Most people start thinking about new cabinets when the snow melts.

That's also when everyone else does.

If you want a new kitchen, bathroom vanity, mudroom, or set of built-ins finished this spring or summer, the best time to start planning is now! Not because you need to rush. Because good design takes time, and winter gives you plenty of it.

Why Start Planning in Winter?

You're home more in the winter. The house fills up for the holidays. Boots and coats pile up by the door.... and you start to notice what isn't working.

Maybe there's never enough counter space. Maybe the entryway is a mess by December. Maybe the bathroom has nowhere to put towels. Write it down! Those everyday frustrations are some of the best design guides you'll have.

Winter is also our slower season, and that usually means more flexibility for showroom visits, design meetings, and production.

What Happens Before Your Cabinets Are Built?

Most people picture installation day, but a lot happens before anything is built in our White Bear Lake shop.

It starts with a conversation about your space, how you use it, and your budget. Then we recommend a visit to our showroom. Seeing door styles, wood species, and finishes in person makes decisions much easier than scrolling through photos.

From there, we start on design and getting you a rough quote.

Some people come in knowing exactly what they want. Others like to compare a few options first. Both are completely normal! Every project is different, and so is the number of design rounds.

Once you approve the design, your project moves into production.

None of these early steps depend on the weather. That's what makes them perfect winter projects.

How Long Does a Cabinet Project Take?

It depends on the project.

A single vanity and a full kitchen are very different jobs. Design time also varies from one homeowner to the next, but here's a general idea.

Custom Cabinetry

Our Casa, Signature, and Luxe collections are custom built for your space. A custom kitchen can usually be completed in about two months. Design is the biggest variable.

Semi-Custom Cabinetry

Summit by TRC follows the same design process. Once your order is placed, cabinets typically arrive in 5–7 business days, depending on availability. Installation follows shortly after.

Timing also depends on how many projects are already in our queue. Starting during our slower season can help things move a little faster.

Want your project finished by late spring? Start the conversation two to three months before you want it done. That leaves time for design, countertops, and other trades without feeling rushed.

What Should You Think About Before Reaching Out?

You don't need everything figured out, but a little planning makes the first conversation easier.

Start with these questions:

• What isn't working in the space right now?
• How do you use the room day to day?
• What are your must-haves, and what are your nice-to-haves?
• What budget range feels comfortable?
• Are you replacing any appliances or fixtures?
• What inspiration photos have you saved?

Appliances and fixtures are worth deciding early. Their sizes affect cabinet sizes, so it helps to know before the design is finalized.

Not sure where to start with a budget? Read here on what affects the cost of new cabinets.

What About Countertops?

Cabinets are just one part of the project. Countertops, plumbing, electrical, flooring, and tile may all need to fit around the cabinet schedule.

Countertops can be one less thing to coordinate. We work with trusted fabricators and recently brought countertops in-house, so we can help with that part too!

Working with a contractor for the rest? Winter is a great time to get everyone on the same page.

Start With a Showroom Visit

There's no pressure and no rush!

The best first step is a visit to our White Bear Lake showroom. You can see our Casa, Signature, Luxe, and Summit by TRC collections in person and talk through your ideas with our team. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

A little planning now means you'll be enjoying your new space while everyone else is just getting started!