Have you decided to add custom cabinets to your kitchen layout? You can do this conversion to change the look and feel of your cooking space. You are probably wondering which door style you should choose.

We want to help you make the final decision you won’t regret. We’ve rounded up the reasons why shaker-style cabinet doors are the most popular choice.

Why are shaker-style cabinets so popular?

Do you want to add special cabinet doors to your kitchen design? Maybe it’s time to learn more about shaker-style cabinets.

The Shakers were a spiritual community that celebrated its heyday from the mid to late 1800s. They lived lives devoted to simplicity and practicality. Part of this dedication has resulted in a trend towards homemade wood furniture. Shaker-made cabinets became famous for their simple, rail and poster structures.

Whether it’s a minimalist-inspired cooking area or one that says excess is more pleasing, there are several reasons why we feel the shaker cabinet works with any design option. Here they are, in no particular order:

Ageless Appearance

Shaker cabinets are out of fashion; It is one of the principles of a timeless kitchen design that will never get old. The simplicity of the shaker doors—almost like a flat-panel door but with a slightly raised border—is a big part of its appeal. A simple and straightforward look with enough detail to provide depth and interest. When you start with a basic foundation like this, your cabinets will look relevant for decades to come, with only a slight variation in their colour, finish and/or hardware.

It’s impossible not to love them

Shaker cabinet doors are used in both traditional cooking areas and modern cooking areas. Traditionalists appreciate the timelessness of their looks and may opt to use slightly more ornate doorknobs and drawer handles if they crave for more detail. Modernists, on the other hand, enjoy their clean lines and unbridled looks. Not surprisingly, a transitional kitchen design will often implement Shaker doors as a way to combine the simplicity of a modern design with decorative pillars or accessories on the kitchen island, hood or elsewhere.

They look great as a color or stain

Shaker doors take paint or colored laminate very well and both can produce spectacular results that will help you achieve the design style you want. On the other hand, the large panels on the door serve to highlight the beautiful natural wood grain patterns, so wood stains are also a rightfully popular veneer option.

Easy to maintain

For busy families and professionals, “low maintenance” is one of the most desirable features of any kitchen choice. The simple design of the shaker doors allows their surfaces to be easily disinfected. Without the abundant ridges found in more traditional doors that are known to trap dust, oil residue and debris, a quick wipe cleans Shaker cabinets with minimal effort. If a low-maintenance kitchen design is high on your priority list, we recommend choosing cabinets with laminate finishes. They can take a hit and are not picky when it comes to cleaning and polishing requirements.

Reasonably priced

Typically, this cabinet door style doesn’t blow up most of the budgets set aside for a remodeling project. Thanks to their simple construction, the price point tends to fall right in the mid-range. Not to mention, the aforementioned timelessness makes it a wise investment that is likely to save you the cost of a future remodel as the design trend changes from year to year.

If Shaker-style cabinet doors were a high school yearbook, it could easily have been voted “most likely to succeed.” Whatever your design style, it will fit stylishly with your desired look and will stand the test of time.

Where can I find high quality custom cabinets?

If you think this style suits your needs, our experts near you will be there to make it happen. We have professionals trained to use our commitment and some of the best industry practices. You will get personalized cabins that are durable and aesthetically pleasing. We make your cabinets compatible with your marble, quartz or granite countertops. Our experts will help you choose colors and materials to complement the rest of the design.

Visit our website and view photos of real-life kitchens that use Shaker-style doors, or find one that fits your needs. Call us today or fill out an online form to find out our final custom cabinet price.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

The majority of kitchen cabinets, particularly those made out of wood, are designed to survive for many years. The timeless elegance of high-quality solid wood cabinets makes them a perfect complement to any kitchen. However, no matter the material of the cabinet, as time passes, some form of damage is bound to happen. At first glance, this damage may appear to have come out of nowhere. Most cabinet damage is caused by fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Humidity in the kitchen may lead to the wood expanding and contracting. This can, for instance, cause the paint on your cabinets to chip and reveal the joint lines. Aside from that, water damage, faulty installation, relocating the cabinets, and unprepared wood prior to painting are all possibilities. For this preseason, we are going to discuss the top five things that can damage your kitchen cabinets.

Extreme Moisture and Temperature Change

Kitchen temperature and humidity fluctuations are the leading cause of cracks in the wood center panel and cabinet doors that damage your kitchen cabinets. Wood is a natural material that will adjust to the humidity and temperature of your house over time. However, even the best kitchen cabinets and wood countertops can swell in summer and other humid months because wood easily absorbs extra moisture from the air due to higher relative humidity. When winter arrives, the humidity lowers, causing the wood to compress. Additionally, kitchen cabinet paint wears off over time due to the wood’s continual movement. These flaws manifest as tiny openings or thin fractures in the cabinet’s doors, joints, or corners. That being said, if you manage the kitchen’s humidity properly, problems with painting won’t arise. On the other hand, if you wish to prevent cracks, you will need to maintain a constant humidity level of between 40 and 50 percent.

Damage Caused by Water

The kitchen is one of the busiest areas in the home, so it’s not surprising that water spills and stains are common on painted cabinet surfaces. If your high-quality wood cabinets or countertops absorb even a tiny bit of water, they can quickly lose their quality and beauty. Cracking of butt joints in corner cabinets, paint peeling or bubbling, and expansion of wood materials are all possible results. However, if you have plywood cabinets and countertops rather than solid wood ones, it’s highly unlikely that your cabinets will become damaged due to water alone.

