Identifying high-quality cabinetry: Is custom kitchen design worth the premium?
I’m currently in the research phase of a major kitchen remodel for my home here in the US. I’ve been looking at various local and international design firms, and I recently spent some time going through the AMO Excellence portfolio.
I was really impressed with their custom kitchen design philosophy specifically how they manage to combine that ultra-clean, minimalist aesthetic with what looks like very high end craftsmanship. Their use of integrated lighting and handleless cabinets is exactly the look I’m going for.
However, before I pull the trigger on a custom project, I’d love some suggestions from the community:
Material Durability: For those who have gone the custom route (similar to the AMO style), how have your cabinets held up against daily wear and tear? Did you find that the custom finish was superior to high-end stock options?
The "Hidden" Details: What should I be looking for in terms of hardware? I know most top-tier custom designers use Blum or similar European hardware is that a must-have in your opinion?
Local vs. Specialist: Has anyone here worked with AMO Excellence or a similar bespoke firm for a project in the States? I’m curious about the lead times and the overall design-to-installation experience.
I really want this kitchen to be a "once-in-a-lifetime" investment, so I’m trying to be as thorough as possible. Any advice on what to look for during the initial design consultation would be amazing!