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  Cabinet design requires careful attention to a number of important factors. You must consider functional and aesthetic values when creating your cabinet design. Before designing a set of cabinets for a kitchen or workspace, take a moment to go through this handy checklist. It will give you the foundation to create cabinets to better suit your space and needs.
  
  

Purpose of Your Design

• What do you want from your cabinets? They might be for a specific purpose, such as for a kitchen or workshop. If they are replacing a current set, analyze the elements you do not like about your existing cabinets. The new cabinets should solve a problem, whether it is lack of space or an outdated style.
  
  

Size

• Space is an important consideration when designing cabinets. They should be large enough to store everything you need but still fit inside the available space or room naturally. Start by measuring any existing cabinet space, then adjust the size of the cabinets as needed. If you're starting from scratch, design cabinets specifically to fit the items you want to store, allowing for future accumulation
  
  

Practicality

• The function of your cabinets is integral to the overall design. Think about how you want to use the space and what you will be doing in it before finalizing your design. For instance, if you will be storing lots of heavy items such as large pans, place these cabinets on the floor so the heavy items are easier to access. Include room for appliances. Place dish cabinets near the dishwasher and sink and cooking utensil cabinets close to the stove for an efficient, functional kitchen cabinet design.
  
  

Style

• The style of your cabinets can reflect your personality and add to the resale value of your home. Match the style to your home's existing decor or make a statement. The materials you use will influence the style of your cabinets as well. Oak, cherry and maple are traditional hardwoods, ideal for both contemporary and traditional styles. Save this step for last so style considerations do not affect functional aspects of your cabinet design.