Ask any homeowner who’s remodeled their kitchen, and you’ll hear the same question pop up again and again: “Where did you get your cabinets?” It’s not surprising—kitchen cabinets often account for the largest portion of your renovation budget, and they have a huge impact on both design and functionality.
From big-box stores to custom millwork, the U.S. cabinet market offers a wide range of options—and just as many opinions. We talked to homeowners, designers, and kitchen studio pros to break down the real pros, cons, and considerations behind the most common cabinet sources.
1. Big-Box Retailers: Affordable and Accessible
Think: Home Depot, Lowe’s, IKEA, and similar nationwide retailers.
These stores offer both stock and semi-custom cabinets at competitive prices, often with short lead times and online design tools. For DIYers or budget-conscious remodelers, this route can be a practical starting point.
Pros:
- Convenient and widely available
- Quick turnaround times
- Budget-friendly base pricing
Cons:
- Limited customization and materials
- Variable quality across product lines
- May require self-installation or extra coordination
Kitchenfinder Insight: IKEA cabinets with third-party fronts (like Semihandmade or Reform) are becoming a popular hybrid option—modern look, decent quality, and lots of design flexibility.
2. Local Cabinet Makers: Custom Craftsmanship
If you want your kitchen to be one-of-a-kind, working with a local cabinet maker or millwork shop can offer total design freedom. From finish selection to specialty dimensions, these artisans build to your exact specifications.
Pros:
- Fully customized sizing, features, and finishes
- Local support and collaboration
- Often higher-quality materials and construction
Cons:
- Higher cost—can be 2–3x more than stock
- Longer lead times (8–14 weeks is common)
- More complex project management required
For many homeowners, the trade-off is worth it—especially in forever homes or high-end remodels where every detail matters.
3. Kitchen Studios & Design Showrooms: Expert Guidance Included
Full-service kitchen studios offer a curated experience. Many partner with premium cabinet brands (like Crystal, Plain & Fancy, or Starmark), and provide personalized design, material samples, and project coordination.
Pros:
- Expert design help tailored to your space
- Access to premium brands and finishes
- Professional installation and service
Cons:
- Mid-to-high-end pricing
- Design process takes more time up front
4. Online Cabinet Brands: Direct-to-Consumer Convenience
The last few years have brought a surge in online cabinetry brands like RTA Cabinet Store, CliqStudios, and Cabinets.com. These companies offer ready-to-assemble (RTA) or pre-assembled cabinets shipped directly to your door.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing, especially for RTA
- Huge variety of colors, styles, and sizes
- Online tools and fast delivery
Cons:
- No in-person showroom
- Assembly and installation often fall on you
- Returns and support can be more complicated
These brands are a good fit for experienced DIYers or contractors managing multiple units—but less ideal if you want design help and hands-on service.
5. Hybrid Approaches: Mixing Sources for Flexibility
Some homeowners find success by combining cabinet sources. For example:
- Base cabinets from IKEA, upper cabinets from a custom builder
- Stock cabinets for the laundry room, custom cabinets for the kitchen island
- Buying cabinetry shells from a big-box store, and upgrading with custom fronts
This layered approach can maximize budget while allowing for design flexibility where it matters most.
So—Where Should You Buy Yours?
It depends on your budget, timeline, layout, and level of design support. Here’s a quick guide:
| Need… | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Fast & budget-friendly | Big-box retailer or online RTA brand |
| High-end, custom look | Local cabinet maker or kitchen studio |
| Design help + full service | Kitchen showroom with planning support |
| DIY flexibility | IKEA + custom fronts or hybrid solution |
Final Take
Buying kitchen cabinets is one of the most impactful decisions in any renovation. It affects your layout, your budget, and how well your kitchen supports your everyday life.
Don’t just fall for showroom looks—understand what’s included: installation, delivery timelines, material quality, and after-sale support. Ask how the cabinets will hold up to real-life use, from kids to cooking marathons.
Ultimately, choose cabinets that reflect not just your style, but your lifestyle. Whether it’s a custom-built solution or a well-executed IKEA hack, the best cabinets are the ones that work for how you live.