Expert: Jamie Yocono - 3/21/2009

Question
I would appreciate some help if you are able to assist. I have an area in my basement 13'L x 10'D that I would like to build a bar and rear upper and lower cabinets to complete family room. Any ideas with designs or layouts for this area would be greatly appreciated. And how to build these items. Can you assist?

Answer
Marvin,

This question brings up a lot of questions on my part - do you have tools? Skills? A place to build everything? A design in mind? Plywood cabinets or solid wood? What sort of bar - with a sink, or not? It's a little hard for me to answer you without the answers to my questions.

I suggest you start with one of my favorite cabinet books - Making Kitchen Cabinets by Paul Levine. Here is a link:  http://www.amazon.com/Making-Kitchen-Cabinets-Paul-Levine/dp/1561589039

There is also a book that goes with the video, it is very helpful. When I was just starting out, I remodeled a kitchen using his system and found it simple to do. I recommend that you look at these and then write back to me with any questions you might have.

Good luck, it's going to take a lot of planning on your part, but you'll save a lot and get exactly what you want.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com