If you’ve ever managed or lived in an apartment, you know the struggle: cabinets that peel, crack, or look outdated within a year.
Apartment kitchen cabinets face a unique challenge, needing to look stylish, hold up to intense daily wear and tear, and remain cost-effective for property owners and managers. Many mass-produced kitchen cabinets for apartment buildings do not perform well in high-use rental settings and often warp, scratch, or feature cheap and flimsy construction. At Kauffman Kitchens, we’ve helped countless owners and property managers find the right balance of style, durability, and budget through apartment kitchen cabinets that stand the test of time. We understand what it takes to design and install cabinets that meet the demands of rental life because we’ve been doing it since 1987!
In this blog, we’ll cover the best materials for long-term durability, highlight the most versatile commercial-grade styles, and explore how to start designing your own kitchen cabinets for apartment buildings.
Keep reading to learn more!
When it comes to selecting cabinets for apartments, long-term value is everything. Apartment-size kitchen cabinets are used by multiple renters over the years which means they need to stand up to frequent use, moisture damage from cooking, and general wear and tear from move-ins and move-outs.
In this setting, value isn’t just about the lowest price tag, it’s about how much durability you get for your investment. The best cabinets for apartments hold up over time while looking good and staying functional. Having moisture resistance, scratch-proof finishes, and dent-resistant materials make all the difference when it comes to high-value options.
Here are some of the best materials for apartment-size kitchen cabinets:
Solid Wood/Hardwood
A favorite that offers a long lifespan, classic appeal, and consistent performance that works well in upscale units or long-term investment properties.
Plywood
An option that’s strong, unlikely to warp, and often used in cabinet boxes for its balance of cost and durability.
Laminate
A popular choice for rentals due to its resistance to moisture and scratches. Easy to clean and maintain, and available in many finishes.
Thermofoil
A solution that features a moisture-resistant vinyl coating over engineered wood. This is a popular option for budget-conscious builds that still need a clean, modern look.
Beyond materials, it’s also important to consider the hardware. Cabinets for apartments need hinges and slides that can handle constant use. Soft-close hinges and full-extension drawer slides prevent slamming, reduce wear, and add a touch of upgraded function that renters appreciate. Look for metal components rather than plastic for the best results. Reaching out to a trusted professional is a great starting point when deciding on the best hardware and structural features for your project.
Kauffman Commercial Cabinetry, a dedicated division of Kauffman Kitchens, specializes in commercial-grade cabinetry for apartments, multi-family units, and rental properties. Our team understands the demands of these spaces and offers custom commercial cabinetry solutions built to your needs.
Visit our project gallery today to see our past work!
Style matters just as much as strength when it comes to commercial cabinets and countertops. Property managers want units that attract renters while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic that lasts. Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice style to stay within budget.
Here are some of the most affordable and stylish commercial custom cabinets that work beautifully in apartment kitchens:
Combining custom commercial cabinets and countertops into one design package can help you streamline installation, reduce overall cost, and create a cohesive look. Popular countertop choices for commercial kitchens include laminate, Corian, granite, and quartz– each offering its own balance of style, durability, and budget-friendliness. Matching cabinets and countertops make for a cleaner, more professional kitchen design, something that appeals to prospective renters and boosts your property’s value. Working with an experienced builder can help you clarify your budget, select materials that offer the right balance of style and resilience, and guide your design in a way that works for your property’s goals.
Learn more about our kitchen project management services!
Finding the right apartment kitchen cabinets takes more than just browsing a few samples. Kauffman Kitchens, including our dedicated commercial division, Kauffman Commercial Cabinetry, is here to help. With decades of experience in residential and commercial cabinetry, we’re equipped to handle projects of any size. We specialize in kitchen cabinets for apartment buildings that are built to last, designed to impress, and priced with your needs in mind.
Getting started with kitchen cabinets for apartment buildings is easier than you think. Whether you’re a property manager planning commercial custom cabinet renovation or a developer outfitting a new build, our team will walk you through the design process, recommend the best materials, and help you create a cohesive apartment kitchen cabinet plan.
Get a Quote Today!
Our Other Divisions:
See What Our Customers Are Saying About Their Experience
