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Cabinetry Showroom vs. Design Build Firm

Designing dreams, not just cabinets: The EJDB approach to Kitchen & Bath design.


Hi there! Are you ready to renovate your kitchen but can’t decide whether to hit up a cabinetry showroom or call in the pros from a design/build firm? It’s a big decision, so grab a cup of coffee (or something stronger), and let’s chat about a cabinetry showroom vs. design build firms to help you find the right fit for your culinary haven.



Above: design documentation of our Burnt Mills project located in Silver Spring, MD. Photo: Ian Michaelman



From Sales to Design: Erika's Firsthand Experience

Fifteen years ago I started in kitchens and bathrooms so I know the ins and outs of the industry like the back of my hand. I've been in the trenches of the kitchen and bath showroom space, and now, I'm channeling all that knowledge and experience into creating personalized, breathtaking spaces for my clients. So, when I talk about the difference between a designer and a salesperson, it's not just theory – it's real, been-there-done-that hands-on knowledge!


Understanding the Difference: Cabinetry Showroom vs. Design Build Firm

The right client for a cabinetry showroom is someone who has the time, desire, and confidence/skills to lead the design and manage the project themselves. Typically, a cabinetry showroom designer/salesperson will assist with the cabinetry selection, but they are not part of selecting the other materials (like tile, countertops, hardware, paint color, furnishings, window treatments, flooring, etc.). This means it’s up to the homeowner to source, select, and procure all these materials on their own.


On the other hand, EJDB caters to homeowners who are looking for a full-service design experience. We provide a comprehensive service that covers everything from initial design to final construction. Here’s how we make a difference:


  • The Details Are EVERYTHING: For us at EJDB, it's not just about selling cabinets. Our goal is to get to know you, your family, your ceremonies and rituals, and plan for how you want to live 5, 10, 20 years from now. We're in the business of creating spaces that inspire and work for you and your family in the present and far into the future. We dive deep, considering not only your aesthetic desires and functional needs but also the architectural style of your home, your return on investment, and the needs of your home (i.e., temperature imbalances, water pressure issues, ventilation conditions, etc.).

  • The Plans Tell The Story: While a salesperson might hand you a basic layout, we go all out. Think 3D renderings, detailed floor plans, electrical layouts and specifications, construction notations, finish schedules, window and door schedules, a reflected ceiling plan, elevations that show every nook and cranny of your future kitchen or bath, and furnishings and textiles to finish the space with added texture, color, pattern, and personality. Our deliverables are blue-prints of your dream space. They're detailed, they're comprehensive, and they're all about turning your vision into a tangible, beautiful reality.

  • We Know Our Stuff: Whether it’s picking out the perfect lighting or making sure your cabinets look amazing and work well, our team has got you covered. And we're not just about the design – we know all the ins and outs of installation, construction, and those important codes and regulations that keep your space safe and solid.


Being a firm that handles both design and construction, cabinetry is just a piece of the puzzle. If your project needs a big change, like taking down walls or expanding the house, we handle the architectural and structural design too. When it comes to construction, we can either manage the whole thing or work with a contractor you prefer. Our construction admin service adds an extra set of eyes on your project with regular visits to make sure everything is going as planned and looking just the way we envisioned it.



The EJDB Approach: Personalized and Pressure-Free

When you work with a salesperson, it's often about hitting targets and moving products. With a design firm, it's a whole different ball game. Here's what sets us apart:

  • No Sales Pressure: We're not here to sell you the most expensive cabinets or the trendiest tiles. We're here to create a space that's 'you' in every way.

  • Design That's All About You: My experience means I know how to listen, really listen, to what you want and need. It's not just about filling a space with stuff; it's about creating a space that fills you with joy.


Ready to talk kitchen or bath transformation? Let's create a space that's not only beautiful but truly yours. If you're looking for a team that will put their heart into the heart of your home, Let's Chat!

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