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The Importance of Great Cabinetry


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When you imagine the designer kitchen of your dreams, what do you see? Likely, some shiny new appliances and a dazzling new countertop feature heavily – but what about the cabinetry? Kitchen cabinets form the basis for the structural foundation of any kitchen, and their look and functionality can make or break a kitchen design. In fact, Bob Vila states that he prefers clients to choose kitchen cabinets first because they are the biggest and most important investment in the kitchen. In short, cabinetry is the star of any good kitchen design.

Chances are you’re reading this blog because you’re either considering an update of your existing kitchen or planning a new kitchen for a new home. Take a moment to think about the factors that led you to that decision, and compare your own intentions with the following top reasons for kitchen remodels:

  • Existing kitchen is outdated
  • Deterioration of the existing kitchen
  • Existing kitchen does not fit your lifestyle
  • Special needs family members
  • Desire for change

If you nodded in agreement with any of the above, it may because they remind you of your current cabinets. Like it or not, cabinetry is the main design feature in any kitchen. Their placement determines the layout of the kitchen as a whole, ultimately setting the tone for the design, style, and functionality of your kitchen. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to store all your kitchen gadgets and necessities, and you certainly wouldn’t have a need for the array of countertop appliances available in today’s market.

This article will outline the role kitchen cabinets play in all of the above reasons homeowners typically undertake kitchen remodels. It will also cover all the considerations for improvement and lasting satisfaction when it comes to planning your new kitchen cabinetry purchase.

Your Existing Kitchen Is Outdated

An outdated kitchen is one of the number one reasons homeowners decide to remodel, as well as one of the number one reasons they decide against renting or purchasing a home. Aside from outdated appliances, which come with their own hazards, the most frequently outdated kitchen features are cabinets and countertops. How can you tell your kitchen cabinetry is outdated?

  • Looks. Yes, it’s obvious, but if your kitchen cabinets look like they’re from the 1970s, they probably are – and it’s likely not the aesthetic you prefer. Many trends in cabinetry eventually come back around and retro styles can be chic. However, poorly maintained yellow brass hardware mixed with honey oak – actually old instead of just stylistically so – is not. Basically, if you walk into your kitchen and the sensation that you’re in another decade is an unpleasant one, your kitchen is likely outdated.For your future kitchen, consider the fact that your cabinetry will likely be in place for at least a decade. Use modern, classically appealing woods with standard-sized hardware that you can easily accessorize to fit in any era. Avoid hot trends that may quickly become outdated again.
  • Lack of safety features. Cabinet makers sometimes build outlets and switches right into existing cabinets. If a quick look at your kitchen outlets reveals more telephone line connections than GFCI outlets, your kitchen may be outdated. GFCI outlets shut down electric flow in the case of abnormal flow and are a required safety standard for any kitchen.For your new kitchen, ensure all your electrical installations are up to code. Installing outlets and switches into cabinets may not be preferable with new features like outlet-equipped drawers, but sticking with a standard size ensures cover plates and other elements can easily be swapped out.
  • You can’t find appliances that fit. In decades past, kitchen designers and builders planned cabinet layouts designed for the appliance sizes most common at the time. This is still the case. However, you may notice that your dream refrigerator or that gas range you’ve always wanted won’t fit without seriously reshuffling existing kitchen cabinetry – all the more reason to consider a modern cabinet update for your new kitchen.Standard-sized appliances offer the most flexibility moving forward, but consider your desired layout when planning appliance placement. The workflow of your kitchen should suit you, and quality custom cabinetry can accommodate a wide range of appliance sizes and configurations.
  • Existing storage is odd or doesn’t fit your needs. Consider the things that might have been commonly stored in your kitchen cabinetry at the time they were built. It isn’t likely your grandmother’s kitchen needed storage space for a stand mixer, an electric griddle, an electric pressure cooker, three crock pots and a toaster oven. It’s equally possible you don’t have the desire for cabinets with built-in dedicated recipe card, knife, or plastic wrap storage.Cabinets with highly specialized storage can be a great option for your new kitchen. However, determine the likelihood of continuing to use that specialized storage in the future. A solution like a built-in pot and pan rack will likely always prove useful, while a plastic grocery bag dispenser may quickly become outdated.

Deterioration of Your Existing Kitchen

Though today’s designers build quality cabinetry to last, you may have existing cabinetry that has seen better days. Evidence of superficial damage to cabinet doors may make a reface job tempting, but there are other signs to look for to determine whether you should replace your cabinets instead of only refacing them.

  • External damage. As mentioned, peeling paint or scratched varnish are telltale signs you have damaged cabinetry. Signs of superficial damage not easily covered by a layer of paint or varnish, including deep gouges, cracked doors or frames, and stripped screws. If your cabinet doors are uneven or too badly damaged to reface, new cabinetry is likely a better investment.
  • Poor quality. If your existing cabinets are not of good quality, replacing them with long-lasting, high-quality cabinets often makes more financial sense than spending time and money refacing. Telltale signs your cabinets may have been of low quality to begin with include flimsy interior paneling, the use of poor-quality grades of MDF or particle board instead of more quality versions, joints that are stapled or glued, and flimsy plastic or thin metal drawer slides and shelf brackets.For future cabinets, look for quality. Cabinets should use thick, high-quality plywood for the cabinet box and shelving, and high-quality wood for the doors and framing. All joints should be properly joined and secure, drawer slides should be substantial, quality steel, and shelves should have adequate supports.
  • Internal damage. You are better off replacing cabinets with internal damage than reworking them, especially in the case of water damage. Check underneath the sink and on toe kicks for signs of water damage like swelling, warping, cracking, or peeling and bubbled veneer. You’ll likely need to address the source of the water issue as well, but replacing the interior of several cabinets is an investment that would make more sense going toward new, quality kitchen cabinets.

