Custom vs Semi-Custom Cabinetry Design & Layout Ideas/Trends By Special Additions Morris County NJ

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There are a lot of questions that come to mind when we begin to think about remodeling our kitchen. Should I use custom or semi-custom cabinets, what are the main differences between the two? What are the latest trends and do they have staying power? I have 4 kids and need something beautiful but durable, what should I get? These questions and many others start to develop and overwhelm us before the project has even begun. Lots of times we get scared off by how difficult we think it will be and end up never going through with it. Don´t let that happen to you, have the confidence that you will be able to conquer this project at full speed. It is only as hard as you make it, and having a professional designer and reputable cabinet company will make it all the more easier for you.

• What are the differences between full custom and semi-custom cabinets?

One of the main differences between the two is that a custom cabinet line will do exactly that, customize the cabinet to your exact liking. If you want a high gloss finish, or a heavier glaze they will supply that for you. If you wish to have it painted to color match your favorite one-of-a-kind antique kitchen table they will do that too. Obviously that comes with a higher price tag. Full custom lines will also offer different box construction, like a frameless euro box or inset box construction. Semi-custom cabinets can offer different box construction options as well, and a large selection of stains, paints, glazes, and door styles, but they will not deviate from their given repertoire. Many times you can get a "custom" kitchen whether you use a full custom or semi-custom product. Both will build and modify the kitchen to your specific layout, however, the semi-custom cabinets will come with a friendlier price tag.

• I have a large family and need something that will hold up but look great?

Yes, you can have it all. I say it´s your kitchen, have it your way. Customize it with products that are tailored to how you live, cook and clean up. Generally, using a cabinet that is stained or stained and glazed will wear better than one that is painted. Choosing the right wood specie will also make a difference. Knotty alder, although it is considered a hard wood, is rather soft and can be more prone to dings and dents. However, the other way to think about it is, it´s already a pretty rustic looking wood with knots and cracks galore, so if it gets a ding or dent it might actually add to its character. If rustic is not your style you may want to go with a maple or cherry wood, as these are both very beautiful, durable, hard woods.

• What are the latest kitchen trends that will have staying power?

This question comes up a lot and is never easy to answer or predict. In this day and age there are more styles, colors and options than we know what to do with. What it really boils down to is what do you like? My advice is, if you are remodeling your kitchen for you and not because you are selling, than you should pick colors and features that you are going to love to look at everyday. Since a new kitchen costs the most and last the longest, choosing a kitchen style requires some serious thought. It helps to know if you prefer a more classic or more modern look. Making that decision will help you start to narrow down choices on everything from wall color to cabinet doors. Kitchen design professionals can help lead you in the right direction once you know what your style is. They see so many different designs and color combinations everyday so they are a pretty good resource for what looks good. If you are someone who does not have a clue as to what you like than you may want to begin your process by looking in kitchen magazines and online for style ideas. This may help you with the beginning stages of selecting something that will reflect your own personal style as well as your homes.

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Article By: Dan Lombreglia - Dan@kitchenbathdesigns.com

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Special Additions Inc.

3 Astro Place

Denville, NJ 07834

976-627-6300

or

321 Mt. Hope Ave.

Rockaway, NJ 07866

973-328-3308