Contractors don’t have, shall we say…the greatest reputations. There’s the “they never show up when they say they will” to the “won’t give me a straight answer” types. We’re not saying all contractors are like this, but when it comes to hiring a professional to oversee your kitchen renovation, it’s unfortunately a common enough experience to get someone who isn’t delivering A++ service.

Which is why we at Isla Porter began a partnership with Matriarchy Build, a home services platform, which, among other things, matches homeowners and designers with pre-vetted female-identifying contractors. ICYMI, Isla Porter is a female-founded company. It’s important for us to work with others who are also attempting to break down barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Here’s what our co-founder, Sharon Dranko, has to say: “We’re excited to collaborate with Matriarchy Build and their incredible network of female-identifying experts to offer a more inclusive, thoughtful approach to the renovation process — one that celebrates both design and the skilled tradeswomen behind it.”

[Pause for applause.]

So, we sat down with Lacey Soslow, Matriarchy Build’s co-founder, to demystify the process of hiring a contractor, and give you some tips for finding the right professional for your renovation and cabinetry installation. (Hint: It is a bit like dating.)

But let’s get one (probably obvious) thing out of the way…

\n
What, Exactly, Is a General Contractor?\n

Essentially, Lacey explains, they’re the person overseeing a construction project. “If you're working with someone on the smaller side, they might actually be on-site doing the work, but more often, they are managing all your subcontractors — think plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc.” A general contractor may also:

Create and maintain a schedule for all work and installations.
Oversee ordering and delivery of materials.
Manage permitting.
Act as quality control for the project.

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Matriarchy Build’s Best Practices for Finding and Hiring a Great Contractor for Your Kitchen Renovation

Vet Your Potential Contractor
“Candidly,” Lacey tells us, “the reason we launched Matriarchy Build’s general contractor matchmaking is because it's so hard and time-consuming to find someone.” Yes, you can call a bunch of contractors, have them inspect your site, get the quote, and then go through a vetting process — but that takes a lot of time and money. When you work with Matriarchy Build to find a professional, their team has already checked the individual’s licensing credentials and liability insurance. In addition, they’ve researched the contractor’s portfolio and their online reputation. But, the most important part, says Lacey, is that Matriarchy Build does an interview with every contractor they bring into the fold to make sure they have the right qualifications and communication skills. And on that note…

Do a Vibe Check
Lacey says the “vibe check” with a potential contractor is paramount. You want to get a feel for the contractor’s communication style (and that it meets your expectations) and you want to evaluate their bedside manner and energy. On the flipside, homeowners and designers should understand that a potential contractor is also vetting you — they want to see that you have realistic ideas and that you treat tradespeople with respect.

Align on Budget
“Having a budget alignment from the get-go really sets a project up for success,” explains Lacey. That said, there can be unpleasant surprises in construction. Ask your potential contractor what problems might typically occur and how that may affect your budget.

Ask About Mistakes
When you’re interviewing a general contractor, it can be useful to ask how they deal with errors, says Lacey: “Almost all projects have something go wrong, and no contractor tells you, ‘Oh, we never have problems.’ But when a contractor says to me, ‘We messed that up, but we already fixed it,’ and we honestly communicated about it there was transparency — that’s a really good sign that you’re dealing with a person who is realistic and honest.”

Don’t Go With the First Bid
“Best practice, you’re getting a couple of quotes and meeting with at least two different contractors. The good thing about Matriarchy Build is if we're pre-vetting people and then introducing you to one or two general contractors, we've done some of that legwork.”

Gut-Check Your Pricing
If you’ve already had plenty of experience with kitchen design and find that a contractor’s project fee fits your expectations, that’s great. But if you’re new to this and want a second opinion on cost, Matriarchy Build offers 1:1 consultations, independent of any contractor, to offer feedback on project details.

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If you’re ready to get matched with a Matriarchy Build contractor, and are local to any of the areas below, all you have to do is fill out a form to get the process rolling.

