Starting a remodeling project without a clear budget is like setting sail without a map. As the heart of your kitchen, cabinets will be one of the largest line items, so getting this number right is crucial. While you might start your research looking for a custom cabinets price per square foot, you’ll quickly learn that the real costs are more nuanced. This guide is designed to be your financial co-pilot. We’ll translate the industry jargon, explain the key factors that influence your final cost, and give you the tools to build a realistic budget that aligns with your vision for a beautiful, functional space.
Key Takeaways
- You’re in Control of the Final Cost: The price of custom cabinets isn’t a fixed number; it’s built from your choices. The materials, design complexity, and finishes you select are the biggest factors, allowing you to make informed decisions that align with your budget.
- Look at the Full Picture, Not Just the Cabinets: A complete budget goes beyond the cabinet materials. Remember to factor in essential costs like professional installation, hardware, and design fees to get a true understanding of your total investment and avoid surprises.
- Smart Planning is the Best Way to Save: You can get a high-end look without overspending by planning strategically. Finalize your design early, consider mixing custom and semi-custom pieces, and always ask for a detailed quote to ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for.
What Are Custom Cabinets and Why Do They Cost More?
When you’re planning a kitchen remodeling project, cabinets are one of the biggest decisions you’ll make—for your budget and for the final look. You’ve likely heard the term “custom cabinets” associated with a higher price tag, and for good reason. Unlike cabinets you can buy off the shelf,
The higher cost comes down to this completely personalized process. Every detail, from the type of wood and finish to the exact dimensions and internal storage features, is chosen by you and built by skilled craftspeople. This level of personalization requires more time, higher-quality materials, and more intricate labor than mass-produced options. It means we can work around that awkward corner, build a pantry to your exact height specifications, or match a unique color you fell in love with. While the initial investment is greater, the result is a set of cabinets that are uniquely yours, built to last, and designed to make your life easier. It’s about creating a solution that fits your home and lifestyle, not just filling a space.
Custom vs. Stock vs. Semi-Custom: What’s the Difference?
The world of cabinetry generally boils down to three main categories. Stock cabinets are the most basic option. They are pre-made in standard sizes and sold in big-box stores. They’re budget-friendly and readily available, but your choices for style, color, and size are very limited. Semi-custom cabinets offer a middle ground. They use pre-existing designs but allow for some modifications, like adjusting the depth or width and choosing from a wider range of finishes. They provide more flexibility than stock cabinets without the full investment of custom work. Finally, custom cabinets are completely unique. As one guide to cabinetry costs puts it, they are built from scratch to meet your exact needs, offering endless choices in design and materials.
The Real Value of Going Custom
So, why spend more on custom cabinets? The real value lies in the long-term benefits that go far beyond aesthetics. Because they are built to the exact specifications of your room, they maximize every inch of storage and seamlessly fit into tricky layouts or around architectural quirks. The quality of construction and materials is also significantly higher, meaning they will stand up to daily use for years to come. This is where our design and build services truly shine, as we help you create cabinets that perfectly suit your workflow. From specialized drawer inserts to pull-out pantries, the functionality is tailored to you. This perfect fit, superior quality, and personalized function not only improve your daily life but can also increase your home’s value, making custom cabinets a worthwhile investment.
How Much Do Custom Cabinets Cost Per Linear Foot?
When you start looking into custom cabinets, you’ll quickly come across the term “price per linear foot.” It’s the standard way the industry measures and prices cabinetry, but what does it actually mean for your budget? A linear foot is simply a 12-inch measurement of length. For cabinets, this price typically includes one standard upper and one standard lower cabinet. It’s a helpful starting point for understanding costs, but it’s not the whole story.
Generally, you can expect custom cabinets to range from $500 to $1,500 per linear foot. That’s a pretty wide gap, right? The final price tag depends heavily on your choices. Think of it like building a custom car—the base model has one price, but adding leather seats, a premium sound system, and a more powerful engine will change the final cost. The same goes for your kitchen remodeling project. The materials you select, the intricacy of the design, and the finishes you choose all play a significant role in determining where your project falls within that range. This pricing structure gives you a baseline, but the real magic—and the final cost—is in the details that make the space uniquely yours.
