Cabinetry Design: 3 Layout Mistakes I See All the Time (And How to Fix Them)

Let’s be honest. Cabinetry is the unsung hero of your home. It’s where your mornings start, where you stash the mess before guests arrive, and where the whole family collides in the kitchen on a Friday night.

But here’s the thing: cabinetry is also one of the most common places where design goes wrong. And it’s not because people don’t care. It’s usually because they feel too shy to ask the “is this silly?” questions when plans are being finalised.

So today, I’m going to walk you through three cabinetry layout mistakes I see all the time, and how to fix them before they cost you comfort, function, or budget.

Mistake 1: Ignoring Flow in Cabinetry Design (AKA the Kitchen Dance)

Ever tried to unpack the dishwasher only to realise someone else can’t open the fridge at the same time? That’s poor flow.

When cabinetry layouts aren’t planned with movement in mind, you end up with bottlenecks. Kitchens, laundries, and even bathrooms can feel like an obstacle course instead of a smooth workspace.

The Fix: Think of cabinetry in zones, not just cupboards. The fridge, pantry, and prep bench should work together. In the laundry, allow space for hampers and sorting. In bathrooms, make sure drawers don’t clash with doors. It’s not silly to ask, “Will two people actually fit here?” That’s exactly the right question.

Mistake 2: Forgetting the Everyday Items in Your Cabinetry Design

It sounds obvious, but this happens constantly. Where does the vacuum go? The ironing board? The air fryer that seemed like a great idea until you realised it’s the size of a small car?

If you don’t plan cabinetry with your actual items in mind, you end up with storage that looks neat on paper but doesn’t actually serve you.

The Fix: Make a list of bulky, awkward, or regularly used items before cabinetry is finalised. Don’t feel silly for saying, “I need a spot for the cat bowls” ....... that’s the stuff that makes or breaks how your cabinetry works day to day.

Mistake 3: Choosing Cabinetry Design That Prioritises Pretty Over Practical

Glossy magazines and Pinterest boards are great for ideas, but they don’t always translate to real homes. Deep overhead cupboards no one can reach, drawers that clash with handles, or finishes that look stunning but chip after six months, I’ve seen them all.

The Fix: Balance is everything. Yes, your cabinetry should look beautiful, but it should also stand up to family life. Ask questions like, “Is this finish durable enough for daily use, with steam, spills, and busy family life?” or “Can the kids close this drawer without slamming it?” These aren’t silly questions. They’re smart ones.

The Takeaway: Why Thoughtful Cabinetry Design Matters

Cabinetry isn’t about squeezing cupboards into empty walls. It’s about creating a home that works with you, not against you.

So don’t ever feel silly for asking questions, no matter how small they might seem. Those “obvious” questions are the ones that save you from living with daily frustrations (and costly fixes) later.

Want Smarter Cabinetry in Your New Build or Reno?

This is exactly why I offer cabinetry-led design packages for homeowners in Townsville. We’ll talk through how you actually live, what you actually store, and how cabinetry can support that.

If you’re planning a kitchen, bathroom, laundry or any other type of joinery and want to get it right the first time, check out my Cabinetry + Selections Design Package. Or book a Design Clarity Session if you’d love a second opinion before your plans are locked in.

Because the only silly cabinetry question is the one you didn’t ask!

Malia

Urban Aspect – Cabinetry-First Interior Design in Townsville