Matriarchy Build is currently matching contractors in:

Austin, TX
Los Angeles, CA
NYC, NY
West Chester County, NY
\n
Fairfield County + New Haven County, CT
Washington DC + Bethesda, MD
Fairfax County, VA
\n
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
\n
Philadelphia, PA
Twin Cities, MN
Raleigh-Durham, Chapel Hill, NC |end image_split|

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The first question you’re going to ask yourself when you want to redo your kitchen (regardless of whether you’re just in daydream territory or in full-on “let’s do this” mode) is: How much is this kitchen renovation going to cost me? No, really…How. Much. And we bet you can’t find a figure that makes sense.

So let’s just be honest for a second here. The reason why it’s hard to get a straight answer — or if the numbers you’re finding on the web feel super off — is because there is no hard-and-fast average cost of a kitchen renovation. There are just too many variables that influence the total amount: How big is your kitchen? Do you need new appliances? And most importantly, what level of reno are you looking at? If you’re aiming for a DIY and/or budget renovation, obviously that’s going to be a lot less. But if you’re curious about Isla Porter cabinetry, it’s safe to assume you’re looking to achieve a design that lands somewhere between high-end and luxury.

And those are numbers that we know. So, below, we’ve outlined some solid ballpark cost ranges to budget out your renovation if you’re going the upscale route, or as we call it…Classy Kitchen Level: Activated.

Evaluate Your Kitchen Size and Cabinetry Costs

The most logical place to start is to think about the size of your kitchen, and then figure out how much cabinetry you need. Cabinets are the most expensive component of a kitchen renovation, so we’ll start by establishing those costs, and then provide a figure (including cabinetry expenses) that estimates your “all-in” cost (new appliances, countertops, flooring, labor, etc.).

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Homeowner Pricing by Kitchen Size

\nSmall Kitchen: 60 to 120 square feet\n
- Cabinetry Cost: $35,000 to $50,000
- All-in Cost: $65,000 to $80,000\n
\n
\nMedium-Sized Kitchen: 120 to 250 square feet\n
- Cabinetry Cost: $65,000 to $100,000
- All-in Cost: $90,000 to $160,000
\n
\nLarge Kitchen: 250+ square feet\n
- Cabinetry Cost: $100,000 and up
- All-in Cost: $200,000 and up
\n

Why Custom Cabinetry Costs More

Designers and homeowners have several options when it comes to selecting cabinetry, and that includes:

\nStock Cabinets ($): These are ready-made cabinets that are generally not customizable. You buy what is offered and make it fit your space.\n
Semi-Custom Cabinets ($$): Semi-custom cabinetry has standard sizes and selections which you can modify, but you are starting with standard pieces. The cabinetry tends to be modular.
\nCustom Cabinets ($$$): Custom cabinetry is generally made to order without standard sizing. This cabinetry can be made to your own specifications and the cabinetry can be made modular or as combined pieces. Custom cabinetry allows you to create unique pieces and arrangements.\n

Isla Porter is custom. We use the highest quality materials, and our cabinetry is fully custom down to 1/16”, meaning no inch of your home is wasted. Thanks to our use of AI technology, we bring a greater design value than most fully custom lines. We can adapt quickly to trends, and our system cuts down significantly on your kitchen design process and shipping wait times. Our AI tool also allows for greater pricing transparency so we easily adjust your vision to match a budget.

An added bonus? Our Forever Kitchen Warranty, which is a limited lifetime warranty that our cabinetry products will be free of defects in the materials and workmanship under normal use for as long as you own your home.

What “Hidden” Fees Might Come Up in My Kitchen Renovation?

(Sorry, it’s a long list.)

