Free shipping on orders over $2,900

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our cabinets, ordering, shipping, and more. Can’t find what you need? Call (844) 782-2227 or request a free design consultation.

Ordering & Pricing

How do I place an order?

Browse our collections, select the cabinets you need, and add them to your cart. You can check out online with a credit card or use Shop Pay financing. If you prefer help, call us at (844) 782-2227 or submit a free design request and one of our designers will build your full parts list for you.

Why are your prices so low?

We buy in volume directly from the manufacturers and pass the savings on to you — no middlemen, no showroom markup on every square foot of real estate. Our entire catalog is fully in stock and in active production: you get the same first-quality, in-stock cabinets that big-box retailers and design showrooms sell, but at closeout-level pricing. Nothing is overstock or discontinued — just a much shorter supply chain.

What does "closeout" mean — are these damaged or low quality?

Closeout in our name refers to our pricing model, not the inventory. Every collection we carry is fully available and in active production — not overstock, not discontinued, not seconds, not damaged. We earn closeout-level pricing by buying directly from the manufacturer in volume and operating without the overhead of a traditional dealer network. Every cabinet ships brand new, first-quality, and backed by our full warranty.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes — free standard LTL freight shipping on all orders over $2,900 to the contiguous 48 states. Orders under $2,900 have a flat shipping fee calculated at checkout. We ship from Howell, NJ, so East Coast deliveries tend to arrive faster.

Do you offer a price match guarantee?

Yes. If you find the same cabinet line at a lower price from a legitimate competitor, we will match it. Contact us with a link or quote and we will take care of it.

Do you offer bulk or contractor discounts?

Yes — our Trade Pro Program gives contractors, builders, designers, and flippers access to volume pricing. The more you order, the better your rate. Apply on our Trade Pro page or call (844) 782-2227 to get set up.

Are prices affected by tariffs in 2026?

We monitor tariff changes closely and work with our manufacturer partners to absorb cost increases wherever possible. Buying now locks in today's pricing. Our price match guarantee also protects you if you see a better rate elsewhere before your order ships.

Can I get financing?

Yes. We offer split payments through Shop Pay with no interest for qualifying orders. Options are presented at checkout. For large contractor orders, call us to discuss extended payment arrangements.

Is there a minimum order size?

No minimum — you can order a single cabinet if you need one. However, free shipping applies to orders over $2,900, so most customers plan their full kitchen order at once to take advantage of it.

Can I order a replacement cabinet later if I need one?

Yes. We keep our collections in stock specifically so you can reorder individual pieces. When placing a replacement order, reference your original order number and the exact SKU and we will match it from the same production run whenever possible.

Products & Quality

Are these real wood cabinets?

Yes. Every cabinet we sell features solid wood doors, plywood box construction, and dovetail drawer boxes. We never use particle board boxes or MDF doors. Soft-close hinges and drawer slides are standard across all collections.

What is the difference between RTA and assembled cabinets?

RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets ship flat-packed and are assembled on-site — typically 15 to 30 minutes per cabinet with basic tools. Pre-assembled cabinets arrive fully built and go straight into your kitchen. RTA saves significantly on shipping costs and is the preferred choice for contractors and DIYers. We offer both options.

How long does RTA cabinet assembly take?

Most people assemble a standard base or wall cabinet in 15 to 30 minutes. A full 10x10 kitchen typically takes one person a weekend day or a contractor crew a few hours. Watch our step-by-step assembly videos on the Assembly Videos page — they walk through every cabinet type.

What door styles are available?

We carry four door styles: Shaker (classic five-piece recessed panel), Thin Shaker (slimmer rail for a modern look), Transitional (clean lines bridging traditional and contemporary), and Raised Panel (traditional detailing). Within each style we offer multiple collections in different finishes and colors.

What finishes and colors are available?