The Existing Kitchen Does Not Fit Your Lifestyle

Planning a new kitchen layout is often a task best handled by an experienced kitchen designer, but since your family’s kitchen is a central hub in your everyday life, even a designer needs your input regarding the features most important to you. Are you most concerned about functionality while cooking? Is a breakfast bar or large prep space a priority? Consider the following questions when determining which parts of your old kitchen didn’t work and which elements you want to see in your new kitchen:

  • How could this layout be more conducive to cooking? The fact that you’ll be cooking in your new kitchen may seem obvious. However, too many people fail to consider this when determining a new layout for their kitchen. It may seem like a good idea to include a large island for prep space, but if placed wrong, islands can impede the natural workflow between what designers like to call the “work triangle.”The design sense behind the kitchen work triangle aims to minimize steps and improve access to the three major working elements of your kitchen – range, refrigerator, and workspace. Ideally, the elements are close enough to easily accommodate movement between them while cooking, but far enough apart to avoid a cramped space – usually the legs should add up to anywhere from 12 to 24 feet.If your current kitchen includes an island space or countertop between the refrigerator and range, you may have noticed a poor workflow. If kitchen traffic routes through the triangle instead of along its edges, you’ve likely gotten frustrated. Work with your kitchen designer to arrange new cabinetry to route traffic away from the primary workspace, and optimize your workflow.
  • How could this layout better meet my family’s needs? Modern kitchens are often gathering places for families. Is your kitchen conducive to your family’s needs? Do you often find yourself working around children while you cook, or unable to supervise while you clean up?


Modern kitchen spaces often call for a space children can gather to do homework, socialize or watch as their parents cook. If your current kitchen is short on extra space, or locates features such as a breakfast bar right next to a stovetop, your family’s needs are likely not met. Similarly, if your kitchen cabinets block your view of your family so they are out of your line of sight, you need to address your cabinetry layout.

Consult with your kitchen designer and look for elements like raised cabinets and taller countertops to keep children’s work areas away from kitchen appliances. Or, consider an extra workspace alongside the kitchen area for homework and other activities. Finally, planning a kitchen cabinet arrangement with an open view into the family’s gathering area can help you make sure your kitchen meets your family’s needs.

  • Is this kitchen too big? Too small? Most kitchen renovations’ goals aim toward increasing the overall size of the kitchen space. However, consider your current kitchen. Do you find yourself wishing you had more storage space? Perhaps a set of built-in pantry cabinets or a walk-in pantry or butler’s kitchen may be a better fit than a kitchen that’s more spread out. Do you often wish you didn’t have to move quite so far between the refrigerator, stove, and workspace? It’s possible your kitchen is either not arranged well or is just too big.Many kitchens are cramped, and making good use of a larger space is something a kitchen designer should be ready to help with. Ask how to arrange your cabinetry to find the best kitchen footprint for your home. Bigger may be better, but that isn’t always the case.

You Have Special Needs Family Members

If you or someone in your family has special needs, you have likely already lamented the shortcomings of your current kitchen. How could you change your cabinetry to allow better access for those individuals? The following considerations may help:

  • Accessible entrances. With today’s open floor plans, kitchen entrances are not always framed doors. Designers need to consider any pantry entrances, islands, peninsulas, and other openings between cabinets as well. Leave a few extra inches on each side for access by individuals using wheelchairs or walkers.
  • Accessible appliances. Popular kitchen appliance placement may not work for a family member with special needs. For example, cabinet configurations with built-in range microwaves will not likely work for an individual in a wheelchair. Similarly, a wall oven unit and a countertop range with a cabinet layout allowing knee space under the range top may be preferable to a standard range; forgoing cabinet boxes for knee space underneath kitchen sinks is an option as well.
  • Cabinet height. Lower kitchen cabinets come in a variety of heights – consider your family’s special needs when choosing a height. Individuals who have trouble stooping may prefer higher countertops, while those in wheelchairs or those who must sit to avoid fatigue may prefer cabinets lower than typical “counter-height.” You can vary the height of the workspaces in your new kitchen to accommodate both preferences. Built-in workspaces that pull out, such as cutting boards, may be an option to consider as well.
  • Pull-out drawers and storage. Cabinets with features such as sliding organizers you can pull out for easier access likely appeal even to those without special needs. Accessing heavy items like pots, pans, and stand mixers is much easier when you don’t need to lift the items out of a tight space first. Ask your kitchen designer about these features and others such as pull out spice racks, cookbook holders, trash bins, and more.
  • Upper cabinet access. Upper cabinets can be fitted with pull-down shelving to provide easier access to dishes and items typically stored above the counter. These options are more specialized and not commonly found in typical kitchen design. A cabinet maker can retrofit your new, high-quality cabinets to meet your needs. Ask your kitchen designer for more details about their availability.

You Simply Desire Change

After all this detailed consideration of your current kitchen, you may find your desire for a new kitchen has little to do with any one specific issue with your current kitchen’s cabinet quality, age, or layout. Perhaps you simply desire change. What are some practical and aesthetic considerations when choosing your new cabinets?

Budget and Quality

There are three basic tiers of cabinets, based on quality, materials, and budget.

  • Big box retailers and home improvement centers often sell stock or budget cabinets. The seller usually delivers the cabinets assembled, and possibly frameless. Typically, stock cabinets use MDF or pressboard instead of high-quality wood, and may limit your selection of style, color, size, and accessories. Stock cabinets begin at around $70 per foot.
  • Mid-range cabinets often appear higher-end than stock cabinets. They may have a framed face, with wood around the cabinet door, and may offer more customization options. Quality may be higher than that of stock cabinets, but mid-range cabinets typically use pressboard boxes as well. Mid-range cabinets begin at around $150 per foot.
  • Premium cabinets are not plywood boxes, meaning their construction is sturdier than other types of cabinets. Since premium cabinets can either come fully custom or semi-custom, they offer a far wider range of sizes, colors, styles, and accessories. Premium, semi-custom cabinets begin at around $500 per foot, though fully custom cabinets can be much more expensive.

Basic Style Choices

Basic cabinet style selection is important – in today’s open floor plans, your cabinets will likely be visible throughout a large portion of your home. As such, making a choice should weigh three different design elements – box and frame style, door style, and wood type or color choice. Consider the overall look you want to attain and determine which are right for your new kitchen.

Box and Frame Styles


Box and frame styles appear in two major types – framed and frameless cabinets.

  • Framed cabinets have the box fronted with a wooden face frame that surrounds the cabinet door when it’s closed. Frames stop drawers when they close and provide a surface for door hardware to attach to. Frames can also come in various widths, colors, and styles based on your personal preferences.
  • Frameless cabinet boxes have no wooden face frame on the front. As a result, drawer and door hardware must attach directly to the box itself, leaving a uniform exterior. Frameless cabinets often require reinforcements or must use higher-quality box materials to ensure stability, particularly to support countertops.

