It’s easy get caught up in the excitement of designing a custom kitchen. You have an endless number of possibilities to help you create a beautiful and functional space. But before you get too far into choosing finishes and cabinetry styles, don’t overlook this crucial step: selecting your appliances. It may seem like cabinets should come first — they’re often the most visible part of the kitchen — but in reality, you should pick out your appliances before finalizing any plans. Here’s why:

Appliances Dictate Cabinet Dimensions

Appliances, such as refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, and range hoods, all come in specific sizes. Custom cabinets are designed to fit seamlessly around them. If you haven’t chosen your appliances first, your cabinetry might not have the correct dimensions, leading to expensive redesigns or limiting your appliance options.

Helps Avoid Costly Mistakes and Redesigns 

If you build your cabinets first, then later choose an oversized fridge or a double oven, you may need to modify or replace the cabinets to make everything fit. This can add significantly to your timeline, cause unnecessary stress, and put you way out of budget. Finalizing appliance specs early helps you avoid delays and unnecessary expenses. 

Knowing the appliance costs also helps you determine your budget and allows for better allocation of funds for cabinets and other features. 

Ensures Proper Workflow and Layout

Choosing appliances in advance allows your designer to create a layout that supports an efficient kitchen workflow. For example, knowing the exact size and placement of your stove and sink ensures you have the right spacing for prep areas, storage, and traffic flow. You want to achieve the “kitchen work triangle,” the ideal positioning between your sink, stove, and refrigerator. 

Custom Features Rely on Appliance Specs

Many custom cabinet features, such as built-in microwaves, drawers, pull-out shelves, and other custom storage solutions, depend on knowing your appliance models and measurements. The more detailed the specs, the better your cabinet maker can build around them, maximizing functionality and style. 

Built-In Appliances Require Precision

Built-in appliances that sit flush with the cabinets or panel-ready models require precise measurements. The cabinets must be built to the exact appliance specifications for a seamless fit. That precision is only possible when the appliance choices are made up front. 

Helps Coordinate Electrical and Plumbing Needs

Some appliances need specific electrical outlets, gas hookups, or water lines. Make sure you factor these into your cabinet and kitchen layout, so you can coordinate all mechanical elements before construction begins. 

Tips for Choosing Appliances

Do you know what cabinets you want, but haven’t thought about your appliances? Here are some tips to help you with your selection: 

Determine Your Needs and Budget — Consider how often you cook, what kind of cooking you do, and whether you want to entertain often. Determine how much you’re willing to spend, and research different brands and models to find the best value that fits your budget. 

You may want to prioritize the appliances you use most frequently and the features that are most important to you, or focus on ease of use and convenience. 

Evaluate Energy Efficiency and Maintenance — Consider mdoels that have Energy Star ratings if you want your kitchen to be energy-efficient. Additionally, choose models that are durable and easy to clean for effortless long-term maintenance. 

Factor in Features and Design — Consider the aesthetic of your kitchen and choose finishes that will match your style. Make sure you choose appliances that are easily reachable for those living in your home and ergonomic for users of different heights. 

Research and Compare — Check online reviews to see what people have to say about the models and brands you are considering. You can also talk to appliance retailers or kitchen designers if you feel like you need expert advice. 

Consider the Long Term — Consider how your needs may change in the future and choose appliances that can adapt to your changing lifestyle. Look for brands that offer a good warranty and have a reliable service network, in case you have any issues or need repairs in the future. 

Choose Your Appliances Before You Design Your Cabinets

Selecting your appliances before designing your custom cabinets allows you to create a kitchen that functions well and looks beautiful, as well as ensures you have accurate measurements, better layout planning, and fewer costly surprises during installation. Whether you’re building your dream kitchen or remodeling, starting with appliances sets the foundation for a smoother, more successful design process, saving you time, money, and stress.