We all want the same things out of a kitchen remodel. To save time and money before emerging from the project with the kitchen of our dreams. 

The best way to achieve this is to consult a kitchen designer. Until then, we’ll give you a sneak preview of which feature they’ll bring up as early as possible. Here’s why you should pick kitchen cabinets first. 

4 Reasons why you should pick kitchen cabinets first

Starting a kitchen remodel with cabinets shows good direction. Chances are, you already understand one or more of these benefits. 

1. They’re the biggest investment.

Cabinets are usually the most expensive part of a remodel. Make them worth it. Choosing them first gives them the attention they deserve. This strategy can also make budget allocation easier for the rest of your remodel.  

2. Cabinets are the most visible, influential feature.

We repaint rooms to change up the style and refresh the look. In the kitchen, cabinets are what cover the walls. The cabinet style, color, and even hardware determine what anyone’s first impression will be.

3. They’ll decide how hard your kitchen works for you.

When you choose cabinets first, you’re making some of the most important decisions of the whole kitchen remodel. Where appliances go, how much and what type of storage you have, and how your work zones are set up. 

4. Choosing cabinets first can make planning the rest of your design a piece of cake. 

Cabinets are as inspirational as they are practical. Pick them first, and suddenly you know what backsplash would look best. It automatically narrows down your flooring options. Fleshing out the cabinet design further with appliance and exhaust integration can make the remainder of your decisions simple and satisfying.

Why choose cabinets before countertops?

You can choose a countertop first in a remodel if you have a particular stone that you want as the centerpiece of your vision. The cabinets can be selected and customized to complement your countertop obsession.

Outside of that scenario, we choose cabinets first because they determine the dimensions of a counter. They’ll also need to be installed before a countertop. 

Why choose kitchen cabinets before flooring?

You can choose cabinets and floors at the same time, or one after the other, but the real decision to be made is the order in which they’re installed.

Planning a kitchen remodel from the floor up isn’t a bad idea. In fact, if you have an open-concept kitchen where the flooring remains the same throughout, you might go this route.

However, putting cabinets first in every way can be a wiser decision–in some cases. 

  • Going cabinet-first can prevent brand-new flooring from sustaining damage. 

  • If you’re installing floating floors, it may be better to install cabinets first.

  • You may save money by not installing floors that’ll be concealed by cabinets and appliances.

  • Installing cabinets first may give you a little bit more room to expand the dimensions of your cabinetry, as well as ensure they’re as level as they can possibly be.

Ultimately, this decision depends on your materials and design. A designer and contractor will both discuss the order of installation (and why) as you prepare to remodel. 

Is there a “right” kitchen remodel planning order?

There isn’t a single remodeling project in the world that’s truly one-size-fits-all. But regardless of where you’re starting or what you’re doing, planning is everything, and the order does matter.

Most homeowners can start with these three kitchen remodel planning steps:

1. Determine the budget. Be sure to allocate the largest portion to cabinets. It’s also advisable to pad your budget with 15-20% for emergency spending.

2. Gather inspiration. Knowing what styles, colors, and features you want will make collaborating much more productive.

3. Start talking to professionals. Bring your budget and design vision to a kitchen designer. A real kitchen designer also sells important features like cabinets. They’ll know a contractor who can handle the physical part of a remodel, if you don’t have one already.

Need expert tips on choosing kitchen cabinets? Ask a professional kitchen designer.

A main reason people get held up choosing cabinets is that they’re not presented with enough choice. The Designery offers hundreds of colors across various styles, plus hardware and custom details, giving you thousands of possible combinations. 

“Best experience ever for an extensive remodel of my kitchen and bath. I had expert project oversight and guidance with design and material selection. There was a good working relationship and communication with all the subcontractors and me.”

Donna, The Designery client

Visit your local The Designery showroom to begin.