Material Cost Variation: Yeah, it’s the economy. And it’s also the supply chain. Over the past few years, we’ve seen the cost of all building materials — not just kitchen stuff — go up.
\nLighting: Don’t forget lighting.\n
\nHardware: Could be a small amount of money, but can add up depending on quality and how many doors/drawers you have.\n
\nPlumbing: If you’re reorganizing the layout of your kitchen, and moving sinks and dishwashers, you’ll need to budget extra for plumbing, which can easily cost you $10,000. \n
\nPermits: Going along with the above, if you are moving plumbing or electrical elements in your kitchen, this may require building permits. These will be a small part of your overall budget — just something to be aware of.\n
\nLocation: Labor and materials can vary greatly across our great nation. It might seem obvious, but a kitchen renovation in Manhattan or Los Angeles is almost certainly going to cost more than a reno in Akron, Ohio.\n
\nDesigner Fee: If you’re using a designer, this fee varies a lot depending on the level and notoriety of the designer. Designers tend to offer two structures. One, they will charge you an hourly base. The typical hourly base for a mid-level interior designer ranges from $250-$300 per hour. Otherwise, a designer will start with a retaining fee, which can begin around $10,000 and go up. It really depends on the scale of work: Are you hiring a designer to work on an entire house/a selection of rooms, or are you just looking for someone to work on the kitchen?\n

Which Kitchen Components Will Cost More vs. Save Money In a Kitchen Renovation?

Two areas that vary widely in offerings and cost? Countertops and appliances. Here, we’ll outline levels of countertops and offer guidance in appliance brand tiers (brands that we love!).

Countertops:

Most Expensive: Calacatta gold marble
Mid-Tier: Dolomite, Carrara marble, quartzite, butcherblock
Budget-Friendly: Soapstone, quartz

Appliances:

\nMost Expensive: La Cornue, Lacanche, Wolf, Sub-Zero, Fisher & Paykel\n
\nMid-Tier: Monogram, Miele, Thermador, ILVE\n
\nBudget-Friendly: Big box retailers, AJ Madison (pro tip: they have decent pricing specials)\n

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\nIsla Porter Cabinet Pricing\n

On average, Isla Cabinets run about $1,500-$2,000 per linear foot. Our average order value for a homeowner with 30 linear feet of cabinetry (or about a 200-square-foot) kitchen is about $55,000.

Trade members receive an exclusive discount.

If you’re looking for ways to save money on Isla Porter cabinetry, we have a few pointers. We cover these options more in-depth in our Cost Savings Guide.

Overlay Cabinetry: Our overlay cabinetry is simpler in construction and while it is crafted with the same quality materials and expertise, it is 15% less than our inset construction.
Painted Cabinets: Painted finishes from our collection of 60+ hand-selected colors are lower in cost than our wood finishes or custom color option.
Door Style: Our door styles are ranked in price from Groups A-E. You’ll find our most cost-effective options in Groups A and B.
Interior Finish: We offer a few options for interior finish. To keep costs lower, opt for maple, which is our standard interior finish and is included in your cabinetry cost.
\nToe Kicks: Design your project with our standard solid plywood toe kicks. Decorative aprons will be 10% higher in cost than our standard option.\n
\nOrganizational Inserts: We offer a wide range of organizational inserts, which are considered additional features and require added cost.\n

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Breaking Down the Isla Porter Designer Fee (aka Yes We Are Plugging Our Company)

Here’s some good news for all you homeowners who want to attempt a kitchen renovation without hiring a designer (btw, we are very pro-designer, but definitely understand if that’s not an option): We offer a $3,000 package that will allow you to develop a design with Project Leads, and this cost will be credited toward your cabinetry purchase. For more on these offerings, visit our Homeowner Guide.

And if you’re a designer, this package will streamline your process and act as a cost incentive for your client.

And there you have it. Hopefully this guide has quelled at least some of your frustration about evaluating your kitchen renovation cost. If you’re still confused, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Click here to schedule a call with one of our cabinet designers .