Our Approach to Custom Cabinet Pricing
We believe in being upfront about how we price our custom cabinetry. There’s no secret formula, just a clear focus on three key elements: the materials you choose, the finishes you love, and the quality of the craftsmanship that goes into every piece. Our goal is to help you make decisions you feel great about. By breaking down the costs, you can see exactly how your selections impact the budget. Whether you’re dreaming of classic cherry wood or a sleek, modern laminate, our design and build services are structured to guide you through these choices, ensuring the final product is a perfect fit for your home and your finances.
What’s the Average Cost for Custom Cabinets?
It’s always helpful to have a general idea of what other homeowners are spending. Nationally, the average cost for a custom cabinet project falls somewhere between $2,808 and $12,980, with most people spending around $7,472. Of course, for larger kitchens with premium materials and intricate designs, it’s not uncommon for costs to exceed $30,000. These numbers are a great benchmark, but remember that every project is unique. You can browse our gallery to see the wide range of styles and finishes that can influence the final price of a project.
Cabinet Costs in the Chicagoland Area
Bringing it closer to home, costs in the Chicagoland area are fairly consistent with national averages, but with a local perspective. You can typically expect to invest between $500 and $1,200 per linear foot for custom cabinets. To put that into perspective, a kitchen with a standard 20-foot layout could range from $6,000 to $14,000, depending on your final selections. This gives you a solid starting point for budgeting your renovation. The best way to get a precise figure for your space is to get in touch with us for a detailed, personalized quote.
Key Factors That Affect Your Cabinet Price
When you start planning a kitchen remodeling project, one of the biggest questions is about cost. Custom cabinets are a significant part of that budget, and their price can vary quite a bit. It’s not as simple as a single price tag; the final cost is a reflection of your personal choices and the unique layout of your space. Think of it like building a custom piece of furniture—every detail, from the wood you select to the handles you choose, plays a role in the final number.
This variability is actually a good thing. It means you have the power to influence the final price by making thoughtful choices along the way. Understanding these variables from the start helps you make informed decisions that align with your budget and your vision. It puts you in control of the process, allowing you to decide where to invest for the biggest impact and where you might be able to save without compromising on quality. We’ll walk through the four main elements that shape the cost of your custom cabinets: the materials you choose, the intricacy of your design, the finishes and hardware you select, and the construction methods used to bring them to life. Getting familiar with these factors will make your conversations with your contractor much more productive.
Your Choice of Wood and Materials
The foundation of your cabinets is the material, and it’s one of the biggest drivers of cost. Different woods and materials come with different price points, aesthetics, and durability. For example, accessible and versatile options like MDF, Birch, or Maple are great for a wide range of styles. If you’re dreaming of a kitchen with a rich, natural grain, you might consider White Oak or Cherry, which sit at a higher price point but offer a distinct look. The key is to find a material that not only fits your budget but also complements the overall design of your home renovation.
The Complexity of Your Design
The scope and intricacy of your cabinet design directly influence the price. A simple, straightforward layout will naturally cost less than one with complex features. Elements like ceiling-height cabinets, a large kitchen island, or a high number of drawers will add to the material and labor costs. Intricate details, such as custom paneling or unique storage solutions, also require more time and skill to create. Our design and build services focus on creating a plan that balances beautiful, functional design with your financial goals, ensuring the final layout is both practical and stunning.
Finishes and Hardware Selections
The details truly make the design, and in cabinetry, those details are the finishes and hardware. A multi-layer stain or a specialty paint finish requires more labor and precision, which is reflected in the cost. The same goes for hardware. While it might seem like a small component, the knobs, pulls, and hinges you choose can add up. Features that improve functionality, like soft-close hinges or custom rollout trays, are popular add-ons that contribute to the final price. These selections are where you can infuse personality into your space, so it’s worth considering how they fit into your overall budget.
How Your Cabinets Are Built
How your cabinets are constructed is a testament to their quality and longevity. At THP Builders, we believe in building things to last, which is why we use high-quality materials like 3/4″ plywood for the cabinet boxes. The craftsmanship behind the build and the skill of the installation team are crucial. A more complex design requires more expertise and time to install correctly, which impacts labor costs. Investing in quality construction and professional installation ensures your cabinets will not only look beautiful but will also function perfectly for years to come, making it a worthwhile part of your investment.
How Do Material Choices Affect Your Cabinet Budget?
The material you choose for your cabinets is one of the biggest factors influencing your final project cost. It’s also one of the most exciting decisions you’ll make! The wood, finish, and hardware you select will define the look and feel of your space for years to come. Understanding how these choices connect to your budget helps you make decisions you’ll be happy with, both aesthetically and financially. Let’s break down the main material considerations.
