Custom Cabinets vs. Semi-Custom Cabinets: What’s the Difference?


Here at By Design, we get a lot of questions about the difference between custom and semi-custom cabinets and hope this will help to distinguish between both and make it easier to decide which way to go.  When we speak about custom, we do not mean "site-built" cabinets or cabinets that come unfinished and require you to find a cabinet finisher to complete the process.  If you go that route, please remember that a good finish could cost you as much as your unfinished cabinets.  After all, you don't want to have amazing cabinets that don't look very good at all.

Custom Cabinets:

  • Designed and Built for You: Custom cabinets are like bespoke suits for your kitchen. They are meticulously crafted to fit your specific space, taking into account every nook, cranny, and quirk of your kitchen layout.
  • Unlimited Customization: With custom cabinets, you call the shots. From dimensions and materials to color, finish, and additional features, it’s all up to you. Want a secret spice drawer? Done. Dreaming of a pull-out pantry? Consider it done.
  • Top-Quality Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans meticulously handcraft custom cabinets, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail.
  • Pros:
    • Custom-Made: Every detail is tailored to your preferences.
    • Top Quality: Crafted by experienced professionals.
  • Cons:
    • Pricey: Custom cabinets typically cost between $500 and $1,400 per linear foot on average.
    • More Time Needed: Expect a two to three-month design and build process.

Semi-Custom Cabinets:

  • The Middle Ground: Semi-custom cabinets strike a balance between customization and convenience.
  • Limited Customization: While not as flexible as custom cabinets, they offer more options than stock cabinets. You can choose from a limited range of cabinet door styles, hardware, finishes, and colors.
  • Affordable and Timely: Semi-custom cabinets are more budget-friendly, typically ranging from $150 to $900 per linear foot.
  • Pros:
    • Relatively Affordable: Won’t break the bank.
    • Customization Available: You still get to choose style, hardware, color, and finish.
  • Cons:
    • Less Customization: Not as personalized as custom cabinets.

Conclusion:

  • Custom Cabinets: For those who want a kitchen that’s uniquely theirs, with no compromises.
  • Semi-Custom Cabinets: A practical choice that balances customization and cost-effectiveness.

By Design Kitchen and Bath Solutions offers both custom and semi-custom options to suit your needs.  We are trained to provide the look you are going for using either option and that is how we are able to meet most realistic budgets.  Please let us know if you are interested in a FREE consultation with one of our trained kitchen and bath designers.

Remember, whether you go custom or semi-custom, your kitchen cabinets play a vital role in both aesthetics and functionality. Choose wisely! 

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