Budgeting for Custom Cabinets: Where the Costs Come From

When homeowners start planning a remodel, one of the first questions is: “Why do custom cabinets cost what they do?”
It’s a fair question — and understanding where the money goes helps you make smart decisions, plan your budget realistically, and see the true value of craftsmanship.

As a custom cabinet contractor, I believe in transparency. Let’s break down exactly what goes into the cost of custom cabinetry.

1. Materials — The Foundation of Quality

Your cabinets are only as good as what they’re made from.
Premium materials cost more, but they also look better, last longer, and resist warping or delamination over time.

• Cabinet Boxes: Baltic birch or prefinished maple plywood are strong, stable, and built to last — unlike particleboard or MDF used in cheaper options.
• Doors and Fronts: Solid hardwood or veneer panels add warmth, texture, and authenticity.
• Hardware: Soft-close hinges, under-mount drawer slides, and adjustable levelers (like Blum or Salice) make a huge difference in feel and longevity.
• Finishes: Professionally sprayed lacquers, stains, and clear coats are durable and consistent, unlike DIY finishes.

🪵 Material costs typically account for 35–45% of a custom cabinet project.

2. Design and Customization

Unlike prefabricated cabinets, every custom piece starts with a design.
That means time spent on:

• Site measurements
• 3D drawings and renderings
• Adjusting details for appliances, plumbing, or architectural quirks
• Selecting materials, colors, and finishes

This design phase ensures your cabinets fit your space perfectly — not the other way around.

🧩 Design and planning make up roughly 10–15% of total cost.

3. Skilled Labor and Craftsmanship

Custom cabinets aren’t assembled on a factory line — they’re built by hand in a local shop.
Every cut, joint, and finish is handled by a skilled craftsman who understands both precision and aesthetics.

That includes:

• CNC cutting or hand fabrication
• Edge banding and joinery
• Sanding, assembly, and quality control
• Spraying and finishing
• On-site installation and fine-tuning

⚒️ Labor often represents 30–40% of total cost, reflecting the time and expertise required to build something that fits perfectly and lasts decades.

4. Installation and On-Site Work

Even perfectly built cabinets need expert installation.
Walls are rarely straight, floors are uneven, and details like crown molding, end panels, and fillers all take time to fit precisely.

Professional installers handle:

• Leveling and anchoring cabinets
• Aligning doors and drawers
• Scribing to walls and floors
• Coordinating with countertop and appliance installers

🔩 Installation typically adds 10–15% of total cost, depending on complexity and site conditions.

5. Finishing Touches and Custom Details

Every project has unique options that influence price, such as:

• Pull-out shelves or drawer organizers
• Integrated LED lighting
• Specialty veneers or exotic woods
• Custom paint colors or stains
• Floating shelves, trim details, or integrated steel supports

✨ These features elevate a kitchen from “nice” to “custom,” but they also add material and labor time.

6. Why Custom Cabinets Are Worth It

When you invest in custom cabinetry, you’re getting:

• A perfect fit for your space — no wasted corners or filler boxes
• Durable materials built to handle real life
• Local craftsmanship and personalized service
• Repairable, upgradable designs that age beautifully

Custom cabinets aren’t just furniture — they’re part of your home’s architecture.

Final Thoughts

Every home, design, and budget is different.
Understanding these cost components helps you compare quotes fairly and make confident decisions. When done right, custom cabinetry isn’t an expense — it’s a long-term investment in your home’s beauty and functionality.

Call to Action

If you’re planning a remodel or new build, let’s talk about your ideas.
I’ll help you design a layout that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your budget — without sacrificing quality.

👉 Contact Ferris Custom Furniture and Cabinetry to schedule a consultation.