Door Style Selection

Door style is what people often think of when they think cabinet styles, and for good reason; doors are perhaps the biggest influence on a cabinet’s overall style. Doors are highly visible and make up most of the viewable square footage of your cabinets. Careful choices regarding door selection are crucial if you are aiming for a modern style that will not feel dated too soon.

Some popular door styles include:

  • Flat panel. These doors have no frame and are comprised of one solid piece of wood. Often found on frameless cabinets or used to make framed cabinets appear frameless, these doors are modern in style and easily hide any hardware.
  • Mission. Mission doors involve a simple raised frame with a recessed, flat panel. Mission doors appeal to many design styles due to their clean lines and classic look.
  • Shaker. Shaker doors appear similar to Mission, though they may have a little extra detail or routing in the typically wider frame.
  • Raised-panel. In raised-panel doors, the center panel is beveled and protrudes until it is even with the frame. Most stock paneled entry doors in your home are probably raised-panel.
  • Beaded. Beaded panel doors have beadboard paneling inside the frame. These doors often appeal to a traditional or country aesthetic.
  • Cathedral. Similar to mission doors, cathedral doors have an arch feature at the top of the frame, overlaying a recessed panel.

Color and Finish

You’ve determined the layout, frame style, and door type that best fits your kitchen footprint and design style – now comes the fun part. Wood types aren’t nearly as varied as the colors you can paint or stain them with, but some tried and true varieties are popular in cabinet making.

  • Birch has a distinctive grain and is often used for a more custom, modern or contemporary look.
  • Maple is often chosen for its light color and grain, which make it readily able to accept a variety of different stains and finishes
  • Red Oak has a large grain but takes stain well and is conducive to country finishes.
  • White Oak has a finer grain but is still decidedly rustic. Both oaks are sturdy, popular choices for traditional or country styles.
  • Cherry is popular for its red-brown color and its durability. It pairs handsomely with a dark brown or deep red stain.
  • Ash has a fine grain and is appropriate for modern or contemporary designs.

After you’ve chosen an ideal wood for your cabinet construction, your selection of paint color or stain is purely up to your individual design aesthetic. If you have an open layout, consider how the color you choose will juxtapose with any existing flooring or other wood built-in elements in the rest of your space. Cabinet and floor colors should be complementary, not matching, and the stain or paint you choose should be in keeping with the style of the rest of your home.

Whether you’re remodeling your existing kitchen or building a new home, your kitchen footprint depends largely on your cabinets. No matter the reason for your new kitchen, keep these considerations and tips in mind when you’re choosing the ultimate star of your new space – your kitchen cabinets. Your cabinets are an investment in your home’s future, and we at Bradco Kitchens & Baths are happy to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to reach out at any time.

What Type of Cabinetry Is Right for You?

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In today’s hectic lives, the kitchen can be a place to reflect and spend time as a family. On the other hand, it could also be a place full of activity – you could be cooking, supervising homework, putting away groceries, and playing referee, all at the same time. You need a kitchen space that works well for your family’s needs and has plenty of storage to hold pots, pans, food, even homework materials.

Your kitchen cabinets are an important consideration when working on building a new kitchen model or remodeling an old one. If you’ve even done a casual perusal of cabinet models, you know there are more differences than just color. Cabinets vary in frame, size, depth, aesthetic, and much more. The right kind of cabinets will help you maximize your available space and make your kitchen an enjoyable family area for years to come.

One of the first considerations to make, based on your budget and family’s needs, is choosing between a framed, inset, or frameless cabinet style. What’s the difference, and which is right for you? Here’s what you need to know.

Frameless Cabinets

Frameless cabinets, also known as European cabinet style, as the name implies, are modern styles of cabinet fabrication that utilize newer hinge designs that make installing a frame unnecessary. There is no frame to the face of the cabinet, as the hinges install directly into the cabinet box wall sides. As such, frameless cabinets tend to lay flush against the body of the cabinet box and there is no space between the box and the door.

Benefits of Frameless Cabinets

Frameless cabinets started in Europe, where they are in wide use. However, the style is becoming rapidly more popular stateside as homeowners in America begin to discover its benefits. The main benefit is that it’s easier to access the items inside the cabinet space due to the frameless nature of the cabinet and the drawer boxes are wider – for this reason, frameless cabinets are a full-access design.

Once you install your frameless cabinet, there will be no center stile and the drawers and cabinet spaces are often bigger because the face frame is no longer present. For these reasons, frameless cabinetry may be a good fit for larger families or those who love to cook and have a lot of kitchen equipment. Aesthetically, frameless kitchen cabinets lend a sleek, modern feel, so they’re a good option for newer construction or people who want to remodel using a midcentury modern design. More so than any other style of cabinet, frameless designs will maximize your storage space.

Framed Cabinets

A framed cabinet is the most traditional, common type of cabinetry available on the market. As the name implies, this cabinet gets its name from the face frame on the front of the cabinets. The face frame is the front of the cabinet box. In a framed style, the front of the box is not cut out completely, but there’s a big enough hole to access the contents inside the box.

The Benefits of Framed Cabinets

Framed cabinets have been a mainstay in American households for decades. They’re the so-called workhorse of cabinet fabrications, because they’re stronger and can withstand the abuse of slamming and exploration of young children. This makes them a popular option for younger families. Since they’re ubiquitous, they tend to come at a lower price point than other models, though variation exists.

Providing a frame around a kitchen cabinet helps it hold up better over time, so a framed option will be around for many years. The installed hardwood helps prevent cabinet sagging, which can occur in other fabrications.

Framed cabinets are also popular in America because of the virtually limitless stylization options available. Overlaid frames, for example, make the boxes virtually invisible and an attractive alternative to frameless cabinets. Visible frames also allow for custom painting and contrast that lends a rustic or unique air to your kitchen.

Framed cabinets, since they’re the most popular, are likely the style of kitchen cabinet you’ve seen in kitchens your entire lifetime. They’re prized for their durability, contemporary and American aesthetic, and level of customization available.

Inset Cabinetry

Finally, inset cabinetry offers a historic, vintage, furniture look, where the door fits flush into the face frame. As movements like the modern farmhouse become more popular, inset cabinets are making a comeback. This style of cabinetry, technically a version of framed cabinets, offers a look that is both traditional and individual. They’re sure to be a conversation piece for guests in your kitchen. They requires considerable more detailed construction.

