Aesthetics aside, what was my number one must-have requirement for our kitchen update? Storage. 

Some people do bubble baths and sheet masks for self-care. Me? Well, I have realized (sometimes to my dismay) that a clean kitchen at the end of the day IS my bubble bath. I feel relaxed and energized in the morning if the space is ready for the day ahead. So when it came to designing the space, I really needed it to be easy to organize and tidy at the end of the day. Never again did I want to question where to store the stand mixer or wonder if all the containers would fit. I wanted a place for everything right at my fingertips. 

At the beginning of our remodel project, I shared these hopes with our design and architecture team at Skipp to determine how we could use the existing layout and configuration more efficiently. We spent a ton of time talking about my specific storage needs and wants for the new kitchen.

Once we had the most optimal layout, it was on to cabinet fronts. I love the look of custom cabinets, but they are a considerable line item and, quite frankly, something we had not budgeted for nor wanted to add to the bottom line.

As we worked with Skipp, I caught wind of a new brand from the widely-loved Semihandmade, called BOXI by Semihandmade. They produce stylish, modern pre-assembled cabinets, a perfect solution for our desire to have customization without sacrificing the bottom line.

Here’s how BOXI works: 

1. Browse cabinet styles and colors – With all the decisions that go into a refresh or remodel, sometimes many options can be overwhelming. BOXI has a curated collection of colors and styles, ideal for anyone wanting a clean and modern look. You can also browse collections, see inspiration, and get pricing. When we started the conversation with BOXI, we had the opportunity to test out their new paintable cabinet fronts. (At publishing, a paintable cabinet option is not yet available to the public).

2. Submit your design plans – If you are working with an outside contractor or designer, you can submit design plans directly to BOXI. (Yes, you can submit IKEA plans!) We shared our design plans via Skipp, but even if you aren’t working with a third party on design, BOXI is available to you. The team at BOXI has three options for you to choose from to measure your space to ensure the project keeps moving.
3. Order your products – Once you submit your plans, a BOXI design professional will work with you to complete the ordering process. This thirty-minute consultation will reference your particular design plans and confirm you have everything you need for installation. 
4. Installation – On average, BOXI cabinets arrive 6-10 weeks after ordering. The shipment includes all the fronts and hardware necessary to install the cabinet fronts. If you are a DIY-er, BOXI may be something you can install on your own. I am not, so we opted to have our fronts professionally installed. Kristian, our installer, came recommended by BOXI, was familiar with the product, and provided a seamless installation. 

What do I think of our BOXI cabinets and drawers?

Overall, I’m thrilled with the final result. The style is clean and very hard-working. As a family that is not gentle on ANYTHING, I can truthfully say our Boxi by Semihandmade cabinets are durable. The drawers are “soft close,” meaning that the drawers don’t slam but glide back in. The only flaw I’ve noticed thus far is that some of the paint is chipping off. The chipping could result from the lacquer paint that we used or the paintable cabinet prototype. (We opted to try out BOXI’s paintable cabinets. BOXI is not currently offering this product to customers.)

Remodels and refreshes to any space can be a substantial financial investment. I’ve always wanted to invest in the pieces of a project that I can see. Customization is essential to me when designing a space, and BOXI by Semihandmade cabinets are great for anyone who wants an option between fully custom and what’s available at big-box retailers. 

If you are considering a space refresh or remodel, I can’t recommend taking the time to think through your needs enough. Planning, while tedious, is essential to having a functional and beautiful space.

Editor’s Note: This post was sponsored by BOXI by Semihandmade cabinets. The compensation we receive in exchange for placement on Wit & Delight is used to purchase props, hire a photographer, write/edit the blog post, and support the larger team behind Wit & Delight.

While compensation was received in exchange for coverage, all thoughts and opinions are always my own. Sponsored posts like these allow us to continue to develop dynamic unsponsored content. Thank you for supporting our partners!

Kate Arends

Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. She is currently learning how to play tennis and is forever testing the boundaries of her creative muscle. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.