As a kitchen and bath designer, one of the more common questions I'm asked by my clients is, "Are manufactured cabinets better, or are custom cabinets better?"
The answer is; "Yes."
Both products have their features, advantages, and benefits, and which one you should use for your specific project depends on your specific needs.
One benefit of manufactured cabinets that immediately comes to mind is time, especially if you're working within a smaller budget. Many cabinet manufacturers have products that are available within two weeks, sometimes even a week or so, and if you've ever dealt with a kitchen remodel project you know that's pretty fast. This usually only applies, however, to the manufacturers' lower price point products; the more common cabinet sizes that are either kept in stock at a distribution center or are manufactured on a large scale. Higher-end custom or semi-custom cabinets can take much longer.
A busy custom cabinet maker will not usually be able to move quite that quickly. He will typically have to order doors, unless he makes his own, which also takes time, and gather the right materials before he can start work on your furniture.
There may be a cabinet maker in your area who is not so busy and might be able to get your project together more quickly, but let's face it, there is usually a very good reason why the busy guys are busy and the others are not.
It is also true that many cabinet manufacturers offer very fine semi-custom and even custom furniture, and as a large company, manufacturers have access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology that is usually cost prohibitive to the cabinet maker. The manufacturer's construction, finish, and warranty will reflect this, and it is definitely something to consider, especially for high-end projects.
At the same time, if you're working within a more conservative budget, the manufacturer might not offer the same storage and convenience options at a lower price point that they would at a higher price point. Your cabinet maker might have cost-saving ideas to incorporate some of these options into your budget. Also, if your room involves an unusual wall configuration or other unique requirement, the cabinet maker might be the better choice.
Material, style, budget, and options are just some of the many factors that should be considered when planning your new construction or kitchen remodel project, and it pays to do your homework in order to avoid costly mistakes.
If you're in the Macon, GA area, contact me at my web site: myspace.com/virtualmasterpieces, or, for in-depth planning ideas, there is a great planning guide available at:
http://www.akitchendesigne-book.com/
Good luck with your project!
