mind regular maintenance.
Absolutely. Semi-custom lines let you mix and match door styles, finishes, and materials to ensure you get exactly what suits your unique needs. You can also save money on these designs by working with a trusted online supplier like iCabinetry Direct.
Durability begins with the manufacturing process. Choose strong materials and work with an experienced craftsman. You can also make your cabinets stronger by applying a protective top coat like polyurethane, using shelf liners, and regularly adjusting the hinges.
In general, you can expect your cabinets to last 20 to 30 years. However, wood cabinets can last 50 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Our team can explain the average lifespan of your chosen material and guide you to the right decision depending on your specific needs.