Benefits of Inset Cabinets

Since inset cabinets lay flush with the face frame, they are appealing for their smooth and clean furniture appearance. They also require a knob or pull as hardware, which allows you to play with the aesthetic you want for your kitchen. Overall, inset doors are a higher-end version of cabinetry that lends an air of Old-World historic charm. Overall, inset cabinets cost a little more than traditional framed cabinets.

Inset cabinets can also have minor downsides, such as less storage space compared to the other two models. As such, they might be best for families where storage space is already ample, or storage needs are less intensive.

Which Cabinet Style Should You Choose?

Ultimately, a cabinet style does not automatically dictate the style or taste of the kitchen. All cabinet styles have their benefits and downsides, so your main concern should be the functionality as it related to your family’s needs. If you’re a seasoned cook, host lots of holidays and family gatherings, and need ample kitchen space, a frameless option might be best for you. If you tend to have more takeout menus than pots and pans, you could choose an inset cabinet if you enjoy the aesthetic.

At the same time, the level of customization for each style of cabinet is remarkable. For example, you could choose a traditional aesthetic while using a frameless cabinet or you could have a modern kitchen with sleek lines and inset cabinets would still work well. In other words, the style of cabinet you use will not limit your design potential for other aspects of your kitchen design.

Once you decide on a cabinet style for your kitchen, you have one more important consideration: what will you top them with?

Types of Countertops and Their Benefits

Like cabinet fabrications, many types of countertops exist. However, these tend to vary in terms of material as well as aesthetic, which can affect their functionality based on your family’s needs. Some of the more common countertop materials include:

Granite

Granite countertops are among the most beautiful. They lend a classic elegance and air of sophistication to any kitchen space. Prized for their durability, your granite countertops might be the last installation you ever need.

On the other hand, granite countertops do require some maintenance, and they’re durability and beauty come with a higher price point compared to some other materials. But if you’re committed to caring for them, you could enjoy them for decades to come.

Granite countertops are natural stone and usually come from quarries around the world. An igneous stone, it starts rough and textured, but grinding and polishing give it its unique appearance. Each piece of granite is completely unique, which is part of its appeal.

Pros and Cons of Granite Countertops

Choosing a granite countertop for your kitchen has distinct advantages and disadvantages. These include:

  • They’re beautiful and durable.
  • They can seamlessly accentuate the look of your new kitchen cabinets.
  • They’re ecofriendly because of their natural sourcing.
  • With proper care, they’re durable and strong.
  • They are resistant to scratching and damage from heat.
  • When sealed and cared for appropriately, they are stain-resistant and simple to clean.

The key to having granite countertops is proper sealing and maintenance. Failing to reseal your granite countertops often enough can lead to staining, since granite is a porous material. Additionally, poorly sealed countertops can breed and harbor bacteria that could make your family sick. Choose this stone if you’re committed to its maintenance.

Marble

Marble is another high-end kitchen countertop design that, with its rich veining, offers an air of class to your kitchen. When combined with high-quality hardwood cabinetry, classic elegance results. Marble is a timeless choice for homeowners who desire premium materials.

If you need further convincing, consider that some of the world’s most famous works of sculpture are marble – Michelangelo’s David is a good example. This should tell you a couple things – first, that it’s beautiful. In fact, the world marble is derived from the Greek word for sparkling or gleaming. It’s also pliable and softer than other forms of countertop material, such as granite.

Several different kinds of marble exist, and the color will tell you where in the world it’s from. Green marble, for example, hails from Ireland, where pink variations most often come from Georgia. White marble can come from the U.S., Russia, Germany, or Italy. Each type of marble comes in different graining and veining, giving it a distinct appearance.

Last, marble also comes in different variations such as matte, polished, or leather finishes. Matte finishes are soft, but the colors are muted. Polished marble sparkles but is most susceptible to scratches. Finally, leather finishes tend to be the most popular because they’re the most durable and hide fingerprints.

Marble develops a “patina” that makes it age over time, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on your preferences. It tends to scratch easier than other forms of countertop materials, but it has a high resistance to heat. With so many levels of customization available, it plays well with a variety of kitchen aesthetics, from contemporary or rustic to sleek and modern.

Quartz

Countertops made of quartz are one of the most attractive options for busy families, because they’re workhorses capable of withstanding a lot of damage. If your kitchen counters serve as food prep spaces, homework tables, makeshift workspaces, and more, a quartz countertop might be right for you. It’s one of the toughest materials out there and is beautiful, to boot. It will provide your busy family with durability for years to come while maintaining its aesthetic.

Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors, from bright colors to black. A range of beautiful neutrals also exists, from browns and creams to grays and taupes. Because it’s a synthetic material, the maker can color quartz countertops to make them any hue you can think of, while providing a feel like natural stone.

Unlike granite and marble, high quality quartz is an engineered product that should have around 90% quartz, which is a material abundant in the earth’s crust. The remaining 10% is binder and coloring. Quartz gets ground down and mixed with a polyester resin to create an extremely strong material that can withstand heat, heavy materials, and scratching. In aesthetic, it’s similar to marble or granite.

The customization level for quartz is nearly limitless, since it’s an engineered material. Unlike natural stone, it does not require regular sealing or maintenance. Since the resin makes it non-porous, it does not harbor bacteria and is easy to clean. The more quartz the better the product.

Always go for the material that has at least 90% quartz, the less resin the better.

Paperstone

Paperstone is a unique countertop material that is becoming more popular, particularly in modern homes. It’s a composite engineered product made from 100% recycled paper, resin, and natural colorants. Don’t let the name fool you – since Paperstone is compressed so tightly and densely, it is completely impervious to moisture and is nonporous. As such, it is easy to care for and does not harbor dangerous bacteria.

Many American households are turning to Paperstone, because it’s practical, beautiful, and easy to clean. It’s chemical- and stain-resistant, as well as relatively resistant to heat. It’s prized for its durability; its original use was for skateboard half pipes.

Aesthetically, Paperstone looks and feels warm and looks like it has a patina. This means it could play just as well in rustic or historic kitchens as it does in more modern designs.

Last, since Paperstone is designed with 100% post-consumer recycled paper, it’s both eco-friendly and sustainable. This makes it an attractive option for environmentally conscious households. It’s nontoxic and food safe.

