The least expensive are Stock Cabinets. They represent what styles manufacturers know will sell, rather than cutting-edge trends with design subtleties. They come in limited styles and finishes, and use more economic materials, hardware and construction methods than higher-end products.  Because less time is spent in production, they arrive more quickly.  If 3” incremental cabinets will work in your plan, you can do a lot with stock cabinets.

At the other end of the spectrum are both Hand Crafted and Manufactured Customized Cabinets. Cabinets made by an experienced craftsman - with careful design / planning - can be beautiful, functional and unique.  They are usually stained and finished at a separate finishing specialist’s shop or they are painted at the jobsite.  Depending on usage, I recommend them for placement in rooms beyond the kitchen.

High-end, Manufactured Customized Cabinets (not an oxymoron) reflect a level of engineering and design thoroughness comparable to a quality car. Along with many style choices, all the bells and whistles, quality materials and hardware, they offer an intensive factory-applied finish.  One of the companies we work with has a many-layered, catalyzed finish that cannot be dissolved even by lacquer thinner.  The process allows for ample drying times and is applied in a temperature controlled, particle-free environment. It will stand up to heavy cooking activity and maintenance.  While practical, I also like the subtle, polished gleam it imparts. Another cost-effective feature is the quiet, self-closing drawer hardware, which obviously saves wear and tear on cabinets and people.  The manufacturing process employs sustainable sources and methods. With so much lasting quality and design, they are worth the wait for many, which is usually longer. Which ever one suits your needs, the key to success lies in Careful Planning.