Our Custom Cabinet Process: From Vision to Reality
Most custom cabinet projects in Calgary take 6 to 12 weeks from initial consultation to completed installation—with kitchens averaging 6-9 weeks, bathroom vanities 4-6 weeks, and built-ins 6-10 weeks. At Planar Millwork, we’ve refined this process over 200+ projects to ensure predictable timelines, transparent pricing, and exceptional results.
We understand that investing in custom cabinetry is a significant decision. That’s why transparency guides everything we do. Before you commit, you’ll know exactly what to expect: detailed timelines, itemized pricing ($250-$650 per linear foot for kitchens), and open communication at every stage.
Steps - The Process
01 Initial consultation
01
Initial consultation
Timeline: 1-2 hours | Cost: FREE, no-obligation
Your custom cabinet journey begins with a free consultation—either at your home or in our Calgary showroom. This initial meeting is where we understand your vision and assess your space.
During your consultation, we'll discuss:
- Your design vision and style preferences (58% choose shaker, 22% modern flat-panel)
- Functional needs—how you use your space daily
- Budget parameters ($18K-$24K typical kitchen, $3K-$8K typical bathroom)
- Timeline expectations and project scheduling
We’ll take preliminary measurements, review our portfolio of 200+ completed Calgary projects, and answer every question.
01
02 Design & planning
02
Design & planning
02
Timeline: 1-2 weeks | Deliverable: 3D renderings + itemized quote
This is where your custom cabinets begin taking shape. Our designers capture precise measurements—to 1/16 inch accuracy—ensuring every cabinet fits perfectly.
Your custom design development includes:
- Detailed floor plans and elevations
- Photorealistic 3D renderings showing your exact space
- Multiple layout options when applicable
- Material recommendations (62% of clients choose maple)
- Itemized pricing with no hidden costs
We typically include 2-3 revision rounds to refine the design until it’s exactly right.
03 Material selection
03
Material selection
03
Timeline: 1-2 visits over 1-2 weeks
Seeing materials on a screen is different from touching them in person. We invite you to our showroom to experience your options firsthand.
Your material selection visit includes:
- Viewing actual wood species (maple 62%, oak 18%, walnut 12%, cherry 8%)
- Feeling finish textures—matte, satin, high-gloss
- Testing Blum soft-close hardware rated for 100,000+ cycles
- Selecting exact paint colors or stain shades
- Coordinating with countertop selections if applicable
04 Fabrication
04
Fabrication
04
Timeline: 4-6 weeks (kitchens) | 3-5 weeks (vanities/built-ins) | Updates provided
This is where the magic happens—in our Calgary workshop, not overseas. Your cabinets are built by local craftspeople using 3/4″ plywood construction and Blum hardware.
Our fabrication process combines:
- CNC precision cutting for perfect consistency (1/16 inch accuracy)
- Hand-crafted details that machines can’t replicate
- Quality control inspections at every stage
- Custom finishing in controlled spray environment
- Hardware pre-installation for efficiency
Quality craftsmanship takes time—we won’t rush your cabinets. We provide progress updates and photos.
05 Professional installation
05
Professional installation
05
Timeline: 1-2 days (vanities) | 3-5 days (kitchens) | 1-3 days (built-ins)
Installation day is exciting—you finally see your custom cabinets in place. Our professional installation team (not subcontractors) handles every detail.
What to expect during installation:
- Scheduled arrival time—we respect your schedule
- Protection of your floors, walls, and belongings
- Precise leveling and secure wall mounting
- Fine-tuning of doors and drawers for perfect alignment
- Coordination with plumbers or electricians if needed
- Daily cleanup—we leave your home tidy
06 Final walkthrough & ongoing support
06
Final walkthrough & ongoing support
06
Timeline: 30-60 minutes + ongoing availability
Before we call your project complete, we conduct a detailed walkthrough together. We inspect every cabinet, drawer, and piece of hardware.
Your final walkthrough includes:
- Demonstration of all features and hardware
- Care and maintenance instructions (for 20+ year lifespan)
- Warranty documentation and coverage details
- Any final adjustments made on the spot
- Direct contact information for future needs
Total project timeline
Typical Custom Cabinet Project: 6-12 Weeks
Based on our 200+ completed projects, here’s how timelines typically break down:
Kitchen Cabinets
6-9 weeks total
(4-6 weeks fabrication, 3-5 days install)
Bathroom Vanities
4-6 weeks total
(3-5 weeks fabrication, 1-2 days install)
Living Space Built-Ins
6-10 weeks total
(5-8 weeks fabrication, 1-3 days install)
Storage Solutions
4-8 weeks total
(3-6 weeks fabrication, 1-2 days install)
Commercial Projects
4-16 weeks total
(3-10 weeks fabrication, 1-5 days install)
What makes our process different
Typical Custom Cabinet Project: 6-12 Weeks
Based on our 200+ completed projects, here’s how timelines typically break down:
In-House Everything
Design, fabrication, finishing, installation all under our roof. No subcontractors.
Your role in the process
A smooth cabinet project is a partnership. Here’s how you can help ensure success:
- Share inspiration images or Pinterest boards during consultation
- Make decisions within agreed timeframes to maintain schedule
- Be available for key milestones: design approval, material selection, walkthrough
- Clear the installation area before our team arrives
- Communicate openly—questions are always welcome
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the custom cabinet process take in Calgary?
Most custom cabinet projects take 6 to 12 weeks from consultation to completed installation. Kitchen projects typically require 6-9 weeks, bathroom vanities 4-6 weeks, and built-in cabinetry 6-10 weeks. We provide a specific timeline based on your project scope during your free consultation.
Can I see my cabinets before installation?
Yes—we welcome clients to visit our Calgary workshop during fabrication to see their cabinets taking shape. We also provide progress photos throughout the build process.
What if I want to make changes during fabrication?
We understand ideas evolve. Minor adjustments can often be accommodated. Significant changes may affect timeline and cost—we discuss options transparently.
Can I keep using my kitchen during the cabinet process?
During design and fabrication (6-8 weeks)—absolutely, your kitchen functions normally. During installation (3-5 days), kitchen access is limited. We help you plan for temporary arrangements.
What if something doesn't fit correctly?
Our precise measurement process (1/16 inch accuracy) virtually eliminates fit issues. In the rare event something isn’t perfect, we address it immediately at no additional cost.
How do payments work?
We use a milestone-based payment schedule: deposit at contract signing (typically 40%), progress payment before fabrication begins (40%), and final payment upon your approval at walkthrough (20%).
What warranty do you offer on custom cabinets?
Planar Millwork provides a comprehensive warranty covering materials and workmanship. Our cabinets are built to last 20+ years with proper care.
Do you handle plumbing and electrical work?
We coordinate with licensed Calgary plumbers and electricians as needed. They work alongside our installation team for seamless integration.
Ready to Start Your Custom Cabinet Project?
The first step is simple: a free consultation where we explore your vision, answer your questions, and provide a detailed timeline. Most consultations take 1-2 hours.
After you reach out:
- We respond within 1 business day
- Schedule a consultation at your convenience
- Receive 3D designs and itemized quote within 1-2 weeks
- Begin building your dream cabinets