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The 1/3 rule is a design guideline used by interior designers and cabinet installers to select appropriately sized pulls for cabinets and drawers. The rule suggests that for a balanced and cohesive look, a cabinet pull should be approximately one-third the height of the cabinet door or one-third the width of the drawer face. This guideline helps create a symmetrical appearance because the human eye tends to follow the length of the pull across the cabinet face.

While the 1/3 rule is a helpful starting point, it is not the only option. If a measurement falls between available pull sizes, it's generally best to size up. For an ultra-contemporary aesthetic, you can also opt for full-width pulls that span the entire drawer.

The cost of installing kitchen cabinets is $5,950 for the average project. While most homeowners spend between $2,010 and $10,465 on new kitchen cabinets, you could spend up to $28,000 or more on spacious custom cabinets. 

The materials and the size of your cabinets make up a significant portion of your final cost. For example, wood veneer cabinets are typically the most budget-friendly option, ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 on average. On the other hand, stainless steel cabinets are a luxury item and generally cost between $25,000 and $38,000. 

Custom cabinets made from solid wood tend to last the longest, remaining in good condition for 20 to 50 years. Cabinet lifespan depends on upkeep, the amount of heat and moisture inside the home, and general wear and tear. Popular hardwood options include oak, cherry, maple, walnut, and hickory. Its longevity means that solid wood is more expensive than alternative materials like furniture board, laminate, and plywood. The average cost of solid wood cabinets ranges from $100 to $1,200 per linear foot.

In most cases, it’s more affordable to refinish your cabinets than replace them, with refinishing costs averaging $3,000 and replacement costs around $9,000. However, there are some instances in which it’s better to replace your cabinets, like if they’re an outdated style, badly damaged and beyond repair, or a sub-par material, like fiberboard. In all other cases, it’s usually a better idea to have a professional refinish them to save money and restore their original condition.