The choice is unparalleled, the design is inspired, the service is first-class, and the value is second to none.

Arete Kitchens is an Austin-based design studio and showroom specializing in the design, supply and installation of high-quality modern kitchens, bespoke closets and complementary wood interiors that connect kitchen, dining and living in beautiful and functional harmony. Every project we undertake – whether creating a totally new kitchen or remodeling an existing one – is as important to us as it is to you. We understand that choosing and installing your dream kitchen is one the most important decisions you will make in your home and believe you need to spend time to get it right.

Our specialized team of experienced designers will help and advise you in your choice. In a collaborative and budget-conscious approach, your space will be designed specifically with you in mind focusing on your individual aspirations for your home and lifestyle. 

An estimation and planning service is offered, along with state-of-the-art presentation technology which provides three-dimensional images so you can see your perfect kitchen laid before you. Our emphasis is on a fully integrated service, from planning and design, all the way through to installation – making the entire process a comprehensive, professional and seamless experience.

We pride ourselves on our select offering of premier German-made cabinetry by LEICHT, Italian-made closets by MisuraEmme, marine-grade outdoor kitchens by Urban Bonfire, and for providing a design and installation service that is tailored, experienced and thorough. Quality and attention to detail define who we are. We are passionate about our work and ensure that our clients are happy with their investment today and for the years to come.

BEHIND THE NAME
ARETE is the most articulated value in Greek culture, and in its simplest definition means excellence.

For us, ARETE [air-e-tee] embodies our commitment to the integrity of all that we do, to honor the journey, and to continually push higher.

OUR TEAM

TOM

General Manager | Principal

ANDREA

Administrator | Principal

STACEY

Senior Designer & Project Manager

NANCY

Senior Designer & Project Manager

ALYSSA

Technical Drafter & Order Facilatator

jUSTIN

Lead Installer

TIM

Lead Installer

MICHAEL

Field & Logistics

ZACH

Field & Install Foreman

JOHN

Installer

ROBERT

Installer

TEDDY

Morale Officer

OUR PROCESS & THE CLIENT EXPERIENCE

VISIT US & CONSULTATION

A visit to our showroom is the first step. You will meet with one of our designers to discuss your project. During this 30-60 minute complimentary meeting we will learn about your visions and wishes for the space(s), the project scope, and any other pertinent information relating to your project. Additionally, you will explore our product collection first-hand, gather inspiration, learn about our process and the possibilities, and a project budget will be discussed.

Your designer is deeply involved in each project from first meeting to final walk-through upon project completion. They act as your personal project manager throughout the entire process.

VISIT US & CONSULTATION

INITIAL DRAWINGS & ESTIMATE

About 2 weeks following your initial meeting, your designer will revisit with you at our showroom to present concept renderings and a comprehensive estimate. Continued discussion of conceptual design ideas will also take place. With additional time, 1-2 minor revisions can be made at this stage to further demonstrate the design capabilities before proceeding to the next step.

INITIAL DRAWINGS & ESTIMATE

DESIGN RETAINER & DESIGN

Once you decide to move forward with us, a Design Retainer will be initiated. At this time you receive a copy of the drawings and an on-site visit and measurement is scheduled, if applicable. The non-refundable $2000-$5000 fee (based on the project scope and location) will be credited toward the purchase amount of your cabinetry if contracted within one year.

This is the most extensive stage of our in-depth design process, taking anywhere from 2-4+ weeks, depending on the specifics of your project, revisions, your availability and decision making, and other trades involved. Your designer creates a detailed design that encapsulates the aesthetic vision, is exceptionally functional, and is in-budget. Email and phone correspondence with you will take place, and an additional in-person or remote meeting will typically take place as well. Likewise, your designer works together with your choice of leading architect, builder, contractor, and/or interior designer to achieve a cohesive design and collaborative process

DESIGN RETAINER & DESIGN

CONTRACT & ORDER

At the end of the design process, we review and receive approval of the detailed final drawings with you. We then move to a signed contract and a 50% deposit to begin the ordering process of your cabinetry. Cabinets are made-to-order and will be delivered to your home in about 22-24 weeks (subject to current lead times and location of your project). You will receive notice at time of shipment and the next 40% progress payment will be collected.

Your designer will continue to be available to you and will stay in contact with your team. Elevations and electrical plans will be shared for use by your builder or general contractor so that the space(s) can be prepared in advance for our cabinetry.

CONTRACT & ORDER

DELIVERY & INSTALLATION

Once your site is ready, the final 10% of the contract will be collected, delivery will be scheduled, and cabinetry installation will commence by our in-house team. This can take anywhere from 2-6+ weeks to complete, depending on the specifics of your project, site conditions, and other trades.

We consider and treat your cabinetry as fine furniture. Therefore, construction activity by others and obstructions should be avoided in the immediate spaces during and after your cabinetry installation. This allows for installation efficiency and accuracy, and ultimately avoids damage, unnecessary reorders, and project delays.

DELIVERY & INSTALLATION

FINISHING TOUCHES & COMPLETION

As our scope of the project wraps up, your designer will conduct a walk-through of your new space(s) and any final items will be completed to your satisfaction. 

FINISHING TOUCHES & COMPLETION

We recently had Arete Kitchens design and build us a new kitchen and primary bathroom. We are so pleased with the results and impressed by how professional everyone on their team was. From the beginning, they made sure all of our super-picky details were taken care of, whether it was a wood type or a drawer mat or a shelf support. We met with them multiple times and ended up with a beautiful design for both rooms. It does take awhile to get the components from Europe, but we are thrilled with the result. The installation team was truly top-notch. I have never met such professional, detail-oriented, pleasant people who completely understood our need to have everything exactly lined up and perfectly spaced. I would highly recommend everyone at Arete Kitchens for your kitchen, closet or bath. They did a fantastic job!

The Oliver Family, Austin TX

I worked with Arete on a kitchen remodel for a small condo. They worked with my ideas and choices to help me create an incredibly beautiful, modern kitchen that fit my style and needs. Their installer was the best I've worked with and made sure everything was perfect.

C. Anderson, Austin TX

Absolutely thrilled with Arete European Kitchens! Their design and installation of his and her bedroom closets went above and beyond our expectations. The professionalism displayed throughout the entire project, from design to installation, was truly outstanding. Highly recommend!

A. Marne, San Antonio TX