Failing to Properly Prepare Cabinetry Prior to Painting

When the wood in your kitchen cabinets isn’t properly treated or prepped before the final painting process, cracks may form in either a small piece or across an entire panel. For instance, the paint may bubble or shatter if you work on an unclean surface. Therefore, you need to make sure to remove any dirt, grease, and dust from the wood surface before painting. It’s also not a good idea to paint your wood cabinet doors and panels while they’re still wet. This may cause bubbles to develop on the paint and eventually peel off, leaving behind unsightly fissures.

Household Pests Can Damage Your Kitchen Cabinets

No one wants to believe they have a problem with pests in their kitchen. It still can be. Cockroaches in particular are often attracted to the greasy residue that builds up behind the stove. Additionally, pests such as termites love moist environments in kitchen cabinets. This makes your kitchen cabinets the perfect place for them to establish their colony. Termites can seriously damage the woodwork inside your kitchen cabinets and in the process can wreak havoc on your home. That’s why it’s so important to regularly inspect your cabinets for signs of infestation so you can take immediate action to minimize further damage and prevent the infestation from spreading to other areas of your home.

Poor Installation

Failing to install it properly weakens the overall structure of a cabinet, which over time leads to cracks and damage. If you want your cabinets to last a long time without breaking, you need to use professionals who know how to correctly secure the joints and install the cabinets.

How to Increase the Longevity of Your Kitchen Cabinets?

If you have recently purchased or are planning to purchase a custom cabinet set for your kitchen and are looking for ways to make it last longer, you should:

Keep Them in Working Order

As soon as you notice that they are not performing properly, you must determine what is causing the problem and resolve it. As we have mentioned, leaving technical issues unattended can cause further damage to your kitchen cabinets.

Clean Them Frequently

Wardrobe cleaning is a tedious job that no one wants to do. However, you don’t need to be completely thorough. You can wipe it regularly with a damp cloth.

Minimize the Humidity in Your Kitchen to Avoid Damage to Your Kitchen Cabinets

Moisture is the worst enemy of kitchen cabinets. As a result, make sure to air out any cooking streams and deal with spilled liquid as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Now that you understand what the top five things that can damage your kitchen cabinets are, we hope that you will take the necessary precautions to protect your investment. Regularly following these tips will save your kitchen cabinet set a lot more for years to come.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

There are so many benefits to spending time together in the kitchen. Studies suggest that enjoying a meal together can have several positive impacts on your family, including:

• Better academic scores and language development for teens and children.
• Improved family relationships and strengthened by family discussions.
• The ability to make healthier, more nutritious food choices.
• Decreased risk of teenagers engaging in high-risk behaviors.
• Less emotional stress, thanks to a stronger support system.

Encourage your family to spend more time in the kitchen by creating the ultimate family-friendly space.

SIX TIPS FOR CREATING A FAMILY-FRIENDLY KITCHEN DESIGN

A family-friendly kitchen is one that is comfortable, functional, safe and engaging for the whole family. Following these six tips to begin designing your own family-friendly kitchen:

SEATING IS EVERYTHING

In a family-friendly kitchen, seating is everything. Whether your family gathers around a traditional dining room table or sits on counter-height barstools around the kitchen island, make sure there is plenty of comfortable seating available. The more comfortable your dinner-time seating is, the more time your family will want to spend sitting around the table.

Some of the most delicious family meals — like pasta, pizza and desserts — can also be some of the messiest. When choosing chairs or bar stools for your family kitchen, look for ones that are made with easy-to-clean fabrics. Alternatively, preserve delicate seating with washable slip-covers during mealtime.

HAVE A MENU BOARD

One of the smartest family kitchen ideas is to display a large menu in the dining area so your family can look ahead at the week’s dinner plans. Construct your menu out of chalkboard paint or use a dry-erase board, so it is easy to change each week.

Pre-planning your weekly menu is an excellent way to organize your grocery shopping list and give your family an idea of what to expect each night. For even more fun, consider implementing “theme nights” throughout the week, like Taco Tuesday or Leftovers Night.

CHOOSE EASY-TO-CLEAN BUILDING MATERIALS

Easy to clean building materials — especially for the countertops and flooring — are a must-have in family-friendly kitchens. Quartz, vinyl, and laminate countertops are all easy to maintain and stand up well to the chaos of family mealtime.

Stone, tile, and laminate materials are all great options for your floor, as they are typically non-porous and easy to clean. Avoid installing any carpet in your kitchen, as it will be difficult to keep clean and dry. Instead, opt for a colorful, washable rug to add more personality to the room.

Let’s be real. Life happens. When you use a kitchen, day in and day out, bad things can happen to good cabinets. But now you can make a mess, wipe it clean and get on with life.

CHILD-PROOF WHEN NECESSARY

If babies or toddlers live in your home, you are probably already familiar with the idea of child-proofing. In a family-friendly kitchen, child-proofing means installing high shelves and closed-door cabinetry to safely hide away dangerous items, like knives, kitchen gadgets, cleaning agents and more.

Baby gates are another good option for keeping children away from unsafe areas of the kitchen. For even more protection, consider placing corner guards on the edges of your kitchen counters, island and dining table to keep your little one from bumping their head.

