Timeline For Custom Cabinetry
/How Long Does Custom Cabinetry Take? A Realistic Timeline for Kansas City Homeowners
Custom cabinetry isn't a quick weekend project — and that's exactly what makes it worth it. Understanding the timeline from first conversation to final installation helps you plan smarter, avoid surprises, and appreciate the craftsmanship going into every detail.
At Refined Interiors, we believe great cabinetry is never rushed. Every week in the process adds precision, durability, and beauty that lasts for decades.
If you're considering custom cabinetry for your Kansas City home, one of the first questions on your mind is probably: how long will this take? The honest answer depends on scope, complexity, and material choices — but here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect.
The Four Phases of Custom Cabinetry
Every custom project moves through four distinct stages: design, material selection, build, and installation. Each phase requires time and attention — cutting corners at any stage compromises the final result.
Typical total timeline: 10–16 weeks from signed contract to completed installation, depending on project scope and material availability.
Phase 1: Design & Consultation (2–4 Weeks)
This is where your vision takes shape. We discuss your goals, measure your space, and develop detailed plans that address layout, functionality, and aesthetics.
What Happens
Initial consultation, on-site measurements, design drafts, revisions, and final approval. For kitchen cabinets, this stage often includes appliance coordination and workflow planning.
Why It Takes Time
Rushing design leads to costly changes later. We refine every detail upfront so there are no surprises during build or installation.
Phase 2: Material Selection (1–2 Weeks)
Once the design is locked, we select wood species, finishes, hardware, and any specialty materials. This phase runs parallel to final design approval but requires its own attention.
Material lead times vary. Exotic wood species or specialty hardware may add 2–4 additional weeks — something we'll communicate clearly during planning.
Phase 3: Build & Fabrication (5–8 Weeks)
This is where craftsmanship happens. Every cabinet box, drawer, door, and detail is built by hand with precision joinery, quality materials, and careful finishing.
Box Construction
Cabinet boxes are built from ¾" plywood with proper joinery — no particleboard shortcuts.
Door & Drawer Fabrication
Doors are built to spec; drawers feature dovetail joinery and soft-close undermount slides.
Finishing
Stains, paints, and protective coatings are applied with multiple coats and proper cure times between each.
For built-ins and specialty pieces, build time may extend slightly due to custom sizing and integration requirements.
Phase 4: Installation (1–3 Days for Most Projects)
With everything pre-built and finished, installation moves quickly. Cabinets are leveled, secured, and adjusted for perfect fit and function.
Full kitchen installations typically take 2–3 days. Single built-in units or smaller projects may complete in a single day.
Smart Seasonal Planning for Kansas City
Kansas City homeowners often find that planning strategically around seasons leads to smoother projects and better timing for their lives.
Winter: Design Season
January and February are ideal for consultations and design work — giving you a head start before spring.
Spring: Build & Install
Projects started in winter often install in April or May — ready to enjoy before summer gatherings.
Fall: Popular Demand
Many homeowners start projects in fall hoping for holiday completion. Starting early avoids schedule conflicts.
Why Custom ≠ Quick — And Why That's a Good Thing
Stock cabinets ship fast because they're mass-produced with lower-grade materials and generic sizing. Custom cabinetry takes longer because every piece is built specifically for your space, your needs, and your style.
- Precision fit: No filler strips, awkward gaps, or wasted space.
- Superior materials: Solid wood and plywood construction that lasts decades.
- Thoughtful details: Joinery, hardware, and finishing that you'll appreciate every day.
- Future value: Custom cabinetry adds lasting value to your home.
The wait for custom cabinetry isn't downtime — it's the time your craftsman spends building something that will serve your family for generations.
Ready to Start Your Timeline?
The best time to begin planning is now. Whether you're envisioning a full kitchen transformation or a single custom built-in, we'll walk you through every phase with clarity and care.
Schedule your consultation to get a personalized timeline for your project.
At Refined Interiors, every cabinet begins with craftsmanship — and every project ends with refinement.