Our 22 collections span Ice White, Lait Grey, Xterra Blue, Petit White, Petit Blue, Townplace Crema, Uptown White, Townsquare Grey, Signature Pearl, Gramercy White, and more. Browse all collections to filter by color family and style.

Are sample doors available?

Yes. Contact us at (844) 782-2227 or info@closeoutkitchens.com to request a door sample for your preferred collection. Samples let you verify the finish, color, and construction quality before committing to a full order.

What type of hardware is included?

All cabinets include soft-close concealed hinges and soft-close undermount drawer slides. Decorative knobs and pulls are not included — these are a personal style choice. We recommend selecting hardware after confirming your cabinet finish.

What is the box construction?

All cabinets use plywood box construction — not particle board. Plywood is significantly stronger, holds screws better, and resists moisture far better than particle board alternatives. Drawer boxes use English dovetail joinery for maximum strength.

How do your cabinets compare to Home Depot or IKEA?

Home Depot's stock cabinets typically use particle board boxes and MDF doors at prices that leave little room to negotiate. IKEA uses a proprietary system that requires specific IKEA hardware for everything. Our cabinets use plywood boxes and solid wood doors — a higher construction standard — at prices that routinely come in 30 to 50 percent below big-box quotes for the same kitchen footprint.

How long will the cabinets last?

With proper installation, our plywood-box solid-wood-door cabinets last 20 to 30 years — comparable to semi-custom cabinetry costing two to three times more. The keys to longevity are correct assembly, proper wall anchoring, and keeping the interior dry.

Do you carry vanity cabinets for bathrooms?

Yes. We carry vanity base cabinets and vanity sink bases in most of our collections. Browse the Vanity Cabinets category or filter by collection to see available sizes and configurations.

Do you carry CNC cabinetry?

Yes. CNC Cabinetry is one of our featured lines with a full collection catalog and pricing from the 2025 Spec Book. CNC is also available through our SupplyNet dealer platform for trade professionals.

Measuring & Ordering the Right Cabinets

How do I measure my kitchen for cabinets?

Measure each wall from corner to corner at counter height. Note the location of windows, doors, appliances, and any obstructions. Record ceiling height. Sketch a rough floor plan with dimensions. Then use our free design service — upload your measurements and our designers will lay out the full cabinet plan for you at no charge.

What is a 10x10 kitchen and why do companies use it for pricing?

A 10x10 kitchen is an industry-standard layout — two 10-foot walls of cabinets in an L-shape — used to compare cabinet costs across brands on equal footing. It typically includes upper and lower cabinets for 20 linear feet total. Use our 10x10 benchmark on every collection page to compare our collections side by side.

What are filler strips and do I need them?

Filler strips are narrow pieces (usually 3 to 6 inches wide) used to fill gaps between cabinets and walls, especially at corners, so doors and drawers can open fully without hitting the wall. Almost every kitchen needs at least one or two fillers. Our design service accounts for these automatically.

What corner cabinet solution should I use?

The three main options are: a blind corner base (one cabinet pulls out toward you), a lazy susan corner base (rotating shelves inside), and a pie-cut corner (two diagonal doors). The right choice depends on how much run you have on each side of the corner. Our designers specify the correct corner solution as part of every free design.

How do I make sure wall cabinets align with base cabinets?

The rule is to match widths — a 30-inch base cabinet should be topped by a 30-inch wall cabinet so the vertical seams align. Mismatched widths are one of the most common visual mistakes in DIY installs. Our AI Kitchen Designer enforces symmetry automatically.

What is the free design service and how does it work?

Submit your room dimensions (wall lengths, ceiling height, window and door locations) through the Free Design page. Our NKBA-aligned designers create a full 3D rendering with a complete itemized cabinet list and pricing — at no cost, with no obligation to purchase. Most designs are returned within 48 hours.

Shipping & Delivery

How long does shipping take?

Most in-stock orders ship within 5 to 7 business days. Delivery time depends on your distance from our Howell, NJ warehouse — East Coast orders typically arrive faster. You will receive a tracking number when your order ships.