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We get it — custom cabinetry can feel like a whole world. One minute you're choosing paint colors, the next you're Googling “what even is a face frame cabinet?” at midnight. So we decided to make things easier and answer your big questions, with beautiful answers: cue our latest and greatest FAQ page. It covers everything from how to get started with Isla Porter to order timelines, complimentary shipping, design support, and how to convince your SO you need inset cabinetry in your new kitchen (we don’t make the rules!). You’ll find them here and woven throughout our site.

But because we always go the extra inch (or linear foot), we also pulled the top questions people ask ChatGPT about cabinetry — and we’re answering them right here, right now. Let’s dive in.

\n🔨 Most Common Cabinetry Questions \n

1. What are the most durable cabinet materials?
We’re partial to solid wood and Baltic Birch plywood. These materials offer strength, structure, and stability for the highest touch points of your home. Plus, they age beautifully, especially when paired with a protective finish.

2. How do I choose the right cabinet finish for my kitchen?
It depends on your lifestyle. Painted finishes offer a clean, custom look but require gentle care. Stained wood shows off grain and is slightly more forgiving. Not sure? Visit our showroom or ask for samples.

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3. What’s the difference between face frame and frameless cabinetry?
Our millwork is based on the traditional style of face frame cabinetry. It requires a solid hardwood face frame around (inset $$) or behind (overlay $) every door & drawer. It’s classic and built to stand the test of time. Frameless (often called “European-style”) skips the face frame for a more modern, seamless look. This look can also be achieved with our overlay construction.

4. How long does custom cabinetry take to make?
For Isla Porter, we require about 6 months to design & make your cabinetry to order. How it breaks down:

\n
8–12 weeks for design & finalization (this timeline can be shorter depending on the complexity of the project and how quickly decisions are made.)
\n
\n
14–18 weeks for production + delivery
\n

So yes, start early. We recommend reaching out at least 6 months ahead of your desired installation date.

5. How much should I budget for custom cabinetry?
Our kitchens typically start around $50,000, or $1,500–$2,000 per linear foot, depending on layout and finishes. Check out our other post on the real deal cost of renovating a kitchen here.

6. What’s the best way to care for painted cabinets?
Gentle cloths, non-abrasive cleaners, and kindness. Avoid water pooling near seams or edges, and wipe spills quickly. Think skincare routine, but for cabinetry.

7. Can I just replace my cabinet doors instead of the full cabinet?
Technically, yes. But not all cabinet boxes are worth saving. If you're investing in a full kitchen redesign, a clean slate is usually the better move (and lets you optimize layout, too).

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8. Are soft-close hinges worth it?
Yes. Always yes. Your future self will thank you. Isla Porter only uses soft close hardware.

9. How do I maximize storage in a small kitchen?
Think vertically. Custom cabinetry lets us use every inch — with tall uppers, interior organizers, and smart hardware solutions. Our designers are experts in small-space magic.

10. What cabinet styles are currently trending?
We're seeing a return to warmth: natural wood tones, creamy paints, fluted details, and inset doors. But we always say: timeless beats trendy, every time.

\n🏠 Interior Design & Planning Questions \n

1. Where do I start with a kitchen remodel?
Start with layout and function — then work your way to materials and finishes. (Or just start with us. We’ll guide you.) You can make an enquiry to start the process with Isla Porter here.

2. How do I choose a color palette?
We like to start with what you wear, pin, and are naturally drawn to. From there, we consider natural light, material finishes, and contrast. Our design team can help you land on your look.

3. What’s the difference between an interior designer and a decorator?
Wow, this is quite a controversial question! Designers often handle spatial planning, renovations, and materials. Decorators focus more on furnishings, color, and style. Both are amazing — we love working with either. We’re here to help supplement with our technical kitchen expertise!

4. Do I need an architect for a kitchen renovation?
Not always. If you're doing structural work, yes. If not, a designer + builder + cabinetry expert (hi!) may be enough.

