Like the furniture in your home, cabinets have a major impact on the overall style of your kitchen. Typically, they will be the first selection you make in the design process, to set the mood for the room. Dark, rich wood tones with striking architecture can add drama and sophistication to a room, while curvilinear doors with a pale distressed painted finish add the perfect touch of French country charm.

There are two features to consider when choosing cabinets, door style and finish. Door style is the physical shape and architecture of the door while the finish is the color, wood, paint, stain, veneer, varnish, ect. Although some finishes traditionally lend themselves to certain door styles, there are no rules, so your options are virtually limitless.

To help you get started we've included a style, material and finish guide.

Countertops

Today's countertops command more than mere utility. They play a significant role in the overall design style as well. While style has the biggest influence over cabinet selection, intended use should be your first consideration with countertops. Do you cook often? Entertain? Do you have children? Do you require something low maintenance?

Keep in mind….

You don't need to lock yourself in to selecting one material for the entire kitchen. Stronger materials can be placed in heavily used areas and more luxurious materials, stain sensitive materials may be used in areas that get less wear. This is also a great way to incorporate new colors and textures and define specific working areas.

Consider the cabinets you've selected. Do you like contrast or would you prefer the colors and tones to blend?

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