How are the cabinets shipped?

Cabinets ship via LTL (less-than-truckload) freight on a pallet. The carrier will contact you to schedule a delivery window. Standard delivery is curbside — the driver brings the pallet to the end of your driveway. If you need inside delivery or liftgate service, contact us before ordering.

What if my order arrives damaged?

Inspect every box before signing the delivery receipt. If you see damage, note it on the delivery paperwork and take photos immediately. Contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos and your order number. We will arrange replacements for damaged pieces at no cost. Do not refuse the entire shipment — note the specific damaged boxes and accept the rest.

Do you ship to all 50 states?

We ship to the contiguous 48 states. For Alaska and Hawaii, contact us for a freight quote — shipping is available but costs more due to distance.

Can I schedule a specific delivery date?

The freight carrier will contact you to arrange a delivery window after your order ships. If you need delivery on a specific date for a job site, let us know when ordering and we will coordinate with the carrier where possible.

What if I am missing pieces from my order?

Contact us within 7 days of delivery with your order number and the specific SKUs missing. We will verify against the packing list and ship any missing pieces promptly.

Assembly & Installation

Are the cabinets difficult to assemble?

No. Most people with basic DIY skills assemble a cabinet in 15 to 30 minutes. Panels are pre-cut and pre-drilled. You need a drill, a rubber mallet, and wood glue for most cabinets. Watch our assembly videos on the Assembly Videos page for step-by-step walkthroughs of every cabinet type we carry.

Do I need professional installation?

Not necessarily. Many homeowners install their own RTA cabinets successfully. That said, professional installation ensures level, plumb cabinets that will look their best and last longest — particularly on uneven walls or complex layouts. If you want us to arrange professional assembly before shipping, add the Cabinet Assembly service to your cart.

What tools do I need for assembly?

For most RTA cabinets: a power drill, a rubber mallet, wood glue, a square, a level, and clamps. For installation: a stud finder, drill, level, shims, and mounting screws. Full tool lists are included in the assembly instructions inside each box.

Can you assemble the cabinets before shipping?

Yes. Add our Cabinet Assembly service to your cart and we will professionally assemble your cabinets before they ship. Assembled cabinets arrive ready to install — no box to open, no parts to sort.

Do you have assembly videos?

Yes. Our Assembly Videos page has step-by-step tutorials for base cabinets, wall cabinets, 3-drawer bases, lazy Susan corner bases, and more — all using Forevermark RTA cabinetry. Watch before you start to get a clear picture of what assembly involves.

Returns, Warranty & Support

What is your return policy?

Unopened RTA cabinets can be returned within 30 days of delivery. Items must be in original packaging. Return shipping costs are the buyer's responsibility for change-of-mind returns. Contact us at info@closeoutkitchens.com to initiate a return.

Do the cabinets come with a warranty?

Yes. Our cabinets are backed by a manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty terms vary by manufacturer line — contact us for specifics on the collection you are purchasing.

What if I ordered the wrong size?

Contact us as soon as possible. If the item has not shipped, we can modify your order. If it has shipped and the item is unopened, it is eligible for return under our standard return policy. This is why we strongly recommend using our free design service before ordering — our designers catch sizing issues before anything ships.

How do I contact customer support?

Call (844) 782-2227 Monday through Friday, 9am to 6pm ET. Email info@closeoutkitchens.com. Or visit our showroom at 6479 US-9, Howell Township, NJ 07731.

For Contractors, Builders & Flippers

Do you work with contractors and house flippers?

Absolutely — contractors and flippers are some of our best customers. We offer Trade Pro pricing, fast reorder on proven layouts, and free design service for every project. Call (844) 782-2227 to get set up on our Trade Pro program.

What is the Trade Pro Program?

