Style By Camara

PAINT OR REPLACE? Here’s how I decide.

This is one of the most common questions I get from homeowners, and the answer is: it depends.

✅ I recommend PAINTING when:
• The cabinets are solid wood or high-quality construction.
• The doors and drawer fronts are in good shape.
• The layout works for your family.
• You want a major visual update without spending the money required for a full renovation.

A quality cabinet paint job can completely transform a kitchen.

❌ I recommend REPLACING when:
• The cabinets are low quality, damaged, swollen, or falling apart.
• You’re constantly frustrated with the layout.
• You need more storage, larger drawers, a bigger island, or better functionality.
• You’re already investing in a major renovation.

If the kitchen doesn’t function well, paint isn’t going to fix that.

But hear me when I say this…

NOT. EVERY. PAINTER. CAN. PAINT. CABINETS.

I know every painter says they can. I promise you they cannot.

Cabinet painting is a completely different skill set than painting walls. The prep work, sanding, cleaning, spraying, products, drying conditions, and finishing techniques make all the difference.

I was at a former client’s home last week and saw cabinets painted years ago by someone I used back then. Comparing those cabinets to the finishes I’m getting today was honestly shocking. Night and day.

The best cabinet finishes look smooth, durable, and almost factory-finished.

The worst ones chip, scratch, show brush marks, and remind you every day that you tried to save money.

A great cabinet painter can make people think you installed new cabinetry.

A bad one can make brand-new cabinets look old.

Would you paint your cabinets or are you team replace? 👇

Designing a space takes team work and diligence. I’m so excited for this outdoor update including TimberTech decking.