Vetrazzo

Vetrazzo, or recycled glass countertops, have a completely unique look and feel that work in homes in a variety of designs. Depending on the type of glass used and the coloring, Vetrazzo countertops can appear modern or work well in a rustic or historic home. They can be manufactured to look antique or minimalistic. Vetrazzo countertops are durable but are not always the right choice for families with young children.

Glass countertops are made from up to 90% post-consumer recycled glass and are a relatively new innovation – they’ve only been in American homes for about 20 years. These glass pieces are held together with cement and are a popular choice for the eco-friendly homeowner. They are also customizable based on the color and aesthetic you want for your home.

Like most manufactured materials, Vetrazzo countertops are nonporous and easy to clean. They create a hard surface that is resistant to chipping and cracking when installed properly. They are not a good option for DIY installations, as improper technique can create stress points that can lead to cracking.

No two Vetrazzo countertops are alike, which makes them an attractive option for creative homeowners. As an owner of a Vetrazzo countertop, you have the benefit of knowing you own something completely unique.

Wood Countertops

Finally, wooden countertops are a popular option in kitchens across the country. They lend a warm and inviting feel that plays well with a variety of textures such as exposed brick and other traditional or rustic finishes. Wood surfaces are excellent for food preparation and play well in conjunction with other countertop materials such as quartz or granite. For example, a kitchen island might look good in an exotic wood like Parota paired with natural stone. Reclaimed wood countertops are also becoming more popular because of their eco-friendliness and rustic charm.

Wooden countertops lend a naturally beautiful, earthy air to a kitchen. They are an ideal match if you enjoy baking or cooking regularly, since they hide cuts and scratches well. If anything, it naturally lends character to the home. Even after years of use, wooden kitchen countertops can be sanded down and resealed, providing decades of use. It also pairs well with a variety of kitchen cabinetry and home décor. However, since wood is a porous material, it requires regular maintenance and sealing to prevent the growth of bacteria, especially on meal preparation surfaces.

Remodeling or designing a kitchen comes with many important considerations. Arguably, two of the most important are the two that represent the most significant investment – your countertops and cabinetry. Each type comes with its advantages and you must consider your family’s intended use and time for maintenance as you make your decision. Use this as a guide to create your dream kitchen based on your needs. Should you have any questions about the materials listed here or anything we offer, feel free to contact us.

Custom Vs. Stock Cabinets: Your Definitive Guide

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Cabinets may seem simple on the outside, but they can accomplish a lot within your home. Aside from providing valuable storage place, cabinets can also help pull the design of a room together. While most of us will come into a home that already has cabinets on the walls, sometimes we need a little renovation to help accomplish the look we want.

However, renovating a space takes a lot of effort, and even something as seemingly simple as replacing your cabinets requires proper attention to detail to do correctly. This basic kitchen fixture comes in many forms, which will be the first point you want to consider when deciding on what cabinets to bring into your home. Stock, custom, and even semi-custom cabinets can all be suitable for different purposes.

Custom Cabinets

Custom cabinets are just what they sound like: cabinets made for you can meet any specifications that you want. Shape, width, depth, material, and design are yours to decide on. If you’re trying to build your dream kitchen, this sort of flexibility can be a great boon. Whatever specifics you can think of, a cabinetmaker who can build them is out there. If you want to take an existing cabinet design and tweak it to your preferences, that’s possible, too.

Custom cabinets are excellent for people who are trying to create a design that’s all their own.

They provide an option for people who have unusually sized and shaped rooms that standard cabinets won’t easily fit. This enables you to maximize storage space, without any gaps in space between cabinets. And because of the near unlimited options when it comes to materials, color, and other design elements, you’ll be able to find the perfect look for your space.

However, one of the caveats of custom cabinets is that they can quickly become expensive, especially if you want to use higher end materials. Depending on the level of detail that you want, the cost may not fit into your budget.

Another con is that, unlike stock cabinets that are ready for installation at any time, a custom cabinet can take much longer to complete and bring into your home. A custom project could easily take weeks or months to complete. Those wanting custom cabinets should plan their renovations accordingly. However, once you have the custom-build, it’s easy to get repairs from your local cabinetmaker as opposed to waiting for a part to come in through delivery.

Stock Cabinets

Stock cabinets are essentially the opposite of their customizable options. Stock cabinets come pre-manufactured and readymade, coming from a long line of other mass-produced cabinets.

Unlike customized units, a stock cabinet will come in set sizes with no room to adjust to fit your space. This can lead to gaps or even buffer strips between cabinets during installation, making you lose out on storage space.

You may also have a difficult time finding a stock cabinet that looks the way that you want it to.

You may find a design that happens to have the color, shape, and wood type you want, but the style doesn’t fit the look you want. While you may find variations, they won’t always match what you need. This process can quickly become frustrating if you’ve been searching for a while.

However, stock cabinets are easily the best option when it comes to pricing. Because there’s no extra tweaking you can do, the cost of a stock cabinet will be affordable. You can still see variations in cost depending on the exact model, but it will be much less than you’ll pay for a custom cabinet. Even so, you don’t want to pick out a stock cabinet that’s too cheap, as they may not last due to shoddy materials or construction.

Quick delivery time is another benefit of stock cabinets. Likely, the cabinet will be ready to purchase and install the moment you pick it out. Even if it’s not available right away, stock cabinets also offer timely delivery, meaning that you can quickly update the look and style of your home without any trouble.

Semi-Custom Cabinets

Semi-custom cabinets fall between the two categories. These cabinets are usually stock cabinets to which you can add extra detailing options. The sizing options often have the same restrictions as stock cabinets, but you have a bit more flexibility in the dimensions and drawer options, which can help better fit the space you’re working with.

The most significant benefit of semi-custom cabinets is that you can amend the design in ways that you can’t with regular stock cabinets. Sometimes even a few tweaks to a stock cabinet design can make the perfect addition to your home. Working with the right cabinetmaker can help with turning minimal changes into something fantastic.

The cost of a custom cabinet will depend on what sort of changes you want to make. If you only want to make a few changes, you can easily get the look you want without needing to invest in an expensive custom option. However, if you add too many customizations, then the cost might quickly outpace making a custom cabinet design from scratch.