LET THE KIDS GET INVOLVED

Make family time last longer and teach your child valuable life skills by letting them get involved in the meal preparations. Depending on your child’s age, there are several different ways your kid can get involved.

Teaching your children how to cook from a young age and letting them express themselves in the kitchen can encourage them to:

• Develop healthy eating habits.
• Be more creative.
• Become more adventurous eaters.
• Learn math and basic formulas while measuring ingredients.
• Improve their reading comprehension by consulting recipes.
• Learn more about where food comes from, including different cultures.
• Get a jump-start on learning how to care for themselves.
For kid-friendly kitchen design, install child-height furniture. If that isn’t possible, designate a special step-stool for your child, so they can easily assist. You could also set a special drawer in your kitchen aside for your children’s baking and cooking supplies so they can learn how to put away their tools and dishes during cleanup.

STORAGE, STORAGE, STORAGE

Kitchens for families require a lot of storage space to make room for all the dishes, pantry items, pots and pans. Implement traditional storage spaces throughout your kitchen design, including kitchen walk-in pantries, drawers, cabinetry and pot hangers.

If your kitchen is small or you are working on a limited budget, implement other space-saving tricks, like:

• Installing sliding, pull-out pantries.
• Invest in built-in spice racks inside your cabinets.
• Placing floating shelves on the wall.

For you, this means kitchen cabinetry that can:

• Withstand the heat, moisture, drops and spills that happen while cooking.
• Handle accidental scrapes and bumps without lasting damage.

Potomac Kitchen and Bath, you can also add optional additional storage or personalized touches to your cabinetry like built-in spice racks and decorative trims or moldings. Select Potomac Kitchen and Bath are available for Quick Ship, meaning you get your cabinetry within days, not weeks.

• Fast transit times: Select Potomac Kitchen and Bath are available for Quick Ship transit.
To learn more about Potomac Kitchen and Bath — or to browse our other premium cabinetry selections — visit Potomac Kitchen and Bath online. Then, find an independent Potomac Kitchen and Bath dealer near you to see the cabinets for yourself and begin designing the family kitchen of your dreams.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

Kitchen cabinet color trends are constantly shifting — and what, exactly, is in style can differ depending on who you ask. Many people look to the concept of the color of the year for insight. Several colors of the year exist, however, and these often seem to have little rhyme or reason.

Every year, evolving color trends reflect our collective experience and desires for the future. This was especially obvious during the peak of the pandemic when we sought calm in a time of uncertainty.

Tranquility remains important, but we also want to express our true selves as we move into a new phase. Hence, the rise of bold designs, retro throwbacks, and all kinds of styles that felt inaccessible a few short years ago.

If there’s a theme for 2024, it’s anything goes. That’s right — this year’s hues occupy all areas of the color spectrum, ranging from long-time favorites such as white to throwbacks (like brown) and soothing colors that reflect the best of biophilic design. Many daring colors are also fair game this year, so be prepared to show off your distinct personality with vibrant cabinets and accents that feel true to you.

If there’s a downside to this range of trends, it’s that narrowing down your options can feel tricky at times. We’re here to help. We’ve outlined several of the biggest cabinet color trends for 2024, as well as practical ways these can be applied.

The goal? To deliver a fresh feel in keeping with our current desire for connection and creativity — but to also provide a timeless aesthetic that you’ll continue to adore far into the future.

WHITE REMAINS KING

Crisp, clean, and contemporary, white remains one of the best options for establishing an inviting kitchen. The all-white aesthetic may have been dominant during the early 2000s, but it certainly hasn’t disappeared. These days, homeowners are beginning to realize that there’s far more nuance to white than they previously assumed. Choosing a mostly white cabinet color design is only the first step; you still need to look closely at textures, accent colors, and the overall flow of your space.

Remember: the goal with white cabinets is not only to form a contemporary, visually appealing aesthetic but also, to design a welcoming space that will meet all your needs both now and far into the future.

Done right, white can bring a surprising degree of warmth and calm to your space. In 2024, this often means mixing and matching with grounding tones or hues that reflect your unique personality. Options worth exploring include:

Butter Cream: The earthy era of 2024 calls for warmth. This will be in abundant supply if you deck your kitchen out in rich Butter Cream.

Cascade White: Not as overtly creamy as the appropriately named Butter Cream, Cascade White is perfect for calling attention to details, such as beaded insets cabinets.

Garden Gate: Blue-ish tones are still in, so Garden Gate works when you want to bring a unique element to your white design.

GRAY’S NOT GONE YET

While we’re starting to see a slight departure from the gray tones, there’s still plenty of room left. Gray has by no means disappeared, but how we approach this color is starting to shift. Red undertones should bring more warmth to this hue, appealing to those who might otherwise opt for earthier tones.

Dutch Boy exemplifies this approach with its color of the year: Rustic Greige. Relaxing, this grayish color is a great option for anyone who naturally gravitates toward neutral tones. It’s unique in that it works well with both warm and cool tones.

Examples include:

Vista Gray: There’s no need for gray to feel stark or cold. Soft and comforting, Vista Gray can bring a surprisingly warm feel to a contemporary or transitional kitchen.

It allows you to make the most of the ongoing gray trend while keeping it feeling airy.

These inviting hues are an increasing priority for those who want their home to feel as comfortable as possible.

