Custom Cabinets: Things to Consider
If you're thinking about having custom cabinets built for you, then there are a wide variety of factors you'll want to consider before placing an order. Since this is a piece of furniture designed solely for you, you'll have complete control over various elements — so make the most of this. Taking the following factors into account will ensure that you end up with a quality product that will last not just because it's durable, but also because it suits your needs for many years to come.
Materials
Of course, to begin with, there's the basic choice of which wood you'd like to use. You'll want to balance expense and durability with a colour scheme that fits your room. As a rule of thumb, dark wood looks best in big rooms with lots of light; if your room is smaller or gets less natural light, consider choosing a lighter wood to help open up the space. You should also be sure to take the cabinet maker's advice. For example, you may know that you want something like mahogany — but the expert will be able to advise you if there are alternates available for better prices.
Size
Don't make the mistake of having a solid piece of furniture built to dimensions that fit the place you're going to put it — but not the doorway. Unless the piece can be taken apart and reassembled, make sure it will comfortably fit through whichever doors and hallways you'll need to access, along with those carrying it.
Features
Are you looking for a basic, functional cabinet design or one with more complex display features such as a glass-front case? Do you need drawer space? What dimensions should each compartment be? It helps to know exactly which items will be stored on the furniture when it's used in your home. That way, you can even supply the cabinet maker with those measurements and make sure that statuette you intend to decorate with will definitely fit on the shelf.
It's a lot more complicated than just picking out an existing design from a catalogue — but really, that's a good thing. It means you don't need to compromise on any single feature; it can tick every box you're looking for. So long as you go into the cabinet maker with a good idea of what you need out of the end piece, they can help you with the more complex design elements.