Timewise, though, a semi-custom option will be much faster to complete. While you won’t have the same immediate delivery time as a stock cabinet, adding customized touches to an existing product is a faster process than waiting for a custom unit. Overall, semi-custom cabinets serve as a way to get the benefits of both options.

Things to Consider When Picking Out Cabinets

With the different cabinet types available, you have some decisions to make while shopping for cabinets. While custom cabinets can give you some of the highest quality in terms of design and storage, not every renovation project needs that level of investment. Some projects will work well with semi-custom or even stock cabinets. To pick out the best type of cabinets for your project, consider these elements:

How Long Will You Be in Your Current Home?

If you know that you’re in your forever home, you’re going to take a different approach than someone who’s in a rental space. For those not planning on staying in their current home, you want to keep your home up-to-date with any market standards that might impact the price of resale. If you’re in a home you plan to stay in, the investment in a fully custom cabinet update may be much more worth it than if you know you will be moving in the future.

What Sort of Budget Do You Have?

Replacing old cabinets can be an investment. For content, in a complete kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, cabinets can easily account for half the costs. The different types of cabinets give you some flexibility in how much you’ll need to spend, but you still want to set a budget to know what your limits are. You don’t want to find a design that you love but you can’t afford.

How Much Storage Do You Need?

Without proper storage, your kitchen or bathroom can become cluttered. Updating your cabinets can be a prime opportunity to fix that problem, but you need to assess how much storage you need. Oddly shaped room layouts can benefit from cabinet sizes that stock units can’t accommodate. For lower cabinets, you’ll also want to consider if you want open cabinets or drawers for layout. Mapping out where everything will go can help you decide on the best layout.

What Sort of Scope Does Your Project Have?

Cabinets that are still sturdy and give you enough storage space may not need a complete replacement. Instead, a few tweaks can give your room a whole new look. A fresh coat of paint or even replacing the door faces can spruce up your cabinets to match your renovations.

However, when you have layout issues or your existing cabinets are older, it’s time to invest in new cabinets.

What Size Is Your Space?

Whenever you get started on your project, you’ll need to measure your space first. These preliminary measurements will help you when speaking with cabinetmakers and salespeople, and they’ll be able to give you a much more accurate estimate of the cost of your project.

Knowing the size constraints of your space can also help you generate ideas.

What Door Style Do You Want?

The door is easily one of the most important aspects of a cabinet, since it’s what will always be visible. Changing out one door style for another can change the entire feel of your room and even the rest of your home, so you’ll want to choose wisely. Modern and classic are just some of the options you have, but you may not have luck finding the specific style you want with stock choices.

What Other Items Do You Need to Fit Into Your Space?

While cabinets are an essential part of your design and storage, they aren’t the only things that need to go into your kitchen or bathroom. Note where your utilities currently are and where they may move during any spatial reconfiguration in your renovations. You don’t want to accidentally cover up an essential vent or not have enough room for your appliances.

Sketching out your space can help you make the best design decisions in advance.

Do You Need Add-Ons in Your Cabinets?

A cabinet can be more than just shelves or a drawer. Pullout shelves, wine racks, vertical dividers, and pullout bins are some of the choices you may opt for to enhance your space.

Even stock cabinets can offer some of these extra options for you, but customized cabinets will give you more choices to work with.

What Color or Finish Do You Want?

The best color for your cabinets will depend on the rest of the design of your kitchen. Your personal style will also influence your decision. Paint, solid wood, and other types of finishes can help you find the exact look for your room. However, you don’t want to choose a color that will go out of style too quickly. Neutral colors usually work best for keeping your cabinets in fashion and maintain the value of your home. Grey, white, and black are popular choices.

What Hardware Do You Need?

Handles and knobs add the finishing touches to your cabinet’s look. Often, the best practice is to match the design of your handles to the cabinet doors. However, you may be able to have a contrast between your hardware and the door if it fits into the overall theme of your design. If the design of your cabinet has exposed hinges, make sure they match the other pieces of visible hardware on the cabinet.

What Amount of Space Do You Want in Your Room?

Cabinets may rest along the walls, but they can greatly impact how the space feels. Larger and more open spaces have become a popular design choice, especially in kitchens. If you want to create this effect, then you’ll need to arrange your cabinets carefully. Since that arrangement will ultimately affect your storage and layout, it helps to think about the overall feel of your room as you draft your design.

The Importance of Working With an Experienced Cabinet Company

Just as important as the kind of cabinet you purchase is who you choose to purchase it from.

Plenty of home improvement stores can provide you with cabinet choices, but they don’t always have the knowledge or guidance you need to make the best choices for your home. You want to work with a cabinet company that can give your project the attention it deserves.

Big box stores can give you options, but a small design-build firm can give you the guidance you need. Cabinets are a large investment for your home, and you want to make the right decisions for your space to bring the design together. Personal guidance on your renovations can help you understand what your options are and consult with you on what decisions are best for your plans.

A dedicated team can also assist with making the right decisions for your budget. You might have more choices when it comes to customization than you may initially think. With skilled guidance on your side, you can make the best decisions for updating your cabinets.

The right company is also essential for installing your cabinets successfully. Some businesses will sell you the boxes but leave it up to you to find someone to install them. The process of hiring another party not only adds to your costs, but also impacts the quality of your installation.

With the effort it already takes to find the right cabinetry for your space, you don’t want to add frustration to the process.

Instead, the company you purchase cabinets from should help you with the installation process as part of their services. That way, you don’t have to worry about any potential delays between your cabinets arriving and getting them into your home. And since the same company is working on both stages, they know what to expect when setting everything up.

An experienced cabinetmaker can give you access to all of your options – not just some. With stock, custom, and semi-custom choices available, you don’t just know what option will work best for you, you can get it when you’re ready to purchase. While your project may not require the work of a completely custom cabinet, it’s nice to have the option available if you want it.

The Best Choice for Your Kitchen Cabinets

No matter what your plans for your kitchen cabinets are, Bradco can help. We have the resources available to set you up with a suitable stock cabinet or develop a whole new design to fit the needs of your kitchen. You can count on us for the expertise necessary to create your ultimate cabinet setup, with the personal attention you deserve for your project.

We don’t just work in cabinets; we can help with every aspect of your kitchen, too. Whether you just need to add an extra cabinet, or you want to renovate the entire room, there’s a cabinet solution for you – and we can help you get there. Our professional team can serve as your very own professional consultant, helping you find the cabinet solution that matches your space needs, style, and budget.