The Trade Pro Program gives contractors, designers, builders, and real estate investors access to volume pricing, priority support, and streamlined reordering. Apply on our Trade Pro page or call to get approved.

Can I reorder the same kitchen layout for multiple properties?

Yes — this is one of the biggest time savers for serial flippers and multi-unit builders. Once you have a proven layout, we save your parts list and you can reorder with a single call or email. Reference your previous order number and we take it from there.

What styles work best for house flips and rental properties?

White and grey Shaker cabinets consistently produce the best ROI on flips — they photograph well, appeal to the widest buyer pool, and never look dated. Our Ice White Shaker and Lait Grey Shaker are the most popular with investors. For rentals, our assembled cabinet option saves installation time on multi-unit jobs.

Can I order cabinets for multiple units at once?

Yes. We handle multi-unit orders regularly. Contact us with your unit count and a sample floor plan and we will prepare a consolidated quote with volume pricing across all units.

Do you offer design service for commercial or multi-unit projects?

Yes. Our design team handles multi-unit projects, apartment renovations, and commercial kitchen layouts. Submit your project details through the Free Design page or call us directly for large projects.

Showroom & Local

Do you have a physical showroom?

Yes. Our showroom is at 6479 US-9, Howell Township, NJ 07731. You can see our cabinet collections in person, talk to our design team, and get hands-on with construction quality before ordering. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 6pm ET.

Do I have to visit the showroom to order?

No. Our full catalog is available online and we ship nationwide. The showroom is a resource for local customers who want to see cabinets in person — but the majority of our customers order fully online.

Are your online prices the same as showroom prices?

Yes. Our online prices are our standard prices. Trade Pro and volume discounts apply whether you order online or in person.

Cabinet Dimensions & Sizing

What are standard kitchen base cabinet dimensions?

Standard base cabinets are 34½ inches tall (36 inches with countertop), 24 inches deep, and come in widths from 9 to 48 inches in 3-inch increments (9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 42, 48). The most common base widths are 24, 30, and 36 inches. Sink bases are typically 30, 33, or 36 inches wide to fit standard sinks.

What are standard wall cabinet dimensions?

Standard wall cabinets are 12 inches deep and come in three height options: 30 inches (standard), 36 inches (taller — fills more wall on 8-foot ceilings), and 42 inches (typical for 9-foot ceilings or for hiding the soffit gap). Widths follow the same 3-inch increment system as base cabinets, from 9 to 48 inches.

What are standard tall cabinet dimensions?

Tall cabinets (pantry, oven, utility) are 84, 90, or 96 inches tall, 24 inches deep, and 18, 24, 30, or 36 inches wide. The 90-inch height is the most popular because it leaves room for crown molding under an 8-foot ceiling.

What is the standard countertop height?

Standard countertop height is 36 inches from the floor. This is base cabinet (34½) plus countertop (about 1½ inches). For taller users or accessibility needs, you can specify 39-inch counters by using 36-inch-tall base cabinets or adding a riser.

What is the standard distance between countertop and wall cabinets?

Standard is 18 inches of clearance between the countertop and the bottom of the wall cabinets. Above a range or cooktop, the clearance increases to 30 inches (or per your range hood manufacturer's spec — typically 24 to 30 inches).

What is the standard depth of vanity cabinets?

Bathroom vanity bases are typically 21 inches deep — three inches shallower than kitchen base cabinets — and 32 to 34½ inches tall. We carry vanity bases in widths from 24 to 60 inches.

How do I read a cabinet SKU?

Most cabinet SKUs encode the type and size. For example, B36 = Base cabinet, 36 inches wide. W3030 = Wall cabinet, 30 inches wide by 30 inches tall. SB36 = Sink Base, 36 inches wide. Each manufacturer uses a slightly different code, but width almost always appears in the SKU. Our product pages also show parsed Width / Height / Depth in the Product Details section.

Can I get custom cabinet sizes?