Described as a “soft and soulful natural,” this option emphasizes compassion and connection — qualities that we are clearly craving in 2024. The colors recommended for pairing (such as Cool Beige) also bring a modern edge to the earthy aesthetic.

In keeping with this shift towards earthier styles, the stain lineup now features many appealing brown tones. These can be paired with a variety of cool accents, from soft, dark hues to bolder designs. If you love the natural details of hardwood, this is your time to let earthy styles shine. In addition, you can choose granite, quartz, and marble for kitchen countertops suitable for them.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

Don’t believe that a simple kitchen cabinet remodels update can save your kitchen? With a tight and modest budget, we can show you why this common misconception is still holding you back from your dream kitchen.

Note that in the examples below, nothing has been changed except the cabinet faces. All we did was eliminate cabinet doors that were outdated or boring to them and replace cabinet faces with new ones. This is perfect if you want to refresh the look and feel of your cooking area without changing its layout.

How can I transform my kitchen by renovating my cabinets?
What is cabinet refurbishment? It’s an excellent way to not only improve the appearance of these products, but also transform the aesthetics of your cooking space, using less money and energy. This is an especially good idea if you want to combine the new counter with brand new cabinets and have a brand new place to cook and spend time with your family.

Here are 10 successful transformations that can inspire you for your next project:

Choose Warm And Inviting Materials

White cabinets have a cool aesthetic, but not the intended warming effect. We reupholstered the cabinets with Prestige Raised Panel Chocolate Pear and now the kitchen is warm and inviting. Plus, the updated tile backsplash and floors pair nicely with the new quartz countertops.

Switch to a More Modern Look

Sometimes original oak cathedral cabinet doors look absolutely outdated. Using new granite doesn’t work either. Oak makes cabinets look shabby. It might be good to swap these out for modern bar style sliding doors.

Add ground anchors

It would be great to add Classic Raised Panel Doors with Washington Cherry glass for an absolutely substantial effect that provides a solid anchor for the open concept kitchen.

Choose an Annotation Style

Shaker style doors can be remodeled into a more traditional style in Antique White and Brown Glazed Vintage Raised Panels. You can match the renovated cabinets with the motif of the rest of the house. Vintage Raised Panel Doors are a timeless look and will stand the test of time.

Take a Traditional Spin

Yes! A single cabinet renovation project can change the entire style of your kitchen and make your modern kitchen traditional again. The addition of the Breckenridge Cathedral Doors in Mucumeci after the Antique White with Walnut Glaze makes the kitchen area look great. Is this an incredible transformation or what?

Make the Necessary Cosmetic Changes

While we don’t necessarily advocate the use of cosmetic enhancements, we think this kitchen is the equivalent of a redesigned cabinet, an anti-aging and energizing Botox injection.

Make 4.5 x 4.5 Tiles Relevant Again

New tile work is expensive and unnecessary if you’re smart about your kitchen remodeling options. Replacing late 80s oak cabinets with Prestige Square cabinet doors in a warm and bright Cherry color – suddenly outdated tile work becomes relevant again. The kitchen went from Family Ties to Modern Family in just a few days.

Lighten Up

The old cabinets mixed with the earthy wall color make the kitchen look dim and gloomy than it is. Light is important in a kitchen. Well-lit spaces feel bigger, cleaner, and more cheerful. Another advantage: The cabinet color brings out warmer tones in the wall color. The overall effect is much brighter.

Get Rid of Empty Calories

Black and White kitchen motifs are classic, but when combined with a mix of accents, they result in a big, fat mess of styles full of empty calories.

Add Some Neutral Elements

A stylized kitchen can be great, but it often goes beyond welcome. Therefore, these owners were ready to ditch the green and move on to something a little more casual and neutral.

Who Offers High-Quality Cabin Upholstery ?

Did these 10 miraculous kitchen transformations make you jealous? If you want to try one of these options and get help from professionals with extensive experience in realizing this and similar projects, our team is at your service. We will listen carefully to your needs, suggest the most suitable solution, and make the necessary changes using some of the best cabinet lining materials and products available.

If you would like to experience a detail-oriented service and get an instant and accurate quote for cabin refurbishment online, contact Potomac Kitchen and Bath so we can come for onsite consultation and cabin refurbishment estimation.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

Your kitchen cabinets is the heart of your home. A well-designed kitchen is a perfect place to prepare delicious meals, gather friends and family and entertain.

If you’re remodeling your kitchen or designing a new one, you likely have many different decisions to make. You want to create a stylish and beautiful room with storage that maximizes the space available. If you’re deciding between shelves or cabinets in your kitchen, we’ve created a handy list of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Learn everything you need to know about the pros and cons of open shelves vs. kitchen cabinets.

Cabinets

Cabinetry has long been the go-to choice for kitchen storage. You can place cabinets above and below your countertops as well as under a kitchen island. There are even narrow cabinets that fit in corners and other areas to utilize your kitchen’s space. Cabinets also create a focal point in your kitchen, helping to anchor the room. Cabinets are best if you want maximum space and clean, sleek storage.

Open Shelves

Floating kitchen shelves became a popular design trend thanks partly to home renovation shows. Homeowners and designers opt for open shelves to display pretty dishes and other items in a trendy, minimalist way. But has the hype fizzled out? How practical are floating shelves in a kitchen? While some still choose shelving instead of kitchen cabinets for a modern, minimal aesthetic, many avoid them due to their impracticality.