As a small design firm, we focus our efforts on providing quality services on every end of the spectrum. Unlike a big box store, which generalizes in its offerings, we have a thorough understanding of what you need to have a great kitchen cabinet. Aside from helping with the design and building processes, we always help you install your cabinets after purchase so that you can have a smooth experience.

Choosing between custom and stock cabinets is a matter of choosing what best matches your home, and Bradco wants to help you do just that. Modern cabinet design allows for creative cabinet designs and arrangements that can help make your kitchen into a unique space in your home. See what possibilities exist for your cabinet plan at Bradco.

Sources:

https://www.thekitchn.com/kitchen-cabinet-styles-the-difference-between-stock-semi-stock-andcustom-178826

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/where-we-live/wp/2018/05/15/the-cabinetry-conundrumstock-cabinets-custom-or-somewhere-in-between/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.1c1f001bd6a0

http://www.cabinetdesignscfl.com/blog/stock-cabinets-vs-semi-custom-cabinets-vs-customcabinets

https://www.hgtv.com/remodel/kitchen-remodel/kitchen-cabinet-buying-guide

https://www.thespruce.com/new-cabinet-considerations-1973681

http://scottmcgillivray.com/renotoreveal/articles/5-things-consider-choosing-kitchen-cabinets/

Do I Really Need A Kitchen Designer?

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There’s no doubt about it, kitchen and bath remodeling can be a seriously dusty, dirty and gritty endeavor. Like any journey, much hassle and lost time can be avoided by choosing the right guide to reach your destination. In the case of a kitchen remodel and bathroom remodel, proper knowledge and planning can mean a substantial reduction in overall cost. Going with experience allows for the proper space planning in the kitchen and space planning in the bathroom to create kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets that are both useful and beautiful. A professional can foresee and avoid common problems, and can also help clients to prepare a sensible kitchen budget and sensible bathroom budget.

Rachel Pasterino, lead designer at Bradco Kitchens on Venice Blvd., a company that specializes in kitchen cabinets in Los Angeles and bathroom cabinet in Los Angeles stipulates that, “The knowledge a professional contributes can make an astounding difference in kitchen design and bathroom design. I find that my clients are pleasantly surprised by the wealth of ideas a seasoned kitchen designer and bathroom designer brings to the table when planning a kitchen remodel or bathroom remodel.”
Kitchen design and bathroom design require a very specific knowledge of all the components such as the plumbing fixtures, kitchen cabinets or bathroom cabinets, kitchen countertops or bathroom countertops and kitchen appliances. When a kitchen designer or bathroom designer is seasoned and experienced this can have a serious impact on the budget of a kitchen remodeling project or bathroom remodeling project, savings the client thousands of dollars. Your kitchen and bathroom should be designed as a unique place that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle. Going with a professional kitchen designer or bathroom designer guarantees that your Los Angeles home renovation is done properly the first time around, greatly eliminating costly changes and mistakes that can plague large home remodeling projects.magnifying-glass-clipart-transparent-background-9i4lra6ie

Bradco Kitchens and Baths named 2012 Product Award honoree for Slide N Hide

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On November 29, 2012 over 800 people from the design community

The auditorium was standing room only, as the winners were announced live by hosts Cindy Allen, Editor in Chief, and Mark Strauss, President and Publisher. (designers and manufacturers) gathered at the state of the art auditorium and event space at 200 West Street in New York City, to celebrate the best projects and products of 2012.

Bradco Kitchens and Baths is proud to have been named an honoree for Best of Year 2012 by Interior Design Magazine at this event.  The award was for Bradco’s innovative product the Slide N Hide countertop.

The Slide N Hide is a custom remote controlled sliding countertop that slides to reveal a cooktop and downdraft while transforming into a free-hanging bar top perfect for dinner or drinks.    It is an expandable kitchen island with a hidden cooktop that when closed serves as a countertop and when opened adds seating/table room.

Interior designers and architects via an online vote on October 1-9 – from 660 submissions – selected Best of Year Product Design finalists. A jury of leading architects and designers determined winners.

InteriorDesign.net “Best of Year” voting site received approximately 26,000 unique visitors during voting, generating 86,000 votes in 2012.

This is the 7th Annual Interior Design Best of Year Awards

Stop by our showroom at 6011 Pico Blvd in Los Angeles to explore your own kitchen or bathroom customization or just give us a call.

Interested in our favorite designs or want to see more of our work? Pin us on Pinterest!

 

Tell Santa That You Want A Los Angeles Bath Designer For Christmas This Year

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During the holidays we can find ourselves feeling dread at the thought of our extended family coming to stay with us and having to face the guest bathroom, which is in dire need of a makeover. While “needing to make a good impression” is not one of the top reasons to hire an experienced Los Angeles Bath designer, there are some very good reasons to think about giving yourself a new bathroom for Christmas this year.

Increased Home Value

This is the reason that we most often think about when considering a bathroom remodeling project. It has been proven that this is a great way for you to realize a solid return on your investment. For every dollar that you invest, you can expect to see a return of about $.70. Another great reason to update your bath, especially before a sale, is that potential buyers will choose a remodeled bath over an outdated bath, every time.

For Safety Reasons

With many of us staying in our homes as we age, we are finding that the addition of safety features in the bath are very important. From grab bars to non-slip flooring, there are many ways in which we can make our bathrooms safer for all members of a family. Think about better lighting, solid built-in step stools for little feet or maybe a seat in the shower and you can see how this type of remodel can help us avoid falls, a common bathroom mishap.

It’s Time To Upgrade

Perhaps you have been living with a bathroom in real need of repair. Maybe you are dealing with leaking faucets, disintegrating tile work or rotten drywall and you are simply tired of thinking about the work that needs to be done. Our busy lives can make it really difficult to take on these jobs ourselves so they are often put on the back burner. Maybe the time has come to finally get it done.

Need For More Space

Once your kids reach their teenage years, all of a sudden there is not nearly enough space to accommodate everyone’s need for more time in the bathroom, especially in the morning. Even the addition of a half-bath can be the answer to avoiding many conflicts. Another common reason to update is the need for more bathroom storage space. The addition of more cabinet space or shelving can be the answer to the problem of bathroom clutter.

