Free Standing Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops - A Buyer's Guide

Remodeling your kitchen? The cabinetry and countertops you choose will define the look, feel, and functionality of the space. Free standing cabinets paired with custom countertops allow for flexible layouts and high-end style.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully plan your free standing kitchen cabinet and countertop installation.

Getting Started with Free Standing Kitchen Cabinets

Free standing kitchen cabinets offer unique advantages over traditional wall-mounted cabinetry. Since they don't need to attach to walls, they can be arranged anywhere in your kitchen design. You can cluster them together, use them to divide up space, or incorporate a standalone island.

Free standing cabinets have finished sides, making them visible from all angles. This allows you to get creative with mixing cabinet styles, colors, and finishes to make a design statement.

Benefits of Using Free Standing Cabinets

There are several reasons free standing cabinets have become a popular choice for modern kitchen designs:

• Flexibility - Position cabinets anywhere without being limited by wall space.
• Accessibility - Access contents easily from all sides.
• Installation - Freestanding cabinets don't require drilling into walls.
• Aesthetics - Create an open, airy look with furniture-like cabinets.

Design Considerations for Free Standing Cabinets

While free standing cabinets offer more layout options, there are a few important considerations:

Carefully plan the placement to allow for proper traffic flow and work triangles. Islands especially need adequate clearance - at least 36-48 inches is recommended.

Since all sides are exposed, the finishing impacts the overall budget. Multiple finished sides show more wear over time.

Proper installation is crucial to prevent tipping. Anchoring to the floor or wall, adding leveling glides, or joining cabinets together improves stability.

Choosing the Perfect Countertop Material

One of the biggest advantages of free standing cabinets is the ability to use countertops made from a wide variety of premium materials, like natural stone and quartz.

Most Popular Kitchen Countertop Materials

Here are the characteristics of the top contenders for kitchen countertops:

• Granite - Extremely durable with unique natural patterning but requires sealing.
• Quartz - Non-porous, stain and scratch resistant. Manmade for color consistency.
• Marble - Elegant veining but prone to stains and etching.
• Ceramic Tile - Budget-friendly and easy to clean but prone to cracking and high maintenance.
• Solid Surface - Seamless appearance but susceptible to cuts and scratches.

How to Select the Best Countertop for Your Kitchen

Keep these factors in mind when deciding on a countertop material:

• Durability - How well will it hold up to daily use?
• Maintenance - Does it require frequent sealing or polishing?
• Heat resistance - Is it prone to scorching or cracking?
• Stain resistance - How easily will it stain or etch?
• Cost - What fits your project budget after material and installation?
• Aesthetic - Does it complement your cabinetry and overall style?

Tips for Proper Countertop Installation

To ensure your countertops last for years to come:

• Use the manufacturer recommended supports and overhangs.
• Verify cabinets offer a perfectly level surface.
• Take care to properly seal any seams between countertop slabs.

Designing Your Free Standing Kitchen

Having the flexibility to arrange your cabinets and select your countertops also gives you ample opportunity to showcase your unique style.

Ways to Add Visual Interest

• Contrast island and wall cabinet finishes or colors.
• Coordinate countertop materials with cabinet colors.
• Incorporate glass-front upper cabinets.
• Try two-tone cabinets for depth and dimension.

Complementary Kitchen Elements

Enhance your free standing kitchen design by layering in these elements:

• Backsplash - Protect walls and tie countertops together with tile.
• Hardware - Upgrade with knobs, pulls, and handles in finishes that pop.
• Molding - Crown molding adds architectural detail.
• Lighting - Task lighting, pendants, and recessed lights for brightness.
• Flooring - Hardwood, tile, or vinyl to complete the look.

Planning Your Free Standing Kitchen Remodel

Careful planning and hiring experienced professionals will ensure your kitchen makeover goes smoothly.

Setting a Realistic Budget

Create a detailed budget that accounts for:

• Cabinets and countertops
• New appliances if needed
• Installation labor
• Miscellaneous supplies
• Contingency fund for unexpected expenses

Choosing the Right Remodeling Team

Find qualified experts like:

• Kitchen designers to create layouts and select products.
• Experienced cabinet installers and countertop fabricators.
• Licensed electricians and plumbers if needed.

Read reviews, verify credentials, and ask for referrals to find the best professionals for the job.

Pre-Remodel Preparations

Be prepared with:

• Detailed drawings showing cabinet placements and dimensions.
• Exact countertop measurements.
• Required wiring and plumbing modifications.

Timeline and Schedule

Remodels involve multiple phases:

• Demolition of existing kitchen.
• Wait time for cabinet and countertop fabrication.
• Installation of new components.
• Finishing touches like painting, lighting, and flooring.

Discuss timeframes with your contractor and schedule accordingly.

Free standing kitchen cabinets give you creative freedom to design your ideal kitchen. Pairing them with natural stone, quartz, or solid surface countertops elevates the space to a luxury level.

Use this guide to confidently plan your kitchen remodel from start to finish. Careful attention to details like proper installation and seamless finishes will ensure you enjoy a beautiful and functional kitchen for years to come.