You’ve probably seen those cabinets at big-box stores that are ready to go, and maybe you’ve also heard whispers about fancy custom-made ones that seem to promise the moon and stars. But how do you decide which route to take? Do you go for stock cabinets that are pre-made and ready to install? Do you splurge on custom cabinets that are crafted just for you?

This article is here to help you navigate through the sea of choices during kitchen renovations. Melbourne homeowners should know the differences between stock and custom cabinets, and we’ll show how either option can affect your kitchen’s cost, labour, quality, and overall look. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which type of cabinets will best suit your dream kitchen.

Everything to know about stock cabinetry

Stock cabinetry is the ready-made, grab-and-go option that’s a staple in ‘Big-Box’ stores. Stock cabinets are pre-manufactured, meaning what you see is exactly what you get, with no customisation. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a quick, straightforward solution without the fuss of custom design.

These cabinets are mass-produced, often by larger retailers with the capacity to produce large quantities of standard designs. Some custom cabinet makers might offer a few pre-made options, but for the most part, you’ll be dealing with the big players with extensive catalogues.

Stock cabinets come in set sizes, so getting them to fit into your kitchen is a bit like playing Tetris. The widths are generally set sizes; like 300, 450 & 600mm with a height of around 800mm. This standard sizing can be a blessing or a curse, depending on your kitchen layout. If your space is irregularly shaped, piecing together a cohesive look with stock cabinets can be a bit tricky, usually ending in odd sized gaps between the cabinets and your walls.

Stock cabinets are generally the entry-level option when it comes to quality. They’re built to the manufacturer’s standards, so you might not always get the best materials. Don’t expect locally sourced, ECO compliant materials to Australian standards.

One of the biggest perks of stock cabinets is their cost-effectiveness and fast availability. On average, stock kitchen cabinets cost about $450 – $500 per linear metre –  and that’s for the cabinets only!  It doesn’t take into account benchtops, installation or third-party trades, like the plumber and electrician.

Tailored perfection with custom cabinetry

If you’re aiming for a kitchen that’s functional and truly personalised, custom cabinetry is your golden ticket. As the name suggests, custom cabinets are built to your exact specifications, meaning pre-set sizes or styles do not limit you. This level of customisation allows you to design to yours and your familys’ lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

When you opt for custom cabinetry, you start with a blank slate. Every detail—from the materials, sizing, the construction, colour, and finish—can be tailored to your liking. Do you have oddly shaped corners or exceptionally tall ceilings? No problem. Custom cabinets can fit any space seamlessly, ensuring a cohesive and polished look.

Working with a professional designer, you can be guided towards the perfect layout and finishes. The possibilities are endless, whether you want a sleek, modern finish or a more periodic nod to your homes’ past!

One of the biggest perks of custom cabinetry is the ability to control the quality of your materials and craftsmanship. Unlike stock cabinets, which are often built to meet basic standards, custom cabinets are crafted with precision and care by qualified tradesmen.

Of course, all this customisation is in a higher price bracket, but it is a more complete, holistic process. The final price depends on your specific choices of materials, finishes, styles, and accessories. While this might seem like a more ‘open-ended’ concept, it also means you can manage your budget according to your priorities, and the team at H&H Cabinets are here to guide you through it all.

One significant advantage of custom cabinetry is the inclusive service typically offered by manufacturers. Unlike stock cabinets, which require you to find and hire an independent installer, custom cabinet makers like H&H do it all for you. This means experts design and install your cabinets, ensuring a flawless fit and finish.

The experts in custom cabinets and kitchen renovations Melbourne trusts

If you’re looking for a kitchen that is exactly what you want, custom cabinetry from H&H Cabinets are the way to go. If you are going to spend the time and money, do it right and work with the experts. We offer unmatched flexibility, quality, and personalisation, allowing you to create a space that’s uniquely yours.

While it may feel like it’s coming at a higher cost and longer lead times, the end result is a beautiful, functional, professionally manufactured and installed kitchen that you’ll love for years to come.