Solid Wood vs. Engineered Materials
When we talk about cabinet materials, the conversation usually starts with solid wood versus engineered options. Solid wood cabinets are crafted from single pieces of lumber and are celebrated for their natural beauty and durability. They can be sanded and refinished over the years, offering incredible longevity. On the other hand, engineered materials like MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and particleboard are made from wood fibers and resins. These materials are very stable, resist warping, and provide a perfectly smooth surface for painted finishes. While solid wood has a higher upfront cost, engineered materials offer a more budget-friendly alternative for your kitchen remodeling project without sacrificing a high-end look.
The Cost Difference in Wood Species
If you decide to go with solid wood, you’ll find that the specific species you choose also plays a big role in your budget. Common, domestically sourced woods like maple and birch are often more affordable choices. They have subtle grain patterns that take paint and stain beautifully. Premium woods like cherry, walnut, or white oak come with a higher price tag due to their rarity, rich coloring, and distinctive grain patterns. Each wood has its own personality and durability characteristics, so the right choice depends on your style and how you use your kitchen. You can see a variety of wood types in our project gallery to get a feel for what you like.
How Finishes Impact the Final Price
The final touch that brings your cabinets to life is the finish—and it’s another key element of your budget. A standard paint or stain is the most straightforward option. However, more complex, multi-step finishes will add to the cost. Think about custom paint colors, hand-applied glazes that accentuate details, or high-gloss lacquers that require multiple coats and extensive sanding. These premium finishes demand more time and skill from the craftsperson, which is reflected in the price. While it might be tempting to cut costs here, a high-quality finish protects the underlying wood from moisture and wear. Our design and build services team can help you find the perfect finish that fits your vision.
Which Design Features Add to Your Cost?
Once you’ve settled on materials and a general layout, the next layer of decisions involves the features that make your cabinets truly custom. Think of these as the upgrades that enhance both the look and function of your space. While every bell and whistle adds to the final price tag, they also add immense value to your daily life. Understanding how these choices impact your budget will help you prioritize what matters most for your new kitchen, bathroom, or built-in storage.
Detailed Trim and Crown Molding
The finishing touches are what often separate standard cabinets from a truly high-end, custom look. Detailed trim, light rails, and elegant crown molding create a polished, built-in aesthetic that seamlessly integrates the cabinetry with your home’s architecture. The cost for these elements depends on the complexity of the profile and the amount of material needed. For example, crown molding can range from $5 to $15 per linear foot. While it’s an added expense, this is one of those details that completes the vision of a beautifully executed kitchen remodel. It’s a small price for a feature that delivers a major visual impact.
Drawers, Inserts, and Pull-Outs
Functionality is at the heart of great cabinet design. While a standard cabinet with shelves is the most basic option, upgrading to drawers and specialized inserts can transform how you use your space. Deep drawers for pots and pans, rollout trays for easy access to the back of a cabinet, and sturdy dovetail drawer boxes are popular for a reason. These features come at a higher price—rollout trays can add $150 to $400 per cabinet, while dovetail drawers might add $100 to $300 each. However, they eliminate frustrating, disorganized cabinets and make your kitchen a joy to work in. You can see examples of these clever solutions in our project gallery.
Taller Cabinets and Unique Layouts
The size and configuration of your cabinets play a significant role in the final cost. Extending your upper cabinets to the ceiling, for instance, maximizes storage and creates a grander, more intentional look, but it also requires more material and labor. Similarly, complex layouts that include features like a large kitchen island, a peninsula with storage, or custom-angled corner cabinets will be more expensive than a simple, straight run of cabinetry. These structural elements are foundational to any great home renovation, as they define the room’s flow and overall capacity. The more intricate the design, the more you can expect the price to reflect that custom craftsmanship.
Integrated Storage and Organizers
This is where you can tailor your cabinets perfectly to your lifestyle. Integrated solutions like pull-out spice racks, dedicated trash and recycling bins, appliance garages to hide countertop clutter, and custom drawer organizers keep everything in its place. Features like soft-close hinges and drawer slides are now almost standard in custom work, but they still factor into the cost. Each specialized organizer adds to the price, but they also solve specific storage problems. Planning for these features is a key part of our design and build services, ensuring your new space is as practical as it is beautiful.
