Custom cabinets or stock cabinets? The choice of the two can make or break your kitchen makeover.
It’s a decision that impacts the final look of your kitchen as well as how it functions day to day.
On one hand, stock cabinets seem like the simply obvious choice, it’s a readymade and quick fix for a kitchen facelift. But imagine, will this readymade and quick solution fit my space? And will it stand the test of time?
Custom kitchen cabinets can be tailored to your exact specifications, built to last and make your kitchen uniquely yours.
Let’s explore:
The differences between a custom build and off the rack solutions
Quality when it comes to stock, semi-custom & custom cabinets
The cost factors of a custom cabinet
Our specialists at Dans Kitchens have over 40 years of experience in kitchen designs Sydney and will take you through our bespoke and handmade process, ensuring your kitchen cabinets are made with care.
What is Stock Cabinetry?
Stock cabinetry is a type of pre made, or modular unit that you can easily purchase as an off the rack item, typically found in home improvement stores like Ikea or Bunnings.
They are usually made from materials like particle board, plywood with surfaced veneers or melamine. Stock cabinets are mass produced which come in standard sizes and simple styles.
What is Custom Cabinetry?
Custom cabinetry is hand crafted and designed, which are made to order and fit the specifications of your space.
This includes high quality and specialised materials such as, durable hardwoods like cherry, oak or maple, to the style of the hinges including brass, steel or bronze and other finer details like the style and colour.
At Dan Kitchens, we create everything in our own manufacturing centre with custom kitchen renovations in Sydney, and is made by skilled cabinetmakers and artisans, who have years of experience with a fine lens to each and every detail.
What is the difference between custom cabinets and stock?
When we take a side-by-side look between custom cabinets and stock cabinets, we see some key underlying differences.
Firstly, a custom cabinet is like a tailored suit, being specifically made to fit and is designed to make the best use of the space you have available.
Our professional designers and skilled cabinet makers will craft your cabinetry based on your specifications, with hidden kitchen ideas for instance a pull out shelf for your kitchen mixer, or perhaps a built in wine rack.
Stock cabinets are more like off the rack clothing. It offers a cheaper solution, but might not be the perfect fit for your space. Often with wasted space from sections finishing too short, with random filler pieces used to cover up the gaps.
Here’s a side by side comparison :
| Features | Stock Cabinets | Custom Cabinets |
| Lead Time | Immediate availability | Weeks to months to build |
| Design Options | Limited to standard sizes and styles | Virtually unlimited design possibilities |
| Installation | Generally easy to install | Requires professional installation |
| Quality | Varies; often lower-grade materials | High quality, tailored to specifications |
| Customisation | No customisation options | Fully customisable based on personal needs |
| Durability | May be less durable due to cheaper materials | Built with high-quality materials for longevity |
| Assembly Required | Often requires assembly | Typically arrives from a company that offers assembly by professional installers |
| Visual Appeal | Basic aesthetic, limited finishes | Unique and tailored aesthetic |
| Return on Investment | Lower ROI due to potential quality issues | Higher ROI due to quality and customisation |
What is the cost Kitchen Cabinets vs Stock Cabinets?
Prices can change over time, but a rough range can be between $100-300 per linear metre for stock cabinets, for custom cabinetry it can be between $500-%1500+ per linear metre.
Homeowners, have the freedom of choice for what works best for your situation. Overall, custom cabinetry will be more expensive option compared to stock cabinets.
Keep in mind that the above prices can vary based on materials, location, the final finishes and labour costs.
Quality of the Stock vs Semi-Custom & Custom Cabinets
Stock cabinets can look good when you put together and seem like right choice. However over time, it will show wear and tear at a more consistent rate, compared to semi-custom or custom cabinetry.
Semi-custom cabinet offer a balance between quality and affordability, due to materials, joinery and improved hardware.
When we look at the overall quality, custom cabinets provide top quality and longevity. At Dan Kitchens we use high grade and solid wood options, for both the cabinets and doors.
We build and construct using construction techniques such as dovetail joints, mortise and tension construction methods. Our work goes beyond craftsmanship, striving for enduring quality, that is designed and tailored to achieve your final vision, with complete autonomy along the way.
Choose Dan Kitchens
When it comes to creating a stunning kitchen in Sydney, Dan Kitchens can bring your final vision to fruition. With 40+ years of specialisation, we blend style and functionality in kitchen design.
Our team of highly experienced designers to skilled professionals, will craft custom cabinetry and unique storage solutions, to suit your lifestyle and unique preferences.
From the first draft design to the final installation, we’ll bring together every aspect of your kitchen, with the upmost care and precision. Contact us at Dan Kitchen’s today, let’s create your dream kitchen, that reflects your style and your needs to create a beautifully refined home.