Custom Kitchen Cabinets: Our Linen & Navy Island Reveal

Introduction: The Long-Distance Reveal

If you’re building a custom home, you quickly learn that life doesn’t pause just because the contractors show up. This week, while Larry and I were out of town on a short trip, we got the notification: The kitchen cabinets are going in!

Talk about a mix of excitement and anxiety—how do you inspect your kitchen when you’re hours away? Fortunately, we have the best built-in safety net: my parents live right on the property. My dad was able to step in, walk the site, and oversee the whole installation for us. From the progress photos he sent us, I could have cried. They look even better than I imagined!

The Color Palette: Linen & Hatterus Navy

We spent months agonizing over color choices, and seeing them come to life is incredible. For our perimeter cabinets, we chose a gorgeous, creamy beige called Linen. It keeps the kitchen feeling warm and airy, tying right in with our Alabaster color-drenched walls.

For the island, we wanted a anchor piece that made a statement, so we went with *Hatterus*—a stunning, deep navy blue. Paired with matte black hardware, the contrast is just breathtaking.

Dad to the Rescue: Centering the Island

Even with the best plans, minor adjustments happen on install day. Thanks to my dad’s sharp eye, we caught a detail before the glue dried: he had the installers shift our entire island over so it was perfectly centered on the kitchen window and directly underneath the ceiling trusses. Having family on-site to advocate for your vision is an absolute game-changer.

Function Meets Style

We didn’t just design these cabinets for looks; we designed them for how we actually live. We opted for a bank of drawers in the island rather than standard cabinets—it is so much more functional for pots, pans, and everyday cooking gear. On the opposite side, where our barstools will eventually sit, we added taller, shallower cabinets to house seasonal items and things we don’t use every day. Every inch of space has a purpose!

What’s Next?

With the soft-close drawers gliding smoothly and the matte black handles in place, the kitchen is taking its final form. Next up? The countertops, which should be installed soon. We can’t wait to get back home and see this space in person!