Our cabinets ship in standard 3-inch-increment widths. We do not offer custom widths from the factory. For odd-sized openings, we use filler strips (3, 6, or 9 inches wide) to bridge gaps between standard cabinets and walls. Our designers handle this automatically in every free design.

Cabinet Types Explained

What is a base cabinet?

A base cabinet sits on the floor, supports the countertop, and is 34½ inches tall by 24 inches deep. It includes one or more doors and (optionally) drawers. Base cabinets are the workhorses of the kitchen — about 60 percent of the cabinets in a typical kitchen are bases.

What is a wall cabinet?

A wall cabinet hangs on the wall above the countertop, typically 18 inches above the counter (30 inches above a range). They are 12 inches deep and 30, 36, or 42 inches tall. Wall cabinets store dishes, glasses, and pantry items above the work area.

What is a tall cabinet?

A tall cabinet runs floor to near-ceiling (84, 90, or 96 inches tall) and is used for pantry storage, built-in ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, or utility storage. Tall cabinets are the most efficient way to add storage volume in a small kitchen.

What is a sink base cabinet?

A sink base is a base cabinet sized to fit a kitchen sink — typically 30, 33, or 36 inches wide. It has a removable false drawer front (no real drawer, since the sink takes up that space) and an open interior to accommodate plumbing. Some sink bases include a tilt-out tray at the false-front position for sponges.

What is a blind corner cabinet?

A blind corner cabinet sits at the inside corner of an L-shaped or U-shaped layout. One side of the cabinet is hidden ('blind') behind the adjacent run of cabinets. The interior can be accessed with a single deep door, but the back corner is hard to reach. Many people add a pull-out organizer (sometimes called a 'magic corner') to make the dead space usable.

What is a lazy Susan cabinet?

A lazy Susan is a corner base cabinet with rotating circular shelves inside. It uses the corner space efficiently and gives you full access to everything stored. The two main types are a full-round (90-degree corner cut into the cabinet face) and a kidney-shape (the more common modern version with a single curved door).

What is a drawer base?

A drawer base is a base cabinet with a stack of drawers (usually three or four) instead of a door. Drawer bases are often the best storage choice for pots, pans, and dishware because everything is accessible without bending or reaching to the back.

What is the difference between a refrigerator end panel and a refrigerator surround?

An end panel is a single decorative finished panel that covers the side of a refrigerator (or any cabinet end) so the side matches the cabinet finish. A refrigerator surround is a full set of panels and a top wall cabinet that frames the fridge into the cabinetry, giving a built-in look. Both are sold per your collection's finish.

Style & Design Choices

What is the difference between Shaker and Raised Panel doors?

Shaker doors have a flat center panel surrounded by a square, simple frame — clean lines, no decorative profile. Raised Panel doors have a center panel that is contoured (raised) with a decorative profile around the edge, plus often an arch in the top rail. Shaker reads modern and transitional; Raised Panel reads traditional. Shaker is more popular in current builds — about 70 percent of new kitchens specify Shaker.

What is a Thin Shaker (Petite) door?

Thin Shaker — sometimes called Petite Shaker — is a Shaker door with a narrower frame rail (typically 2 to 2½ inches wide instead of the standard 3-inch rail). The smaller frame makes the door feel more contemporary and gives the center panel a slightly larger visual footprint. Popular in modern and modern-farmhouse kitchens.

What is a Transitional door style?

Transitional sits between Shaker and Raised Panel — typically a flat or very subtly profiled door with a simple square frame, sometimes with a small bevel on the inside edge. Transitional doors work in homes that want to bridge contemporary and traditional aesthetics without committing fully to either.

Which cabinet color is most popular right now?

White Shaker remains the most popular finish nationwide — it photographs well, brightens small kitchens, and resells well. Light to medium grey is the second most popular and is gaining ground. Two-tone kitchens (white uppers, dark or wood-tone lowers) are also trending strongly in 2025-2026 builds.

