What is 2pac and what are the pros and cons of using this for kitchen cabinetry?

2PAC polyurethane is a hardened heavy-duty paint finish, made of a two-part solution, comprising of acrylic paint and a resin hardener (hence the name!). The term 2PAC refers to a particular technique used to apply the finish to the joinery. Rather than being painted onto the cabinet surface with a brush, 2PAC is applied in the same fashion as automotive paint (sprayed). The finish is applied in a highly controlled environment a specialist spray booth to ensure that there is no interference with the paint application such as dust for example. This can be applied to joinery on your vertical and horizontal surfaces (i.e. tv units etc) but not benchtops! It can scratch; however, it can also be resprayed. 2PAC is also available in many finishes: high gloss / semi-gloss or matt/satin. Semi-gloss shows the least number of fingerprints and scratches and is easily wipeable. My Favourite thing about 2PAC is that you have the freedom to select any colour and you can also colour match your joinery to your walls.

What are some non-negotiables when it comes to designing kitchen cabinetry?

Don’t scrimp on handles – you use them EVERY DAY so choose something that you love feels like it is made well as it’s going to take a hammering. In terms of space planning, think about how you want to use the space and be sure to keep adequate circulation space. If you are opting for custom cabinetry then ensure your joiner provides shop drawings as part of your package and provides you with a 1:1 sample of your door profile or finish. This is not only for your benefit but also for the joiner – as everything can then be signed off by both parties and agreed upon before production commences. If I have specified 2PAC for a client then I will ask for a sprayed sample from the cabinet maker to ensure that my client signs off on the agreed colour and sheen level. Kitchen joinery is a big-ticket item and ensuring that you have both samples and shop drawings will help ensure that you are getting exactly what you want. A common mistake is not allowing enough counter space for food preparation so this should be considered.

For someone who is just starting out in their design project, what are some of the standard rules for kitchen cabinetry? (E.g., bench height, etc.)

Bench heights are standardly set at 900mm high. This can be tweaked to suit your height – especially when opting for custom joinery you have the scope to tailor it exactly to your requirements. Taller people might opt for 920mm bench heights and vertically challenged people (like myself!) can go as low as 880mm. This is for general ergonomics and helps protect your back. Bench depths used to standardly be 600mm, but these are now increasing to 650/700mm which is partially attributed to bigger appliances but also 650/700mm feels more generous for preparation space. Island widths are at a minimum 900mm wide however this does feel quite lean! It does always depend on the space but if I have the option, I’ll try to get to beef the island up to 1100-1200mm. If you want bar stools, then allow 300mm clear under the island for the barstools to tuck into. The distance between cooktop can vary from 600-700mm (as per manufactures recommendation) being vertically challenged me I would need those upper units at 600mm – any higher from the bench and I simply can’t reach the second shelf within them – and it REALLY annoys me. Also, consider your slab sizes – whether it be natural or syntenic stone these are supplied in limited sizes – refer back to slab size and ensure that you are making the most of this and limiting your joint lines.

Stacey Newman Designs

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