How to Design a Commercial Display Cabinet

Measure the allowable space for the cabinet. Figure the appropriate length, width and height of the cabinet, and make sure it fits well with surroundings.. Be sure to to check for floor vents, electrical outlets or light fixtures that might get in the way. Plan to move any obstacles before starting construction of the cabinet.

Select construction materials. Will you need high-quality wood? Will you need safety glass to install in door fronts or a special glass cover on a table-type flat cabinet? Go over many choices, such as using metal shelves instead of wooden shelving or particle board instead of plywood backing. Sketch the basic shape of the cabinet and figure how much material you will need to buy. Purchase ready-made doors with glass fronts, if the cabinet will require closable doors.

Draw the construction design in detail. Use a simple plan to fit component parts together. Figure out brackets, joints and wood trim required. Make sure the assembly process is clear to you before beginning work on the cabinet. Keep in mind that it is often labor-intensive to take a large cabinet apart for moving it elsewhere. Create a design plan using screws or bolts that make taking the cabinet apart relatively easy.

Draw your intended final version of the display cabinet to see how merchandise will fit. Plan to install heavier items on bottom shelves, if possible, to protect customers if something should fall. Sketch spacing on the shelves of the cabinet for clothing items, artwork or home improvement products, for example. Figure out the best way to place lighting in the cabinet, so it will illuminate the merchandise well.

Plan how to finish the cabinet surfaces. Use paint or stain that will complement the merchandise; a bright paint will make lighter-colored items stand out on the shelves. Finish the cabinet in high-quality stain if wooden shelves are used to display antique dishes or quilts. Line the shelves with fabric or vinyl sheeting to make small items stand out visually.