What Other Costs Should You Plan For?
When you’re budgeting for custom cabinets, it’s easy to focus solely on the price of the cabinets themselves. But the material cost is just one piece of the puzzle. To get a complete picture of your investment, you need to account for several other essential services that bring your vision to life. Think of it like buying a beautiful car—the sticker price is the starting point, but you still have to account for delivery and other fees to get it home and ready to drive.
For your kitchen remodeling project, these additional costs typically include professional installation, design and planning services, and sometimes even the removal of your old cabinets. Each of these steps requires skilled labor and careful coordination to ensure your new cabinetry fits perfectly and functions flawlessly for years to come. Understanding these costs upfront helps you create a realistic budget and prevents any surprises down the road. A transparent contractor will always provide a detailed breakdown of every expense, so you know exactly where your money is going.
Professional Installation and Labor
Getting your custom cabinets installed correctly is just as important as the quality of the cabinets themselves. This is not a DIY-friendly task; it requires precision, specialized tools, and an expert touch to ensure everything is level, secure, and perfectly aligned. Professional installation is what gives your kitchen that polished, high-end look.
As a general rule, you can expect labor and installation to add 30% to 50% to your cabinet material costs. For example, if you spend $15,000 on cabinets, the installation could range from $4,500 to $7,500. This fee covers the skilled work of the installers who will handle everything from fitting the cabinets into unique spaces to ensuring doors and drawers operate smoothly. Investing in professional installation protects your cabinetry and guarantees the final result seen in our gallery is flawless.
Design and Planning Fees
Before a single piece of wood is cut, a great deal of work goes into designing your perfect cabinet layout. The design phase is where your ideas, needs, and style preferences are translated into a functional and beautiful plan. This process often involves a dedicated designer who helps you select materials, finishes, and hardware while optimizing your space for flow and efficiency.
Some firms include this service as part of their overall project cost, while others charge a separate design fee. Our design and build services integrate this step seamlessly into your project. A design consultation is the perfect starting point to map out costs, timelines, and options tailored to your home, ensuring the final plan is exactly what you envisioned.
Per-Cabinet Installation Fees
Another way contractors might price installation is on a per-cabinet basis. This method is straightforward and can make it easier to estimate costs, especially for smaller projects. You might see quotes where installation costs around $220 per cabinet, often with a required minimum of four or five cabinets. While this seems simple, it’s important to clarify exactly what’s included.
Does that price cover complex installations, like a corner cabinet with a lazy Susan or a heavy pantry unit? Does it include installing crown molding, light valances, or decorative hardware? To avoid any confusion, always ask for a comprehensive quote that details every aspect of the installation. When you’re ready to get a clear estimate for your project, you can contact our team for a transparent breakdown.
How Do Custom Cabinets Compare to Other Options?
When you’re planning a remodel, your cabinet choice is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. It impacts your budget, your kitchen’s functionality, and the overall aesthetic of your home for years to come. While custom cabinets offer unparalleled quality and personalization, it’s helpful to see how they stack up against the other options on the market: stock and semi-custom. Each type has its own place, and understanding the differences in cost, value, and flexibility will help you decide which path is right for your project. Let’s break down what you can expect from each.
A Quick Cost Comparison
The price tag is often the first thing people look at, and the differences are significant. Stock cabinets are the most budget-friendly option, typically running from $100 to $300 per linear foot because they are mass-produced in standard sizes. Semi-custom cabinets are the middle ground, usually costing between $200 and $700 per linear foot, offering more flexibility in styles and sizes than stock options. Custom cabinets represent the highest initial investment, with prices generally starting around $500 and going up to $1,500 or more per linear foot. This higher upfront cost reflects a product built with premium materials and craftsmanship, specifically for your space.
Long-Term Value and ROI
It’s easy to focus on the initial cost, but it’s also important to consider long-term value. Custom cabinets are an investment in your home. Because they are built with superior materials and craftsmanship, they are more durable and last significantly longer than stock alternatives. This means you won’t be dealing with repairs or replacements in a few years. A perfectly fitted, beautifully designed kitchen also adds considerable appeal and can increase your home’s resale value. When you undertake a kitchen remodeling project, choosing quality cabinets ensures the result is not only stunning but also a wise financial decision that pays off over time through durability and improved home equity.
How Much Can You Customize Each Type?
