Do I need to have a designer before contacting EnCraft?

Yes. We ask that clients work with a designer who can develop the overall design concept for the project. If you don’t already have a designer, we’re happy to recommend one who may be a good fit.

From there, we translate the designer’s concept into detailed shop drawings, specifications, and pricing, working closely with you and your designer throughout the process.

What is the process for a bespoke project?

We begin with your designer’s concept and develop preliminary renderings, shop drawings, specifications, and a project proposal.

Once the project is approved and under contract, we move into the detailed design phase. Together with you and your designer, we finalize layouts, door styles, materials, finishes, hardware, appliance specifications, and all the other details that make the project uniquely yours.

Once you approve the final drawings, the design is frozen and we begin building.

What does “design freeze” mean, and why does it matter?

Once you sign off on the final design, we consider it frozen. At this point we order materials and begin building exactly what has been approved.

Because everything we make is built specifically for your project, changes after this point can affect cost, scheduling, and sometimes what is possible. Freezing the design protects your timeline and the quality of the finished work, so we give every decision a careful look before reaching that point.

What if I need to change something after I’ve approved the design?

We understand that sometimes a change is unavoidable. Any change requested after final approval will go through a written Change Order explaining the effect on cost and schedule before we move forward.

Once the design is frozen, we cannot make changes based solely on a verbal request because materials, drawings, production, and installation all depend on the approved design.

How will I know what’s happening with my project?

We send a weekly update covering what has been completed, what’s coming next, and anything we need from you or your designer. It’s a simple way to keep everyone informed throughout the project.

How long does a typical project take?

Typically, projects take 8-12 weeks from design freeze. That said, every project receives its own timeline based on its size, scope, and complexity. We’ll provide an initial estimate early in the process, then refine the schedule as the design decisions come together.

What does installation look like?

Installation happens in three stages: delivery, installation, and a final walkthrough.

During installation, our team sets the cabinetry, trim, doors, drawers, and other components, then makes the necessary final adjustments. Once everything is in place, we’ll walk through the project with you and create a punch list of anything that still needs our attention. We’ll then schedule a follow-up visit to address those items as efficiently as possible.

Rather than promising an exact installation date months in advance, we provide an installation window that narrows as your project approaches completion. This allows us to give you the most accurate schedule possible.

Can I choose my own hardware, wood, and finishes?

For bespoke projects, selections are made specifically for your project in collaboration with you and your designer.

Kindred Kitchen offers a carefully curated range of woods, paint colors, surfaces, and hardware. This gives you meaningful choices while preserving the distinctive character of the collection.

Where does your wood come from?

We source hardwoods and cabinet-grade materials through trusted suppliers with whom we have established relationships. The exact species and source depend on the needs of each project, but quality, stability, and suitability always guide our choices.