Will white cabinets go out of style?

White cabinets have been the dominant kitchen finish for over 20 years and show no signs of fading. They are the safest resale choice. If you are worried about timelessness, choose a soft warm white (creamier) over a stark cool white — warm whites age better and pair with more countertop and floor materials.

How do I pick a cabinet color that matches my floor?

The general rule: contrast the cabinet color with the floor color. White or light cabinets pair with medium-to-dark wood or grey floors. Dark cabinets pair with light wood, white tile, or light stone floors. Avoid matching the cabinet finish exactly to the floor — it makes the room read flat. Our free design service includes finish recommendations for your specific floor.

Should upper and lower cabinets be the same color?

Both work. Same-color upper and lower cabinets give a unified, calm look — best for small kitchens where you want visual continuity. Two-tone (different upper and lower colors) adds visual interest and is popular in larger kitchens. The most common two-tone combos are white uppers with grey lowers, or white uppers with stained wood lowers (an island in a darker tone is also a popular variation).

What hardware finish goes best with my cabinets?

Matte black and brushed nickel are the two most versatile pulls and work with virtually any cabinet color. Brushed brass / champagne bronze is the trending warm finish for 2025-2026 — pairs beautifully with white, navy, and natural wood cabinets. Avoid mixing more than two metal finishes across cabinet hardware, faucets, and lighting.

Material & Construction Quality

What is the difference between plywood and particle board boxes?

Plywood is layers of real wood veneer cross-laminated for strength. Particle board (also sold as MDF) is wood chips and sawdust held together with glue. Plywood is roughly 30 to 50 percent stronger, holds screws far better (critical for wall cabinets that bear weight), and resists moisture and sagging much better. Every cabinet we sell uses plywood box construction.

What is dovetail drawer construction and why does it matter?

Dovetail joinery interlocks the drawer sides like puzzle pieces — far stronger than stapled or glued joints. Dovetail drawers can hold 75-plus pounds and last decades. Stapled drawers can fail within a few years of heavy use. Every cabinet we sell uses solid wood drawer boxes with English dovetail joinery.

What does soft-close mean and is it included?

Soft-close hinges and drawer slides use a hydraulic damper that catches the door or drawer in the last few inches and closes it slowly and silently. No more slamming. Soft-close is included as standard on every cabinet we sell — no upgrade fee.

What is undermount drawer slide hardware?

Undermount slides mount underneath the drawer instead of on the sides — they are invisible when the drawer is open, and they support more weight (typically 75 to 100 pounds) than older side-mount slides. All our cabinets use full-extension soft-close undermount slides as standard.

Are your cabinets formaldehyde-safe?

Yes. All our cabinets meet CARB Phase 2 (CARB2) compliance — the strictest formaldehyde emission standard in North America for composite wood products. Many of our collections also meet TSCA Title VI federal requirements. If your project requires specific compliance documentation, contact us before ordering.

Are your cabinets made in the USA?

It depends on the collection. Some collections are manufactured in the USA, others are imported from overseas factories that meet our quality and emissions standards. Country of origin is listed on each collection page. If American-made is a hard requirement, ask us before ordering and we will steer you to the right collection.

What is a furniture-grade finish?

Furniture-grade refers to the multi-step paint or stain process — sanding, sealing, base coats, color coats, and a clear protective topcoat — applied at the factory in a controlled environment. Our cabinets receive 5 to 7 coats with UV-cured topcoats, producing a finish that is far more durable than anything achievable on-site with a brush or spray gun.

Storage & Accessory Compatibility

What pull-out accessories work in your base cabinets?

Most of our base cabinets accept standard aftermarket pull-out organizers — wire baskets, trash pull-outs, spice racks, knife blocks. The exact fit depends on the cabinet's interior width (cabinet width minus 1½ inches for the box walls). Order pull-outs sized to your interior dimension and confirm the depth before installing.

