Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Custom Cabinetry Studio

Before hiring a custom cabinetry studio, ask how it sources and builds its cabinetry, who handles permits and condo logistics, what the real lead time is, and how it stands behind the work. Clear, specific answers separate a true atelier from an order-taker.

What should I ask about materials and construction?

Start here, because cabinetry lives with you for decades and our coastal climate is unforgiving. A studio that knows its materials will answer without hesitation. Ask:

• What core and finish options do you offer, and why? You want substantive answers about oak and walnut veneer, matte lacquer and Fenix, not just color chips.
• How do your finishes handle humidity and salt air? Stability and sealing matter more in Miami than in drier markets.
• How are doors and drawers built and tested, including hinges and runners?
• How do you match veneer grain and stone veining across a run so the kitchen reads as one piece?

You can explore the finishes we work with on our materials page, which is a useful reference when comparing studios.

Who makes the cabinetry, and who installs it?

These are two different questions, and both matter. A studio should be transparent about its supply chain and its local team. We are direct about ours: our kitchens are crafted in Italy by Aran Cucine, and our Miami team handles design, coordination and installation. When evaluating a studio, confirm:

• Where the cabinetry is manufactured and what quality control happens before it ships.
• Who installs it, and whether installers are experienced with imported, made-to-order systems.
• How the design intent is protected from drawing to finished room.

A studio that is vague about who actually builds and installs the work is a studio that will be vague when something needs fixing.

How do you handle permits, licensing and condo rules?

In Miami-Dade this is not optional knowledge. Plumbing, electrical and structural work must be done by licensed, insured contractors, and condos add their own layer. Ask:

• Are you licensed and insured, and do you pull permits or coordinate licensed trades who do?
• Have you worked in buildings like mine, such as Brickell, Bal Harbour or Sunny Isles towers?
• How do you manage HOA alteration approvals, freight elevators, floor protection and restricted work hours?
• What documentation do you provide for association and building department review?

Be wary of any studio that suggests skipping permits. For current requirements and fees, the building department with jurisdiction over your home is the authority.

What is the real lead time and process?

Custom and imported cabinetry takes time, and an honest studio will say so rather than promising an unrealistic date. Ask them to walk you through the sequence:

1. Design and selections, and how decisions are documented to avoid changes mid-build.
2. Production lead time for made-to-order cabinetry, including shipping from the manufacturer.
3. Permit and HOA review, which can run in parallel if started early.
4. Delivery and installation, sequenced with stone, appliances and brass hardware.

A studio that runs permitting and fabrication in parallel protects your timeline. One that treats each step as a surprise will keep you waiting.

What about warranty, service and references?

The relationship continues after installation. Hardware needs adjusting, families grow, and good studios stay reachable. Before signing, confirm:

• What the warranty covers on cabinetry, finishes and hardware, and for how long.
• How service calls work for adjustments after you move back in.
• Care guidance for your specific finishes and stone.
• References or recent projects you can see, ideally near you.

See finished installations in our projects, and review what is included on our services page.

Frequently asked questions

Is it rude to ask a studio about its supply chain?

Not at all. A confident atelier welcomes the question. Knowing where cabinetry is made and who installs it is part of an informed decision.

How many quotes should I gather?

Two or three thoughtful conversations usually reveal more than a stack of look-alike quotes. Compare process and material knowledge, not just price.

Should the studio visit my home before quoting?

For genuine custom work, yes. Site conditions, ceiling height and condo constraints change the design and the price meaningfully.

What if I only want cabinetry, not a full remodel?

That is common. A good studio can scope cabinetry, closets or bathroom millwork independently while still coordinating any trades the work requires.

If you are preparing to interview studios, bring these questions to us. Book a free consultation or visit our Coral Gables showroom and we will answer every one, candidly.