Design Consultation & Planning Process
Wondering what it's like to work with us? Here's exactly what to expect — from your first conversation to the moment we hand you the keys to your new cabinetry.
Our Promise: Clarity at Every Step
Custom cabinetry is a significant investment. You deserve to understand exactly what you're getting, when you'll get it, and how decisions will be made along the way.
We've designed our process to eliminate surprises, set clear expectations, and ensure you feel confident and informed from start to finish.
The Journey from Vision to Reality
Every project follows these five phases. Here's what happens in each.
Initial Conversation
What happens: We start with a phone call or email to understand your project at a high level. What rooms are involved? What's driving the project? What's your timeline?
What you'll learn: Whether we're a good fit for your project, rough timeline expectations, and next steps if you'd like to proceed.
Duration: 15–30 minutes
On-Site Consultation & Measurement
What happens: We visit your home to see the space in person. We take detailed measurements, discuss your vision, note any constraints (plumbing, electrical, structural), and understand how you use the space day-to-day.
What you'll learn: Initial ideas for layout and function, potential challenges and solutions, and questions to consider before design begins.
Duration: 1–2 hours depending on project scope
Design Development & Proposal
What happens: Based on our consultation, we develop detailed designs and a comprehensive proposal. This includes cabinet layouts, material recommendations, hardware selections, and a clear price breakdown.
What you'll learn: Exactly what you're getting, exactly what it costs, and the timeline for completion. No hidden fees, no vague estimates.
Duration: We typically deliver proposals within 1–2 weeks
Material Selection & Final Approval
What happens: Once you approve the proposal, we finalize all details together — wood species, stain or paint colors, hardware style, and any custom features. We review the final plans and answer any remaining questions.
What you'll learn: Final specifications for everything that will be built, confirmed timeline, and what to expect during production.
Duration: 1–2 weeks depending on material availability
Build, Install & Walkthrough
What happens: We build your cabinetry in our shop, then install it in your home. After installation, we do a complete walkthrough — adjusting doors, checking drawers, and ensuring every detail is perfect.
What you'll learn: Care instructions, how hardware works, and answers to any questions about your new cabinetry.
Duration: 5–10 weeks for build; 1–3 days for installation
Decisions We'll Guide You Through
Custom cabinetry involves many choices. We help you navigate each one with confidence.
Wood Species Selection
White oak, walnut, maple, cherry — each has unique characteristics. We'll discuss grain patterns, color variations, and how each species takes stain to help you choose.
Door Style & Profile
Shaker, raised panel, flat panel, beaded inset — door style sets the tone. We'll show you options that complement your home's architecture and your personal taste.
Finish Type
Natural stain that shows the wood's beauty? Painted finish in a specific color? We'll discuss durability, maintenance, and how different finishes age over time.
Layout & Function
Where should drawers go? How deep should shelves be? What kind of interior accessories do you need? We design around how you actually use your space.
Hardware Selection
Knobs or pulls? Bar style or cup pulls? Finish that matches or contrasts? Hardware is the jewelry of your cabinetry — we help you choose pieces that complete the look.
Special Features
Pull-out trash, spice racks, charging drawers, appliance garages — we'll discuss which features add real value for your lifestyle and which you can skip.
What to Bring to Your Consultation
You don't need to arrive with all the answers — but these items help us serve you better.
Inspiration Images
Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, or photos of cabinetry you love
Storage Pain Points
What's not working in your current space? What do you wish you had?
Rough Budget Range
Even a ballpark helps us design solutions that fit your investment comfort
Timeline Constraints
Remodel schedules, events you're planning around, or deadlines to consider
Not sure where to start? That's okay. Many clients come to us knowing only that their current setup isn't working. We'll help you discover what's possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee for the initial consultation?
Our initial phone conversation is always free. For the on-site consultation and detailed proposal, fees vary by project scope — we'll discuss this during our first call.
How far in advance should I reach out?
For most projects, 3–4 months before your desired installation date is ideal. For kitchen remodels coordinating with contractors, earlier is better.
Do you work with contractors and designers?
Absolutely. We coordinate closely with general contractors, interior designers, and other trades. We're the exclusive cabinet partner for several Kansas City builders.
What if I need to make changes after approval?
We build in a final review before production begins specifically for this reason. Minor changes are usually easy to accommodate; significant changes may affect timeline and cost.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the greater Kansas City metro, including Leawood, Overland Park, Prairie Village, Mission Hills, and beyond.
Ready to Start the Conversation?
Whether you have a detailed vision or just a sense that something needs to change, we're here to listen. The first step is always a simple conversation.
Schedule Your ConsultationRefined Interior Woodworks — Clarity, craftsmanship, and care at every step.