5. How do I mix wood tones in a room?
Like you would neutrals- blend warm with warm, cool with cool. Add contrast, keep undertones aligned, and don’t forget texture.

6. Best cabinet colors for resale?
Warm whites, soft taupes, and natural wood. Classic wins.

7. How do I create a timeless kitchen?
Choose quality materials, clean lines, and avoid gimmicks. And please, let your style shine through.

8. What size island fits in my kitchen?
You’ll want at least 36–42” of clearance on all sides. Our designers will check your layout and help tailor the right size.

9. What’s the ideal kitchen triangle?
The triangle refers to the sink, stove, and fridge, ideally spaced so that cooking feels fluid, not chaotic. We’ll make sure your flow works for your lifestyle.

10. How do I combine form and function in a small space?
Custom cabinetry is your answer. Tailored storage, smart features, and no wasted space. You can have beauty and brains.

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\n📦 Practical, But Still Pretty Important \n

1. How long does a full kitchen renovation take?
One thing will always be true here — longer than you think! We recommend you plan to leave yourself at least 9-12 months, but this all depends on scope, permitting, and builder availability. Your cabinetry timeline is just one piece — and we’ll help you plan for it.

2. Can you ship custom cabinets nationwide?
We can! (Hawaii is one of our favorite markets actually) And we include complimentary threshold delivery with every order.

3. Do custom cabinets come pre-assembled?
Ours do — built in our shop, not on your floor over nights and weekends.

4. How do I know if my cabinets will fit before ordering?
We always confirm dimensions during the design phase with someone on site, using your drawings or via the Isla Porter app (perfect for beginners).

5. Do you offer cabinetry for other rooms?
Yes! We do vanities, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and more.

6. What kind of installer do I need?
A professional finish carpenter or contractor familiar with custom cabinetry. We don’t install ourselves, but we’re happy to coordinate with your team.

7. Can I install cabinets myself?
We definitely would say you should leave this one to the professionals.

8. Do you offer samples?
Yes! Swatches and samples are available once we start your estimate process.

9. Can I customize cabinet interiors too?
Absolutely. We offer pull-outs, drawers, organizers — all built to suit. You can even pick a fun pop of color to paint your cabinet interiors if you’d like!

10. What makes custom cabinetry different?
Materials, construction, layout, and the ability to tailor every last inch to your space. Ready made cabinetry lines are great, but use a lot of fillers (hello wasted space and weird corners). You will get a more tailored seamless look and optimized storage with a custom product line.

\n💌 Still Have Questions? \n

That’s what we’re here for. You can check out our new FAQ page or start your project by emailing hello@islaporter.com.

Until then, we’ll be over here, making cabinets — and answering the internet’s questions, one drawer at a time.

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\nWhat, Exactly, Is a General Contractor?\n

Matriarchy Build’s Best Practices for Finding and Hiring a Great Contractor for Your Kitchen Renovation

Evaluate Your Kitchen Size and Cabinetry Costs

Homeowner Pricing by Kitchen Size

Why Custom Cabinetry Costs More

What “Hidden” Fees Might Come Up in My Kitchen Renovation?

Which Kitchen Components Will Cost More vs. Save Money In a Kitchen Renovation?

\nIsla Porter Cabinet Pricing\n

Breaking Down the Isla Porter Designer Fee (aka Yes We Are Plugging Our Company)

\n🔨 Most Common Cabinetry Questions \n

\n🏠 Interior Design & Planning Questions \n

\n📦 Practical, But Still Pretty Important \n

\n💌 Still Have Questions? \n

\n
What, Exactly, Is a General Contractor?\n

How to Find an Actually-Great Contractor, Feat. Matriarchy Build

How Much Does It Actually Cost to Renovate a Kitchen? (Spoiler: It’s a Lot)

Big Questions, Beautiful Answers: Our New FAQ + Cabinetry Confessions

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