Pros of Cabinets

There are many advantages to using kitchen cabinets vs. shelves. Here are the top four reasons to outfit your kitchen with cabinets.

Many Styles to Choose From

Kitchen cabinets can help bring your design style to life. There are many cabinet styles to choose from, whether your aesthetic is traditional, modern or somewhere in between. You can further customize your cabinet doors with your choice of knobs, handles and hardware.

More Storage Space

Who doesn’t love extra storage space? It’s easy to underestimate how much closed storage you need. In addition to dishes, your kitchen needs to store cooking utensils, linens, cookbooks, cleaning products and, of course, food!

Countertop appliances and large dishes like pots can take up a lot of space. You can store these items in cabinets for a clean, clutter-free kitchen. You can also insert sliding shelves or dividers to maximize your cabinet space.

Easy to Clean

Kitchen cabinets protect the items inside from dust and contaminants. If you’re looking for kitchen storage that keeps your supplies clean, cabinetry is a good option.

Hides Excessive Clutter

Not every kitchen item is display-worthy. Plastic cups and extra silverware are certainly functional, but they don’t need to be seen. Cabinets allow you to store things out of sight, hiding any clutter.

Cons of Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets have few drawbacks, but consider the following to help you make your choice.

More Money Upfront

Cabinetry is more expensive than open shelves because it requires more materials and installation time. Even so, cabinets are a worthwhile investment since plenty of storage is attractive for resale purposes.

May Show Wear and Tear Over Time

As with most things, kitchen cabinets will show signs of use over time. We’ve all seen crooked or drooping cabinet doors, misaligned drawers and broken hardware. You can avoid these issues by choosing high-quality cabinets. Proper cabinet materials and construction can make a significant difference.

Pros of Open Shelves

You might choose shelves instead of cabinets if you want an inexpensive, minimalist storage option that’s easy to personalize. Other pros of open shelving in kitchens include the following.

Trendy and Stylish

Minimalism has become a popular home design aesthetic. Floating shelves can help make your kitchen feel more spacious, especially if you only display a few items. Open shelves can be an attractive storage piece in your kitchen, depending on the material you use.

Improved Functionality in Your Kitchen

Open shelving allows you to place everything you use in your kitchen in view and at your fingertips without opening cupboards and searching for items. Open shelves can streamline your kitchen activities and save valuable time.

Showcases Other Design Elements

Do you have brick, paint colors or wallpaper that you want to showcase? These elements add flair to a room and can be fully appreciated by using open shelving.

Open shelves also provide an opportunity to decorate. You can display seasonal decorations like flowers, pumpkins and holiday greenery throughout the year. Just remember that doing so will further limit space for your dishes.

Less Money Upfront

If you’re designing a kitchen on a budget, movable shelves and quartz are a good choice. You can get creative with them while remaining cost conscious.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

There are so many benefits to spending time together in the kitchen. Studies suggest that enjoying a meal together can have several positive impacts on your family, including:

• Better academic scores and language development for teens and children.
• Improved family relationships and strengthened by family discussions.
• The ability to make healthier, more nutritious food choices.
• Decreased risk of teenagers engaging in high-risk behaviors.
• Less emotional stress, thanks to a stronger support system.

Encourage your family to spend more time in the kitchen by creating the ultimate family-friendly space.

SIX TIPS FOR CREATING A FAMILY-FRIENDLY KITCHEN DESIGN

A family-friendly kitchen is one that is comfortable, functional, safe and engaging for the whole family. Following these six tips to begin designing your own family-friendly kitchen:

SEATING IS EVERYTHING

In a family-friendly kitchen, seating is everything. Whether your family gathers around a traditional dining room table or sits on counter-height barstools around the kitchen island, make sure there is plenty of comfortable seating available. The more comfortable your dinner-time seating is, the more time your family will want to spend sitting around the table.

Some of the most delicious family meals — like pasta, pizza and desserts — can also be some of the messiest. When choosing chairs or bar stools for your family kitchen, look for ones that are made with easy-to-clean fabrics. Alternatively, preserve delicate seating with washable slip-covers during mealtime.

HAVE A MENU BOARD

One of the smartest family kitchen ideas is to display a large menu in the dining area so your family can look ahead at the week’s dinner plans. Construct your menu out of chalkboard paint or use a dry-erase board, so it is easy to change each week.

Pre-planning your weekly menu is an excellent way to organize your grocery shopping list and give your family an idea of what to expect each night. For even more fun, consider implementing “theme nights” throughout the week, like Taco Tuesday or Leftovers Night.

CHOOSE EASY-TO-CLEAN BUILDING MATERIALS

Easy to clean building materials — especially for the countertops and flooring — are a must-have in family-friendly kitchens. Quartz, vinyl, and laminate countertops are all easy to maintain and stand up well to the chaos of family mealtime.

Stone, tile, and laminate materials are all great options for your floor, as they are typically non-porous and easy to clean. Avoid installing any carpet in your kitchen, as it will be difficult to keep clean and dry. Instead, opt for a colorful, washable rug to add more personality to the room.

Let’s be real. Life happens. When you use a kitchen, day in and day out, bad things can happen to good cabinets. But now you can make a mess, wipe it clean and get on with life.

