Q: What factors influence cost:
A: There are several factors which can influence the overall cost of your project. For instance, there are many different species of wood
available for your new cabinetry. Oak and Hickory are the most affordable choices, followed by maple, alder and cherry. The stain or "finish"
you choose can also effect the cost of your cabinetry. There are many standard stained finises available. But there are also many glazed,
painted and "distressed" or "antiqued" finishes available.
Another factor is the cabinet construction and availability of customization. "Stock cabinetry" is a name given to cabinetry which is available
in limited or "set" sizes, finishes and styles. "Semi-custom cabinetry" offers some modification in cabinet sizes or configuration. Typically, semi-custom cabinetry offers more selection options for wood species, finishes, styles and cabinet construction. "Custom cabinetry" is the
option to choose for a truly unique finished project! With the availability of unlimited sizes, styles and finishes, you can have a "one-of-a-kind" kitchen, bathroom, entertainment center, office....the options are limitless.
Cabinet construction can effect the pricing of your project, as well. Most cabinet companies offer an option for particle board construction, plywood sides, or "all plywood construction," which indicates the entire cabinet "box" will be constructed using plywood and wood veneers.
Your "drawer boxes" will be available in either particle board, plywood or solid wood. The drawer glides have many options, as well, from "side mounted" to "undermounted" to "undermounted with a soft-closing option."
As you can see, there are many options to consider when selecting your cabinetry. At Starr, we will help you to determine the best cabinetry quality, style and features for your "tastes" and budget. Please also see our information listed on the "Countertops" tab of our website.
Q: What do I need to know about designing my kitchen?
A: With over 15 years of kitchen and bath design and installation, our Design Specialist, Dave Burrows, will be ready to help you with your
ideas. As members of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), we will share with you our knowledge of the current design trends.
We will ask you many questions about how you use your kitchen, what you like or dislike about your current kitchen and what you would like to
have designed into your new kitchen. We will take into consideration the "work triangle" for your kitchen to ensure your new kitchen is designed beautifully and will function well for your particular needs. We will also discuss your concerns regarding proper lighting by taking into
consideration the amount of natural light your kitchen will have. We will offer recommendations for "ambient" lighting, as well as "accent" and
"task" lighting.
At Starr, we offer complete project planning, including flooring, windows, doors, drywall, plumbing and electrical upgrades, and of course licensed and insured installation for every project we undertake!
Q: What do I need to know?
A: There are three major concerns for every project: Design, Schedule and Budget.
In regards to design, start a file or folder of ideas for your new kitchen. This may include photos from magazines or even another home you have visited, recently. It could also include a list of "needs vs. wants." The amount of "homework" you do before even starting the process can
help the process to run very easily and smoothly, or be difficult and delayed.
We can help you to determine a schedule for your project based on product lead times, your own personal schedule and our schedule, as
well. We can determine planned start date and a planned date of completion. From time to time, unforeseen factors in ordering can effect a planned date of completion. But, with the proper amount of planning, most of these "challenges" can be avoided.
Budget. We can't say enough about budget. Many times, this is where the list of "wants vs. needs" is considered. There are other factors,
such as the age of your home, the neighborhood in which you live and the number of years you plan to live in your home. We have had
customers with a "the sky is the limit" attitude. We have also had customers on very modest budgets, as well. We will be open and honest and discourage you if you are planning a large, involved and expensive project.....but only planning to live in your home another few years. Perhaps, "updating" the countertops, lighting and plumbing fixtures and the flooring will will be more wise than a complete remodel.
Q: Why is Starr the right choice for us and our home?
A: With over 28 years of experience building and remodeling homes in the Kalamazoo, Michigan area, Starr has the experience and
knowledge needed to complete your project. We are licensed and insured, which will give you the peace of mind that your home is in good, reputable hands! We have many photos of projects we have completed for other homeowners which depict the quality of work Starr has
become well known for providing to our customers, including before and after photos. Plus, we treat our customers so well, most are more
than willing to speak with prospective clients. Some have even invited new customers to visit their homes to see actual work we have
completed for them.
Another testament to the quality and dedication of Starr Kitchens to our customers is the dedication our customers have for us! We are
quite busy, year 'round, due to our previous customers either needing additional work completed on their own homes, or by those same
customers referring their friends, family and co-workers to our company. A major portion of our business is maintained by repeat customers
and their referrals.
Q: What is my first step?
A: Call Starr Kitchens! 343-5559!!