Anyone else get caught in a loop of Instagram kitchen envy? When you’re scrolling through IG and come to a kitchen space that takes your breath away? You tell yourself that a kitchen reno may be years down the road, but you press that save button anyway, knowing that there is something there that inspires you. And SOMEDAY, you’ll use that inspo to build your own kitchen. This week I chatted with Evan, owner of Columbia Cabinets, who has been designing and building dream kitchens for years, from Lake George to Westchester, New York. Evan shared just how simple they make it for you to build the kitchen of your dreams.

Walking into their new showroom space on Broadway, I was greeted by the Columbia Cabinets team with a warm welcome. Nestled among the row of Broadway shops are two floors of cabinets, finishes and accessories that I never would have known existed. It was here that the team brought me step-by-step through the kitchen remodeling process, and just how easy it is for the client.

DESIGN PROCESS MADE EASY

They begin the process by visiting the client’s space. This is the chance to share all those “dream kitchen” pics you’ve been collecting. What do you envision in your new space? What looks and features do you love? What do you detest? Are you looking to simply replace what you have within that same footprint, or to expand the kitchen into a new space? What is your budget? Ultimately, they’ll share if the client’s vision is doable and reasonable.

You talk, and they listen. After discussing the form, it’s time to focus on the function. The client shares details on how they’re currently using their existing space. Are they a cook or baker? Perhaps all about take-out? Do they eat breakfast at the table or island? Are the cupboards full of sippy cups or water bottles? (Don’t look at me.) Evan shared that every one of these questions play a vital role in the design of a new kitchen space and storage.

This is when the Columbia Cabinets’ in-house designers do their magic. The client is then invited to the showroom to review the first set of renderings that have transformed the vision into reality. The design team presents the drawings, along with a laundry list of variations and accessories that allow the client plenty of options. By having this discussion in the Columbia Cabinets showroom, the client is able to touch and feel the cabinetry, see colors, finishes and accessories, and openly discuss how each will affect the project cost.

This final review is scheduled in the client’s home to review the second round of design renderings and pricing. This meeting is attended by the designer, contractor and client to ensure a smooth future installation. If the design does not need any additional tweaking, a contract is put in place. It is not until THIS step that the client is asked to put down a deposit. At this point, the final renderings are released to the client and the cabinets are ordered!

In this season of unpredictable shipping and sourcing, the professional logistics team at Columbia Cabinets is valued now more than ever. There to support you every step of the way, the client is kept well-informed about expected arrival until that exciting day finally arrives. The installer is provided with schematics and any information necessary to ensure that the new space can be utilized as quickly as possible.

It was SO obvious to me just how much the Columbia Cabinets team pride themselves on meticulously managing the kitchen and bath design process, and proudly standing behind their word. The design of their kitchens and baths, from Lake George to East Hampton, has earned them a variety of awards, including the Saratoga Showcase of Homes Best in Luxury Kitchen. Stop by their conveniently located showroom (just next to Pint Sized on Broadway). I’m not sure if it was the fact that I was surrounded by options and inspiration, or simply their great company… but I almost didn’t leave.

Check out more creative kitchen and bath designs by Columbia Cabinets by visiting their Instagram page!