CHILD-PROOF WHEN NECESSARY

If babies or toddlers live in your home, you are probably already familiar with the idea of child-proofing. In a family-friendly kitchen, child-proofing means installing high shelves and closed-door cabinetry to safely hide away dangerous items, like knives, kitchen gadgets, cleaning agents and more.

Baby gates are another good option for keeping children away from unsafe areas of the kitchen. For even more protection, consider placing corner guards on the edges of your kitchen counters, island and dining table to keep your little one from bumping their head.

LET THE KIDS GET INVOLVED

Make family time last longer and teach your child valuable life skills by letting them get involved in the meal preparations. Depending on your child’s age, there are several different ways your kid can get involved.

Teaching your children how to cook from a young age and letting them express themselves in the kitchen can encourage them to:

• Develop healthy eating habits.
• Be more creative.
• Become more adventurous eaters.
• Learn math and basic formulas while measuring ingredients.
• Improve their reading comprehension by consulting recipes.
• Learn more about where food comes from, including different cultures.
• Get a jump-start on learning how to care for themselves.
For kid-friendly kitchen design, install child-height furniture. If that isn’t possible, designate a special step-stool for your child, so they can easily assist. You could also set a special drawer in your kitchen aside for your children’s baking and cooking supplies so they can learn how to put away their tools and dishes during cleanup.

STORAGE, STORAGE, STORAGE

Kitchens for families require a lot of storage space to make room for all the dishes, pantry items, pots and pans. Implement traditional storage spaces throughout your kitchen design, including kitchen walk-in pantries, drawers, cabinetry and pot hangers.

If your kitchen is small or you are working on a limited budget, implement other space-saving tricks, like:

• Installing sliding, pull-out pantries.
• Invest in built-in spice racks inside your cabinets.
• Placing floating shelves on the wall.

For you, this means kitchen cabinetry that can:

• Withstand the heat, moisture, drops and spills that happen while cooking.
• Handle accidental scrapes and bumps without lasting damage.

Potomac Kitchen and Bath, you can also add optional additional storage or personalized touches to your cabinetry like built-in spice racks and decorative trims or moldings. Select Potomac Kitchen and Bath are available for Quick Ship, meaning you get your cabinetry within days, not weeks.

• Fast transit times: Select Potomac Kitchen and Bath are available for Quick Ship transit.
To learn more about Potomac Kitchen and Bath — or to browse our other premium cabinetry selections — visit Potomac Kitchen and Bath online. Then, find an independent Potomac Kitchen and Bath dealer near you to see the cabinets for yourself and begin designing the family kitchen of your dreams.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

If you’re looking to revamp your kitchen’s look, you might want to start with new kitchen cabinets. However, knowing how to measure cabinets in kitchens is an essential skill to have when you want to take your kitchen’s appearance and functionality to the next level.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with the skills you need to measure your kitchen properly.

STEPS TO MEASURE YOUR KITCHEN FOR CABINETS
To begin the measuring process, you’ll need to gather:

Grid paper
A tape measure
A pencil or pen
After collecting the materials, follow these seven steps to measure your kitchen for cabinets:

DRAW YOUR FLOOR PLAN

The first step you have to take to begin measuring your kitchen for cabinets is to draw up a floor plan. With your pen or pencil, sketch the layout of your kitchen onto a piece of grid paper. On this floor plan, you’ll need to identify the locations of:

Windows
Doors
Light switches
Water lines
Gas lines
Drain lines
Vents for heating and air
Hood vents
Electrical outlets
The first draft of your floor plan doesn’t have to be to scale, but you should make sure it conveys the layout accurately and clearly.

TAKE HORIZONTAL MEASUREMENTS

With the layout taken down, you can begin measuring your space. Your measurements should be entirely in inches. For example, instead of recording that a wall is four feet long, you should record that it is 48 inches long.

The first horizontal measurements you’ll need to make are the full wall lengths. It’s best to start taking horizontal measurements from one of the adjoining corners of the wall. Measure clockwise, moving from edge to edge with your tape measure. You’ll want to skip over appliances, windows, and other fixtures. It’s a good idea to label your walls with a specific number so you can reference them easily.

Once you’ve got the full length down, you’ll then move on to measuring the wall in smaller segments. In this stage, you’ll measure every opening. To get these measurements, you’ll measure from one outside trim edge to the next outside trim edge. Ensure you include any molding or trim in the smaller wall segment in the measurement. Like the larger walls, number your openings for simple referencing. You’ll need to record both the full and partial length measurements on your floor plan.

TAKE VERTICAL MEASUREMENTS

After recording your horizontal measurements, you’ll need to do the same for your vertical measurements. In your initial measurements, you’ll measure from the floor to the windowsill. Next, you’ll measure from the windowsill to the window’s top, and finally, from the top of the window to the ceiling.

The final step is to measure from the floor to the ceiling. Since some homes will have different ceiling heights in the same room, you should take at least three different floor-to-ceiling measurements.

NOTE OBSTRUCTIONS

With the measurements in place, you should note any obstructions alongside your walls, including vents, pipes, and radiators. It’s essential to note obstructions because they usually can’t be removed, which can influence where you place your cabinets.

IDENTIFY APPLIANCES AND UTILITIES

In your kitchen, you’ll want to determine what large appliances and utilities you’re going to want to keep in the kitchen after you’ve installed your newest cabinets. Knowing where your power sources, water supply, air vents, light switches, and electrical outlets are will help you figure out where you can and can’t place your cabinets.

