Let’s be honest—choosing kitchen cabinets isn’t just about having enough storage. It’s about building a space that reflects your style, fits your needs, and adds value to your home. Whether you’re doing a full remodel or just upgrading your cabinetry, your choice of cabinets—especially whether you go with RTA kitchen cabinets or custom kitchen cabinets—makes a huge difference.
Not sure where to begin? Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you find the perfect kitchen cabinets for your space.
1. Find Your Style
Start by imagining your dream kitchen. Do you lean toward modern and minimalist, or do you love a cozy farmhouse feel?
Some cabinet styles to consider:
- Shaker cabinets – Classic and clean, they’re a favorite for both traditional and modern kitchens.
- Flat-panel (slab) cabinets – Sleek and perfect for a contemporary look.
- Glass-front cabinets – Great if you want to show off your dishware or add a lighter touch.
- Rustic or beadboard cabinets – Perfect for cottage or farmhouse-inspired spaces.
If you’re going for a budget-friendly remodel with plenty of style choices, RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) kitchen cabinets come in a wide variety of these popular designs.
2. Choose the Right Material
Durability and appearance go hand in hand when choosing cabinet materials. A few common options include:
- Solid wood – Beautiful and long-lasting, but on the higher end of the budget.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) – Smooth, affordable, and great for painted finishes.
- Plywood – Durable and moisture-resistant, often used in higher-end custom kitchen cabinets.
- Particleboard – Lower-cost, but best used in drier kitchen environments.
The material you choose can impact how your cabinets look and perform over time. If you’re planning to install RTA kitchen cabinets, look for plywood box construction and soft-close hardware for a solid upgrade.
3. Think Function First
Great cabinets don’t just look good—they work hard too. Ask yourself:
- Do I need drawers for pots and pans?
- Would pull-out trays or organizers make things easier?
- Do I want soft-close doors and drawers?
These features are available in many custom kitchen cabinets, but you’ll also find functional add-ons in high-quality RTA cabinet options.
4. Measure Carefully (or Let a Pro Help)
Before you choose a cabinet type or layout, make sure your measurements are spot on. This helps you avoid costly mistakes.If you’re ordering RTA cabinets online, double-check all dimensions, including ceiling height and appliance placement. If you’re going with custom cabinets, a professional will usually handle this part for you.
5. Set Your Budget and Choose the Right Option
Cabinets can take up a big portion of your kitchen renovation budget. Your two main options:
- RTA kitchen cabinets – Great for budget-conscious homeowners or DIY projects. They come pre-cut and flat-packed, ready for assembly.
- Custom kitchen cabinets – Tailored to your kitchen’s exact dimensions, layout, and style. Ideal if you want something unique and built to last.
If you’re not afraid of a little assembly and want to save some cash, RTA is a solid option. But if you’re dreaming of something more personalized or need cabinets to fit a unique layout, custom cabinets are worth the investment.
6. See Samples Before You Commit
Photos online don’t always capture the real finish, color, or texture. If possible, visit a showroom or order samples—especially if you’re considering RTA cabinets from an online supplier.
This helps you get a feel for the materials and make sure the color matches your vision.
7. Choose What Lasts
Trendy colors and finishes are fun—but think about how your kitchen will age. Neutral tones, quality materials, and timeless designs tend to hold up best.
Custom kitchen cabinets give you complete control over color and finish, while many RTA options still offer trendy and classic styles that won’t go out of fashion anytime soon.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right kitchen cabinets isn’t just a design decision—it’s a balance of style, function, and budget. Whether you go for affordable and convenient RTA kitchen cabinets or fully custom kitchen cabinets built just for your space, the key is choosing what works best for you.