If you are looking for the best Los Angeles Bath designer available, one who can help you make your bathroom dream come true, ask Santa to contact us and we will put a sparkling new bathroom under the tree for you this year!

Bradco Kitchens and Baths @ Dwell on Design 2012

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Last weekend the Dwell on Design 2012 expo commenced in Downtown Los Angeles. DOD is the annual showcase where modern designs and designers converge to show off the latest furniture, concepts and aesthetics for the progressive kitchen, garden and home. Bradco has participated in years past but this year it was time to do something special make a splash!

Bradco’s Design + Build concept, The “Slide N Hide” Countertop was a huge hit with designers, manufacturers and consumers. For the modern homeowner who desires space efficient design mixed with the latest kitchen tech innovations, look no further then this fantastic concept. Many in the design world took notice as we have received some fantastic and much appreciated acknowledgement from Skimbaco, Electronic House and Cultivate to name a few.

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Home Furnishings mentioned, “The Slide N Hide is a terrific piece I saw in action at Dwell on Design, moving smoothly to cover the cooktop and render that space usable for serving and entertaining as well. At the show, Bradco cleverly paired the counter with the Miele telescopic downdraft proving how very efficient a kitchen can be by first retracting the downdraft and then covering the entire range area with the counter.”

A special thanks to our partners, Cosentino, manufacturers of SileStone Countertops, Columbia Forest Products, makers of PureBond the zero ureaformaldehyde plywood used in our cabinets and Dwell.

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Bradco Featured on PureBond Fabricator Network

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We are pleased to announce that Bradco Kitchen and Bath has been selected as the featured PureBond® Fabricator Network member of the month for June! We are proud to be one of the first stores ever to work with PureBond®, the original cost-competitive decorative hardwood plywood without the formaldehyde. PureBond® is Columbia Forest Products’ exclusive formaldehyde-free innovation for hardwood plywood manufacturing.

Replacing traditional urea formaldehyde (UF) hardwood plywood construction with non-toxic, soy-based PureBond enables Columbia to eliminate any added formaldehyde from standard veneer-core and non-UF composite hardwood plywood core panels. That’s great news for our employees, our customers and the air we all breathe.

Not only do we want to offer our customers healthy options, but leading by example is important to us as well.  That’s why we have chosen to work with PureBond® hardwood plywood and are certified by The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

We are very passionate about removing Formaldehyde from the kitchen.  As we strive to continue our environmental-friendly work by using the cleanest products possible,  PureBond®, a formaldehyde-free manufacturing system designed by Columbia Forest Products, remains at the top of our list. Thank you for helping us play our part in making the world a better place.

PureBond Facts:

  1. PureBond technology utilizes formaldehyde-free, soy-based adhesive
  2. Manufacturing with PureBond technology contributes to an air-friendly indoor environment
  3. PureBond veneer-core panels are cost-competitive with traditional panels made using UF construction
  4. Panels are made in the US and Canada
  5. PureBond panels contribute towards the LEED® IEQ Credit 4.4 for Low-Emitting Materials: Composite Wood
  6. Panels can be specified as FSC® certified upon request
  7. PureBond MDF and Particleboard hardwood plywood is available upon request
  8. PureBond is manufactured exclusively in North America by Columbia Forest Products.

Bradco’s “Slide N Hide” Countertop Featured at Dwell On Design

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Bradco Kitchens and Baths is proud to present our new Slide N Hide countertop at this year’s Dwell On Design exhibition. This remote controlled, motorized sliding island countertop slides to reveal a Miele cooktop and downdraft. Once opened by the touch of a button, the Silestone White Zeus countertop extends to form a free hanging bartop perfect for dinner or drinks.  You can come see our original creation in person as we are honored to feature our work at the Dwell On Design exhibition happening at the Los Angeles Convention Center, June 22nd-24th at booth # 1034.

Stop by our showroom at 6011 Pico Blvd in Los Angeles to explore your own kitchen or bathroom customization or just give us a call.

Interested in our favorite designs or want to see more of our work? Pin us on Pinterest!

Kosher Kitchens in Los Angeles

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In the case of many of our clients, kosher living and food preparation is the optimum lifestyle choice. We are taking this opportunity to make it known that we have designed many kosher kitchens, and we want to share our expert design knowledge with all of you to help facilitate staying kosher in your homes.

When preparing food that is kosher, cleanliness and halting cross contamination of all meat and dairy products are essential. To implement these values into kitchen design, we focus on counterspace, appliances, and storage space elements.  Implementing labels for separating stored food items such as dairy and meat are a great way to avoid confusion and help keep your kosher kitchen in tip top shape. Two sinks are recommended for a kosher kitchen however, if budget is an issue, there is also a budget friendly alternative. Double sinks are acceptable as opposed to two separate units. Stainless-steel sinks and steel or granite countertops are the recommended options for those who cannot have distinct discrete areas for meat and dairy.

Function and style do not have to suffer when you opt for stainless steel appliances for your kosher kitchen since they are ideal for cleaning up. Two of each appliance are the epitome of koshered options such as two ovens, two sinks, two dishwashers, etc. However, that is not always an option when you’re looking for a budget friendly selection. All appliances you will need for your kosher kitchen are all available from Bradco.

While there are different rabbinic opinions concerning countertop materials that have the ability to be kashered from milk to meat, vice versa or for passover, we can supply you with your desired countertop material, be it granite, composite stone, etc. Any and all countertops need to be thoroughly cleaned by boiling water in between all meat and dairy operations. No matter what your daily use is, keep in mind that cleanliness is fundamental in keeping kosher.  

Often times an extra set of dishes, utensils, cookware, and serveware are kept in a kosher kitchen. These items tend to be used often because they are utilized when meat or dairy dishes are served. The storage of these extra items is vital and naturally, extra cabinets are necessary for the storage of these items. We can help you design seamless and beautiful storage options to maximize storage. There are a variety of options such as replacing standard shelves and drawers with modular wire shelves and baskets that could be configured in a variety of ways so that the available interior cabinet space is expanded and used to it’s full potential. 

Of course, if there are any questions that arise during the design of kosher kitchens you should seek rabbinic guidance and after that feel free to contact us.

Bradco Kitchens & Baths
6011 West Pico Blvd.,
Los Angeles, CA 90035

Phone: (323) 936-3457
Fax: 323.939.9354