Other than marking the location of these utilities and appliances on your floor plan, you should also indicate where their center points are. The center point of an appliance will usually be the point where the gas line or plumbing line begins.

PLAN YOUR KITCHEN LAYOUT

With all your measurements and notes handy, you can begin to plan out how your kitchen is going to look with your new cabinets. Since you know how much space to work with, you can pick out areas where you want to include your new cabinets.

SELECT YOUR KITCHEN CABINETS

After you’ve figured out where you want your kitchen cabinets to go, you can begin to figure out which kitchen cabinets are right for you. There are a lot of different options available for you to choose from. Consider a variety of cabinets before you make a decision. Just make sure their dimensions fit before you order them.

TIPS FOR MEASURING YOUR KITCHEN FOR CABINETS

Do not forget to measure your granite countertops, quartz countertops, and marble countertops while making your measurements.

Take horizontal measurements at the same distance from the floor: You’ll need to take all the horizontal measurements of your kitchen walls at the same height. By taking your measurements at the same distance, you’ll make sure they stay consistent across all the walls you measure.

• Make accurate measurements with the right tools: To be as accurate as possible, get a reliable tape measure and pencil to help you take measurements. Additionally, use graph paper and a straight edge to help you draw up a floor plan that best represents your kitchen.
• Measure clockwise: To ensure you never miss a wall or forget where you left off, it’s best practice to measure your walls clockwise. As you move around the room, you should be labeling walls, doors, and windows with numbers to keep everything as accurate as possible.
• Don’t forget the trim: When you measure windows or doors, remember that it’s trim, or casing, is considered part of the window or door. For example, you’d measure a window from one end of its trim to the opposite side to get the window’s length or height.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

Choosing the right doors for your cabinets is no small decision. After all, they’re an important visual element in your kitchen, meaning the design you choose will have a significant impact on the overall design of the room. Based purely on your cabinet door choices, you can set the tone for a kitchen that’s bright and fun, sophisticated and refined, or minimalistic and classic.

It’s no surprise, then, that the number of potential options can be overwhelming. To help you make the decision of which cabinet door will help you achieve the look and feel you’re going for, we’ve put together a handy guide on popular cabinet door styles, as well as which criteria you should be looking for as you make your selection. Continue reading this cabinet door styles guide to find out which is best for your kitchen style and budget.

CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING YOUR CABINET DOORS

There are plenty of different ways you could evaluate your choices of cabinet doors. Everyone has their own method, and none of these methods are wrong. If you’re feeling swamped by all the possibilities, however, it can be helpful to know some of the standard criteria for choosing your types of cabinet doors.

You can also find which kitchen cabinet is compatible with your granite countertop, quartz countertop or marble countertop from our link pages.

A few of the common criteria people evaluate while making this choice include:

KITCHEN LAYOUT AND STYLE

Your entire house has a theme, a style, and a feeling that is carried throughout. Every piece of furniture, every carpet, and every light fixture works together to contribute to this feeling, and no room is exempt from this. While the style might vary slightly from the bedroom to the hall, and the living room to the dining room, a consistent theme will likely run throughout your house. This includes the kitchen as well.

When it comes to deciding on your cabinet doors, think of them in terms of your home’s overall style. The first step is to determine what the current style of your home is and consider what look you want to achieve. Is your home classic and elegant? Is it modern and minimalistic? What about bold, bright, and fun? Whatever style your house has working for it, carry this through with your kitchen cabinet doors.

As you’re thinking about your home’s overall style, it might also be wise to devote some time to thinking about your kitchen’s layout. Is it L-shaped? U-shaped? Think about how different styles of doors will look in your current layout, and let this guide your decision accordingly.

FUNCTIONALITY

Another important consideration when choosing between different kitchen cabinet door styles is functionality.

Think about how you typically use or would like to use your cabinets. Do you frequently entertain guests and need extra storage space for all your serving dishes, plates, and drinkware?

These kinds of factors will influence what your functionality needs are.

PRICE

Like anything else, cabinet doors exist in a wide range of prices and styles. Some are less expensive, while others are more expensive — and there’s something for everyone’s budget.

As you browse cabinet door options, we recommend looking through the options available to you as a start, so you get a solid understanding of typical price ranges. Then, look at your own budget and decide how much money you’re willing to spend. Compare this decision to the prices of cabinet doors, and you’ll find that you’re quickly able to eliminate many of the options that fall on either end of your desired price range.

When you shop cabinet doors at Potomac Kitchen and Bath, you’ll find that our cabinet doors are available at a wide selection of prices. Browse from our affordable Potomac Kitchen and Bath cabinets to our semi-custom options at a middle-of-the-road price point and finally our Potomac Kitchen and Bath choices at the very top of the price range. Decide which options work best for you and your wallet, and move forward from there.

CONSTRUCTION

While there are countless different aesthetic designs for cabinets, the actual structural bones of a cabinet are available in two primary different construction options.

The first option is full-access cabinets. This is a more European style that allows for slightly more storage inside an elegant frameless construction. If you’re interested in this style, we recommend checking out our Potomac Kitchen and Bath cabinets.

On the other hand, the second, more popular option is framed cabinets. This style is more common in the United States and features framed cabinets built in many different sub-styles. We offer many different cabinets in this style, such as our Potomac Kitchen and Bath.