Can I add a trash pull-out to a base cabinet?

Yes — a trash pull-out (one or two bins) fits in any 15, 18, or 21-inch base cabinet. We do not currently sell branded pull-outs alongside the cabinets, but standard Rev-A-Shelf and Hardware Resources pull-outs are sized to fit our cabinet interior dimensions. Mount per the manufacturer's instructions.

What corner storage solutions do you carry?

We carry blind corner bases (with optional pull-out 'magic corner' inserts), lazy Susan corner bases (rotating shelves), and pie-cut corner bases (diagonal door). Our designers will specify the right corner cabinet based on your layout — they are not interchangeable.

Do you carry under-cabinet lighting?

We do not currently sell under-cabinet lighting alongside the cabinets. Most kitchens use LED light strips or puck lights mounted to the underside of wall cabinets. Specify your light type before installation so the wire path can be planned.

What is a roll-out shelf and which cabinets accept them?

A roll-out shelf is a shallow drawer-style shelf that mounts inside a base cabinet behind the door — pull the door open, then pull the shelf out. They turn deep base cabinets into accessible storage (no more crawling to the back corner). Every base cabinet we sell can accept aftermarket roll-out shelves.

Do your cabinets work with built-in appliances?

Yes. We carry oven cabinets sized for standard 27-inch and 30-inch wall ovens, microwave cabinets, and refrigerator surrounds for standard-depth fridges. For built-in panel-ready dishwashers and fridges, the appliance manufacturer supplies the panels — we supply the surrounding cabinetry. Confirm your appliance specs before ordering.

Can I add crown molding and decorative trim?

Yes. Every collection includes matching crown molding, light rail, scribe molding, and toe-kick. These ship separately and are cut to length on-site. Our designers include the appropriate trim pieces in every free design.

Do you carry matching open shelves and floating shelves?

Some collections include matching open shelves; others do not. The fastest way to confirm is to ask us — call (844) 782-2227 or include 'open shelving' in your free design request and we will pull the available SKUs for your collection.

Kitchen Layout Planning

What is the kitchen work triangle?

The work triangle connects the three primary kitchen work zones — sink, refrigerator, and cooktop. The total of all three sides should be between 12 and 26 feet. No single side should be less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet. The triangle should not be interrupted by an island, walkway, or door swing. NKBA-certified designers (including ours) follow this rule on every layout.

How much linear footage of cabinets do I need?

A typical 10x10 kitchen has 20 linear feet of cabinets (10 lower + 10 upper). A small kitchen might have 12 to 15 feet, and a large kitchen with an island can have 30 feet or more. Our 10x10 benchmark price on every collection page lets you scale up or down based on your room.

What kitchen layout is best for a small space?

Galley (one-wall or two-wall) layouts are the most efficient for small kitchens — every cabinet is within reach. L-shape works well for slightly larger small kitchens because it uses the corner. Avoid U-shape in tight spaces — it can feel cramped and the corners are hard to reach.

What is the minimum aisle width in a kitchen?

The NKBA minimum aisle width is 36 inches (3 feet) for one-cook kitchens and 42 to 48 inches for two-cook kitchens. Less than 36 inches makes it hard to open cabinets and dishwashers fully. Our designers always check aisle widths on every layout.

How tall should an island be?

A standard island matches the countertop height (36 inches). A two-tier island has a 36-inch work surface and a 42-inch raised bar for seating. Pure-height bar islands at 42 inches are less common in current builds — most kitchens go single-height for a more open look.

How many seats can I fit at an island?

Allow 24 inches of width per seat. A 5-foot island fits 2 stools, a 6-foot island fits 3 stools, and an 8-foot island fits 4 stools comfortably. Leave at least 12 inches of overhang for legroom (15 inches is more comfortable).

Where should I put the dishwasher?