The level of personalization is what truly sets these cabinet types apart. Stock cabinets offer the least flexibility; you’re limited to a set menu of sizes, styles, and finishes. Semi-custom cabinets provide a good compromise, allowing for some modifications to standard designs, like changing drawer sizes or cabinet depths. Custom cabinets, however, are built from the ground up just for you. Every single detail can be tailored to your exact specifications—from the wood species and finish to unique storage solutions and dimensions that fit your room’s quirks perfectly. Our design and build services thrive on this flexibility, allowing us to create a space that is truly one-of-a-kind and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.
Common Pricing Myths to Avoid
When you start budgeting for a home remodel, it’s easy to get tripped up by a few common misconceptions, especially when it comes to cabinet pricing. Understanding these myths from the get-go can save you from sticker shock and help you create a more realistic budget. Think of it as getting the inside scoop so you can ask the right questions and feel confident in your financial planning. A clear picture of the total investment is the first step toward a smooth and successful project.
A great contractor will walk you through every line item, but being prepared helps you have a more productive conversation. Let’s clear up a few things you might hear about cabinet costs so you can plan your kitchen remodeling project with total clarity. From how pricing is calculated to the “hidden” fees that can pop up, knowing what to expect is key. This way, you can focus on the exciting parts, like choosing finishes and hardware, instead of worrying about unexpected bills.
Linear Foot vs. Square Foot Pricing
One of the most common points of confusion is how custom cabinets are measured for pricing. You might be used to thinking in square feet for things like flooring or tile, but custom cabinets are almost always priced by the linear foot. This measurement runs along the wall length of your cabinetry. Expect to see prices ranging from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot for truly custom work. It’s a critical distinction because a square foot price would give you a wildly inaccurate estimate. Always confirm with your builder that you’re discussing linear footage to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
The price you get for the cabinets themselves is rarely the final number. It’s crucial to account for other expenses that are part of the overall project. Labor and installation alone can add 30% to 50% to the cost of your cabinet materials. That means if you spend $15,000 on cabinets, you should plan for an additional $4,500 to $7,500 for installation. Other costs to factor in include demolition of old cabinets, new countertops, hardware, and any necessary permits. Our design and build services create a comprehensive plan that accounts for these items from the start, so there are no surprises.
The True Cost of Installation
Don’t underestimate the cost—or the value—of professional installation. This isn’t a place to cut corners. Skilled installers ensure your cabinets are level, secure, and function perfectly, which is essential for their longevity and appearance. Labor can make up a significant portion of your budget, with hourly rates for skilled cabinetmakers ranging from $70 to $175. Some installers may even charge per cabinet. Getting this step right is what makes your investment worthwhile, resulting in a flawless finish you can see in our project gallery. A precise installation protects your cabinets and ensures they look beautiful for years to come.
How to Save on Custom Cabinets Without Sacrificing Quality
Custom cabinets are a beautiful investment in your home, but that doesn’t mean you have to drain your savings to get the look you want. With some smart planning and strategic choices, you can achieve a high-end result that fits your budget. It’s all about knowing where to spend and where you can save without compromising the quality and longevity of your new space. Let’s walk through a few practical ways to manage the cost of your custom cabinetry project.
Choose Your Materials Wisely
Your choice of materials is one of the biggest factors in your final cabinet cost. The type of wood and the finish you select can greatly affect the price. For example, premium hardwoods like cherry or white oak will cost more than versatile options like birch. If you’re planning on painted cabinets, you can often use a high-quality MDF (medium-density fiberboard) for the doors, which is stable, smooth, and more budget-friendly than solid wood. Working with our design and build team means we can guide you toward materials that give you the aesthetic you love while respecting your budget.
Mix and Match Cabinet Types
You don’t have to go all-or-nothing with custom cabinetry. A great strategy is to mix and match cabinet types to get the most impact for your money. Decide which features are most important to you. You might invest in fully custom cabinets for a statement-making kitchen island or a highly visible wall and then use quality semi-custom options for less prominent areas. This approach gives your kitchen remodel a luxurious, personalized feel where it counts most, while saving on the perimeter cabinets that don’t require the same level of unique sizing or detail. It’s a designer’s trick that delivers a high-end look without the full custom price tag.
