Materials & finishes
A colour is only the beginning. Compare the cabinet construction, surface finish, edging and hardware before approving your joinery specification.
Contemporary timber kitchen · Design concept
Start with a physical sample
Bring your flooring, wall colour and worktop ideas into the same conversation. A finish that looks right on screen may feel different beside the actual materials in your home.
Our guide introduces choices to discuss. Availability, products, brands and final construction are confirmed with your quotation.
Compare the options
A consistent colour or wood-look surface
A useful option to discuss for cabinet interiors, utility storage and many door designs. Review the exact decor, surface texture, core and edge detail together.
The surface, board core and edging form the specification. Ask to see the intended edge finish, particularly near sinks and appliances.
Ask: Does the quotation identify the board, thickness, edge finish and intended application?
Real wood grain over a supporting panel
Consider veneer where the timber grain is a central part of the design. The cut and arrangement of the veneer influence the appearance across a run of doors or panels.
Discuss grain direction, matching, the supporting board and protective finish. Natural grain and colour vary, so approve representative samples.
Ask: How will the grain run and match across the finished cabinetry?
A selected colour with a defined door profile
Discuss painted finishes for Shaker, framed and flat-front cabinetry. Door shape, colour and sheen should be reviewed as a complete combination.
Confirm the substrate, preparation and coating system with the proposed specification. View the sample in the room’s light before approval.
Ask: Which door profile, paint system and sheen are included in the quote?
Natural texture with a strong sense of material
Consider solid timber for suitable individual components and furniture details. Its role and construction need to suit the piece and the setting.
Discuss species, grain, construction and finish for the actual application. Your sample and approved specification define the material direction.
Ask: Which parts are solid timber, and which use veneer or another board construction?
The complete specification
| Element | What to discuss |
|---|---|
| Cabinet interiors | Board type, internal colour, shelf layout, backs and how frequently used items will be reached. |
| Doors & visible panels | Profile, colour or timber direction, grain arrangement, surface finish and exposed end panels. |
| Edging & junctions | How visible edges, fillers, plinths and worktop junctions will be finished. |
| Drawers & hinges | Opening method, runner system, usable internal space, closing action and required accessories. |
| Worktops | Material, thickness, edge shape, joints, cut-outs and whether supply and fitting are included. |
| Lighting & appliances | Chosen appliances, service access and any integrated lighting, with responsibilities confirmed in the scope. |
Use the care guidance for the material and finish actually supplied. Avoid leaving water on cabinet surfaces or exposed edges, and discuss cleaning products before use.
Drawer and hinge selection should be part of cabinet planning. Ask for the specified system in your quotation, with its required dimensions and opening method confirmed before manufacture.
Manufacturer links provide general product information. Brands and systems are selected and confirmed for each order.
Made around your space