Adjacent to the sink — both for plumbing efficiency and so you can scrape and load in one motion. Standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide and require a 24-inch dishwasher gap (no cabinet) flanked by base cabinets. Plan the gap on the side of your dominant hand for easier loading.

How wide should the refrigerator opening be?

Standard-depth refrigerators need a 36-inch opening (some larger models need 42 inches). Counter-depth and built-in fridges have specific cutout requirements published by the appliance manufacturer — confirm these before ordering refrigerator surround cabinets.

Sustainability, Codes & Compliance

Are your cabinets CARB2 compliant?

Yes. All our cabinets meet California Air Resources Board Phase 2 (CARB2) emission standards for formaldehyde — the strictest standard in North America. Many also meet TSCA Title VI federal requirements. Documentation is available on request for inspectors and architects who need it.

Do I need a permit to replace cabinets?

In most jurisdictions, replacing cabinets without moving plumbing, gas, or electrical does not require a permit. Moving the sink or stove almost always does. If you are doing a full kitchen remodel, check with your local building department — some areas require an electrical permit any time outlets are moved.

What are ADA-compliant cabinet heights?

ADA-compliant kitchens use a 34-inch work surface (instead of 36), wall cabinets mounted at 15 inches above the counter (instead of 18), and at least one 30-inch-wide knee space at the sink for wheelchair access. We can specify ADA-compliant cabinets on request — call us before ordering for an ADA layout.

Are your cabinets fire-rated?

Standard residential cabinets are not fire-rated. For commercial or multi-family applications that require fire-rated cabinetry, contact us — we can advise on which collections meet specific fire ratings and help source compliant alternatives if needed.

Do your cabinets meet KCMA certification?

Some of our collections are KCMA-certified (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association). KCMA certification verifies the cabinet meets industry standards for structural integrity, finish durability, and hardware. Certification status is listed per collection — ask us if you need a KCMA-certified line.

What is the carbon footprint of your cabinets?

Cabinets that are made closer to the customer have a lower transportation footprint. Plywood-box cabinets last 20+ years (vs particle board cabinets that may need replacement in 7 to 10 years) — buying once and keeping cabinets longer is the single biggest sustainability lever in cabinetry. We do not currently publish a per-collection carbon report, but we are happy to share manufacturer sustainability statements on request.

Design Tools & Online Tools

How does the AI Kitchen Designer work?

Our AI Kitchen Designer is an in-browser 2D and 3D kitchen layout tool with an AI assistant trained on NKBA design rules. Enter your room dimensions, drag cabinets onto your walls, and the AI suggests cabinets that fit, flags layout issues, and prices the parts list in real time. It is free to use — no signup required to start designing.

How accurate is the 3D designer?

The designer renders cabinets to scale (1 inch in the model = 1 inch in real life) using the actual cabinet dimensions from each collection. It catches sizing errors, wall-fit issues, and door-swing conflicts. It is accurate enough that our team uses the same tool to validate every customer order before shipping.

Can I export my design to a contractor?

Yes. Save your design and you get a shareable link. Send the link to your contractor, plumber, or electrician — they can rotate the 3D view, see the exact part list, and reference the cabinet SKUs. You can also save designs to your account at /account/designs to manage multiple projects.

What is the Style Finder tool?

The Style Finder at /style-finder helps you discover cabinet collections that match your taste. Upload a photo of a kitchen you love (the AI analyzes the style, color, and door profile) or take a 6-question quiz and it recommends 3 of our 22 collections that fit. Results link directly to the collection page.

Do I have to use the online tools or can I work with a human designer?

Both are available. The online tools are free and self-service for customers who want to explore on their own. For a designer-led experience, request a free design at /free-design — an NKBA-aligned designer will lay out your full kitchen with no obligation to purchase. Most customers use both: explore on their own, then request a designer review before placing the final order.

Buying Guides

Deeper dives on the most-asked cabinet topics.

Still have questions?

Our designers are available Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm ET. Free design consultations available with no obligation to purchase.

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