DOOR STYLE AND FINISH

The aesthetic is an important part of the choosing process. Ask yourself which finishes and styles you like the best, and which ones you think will look the best in your kitchen. These criteria alone should help you narrow down the choices considerably.

It’s not surprising, then, that the number of potential options is huge. We’ve put together a handy guide to help you decide which cabinet door will help you achieve the look and feel you’re looking for. make your choice. Keep reading this guide to cabinet door styles to find which is best for your kitchen style and budget.

ADDITIONAL DOOR-STYLE OPTIONS

Beyond the simple matter of overlays, there are numerous other ways your cabinet doors can vary in style and design.

Drawer fronts, for example, come in two different styles. These styles are one-piece drawer fronts — a style known as a slab — and five-piece drawer fronts — a style known as decorative. Not only can you customize your cabinets, but you can also allow yourself some freedom and expression with your drawers as well.

Stains and finishes are also important design elements to keep in mind. Cabinets and drawers come in all different colors, shades, and finishes, and we recommend basing your choice on a variety of factors such as price, taste, and overall compliance with your kitchen’s style as a whole. Some of our most popular styles and finishes for cabinets are painted, SmartShield, and glazed.

COLOR

No matter what style of kitchen cabinet doors you choose, the color palette will play a significant part in how the finished project will look. 

Lighter color palettes using cream or white can help create looks ranging from contemporary to farmhouse. Meanwhile, adding pops of color or sticking to a more earthy color palette can help you achieve anything from a modern to a mid-century style.

While cabinets were traditionally painted just one color, choosing a two-tone design — where you paint or stain the top and bottom in two different shades — can really add some visual appeal.

For further information about kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and countertops or to add granite, marble, or quartz countertops to your kitchen and vanity tops to your bathroom, call Potomac Kitchen & Bath Now! You can also make a free appointment to get service in:

Leesburg, McLean, Chantilly, Merrifield, Dunn Loring, Annandale, Dulles, Oakton,  Aldie, Warrenton, Lorton,  Sterling, Alexandria, Arlington, Potomac Falls, South Riding, Gainesville, Vienna, Gaithersburg, Great Falls, Bethesda, Rockville, Clifton, Haymarket, Burke,  Dumfries, Dalecity, Springfield, Reston, Centreville, Ashburn, Herndon, Manassas, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, VA.

Meet the Better New Kitchens

Are you ready to recreate your kitchen? With our experience in custom woodworking and finishing, we make it easy to upgrade your kitchen without the mess or cost of a full remodel. With our years of knowledge, we offer first-class cabinet refurbishment service using the finest woods and finishes. Choose from a variety of door styles, wood species and specialty finishes to make your kitchen uniquely yours. Our full range of options includes custom modifications and partial new build solutions that enable us to meet homeowners’ specific needs. Let us walk you through our process before, during and after installation for a hassle-free cabinet renovation experience.

Before You Start Revitalizing Your Kitchen

It all starts with an initial estimate based on your rough measurements and preferences. If it’s within your budget, we’ll personally meet with you at your home to discuss design, materials, and customizations with a few samples. This 2-3 hour session will get you exactly what you want. Following your selections, we provide an accurate and detailed quote and then set installation dates following confirmation and payment.

Planning and Rearranging Your Schedule

We believe in realistic timelines and stay true to our promises. Although installation can begin shortly after the contract is signed, the timeline can often take up to 6-8 weeks as we have a dedicated installation team, including the owner himself. Our commitment to realistic planning has given us a track record our clients can trust.

Preparing for Cabinet Refurbishment Installation

Preparing for installation is simple. Please clean your counters and empty the front 6 inches of your cabinets and drawers. Complete emptying of cabinets or drawers is only necessary if your project involves special new construction features. In addition to working in your kitchen, we will set up a mobile shop as our “base camp,” requiring a clean, secure indoor area of 15’x15′ to ensure a smooth and efficient installation.

What to Expect During Installation?

Some of the many benefits of kitchen cabinet refacing are experienced during the installation period. Customers will be able to use their kitchens during the project when the installation team is not working on site. You can expect occasional loud noises as part of the installation process, but there won’t be much dust or odor. Although installation timeframe varies from project to project depending on size and complexity, it typically only takes 2-4 days to complete a cabinet remodeling installation from start to finish. The team typically arrives at the site between 8:00am and 9:00am and leaves before 5:00pm each day.

Cabinet Refacing Precision

Our team is all about precision. We start by removing old cabinet parts and disposing of them responsibly. We then cover your existing cabinets with real wood paneling, hand-painted transition areas, and meticulously install new doors, drawer tops, crown molding, soft-close hinges, handles, and drawers. Our commitment to functionality and aesthetics ensures every component aligns perfectly in your Scottsdale kitchen.

Quality Controls

Quality is our brand. Strict quality checks and inspections throughout the installation process ensure impeccable workmanship. Literally no detail is left unchecked at Better Than New Kitchens. We have a checklist.

Customer Communication

We pride ourselves on open communication. We will keep you informed of developments. With the owner onsite, any questions or concerns are answered immediately for a hassle-free experience.

Cleaning Process

After installation, we put your kitchen back together. Your appliances are replaced, surfaces are wiped down, cabinets and drawers are vacuumed, and debris is removed. A similar practice is applied to the mobile store workspace. Our promise is to leave your space better than when we arrived.

Contact us for granite, marble or quartz countertops suitable for your kitchen.