The Finishing Touches That Transform a Kitchen Remodel

When most people picture a kitchen remodel, they imagine a single big reveal — cabinets installed, countertops shining, backsplash glistening, and everything ready to go. In reality, the process doesn’t happen all at once. Large-scale remodels are completed in layers, with each phase building on the last until the final vision comes together.

At Cartright & Sons Cabinetry, we often explain to our clients that cabinetry is only one piece of the puzzle. Once the boxes and doors are installed, there are still several steps required before the kitchen is truly “finished.” And those finishing touches? They’re the details that elevate a kitchen from good to great.

Here’s a deeper look at the steps that bring everything together.

Hardware & Fine Adjustments

Cabinets are designed to be functional, but the details matter. Installing hardware — knobs, pulls, or handles — is one of the last things we do, and it instantly changes the feel of the cabinetry. The right hardware not only complements the design but also makes the cabinets more practical for daily use.

This is also when we take time to fine-tune fitment and alignment. Doors and drawers are adjusted to ensure everything is smooth, balanced, and consistent. It’s the kind of detail that may go unnoticed at first glance but contributes to the quality and polish of the entire kitchen.

Countertops & Full-Height Backsplashes

Countertops aren't templated until after the cabinetry is set. The countertops are installed within 1-2 weeks after template. They serve as the foundation for cooking, entertaining, and gathering, so this step always transforms the space dramatically.

But the real showstopper often comes with a full-height backsplash. Instead of stopping at the counter, these backsplashes run up the wall, creating a seamless and high-end look. It ties the countertops into the cabinetry and instantly adds personality and sophistication to the room.

Riser/Crown Molding & Light Rail

These are the true finishing touches in cabinetry design.

Riser/Crown molding connects cabinets to the ceiling, eliminating gaps and creating a built-in, custom appearance. Without it, cabinets can look unfinished or standard. With it, the kitchen feels more cohesive and intentional.

Light rail adds both function and beauty. It provides the perfect housing for undercabinet lighting, which not only brightens up work areas but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere in the evenings.

These details may seem small, but they define the craftsmanship and customization of a project.

Collaboration With Other Trades

One of the most important — yet often overlooked — aspects of finishing a kitchen remodel is coordination. As cabinet specialists, we work closely with contractors, electricians, plumbers, and countertop installers to ensure each element comes together smoothly.

For example, riser molding can’t always be installed until a hood is in place, and light rail has to wait for electrical work to be completed. It’s a team effort, and proper timing ensures that the final product looks and functions exactly as intended.

Why Patience Pays Off

Clients sometimes ask why we return multiple times throughout the project. The answer is simple: every layer depends on the previous one being complete. If counters are delayed, the backsplash has to wait. If lighting isn’t wired yet, light rail can’t go in.

Remodeling is rarely a straight line — there are moving parts, backorders, and unexpected adjustments. But those finishing touches at the end are worth it. They bring harmony, detail, and that “wow” factor that makes stepping into the completed kitchen feel unforgettable.

Our Commitment

At Cartright & Sons Cabinetry, we don’t just install cabinets and leave. We stay engaged throughout the project to ensure the details are handled properly. Our clients trust us to make sure the final product matches the vision they had from day one — and that’s exactly what we deliver.

📞 Ready to start your remodel? Call us today at 239-878-1246 or stop by our showroom in Fort Myers, FL. We’ll walk you through every layer of the process, from design to finishing touches, so you know what to expect every step of the way.