Choosing the Right Kitchen Cabinets: What Most Homeowners Get Wrong

When it comes to kitchen design, choosing the right cabinets is one of the most important decisions you'll make — both in form and function. As someone who’s been designing and installing kitchens for nearly a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how cabinetry can transform not just a room, but a home.

At State 48 Cabinet Co., we’ve helped homeowners from all walks of life—from cozy family remodels to luxury custom builds—find cabinet solutions that make their spaces more functional, beautiful, and personal. But before we start any project, there’s one thing I always try to do: help clients avoid the most common mistakes that can cost time, money, and long-term satisfaction.

Mistake #1: Choosing Style Over Function

It’s easy to get caught up in the look of a cabinet door or a trending color. But trust me—if the layout doesn’t serve your daily habits, it’s going to wear on you quickly. A kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks.

We often see homeowners fall in love with photos online, but those photos don’t show the drawer space you actually need, or how the doors open next to appliances. That’s why we ask a lot of questions early: How do you cook? Do you bake? Do you meal prep? Do your kids make their own lunches?

We use your answers to design spaces that feel like they were built just for your lifestyle—because they were.

Mistake #2: Underestimating Storage Needs

Storage is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why both our Heritage Line and Aspen Series offer a range of smart features—from deep drawers and vertical pull-outs to lazy Susans and hidden spice racks.

We’ve worked on over 1,000 kitchens since 2016, and I can tell you— homeowners are thrilled when they prioritize functional storage. Don’t be afraid to dream big here. It’s easier to simplify a design than to add storage down the line.

Mistake #3: Skipping the Big-Picture Questions

Before we even talk about styles and finishes, I always start with two big questions:

• What’s the main purpose of your kitchen? (Is it a daily workhorse? A family hub? An entertaining space?)

• What’s your ideal workflow? (Where do you want things within reach? What do you hate about your current or previous space?)

Once we’ve mapped out how you want to live in your kitchen, then we can design around that—down to every drawer, door, and countertop edge.

Understanding Your Options: Stock vs. Semi-Custom vs. Custom

At State 48, we offer three distinct cabinetry options to fit a variety of budgets, styles, and needs:

The Heritage Line

Our value-conscious solution is a great fit for remodels or new builds that need functionality and style without going overboard on price.

The Aspen Series

Our premium line with higher-end features and specs are designed for luxury homes with attention to custom finishes, elevated hardware, and stunning detail.

Full Custom Cabinets

When nothing off the shelf will do, we build it from scratch. We can create one-of-a-kind cabinets designed specifically for your space, your needs, and your taste—from material selection to final finish.

Don’t Forget: Countertops Matter Too

Cabinets and countertops should work in unison—and one should never be designed without the other. Whether you're leaning toward quartz, granite, quartzite, or marble, we’ll help you choose a surface that complements your cabinets and fits how you live.

Some countertops are more heat-resistant. Some require sealing. Some pair better with solid white cabinets, while others shine against stained wood or painted finishes. It all comes down to how you cook, clean, and gather.

The Bottom Line

A great kitchen can start with some inspiring photos—but in the end, it’s about creating something that fits your life. At State 48 Cabinet Co., we take the time to ask the right questions, show you the right options, and build something you’ll love every single day.

If you’re thinking about kitchen cabinets near you or planning a remodel, we’d be honored to help.

Call us today at 928-369-6718

Or contact us to start your project.

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Author: Graydon Powell

Founder, Designer, Craftsman — State 48 Cabinet Co.

Graydon Powell is the owner of State 48 Cabinet Co., a top-tier cabinet and countertop company serving Show Low, the White Mountains, and the greater Phoenix area. With nearly a decade of experience and over 1,000 kitchens completed, Graydon is known for designing and building custom kitchen cabinets with precision, honesty, and an unmatched eye for detail.

When he’s not on-site or in the shop, you’ll likely find him enjoying Arizona’s outdoors—hunting, fishing, or spending time with family.

Connect with Graydon and the team to start your project or get expert advice on cabinetry that fits your space and your style.