What does “custom” really mean? part 1

Words like “custom” and “high-end” are often used when discussing cabinets, home building, and remodeling. These words sound good, but the definitions vary greatly.

• The text book definition of “custom cabinets” may be met when cabinets can be ordered in odd or fractional widths and heights. However, this is just the starting point.
• True “custom” projects are designed and built to higher standard.

The British term for custom kitchens is “bespoke” or custom-built for a particular individual. Additionally, a true bespoke product is made for a particular individual without the use of a pre-existing pattern.

Side note: I realized these are cabinets made from wood and not nearly as important as our health, children or marriages. However, you will probably live with your cabinetry (happily or not) longer than the next two or three cars you purchase. It’s logical and prudent to know what your getting and giving up with your project.

In the Nashville music business they say it all starts with the song.  With cabinetry and kitchens, it all starts with the design.  Great craftsmanship and hand selected materials mean little when the design and layout fall short. 

1. Designed for the Individual:    Form and function.  Every project and client is unique.  With a kitchen project, the design and cabinetry must fit the desired style and work the way the client lives. 

 Example:  A client that rarely prepares elaborate meals, but wants the kitchen to be a “gathering place” for the family.  Seating areas, counter space for homework and an office adjacent to the kitchen take priority.  Specific attention to knee spaces and seating heights is critical for a comfortable space.

While some projects have a lot of options and flexibility with the layout, others (particularly remodels) may have numerous limiting factors.  The design must address these factors with specific attention to scale, style and functionality.  The creative solutions designed and built by a cabinet shop that can work without a pattern can turn these once problems into features you highlight when give neighbors and friends a guided tour.

In the next post I’ll illustrate some common examples of cabinet design and construction that falls short of our definition of  “custom”.

 

brent

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