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Custom Doors for IKEA Cabinets – Q&A 4

2023 IKEA Kitchen Planner - Wide View 2 Apartment Design.

This week we return to answering quick questions for homeowners preparing to design a new or remodeled kitchen. From what makes a Scandinavian or mid-century modern design, where to start with a kitchen layout, to the pros and cons of fully custom cabinetry. We listen to our Clients and the folks that just pop in with a question about what it takes to take on a design project.

What Makes a Kitchen Design Scandinavian?

Scandinavian kitchen design is comprised of a number of factors that can be summarized with one word: streamlined. Scandi Design consists of relatively simple styling, clean lines, neutral colors, decluttered spaces, and functionality. In Scandinavian Design you will encounter plenty of wood furniture & accents, more open and well-lit spaces.

We talk so much about IKEA cabinetry and our custom fronts, but IKEA really only popularized some of these design considerations in North America. It turns out that despite the modern developments in residential construction there are thousands of years of cultural aesthetics that converge to make Nordic, or Scandi Design.

Is Mid-Century Modern the Same as Scandinavian Design?

Mid-Century Modern can at first glance seem like the same as Scandinavian Design. As Hayneedle points out, there is aesthetic overlap and both rose to prominence in the 1950’s. Mid-Century Modern is similarly centered around clean lines & functionality. However, Mid-Modern will tend to have a tighter layout, lower light, and more adventurous with color & texture.

the Pros and Cons of Custom Cabinets?

The biggest advantage of fully custom kitchen cabinetry is that they are always built to suit your needs. With enough planning and by using the right company you can install nearly everything you will need for kitchen functionality. And custom cabinets can look downright stunning.

There are of course a number of downsides that stem from the primary one: You will pay $10-$20K more for fully custom kitchen cabinetry. Homeowners are choosing painted or real wood cabinetry when they buy custom cabinets. As we mention in a number of our posts, real wood and small-shop painted doors have some durability considerations. Both door finishes can dent easily.

Fair Oaks Eugene Home Remodel Before 5892-HDR copy 2

Additionally, compared to laminate fronts, these types have issues absorbing humidity in the kitchen. This results in damaged fronts, drawers, and panels that need to be replaced. Color and Wood matching restrictions can result in the homeowner having to replace more than just the damaged items.

How Do I Make My Own Kitchen Layout?

With the right set of skills and right guidance, a homeowner can create their own Kitchen Layout. Understanding that a kitchen layout has 7 key considerations, you are starting with professional standards. RoomSketcher lists them as follows:

  • Reduce Traffic. Your layout in and around your kitchen should reduce traffic through your work triangle.
  • Distance Between Main Fixtures. Keeping in mind that work triangle your primary fixtures should stay inside or near it.
  • Kitchen Island Placement. The kitchen island should add to your work and seating area, but not get in the way.
  • Sink First. One of the 3 corners of the triangle, the placement of the kitchen sink is first.
  • Stove on an Exterior Wall. For easiest ventilation the stove should stay on an exterior wall.
  • Vertical Storage. Kitchen cabinetry needs to be vertical and well planned.

  • Develop a 3D Floor Plan. There are numerous mobile and desktop tools available for homeowners to develop and visualize their design.

Written by Todd Zimmerman

Producer of the John Webbccast

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