Plan Ahead to Save
Good planning is your best tool for keeping costs in check. Finalizing every detail before production begins helps you avoid expensive change orders later on. It’s also worth considering the timing of your project. Scheduling your cabinet installation during slower seasons, rather than peak construction times, can sometimes lead to better pricing from suppliers. The most important step is to have a clear, detailed plan from the start. When you work with us, we map out every element—from layout to hardware—to ensure the project runs smoothly and stays on budget. Ready to start the conversation? You can contact us to begin planning your project well in advance.
Questions to Ask Your Cabinet Contractor
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to have a detailed conversation with your potential contractor. A true professional will be happy to answer your questions and provide clear, transparent information. This conversation is your best tool for setting clear expectations and ensuring there are no surprises down the road. Think of it as the final step in making sure you’ve found the right partner for your project. Asking smart questions now helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for and what the process will look like from start to finish.
Feeling prepared for this discussion will give you confidence and help you build a strong working relationship from day one. Don’t be shy about digging into the details—it’s your home and your investment, after all. A contractor who is patient and thorough with their answers is likely to carry that same level of care into their work. Use these questions as a guide to cover all your bases before signing on the dotted line.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
To get a quote you can actually rely on, you need to provide as much detail as possible about your vision. Prices for custom work vary widely based on materials, finishes, and the intricacy of the design. Come prepared with inspiration photos from our gallery or other sources, a rough idea of your layout, and a list of must-have features. The more information you give your contractor, the more precise their estimate will be. A good contractor can also help you refine your ideas, but starting with a clear direction helps them give you a number that won’t change dramatically later on.
Ask for a Detailed Price Breakdown
A single bottom-line number isn’t enough. Ask for an itemized breakdown that separates the costs of materials, labor, hardware, finishes, and installation. This transparency is a hallmark of a trustworthy contractor. Understanding the key factors affecting cost allows you to see where your money is going and make informed decisions. For example, you might see that a specific type of wood or a premium finish is driving up the price, giving you the option to explore alternatives if you need to adjust your budget. This level of detail prevents misunderstandings about what is included.
Clarify the Project Timeline and Scope
Before work begins, make sure you have a clear and realistic project timeline. Ask about the estimated start and completion dates and what the communication process will look like throughout the project. It’s also important to discuss how potential delays or changes are handled. Our design and build services establish a clear scope from the outset to keep the project on track. Confirm who your main point of contact will be and how often you can expect updates. This ensures everyone is on the same page and helps the entire process run smoothly from demolition to the final walkthrough.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the higher price for custom cabinets truly worth it? Absolutely, if you value a perfect fit and long-term quality. Stock cabinets are designed to fit average spaces, which means you often end up with awkward gaps and wasted potential. Custom cabinets are built specifically for your room, maximizing every inch for storage and creating a seamless, high-end look. They are also constructed with superior materials and techniques, so they stand up to daily life for decades, making them a lasting investment in your home’s function and value.
What’s the single best way to save money on custom cabinets without them looking cheap? Focus your budget on what you see and touch every day. A great strategy is to choose a more accessible wood species or material, especially if you plan on painting the cabinets, and then invest in high-quality construction and hardware. A well-built cabinet box with sturdy, soft-close drawers will feel luxurious and last forever, even if it’s made from a less expensive wood. This approach ensures you don’t compromise on the quality and durability that make custom cabinets worthwhile.
How long does the custom cabinet process usually take from design to installation? Patience is key when it comes to custom work. From the final design approval, you can generally expect the fabrication process to take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks. This timeline allows skilled craftspeople to build your cabinets from scratch with precision. Installation itself typically takes several days to a week, depending on the size and complexity of your project. A good contractor will give you a clear and detailed timeline before any work begins.
Why is there such a wide price range, like $500 to $1,500 per linear foot? That range reflects the incredible amount of personalization available. Think of it like this: a simple, painted cabinet made from a common wood is at the lower end of that scale. If you start choosing premium woods like walnut, add intricate design details like crown molding, select a complex multi-step finish, and outfit the interiors with pull-out organizers and custom drawers, you move toward the higher end. Your specific choices in materials, design, and features are what determine the final price.
Besides the cabinets themselves, what’s the biggest ‘surprise’ cost I should plan for? Professional installation is the one cost people often underestimate. It’s not just about hanging boxes on a wall; it’s a highly skilled job that ensures everything is perfectly level, secure, and functions beautifully. Labor for a quality installation can add 30% to 50% to your cabinet material cost. While it might seem like a big number, investing in an expert installation is what protects your beautiful new cabinets and guarantees a flawless final result.