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When designing or renovating a commercial kitchen, selecting the right cabinetry is vital—not just for aesthetics, but also for durability, compliance, and functionality. One question that often comes up among contractors, restaurateurs, and designers is: Are Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets available for commercial kitchen projects?
The short answer is yes, but with important considerations. While Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets are primarily marketed for residential use, their design, quality, and affordability make them a viable option for certain commercial applications. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons, durability standards, design flexibility, code compliance, and more to help you decide whether these cabinets suit your commercial kitchen needs.
You can explore options and availability here: Forevermark Greystone Shaker.
Understanding Forevermark Greystone Shaker Cabinets
Before diving into their suitability for commercial use, let’s briefly explore what makes Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets unique. These cabinets are part of the Platinum Collection from Forevermark, known for:
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Timeless Shaker-style aesthetics
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Solid wood construction with plywood sides
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A durable Greystone finish
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Soft-close drawer glides and doors
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A waterborne UV finish by Sherwin-Williams
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Affordable price point
This combination of features makes them a popular choice for residential kitchens, especially for homeowners looking for elegant, sturdy, and cost-effective cabinetry.
What Defines a Commercial Kitchen?
A commercial kitchen refers to a professional cooking space used for food production in restaurants, cafeterias, catering companies, and other foodservice environments. These kitchens are regulated by local building codes and health departments and must often meet stringent durability, hygiene, and fire safety standards.
In this context, the cabinetry installed must be:
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Resistant to heat and moisture
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Easy to clean and sanitize
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Built for high-traffic usage
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Code-compliant (NSF-certified when required)
This doesn’t mean residential cabinets like Forevermark can’t be used, but their application must be evaluated case-by-case.
Can You Use Forevermark Greystone Shaker Cabinets in a Commercial Kitchen?
Yes, but with limitations.
While Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets are not specifically designed or certified for heavy-duty commercial kitchen use, many business owners and contractors do use them in light commercial settings, such as:
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Break rooms
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Cafeterias
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Small bakeries
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Food prep areas not directly subject to cooking heat or extreme moisture
In these cases, they perform quite well due to their sturdy build, full-overlay doors, and timeless finish.
However, for high-volume, code-restricted kitchens, you may need stainless steel or NSF-rated cabinetry to comply with local health and safety laws.
Benefits of Forevermark Greystone Shaker Cabinets in Commercial Applications
1. Affordability for Large-Scale Projects
Commercial cabinetry can be extremely expensive. Forevermark offers a budget-conscious alternative without compromising too much on style or durability. You can outfit an entire kitchen or café at a fraction of the cost.
2. Simplicity and Style
The Shaker design fits into various commercial aesthetics—modern, industrial, rustic, or traditional. The neutral Greystone color blends well with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops, common in commercial spaces.
3. Ease of Installation
Forevermark cabinets are RTA (Ready-To-Assemble), which saves time and money on labor. They’re ideal for tight timelines or phased construction.
4. Durable Finish
Thanks to the Sherwin-Williams finish, the cabinets hold up against minor scrapes, water exposure, and wear, provided they’re not subjected to extreme industrial stress.
5. Availability and Fast Shipping
Distributors like My Kitchen Cabinets typically have large stocks and fast delivery options, which is a huge plus for commercial projects with deadlines.
Potential Drawbacks in Commercial Settings
1. Not NSF Certified
NSF certification is required for many commercial kitchens, especially those dealing with food prep surfaces. Forevermark does not hold this certification, which may be a deal-breaker for some projects.
2. Not Fire-Resistant or Metal
Wooden cabinets are more vulnerable in high-heat or fire-risk areas, unlike metal cabinetry which is often required for compliance and safety.
3. Limited Warranty for Commercial Use
The standard Forevermark warranty applies only to residential usage. If used in commercial settings, especially in high-demand kitchens, warranty claims may be denied.
Design Flexibility for Commercial Projects
Despite the limitations, many commercial projects appreciate the modularity and variety offered in the Forevermark line. Greystone Shaker cabinets come in a wide range of sizes, base and wall configurations, and accessories such as:
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Lazy Susans
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Pull-out drawers
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Trash bin inserts
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Crown moldings
This flexibility allows designers to create efficient and attractive commercial kitchen layouts, especially in cafés, coffee shops, boutique food stores, and break areas.
Cleaning and Maintenance Considerations
For commercial spaces, ease of cleaning is essential. Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets feature:
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Smooth surfaces that can be wiped down
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Sealed corners and interiors
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Scratch-resistant finishes
Still, regular exposure to industrial-grade chemicals, constant steam, or heat should be avoided to maintain longevity.
Case Studies: When These Cabinets Work in Commercial Projects
1. Small Bakery in Oregon
Used Greystone Shaker base cabinets for a prep area. They performed well under moderate usage with no visible wear after two years.
2. Law Firm Break Room
Installed cabinets for coffee station and snack prep. Looks modern and is easy to maintain.
3. Boutique Hotel Kitchenette
Designed with Forevermark cabinets in a mini-suite kitchen. Added value to aesthetics and storage in tight space.
These examples show that while Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets may not fit all commercial kitchen applications, they’re a smart solution for light commercial projects.
Installation and Compliance Tips
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Always consult local building codes before installation.
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Install the cabinets away from extreme heat, moisture, or open flames.
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Use high-quality sealants for protection in splash zones.
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Add stainless-steel inserts or countertops if required for compliance.
Conclusion: Should You Use Forevermark Greystone Shaker Cabinets in Your Commercial Kitchen?
Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets offer affordable style and solid construction for many commercial projects. While not designed for high-volume kitchens subject to strict health codes, they’re a great solution for break rooms, cafes, boutique shops, and low-risk food prep areas.
The Greystone finish and Shaker profile create a timeless, clean look that’s easy to maintain and complements most commercial interior designs. If your commercial space allows wood cabinetry and doesn’t require NSF certification, these cabinets from Forevermark Greystone Shaker are worth considering.
FAQs
1. Are Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets NSF certified?
No, they are not NSF certified, which may be required for food-prep areas in commercial kitchens.
2. Can I use these cabinets in a restaurant?
Yes, but only in non-prep zones like dry storage, break rooms, or decorative areas. Avoid direct contact with food or high heat zones.
3. Will the warranty apply in a commercial kitchen?
Forevermark’s warranty is intended for residential use. Commercial use may void the warranty, so consult with your supplier.
4. Do they hold up well in moderate commercial use?
Yes, in light-traffic areas such as office kitchens or coffee shops, they have proven durable with proper care.
5. Can I customize Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets for commercial layouts?
Absolutely. They come in many sizes and configurations, making them flexible for customized layouts in smaller commercial spaces.
Read: What types of hardware options are available for Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets?
Read: How easy is it to maintain and clean Forevermark Greystone Shaker cabinets?
