Timeline for Custom Cabinet Projects - What to Expect

Whether you're remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, mudroom, or adding built-in storage, understanding the process helps set realistic expectations and keeps your project moving smoothly.

While every project is unique, most custom cabinetry projects follow a similar path from initial consultation to final installation.

Custom Cabinetry Project Timeline

Phase	Typical Timeline	Key Activities
Consultation & Project Discovery	Week 1	Site visit, measurements, project goals, budget discussion, and project scope review.
Estimate Review & Approval	Week 2	Review project scope, material selections, pricing, and estimated timelines. Final adjustments are made before proceeding to design and approvals.
Design Finalization & Scheduling	Weeks 3–4	Cabinet layouts, storage planning, appliance coordination, material selections, and final design approval.
Fabrication	Weeks 4-11 This stage usually takes around 6-8 weeks, but can last longer depending on project circumstances and current company backlog.	Cabinet construction, finishing, quality inspections, and preparation for delivery.
Site Preparation	During Fabrication	Performed by other contractors: Demolition, flooring, drywall, painting, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins.
Delivery & Professional Installation	Week 12 (the actual installation of cabinets lasts only 3-4 days, but can depend on project size)	Cabinet delivery, installation

Consultation & Project Discovery

Every custom cabinetry project begins with a detailed consultation. During this phase, measurements are taken, existing conditions are evaluated, and the overall project scope is established.

Topics typically discussed include:

• Project goals and priorities

• Room layout and existing conditions

• Storage needs and organizational challenges

• Design preferences and inspiration

• Budget expectations

• Desired timeline and scheduling considerations

Estimate Review & Approval

After the consultation, we provide an estimate that outlines the project scope, materials, pricing, and timeline.

Once everything is reviewed and approved, we move into design and material selection.

Design Finalization & Material Selection

During this phase, we finalize the cabinet layout and select the materials that will bring the design to life.

This includes choosing door styles, wood species, paint or stain colors, hardware, and storage features. Final decisions are approved before fabrication begins.

Fabrication & Finishing

Pictured is Javier Leon, owner of Sixteenth Project, crafting a custom cabinet in the company shop in downtown Grand Rapids.

With approvals complete, the project moves into fabrication.

Each cabinet is built specifically for the project and undergoes a detailed manufacturing and finishing process that includes:

• Cabinet box construction

• Door and drawer fabrication

• Dovetail drawer box assembly

• Sanding and surface preparation

• Paint or stain application

• Protective topcoat finishing

• Quality-control inspections

  
  

Most custom cabinetry projects require approximately 4–6 weeks of fabrication time, though larger kitchens or highly customized projects may require additional time.

Factors That Affect Fabrication Time

Several variables can influence production schedules, including:

• Project size

• Cabinet quantity

• Specialty storage features

• Custom range hoods and decorative details

• Complex paint or stain finishes

• Material availability

• Current production schedules

  
  

Typical Fabrication Timelines by Project Size

Project Size	Fabrication Time	Total Project Timeline
Small Kitchen (20-25 doors and drawer fronts)	4–5 Weeks	8–10 Weeks
Medium Kitchen(30-35 doors and drawer fronts)	5–6 Weeks	10–12 Weeks
Large/Exceptionally Large Kitchen (40-60 doors and drawer fronts)	6–8 Weeks	12–14 Weeks

Site Preparation

While your cabinets are being built, the space should be prepared for installation.

This may include demolition, flooring, painting, drywall work, plumbing, and electrical updates completed by other trades.

Delivery & Professional Installation

Most cabinet installations take three to four days. During this time, cabinets are carefully positioned, leveled, and secured to ensure a clean fit and proper function.

Ready to Start Your Cabinetry Project?

Whether you're planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or custom built-ins, the best results begin with thoughtful planning and expert guidance.

Contact our team today to learn more about our custom cabinetry process and take the first step toward creating a space designed specifically for your home and lifestyle!