You’ve booked an appointment with a Cabinet Maker to quote on your project. You’ve been dreaming about this for ages. You’ve watched every home renovation show you could find, scoured home improvement stores hungry for ideas and inspiration, and now your appointment is drawing nearer. What else is there to do? Are you uncertain as to what details to provide? While it will help save time to have your design choices prepared prior to the consultation, there will probably be more questions that come to mind. So, if you’re unsure of some (or all) of the above, help is here.

The Cabinet Maker has arrived. The first thing that he/she needs to complete is a thorough measure of the area. He/she would also note the ceiling height, the skirting board and (if the cabinetry requires the use of a bulkhead) the cornice size. All gas, water and electrical points need to be measured and recorded, alongside windows, adjacent walls and doorways.

Once these measurements are ascertained, it’s time to discuss what kind of design you are wanting to achieve. Will your design brief call for?

  • Modern design?
  • Cottage charm?
  • Traditional?
  • Hamptons style?

It’s always helpful to have this portion of the brief sorted beforehand. Once this is decided on, the only limits from hereon are the scope of your budget. If you have chosen, for example, a “Hamptons” style kitchen, make equally sure that your cabinet maker has the necessary eye for detail and craftsmanship required to complete this classic look.

If you were having the space measured for a kitchen or laundry:

  • What style and size of appliances will you be using?
  • Will the cook top be standard (top mount) or flush mount?
  • Will the dishwasher be free standing, semi or fully integrated?
  • Is the washing machine a combo dryer or will 2 provisions for space be required?
  • What kind of sink do you want? If you’re unsure, click here:

If you were having your space measured for a new entertainment unit, it would be pertinent to know what size flat screen the Cabinet Maker would be working with, and what size/type electronic equipment you want built into the unit.

What kind of doors will you be using? There are a number of varieties to choose from. To help you make an informed decision click here:

What kind of bench tops will you be deciding on? If it’s stone (natural or reconstituted), what kind of thickness do you want? Did you want any waterfall ends?

What kind of drawers would you like to use? If you’re unsure of the different varieties click here:

Once the cabinet maker has completed and double checked ALL measurements, they are another step closer to giving you the final cost. In some cases, there will be sub-contracted prices that the cabinet maker will be waiting on before being able to finalize the quote. These prices can usually be attributed to, for example, stone bench tops, steel fabrication, other required trades. In general, it should take no longer than 5 – 7 working days for you to receive the final quote.

Best of luck with your project!

Michael