Cabinetry

Cabinets: A place for everything

When the subject of cabinetry comes up, we typically think of what we would like the cabinets to look like first. But more important than looks is function. Effective cabinetry provides storage and the ability to organize and retrieve our belongings quickly. As you mom probably told you, "a place for everything and everything in its place." Cabinets that support that little maxim make life so much easier.

Cabinets are available in an infinite number of combinations, sizes, materials, and finishes. They can be used in every room in the house for every conceivable purpose. When planning your cabinetry needs, start with your most frequent activities, then define what you need to store. If you are a passionate baker, you may want a baking center to house your bowls, baking ingredients, and that giant mixer with all its attachments. If you need cabinetry in the garage for tools, define the extent and type of tools you want to store. It always helps to remain focused on the tasks.

Measure the spaces to plan where things go. If the mixer is 14 inches tall, you know you´re going to kick yourself if the shelf is not adjustable and the clearance is only 13.5 inches. Also, consider ergonomics. If you have bad knees, don´t plan to put the mixer on the bottom shelf. Use an appliance garage instead, or include a mechanical extension that levers the mixer to counter height. Think about work flow. Plan for the process and steps you take when baking that torte.

Once you know what you need to store and where you want it to be, then you can start evaluating the cabinet styles themselves. Regardless of your budget, even if it´s modest, you´ll have a space that works well and saves you time and energy.

Hiring a cabinet installer

To hire a good cabinet professional, obtain references and a complete, detailed written estimate that specifies materials and costs. A contract should include information about the selected cabinets, costs, and a schedule with start and finish dates as well as when payments are due and their amounts. All warranties need to be detailed with length, exclusions, and whether they will be handled by the installer or by the manufacturer. The contract also needs to specify clean up and any special requirements.