How We Handcraft Your Custom Cabinets From Start to Finish
From initial consultation to final installation, every detail is crafted with precision and care
A Process Built on Craftsmanship and Communication
Your custom cabinetry project is an investment in quality craftsmanship that transforms your kitchen or bathroom into exactly what you envision. Whether you're drawn to Colonial elegance, Primitive charm, Contemporary simplicity, or Vintage warmth, our process ensures your cabinets are handcrafted to your exact specifications.
At Period Designs Company, we've refined our process over 15 years to make custom cabinetry approachable and transparent. You'll know what to expect at every stage, from your first conversation with us through the final installation walkthrough.
Your Project Timeline
2-3
Weeks Design Phase
10-14
Weeks Manufacturing
1-2
Weeks Installation
1
Initial Consultation
Timeline: 1-2 hours | Complimentary
We begin with a detailed conversation about your vision, needs, and budget. This is where we learn about your home, your style preferences (Colonial, Primitive, Contemporary, Vintage, or a blend), and how you use your kitchen or bathroom.
What Happens:
Discussion of your project goals and inspiration images
Overview of our cabinetry styles and construction methods
Preliminary measurements and layout assessment
Budget discussion and timeline expectations
Wood species, finish options, and hardware overview
You'll speak directly with Jeremy, the craftsman who will build your cabinets—not a sales team. This ensures clear communication from day one.
3
Review & Revisions
Timeline: 3-7 days
We present the design drawings and specifications for your review. This is your opportunity to request changes, adjust details, or refine the plan before we begin building.
What Happens:
Detailed review of cabinet layouts and elevations
Adjustments to door styles, hardware, or finishes
Modifications to cabinet configurations if needed
Final confirmation of wood species and finish colors
We work through revisions until you're completely satisfied with the design. This is the time to perfect every detail.
5
Handcrafted Manufacturing
Timeline: 10-14 weeks
This is where your cabinets come to life in our West Union, Ohio workshop. Every cabinet is handmade using solid hardwood, traditional joinery, and hand-applied finishes.
What Happens:
Hardwood milling and preparation
Cabinet box construction with furniture-grade joinery
Door and drawer fabrication (raised panels, dovetail drawers)
Hand-applied finishes (milk paint, stains, hand-rubbed oils)
Hardware installation and final assembly
Quality control inspection of every piece
Updates: We provide progress updates at key milestones—when construction begins, during finishing, and when cabinets are complete and ready for delivery.
2
Design Development & Final Measurements
Timeline: 1-2 weeks
After our consultation, we create detailed design drawings based on your vision. We take precise measurements of your space and develop cabinet layouts that maximize function while honoring your chosen style.
What Happens:
Detailed measurements of your space
Cabinet layout drawings showing all dimensions
Door style recommendations for your chosen aesthetic
Hardware selections (cup pulls, knobs, hinges)
Wood species and finish specifications
Pricing based on exact cabinet count and details
Whether you're building Colonial raised-panel cabinets or Contemporary flat-panel designs, we ensure every detail matches your style and space requirements.
4
Final Approval & Project Start
Timeline: 1-2 days
Once you approve the final design, we formalize the project with a signed agreement and deposit. Your project enters our build schedule and we order materials.
What Happens:
Signed contract with full project specifications
Deposit payment (typically 50%)
Confirmed build timeline (10-14 weeks from this point)
Material orders placed (hardwood lumber, hardware, finish materials)
Your project enters our manufacturing schedule
6
Professional Installation & Final Walkthrough
Timeline: 1-2 weeks (depending on project size)
Your handcrafted cabinets are delivered and professionally installed. We ensure every cabinet is level, secure, and functioning perfectly before we consider the project complete.
What Happens:
Careful delivery of finished cabinets to your home
Professional installation by our experienced team
Precise leveling and securing of all cabinets
Hardware installation and door/drawer adjustment
Final walkthrough to ensure your complete satisfaction
Care instructions for maintaining your cabinetry
Installation Options: We offer professional installation nationwide, or white-glove freight delivery with comprehensive support for your local contractor.
What to Expect Throughout Your Project
Direct Communication
When you call Period Designs Company, you speak with Jeremy—the craftsman building your cabinets. No sales team, no project managers. Just direct access to the person doing the work.
Transparent Timeline
We provide realistic timelines and stick to them. You'll know when design is due, when manufacturing begins, and when installation is scheduled. No surprises.
Quality Materials
Every cabinet is built from solid hardwood—cherry, maple, or oak. We use premium furniture-grade plywood for cabinet boxes. No particle board, no shortcuts.
Traditional Craftsmanship
Dovetail drawer construction. Raised panel doors fitted into grooved frames. Hand-applied finishes. These aren't production cabinets—they're handcrafted furniture for your kitchen.
Common Questions About Our Process
What's your typical timeline from consultation to installation?
Total timeline is typically 13-17 weeks: 2-3 weeks for design development and approvals, 10-14 weeks for manufacturing, and 1-2 weeks for installation. Rush timelines may be possible depending on our current schedule.
Do you work with out-of-state clients?
Yes! We serve homeowners nationwide. For distant projects, we handle the design process remotely using detailed photos and measurements, then provide either professional installation or white-glove freight delivery with installation support for your local contractor.
What's included in the initial consultation?
The consultation is complimentary and includes discussion of your vision, preliminary measurements, style recommendations, budget guidance, and timeline expectations. You'll speak directly with Jeremy about your project—no sales pitch, just honest conversation about what's possible.
Can I see my cabinets during the build process?
Absolutely! We welcome workshop visits if you're local. For distant clients, we provide photo updates at key milestones during manufacturing. Many clients appreciate seeing their cabinets take shape.
What payment schedule do you use?
Typical payment structure is 50% deposit at contract signing, 50% when cabinets are completed and installation is complete. We're flexible and can discuss payment arrangements that work for your situation.
Ready to Start Your Custom Cabinetry Project?
Whether you're planning a Colonial kitchen, a Primitive renovation, a Contemporary remodel, or a Vintage restoration, we're here to guide you through every step. Schedule your complimentary consultation to discuss your vision.
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
Ready to start your custom cabinetry project? Whether you're updating your kitchen, bathroom, or other spaces, we are here to help. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project.