Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets can be an affordable and flexible option for homeowners looking to redesign a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. The available options in market are such as shaker cabinets, frameless designs, paint grade cabinet doors among others.

However, for those looking to achieve some unique and expensive appearance, it is possible to customize their RTA cabinet with a bit of extra work. With a few simple adjustments, you can modify standard RTA cabinets to perfectly fit your space.
Why Modify RTA Cabinets?
Many homeowners choose RTA kitchen cabinets for their affordability and ease of assembly. However, personalizing them allows you to:
- Improve functionality with pull-out shelves and organizers.
- Enhance aesthetics with custom paint, trim, and molding.
- Adjust cabinet sizes to fit unique layouts.
- Upgrade hardware and finishes to match your home’s decor.

Now, let’s explore the best ways to modify your RTA cabinets for a custom look.
1. Adjust Cabinet Dimensions for a Perfect Fit
If your kitchen cabinets, laundry room cabinets, or bathroom cabinets need resizing, you can modify their dimensions:
- Cut Side Panels and Shelves: Use a circular saw or table saw to resize panels for a better fit.
- Modify Cabinet Depth: Reduce the depth to fit tight spaces by cutting the back panel and repositioning the brackets.
- Create Custom Openings: If you need additional cutouts for appliances or plumbing, use a jigsaw to make precise modifications.
2. Customize the Finish with Paint or Stain
Want to make your cabinets truly yours? A fresh coat of paint or a stain can do wonders!. Consider these options:
- Classic White Cabinets: A coat of white paint gives a fresh and timeless appeal.
- Bold Colors: Try blue cabinets, black cabinets, or green cabinets to add character to your kitchen.
- Sage Green Kitchen Cabinets: A trending choice that blends well with farmhouse and modern aesthetics.
- Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinets: Pair white upper cabinets with dark kitchen cabinets below for contrast.
- How to Make Oak Kitchen Cabinets Look Modern: Sand and stain them in a white oak or gray finish for a sleek update.
3. Add Trim, Molding, and Panels for a Custom Look
Want your cabinets to have that high-end, custom look? Try these tricks!:
- Install Crown Molding: Creates a polished and elegant look at the top of shaker cabinets and frameless kitchen cabinets.
- Attach Decorative Panels: Apply beadboard, shiplap, or raised panels to enhance cabinet doors.
- Baseboard or Toe-Kick Upgrades: Adding decorative molding at the base elevates the overall aesthetic.
4. Upgrade Hardware for a Premium Feel
A simple hardware swap can completely change the vibe of your kitchen cabinets:
- Modern Minimalist: Sleek, matte black or brushed gold handles pair well with modern grey kitchen cabinets and european cabinets.
- Farmhouse Rustic: Antique brass or bronze pulls complement farmhouse sage green kitchen cabinets.
- Contemporary: Long bar pulls work well with white oak cabinets and navy blue cabinets.
5. Improve Functionality with Custom Features
Who says your cabinets can’t be both beautiful and functional? Add these features for a custom touch:
- Install Pull-Out Shelves: Makes storage more accessible in deep gray kitchen cabinets.
- Add Lazy Susans: Optimizes corner cabinet space in black cabinet setups.
- Upgrade to Soft-Close Hinges: Provides a luxury touch for discount kitchen cabinets and kitchen cabinets online.
- Use Glass Inserts: Replace solid doors with glass panels for a sophisticated look.
6. Combine Different Cabinet Styles for a Unique Design
Want your kitchen to feel like it came out of a design magazine? Mix and match these cabinet styles:
- European Style Cabinets & Shaker Cabinets: Blends modern sleekness with traditional charm.
- Wholesale Kitchen Cabinets & Custom Panels: Buy wholesale cabinets and modify them with trim and paint for a custom look.
- Modern Kitchen with Oak Cabinets: Pair dark green kitchen cabinets with white oak cabinets for a natural contrast.

Final Thoughts
With a bit of creativity, you can transform your RTA cabinets without breaking the bank. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek modern vibe with black or gray cabinets, or want to give your wholesale kitchen cabinets a high-end touch, these tips will help you create a space that’s both stylish and functional.