What to Expect from a Custom Kitchen Build: Timeline, Trades & Transparency
A custom kitchen build is one of the most exciting transformations you can make in your home. It’s also one of the most involved—requiring meticulous planning, coordination between trades, and clear communication at every step. As a high end custom woodworking shop, Cascade Pacific Woodworks believes the process should feel just as satisfying as the final reveal.
As we build out our new showroom kitchen in Waterford, Connecticut, we’re sharing insights into what you can expect when embarking on a custom kitchen journey of your own—from the very first meeting to the final cabinet installation.
Phase One: Scope Definition and Conceptual Design
Every custom kitchen starts with discovery. We meet with you to understand how your kitchen needs to function for your lifestyle, what aesthetic you’re drawn to, and which materials and finishes will support the performance and feel of the space.
Once the concept is established, we move into technical design renderings, where you get a highly detailed, 3D view of your future kitchen. This stage allows us to fine-tune layout, cabinetry styles, island design, tables, countertops, hardware, lighting, and appliance integration—all before we begin construction.
Estimated Timeframe: 2-4 weeks (depending on revisions)
Phase Two: Detailed Design, Engineering, & Production Planning
With your design finalized, our team transitions into engineering your kitchen. This includes:
Developing shop drawings for every cabinet and panel
Mapping out mechanical coordination (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
Reviewing final measurements and site conditions
Scheduling production in our woodworking shop
This is where we integrate the artistry of woodworking with the precision of construction planning. We also begin sourcing all materials, including hardwoods, metals/stone/concrete/tile, finishes, and hardware.
Estimated Timeframe: 4-8 weeks but depends largely on scale and complexity
Phase Three: Coordination with Trades
Custom kitchens don’t exist in isolation—they rely on seamless collaboration with your general contractor and licensed trades. At this stage, we align with:
Electricians for lighting, outlets, and appliance hookups
Plumbers for sink, dishwasher, and gas lines
Tile installers or countertop fabricators
Flooring specialists if part of the scope
Drywall installers for perfect walls and ceilings
Your general contractor should provide technical specifications and rough-in guidance to ensure cabinet and appliance installations align with building systems. Communication here is key to avoiding delays or costly revisions later.
Estimated Timeframe: Variable, depending on scope, scale and contractor schedules
Phase Four: Fabrication & Finishing
Once the planning is complete and site conditions are confirmed, we begin building your kitchen in our workshop. This includes:
Milling and assembling cabinets using traditional joinery and modern precision
Building tables, chairs, benches and other free-standing furniture
Building countertops
Applying stains, paints, or natural finishes using durable, non-toxic coatings
Test-fitting complex units like appliance panels or corner systems and inset drawers and drawers
Quality control and dry-fitting where necessary
We take great care during this phase to ensure that every piece fits seamlessly once it reaches your home.
Estimated Timeframe: 8+ weeks depending on scale and complexity
Phase Five: Delivery & Installation
Your cabinets, counters, island, tables are delivered on a carefully scheduled timeline to coordinate with other finishing trades. Our team can install all cabinetry, trim, and any integrated millwork with exacting detail.
Throughout installation, we’re attentive to dust control, site protection, and ensuring that every reveal, panel, and drawer glide works flawlessly.
Once complete, we conduct a walk-through with you to ensure the kitchen exceeds expectations.
Estimated Timeframe: 3+ weeks depending on scale and complexity
Transparency Throughout the Process
Custom work is complex—but it doesn’t have to feel stressful. At Cascade Pacific Woodworks, we provide:
Clear estimates and schedules
Regular updates as your kitchen progresses
Visuals and mockups when decisions are needed
Coordination with your general contractor or architect
We pride ourselves on being your trusted guide throughout the project—from first sketch to final screw.
Want to See This Process in Action?
Follow along as owner Tobias Olsen constructs our new showroom kitchen in Waterford, CT. We’re documenting each stage—from material selection and engineering to installation and styling—on our Instagram and Facebook pages. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how we bring custom kitchens to life, built one detail at a time.
Thinking About a Custom Kitchen in 2026? Let’s Talk.
We serve homeowners within a 50-mile radius of Waterford, Connecticut, delivering fine woodworking, personalized service, and functional design that stands the test of time.
Contact us to schedule your consultation.