A Q&A with Dan Oldejans, Owner of Better Than New Kitchens

At Better Than New Kitchens, we specialize in cabinet refacing for homeowners in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding areas in Arizona. Transforming outdated kitchens into beautiful, functional spaces without the cost or hassle of a full remodel is what we do best. Today, we’re talking with Dan Oldejans, owner of Better Than New Kitchens, to get his personal take on refacing, design trends, and what makes his company unique.

1. What do you love most about cabinet refacing compared to a full kitchen remodel?

The best part about refacing is that we can completely transform a kitchen without tearing it apart. Most cabinets are structurally sound, and refacing lets us give them a fresh, updated look for a fraction of the cost of replacing them. Plus, it’s a much quicker process, so homeowners get their dream kitchen in days, not months. Seeing that transformation—without the mess of a full gut job—is what I love most.

2. What’s one thing you wish more homeowners understood about cabinet refacing?

I wish people knew how durable and high-quality refacing can be when done right. Some assume it’s just a temporary fix, but our process uses real wood doors, premium quarter-ply wood panels, and professional finishes that last just as long—if not longer—than many brand-new cabinets. It’s not a shortcut; it’s a smart investment.

3. What design trend do you think will grow in popularity this coming year?

I think we’ll see a lot more warmer wood tones making a comeback. For years, white and gray dominated, but now homeowners are leaning toward rich, natural wood finishes that bring warmth and character to a space. Lighter oak and walnut tones, in particular, are starting to show up more, and I think that trend will keep growing.

4. Do you have a favorite kitchen style? If so, what do you love about it?

I’m a big fan of transitional kitchens—a mix between modern and traditional. It gives homeowners the flexibility to have a timeless look that won’t feel outdated in a few years. Clean lines, shaker-style doors, and warm wood or neutral colors make for a space that feels inviting but still fresh.

5. What’s your favorite type of wood to work with, and why?

Alder is one of my favorites because it has such a beautiful, natural grain and takes stain really well. It gives a lot of warmth and character to a kitchen, especially with a rich, medium-toned stain. Plus, it’s versatile—you can go rustic with it, or make it look sleek and modern.

6. What’s one of the most rewarding refacing projects you’ve ever completed?

One project that stands out was for a Scottsdale, AZ couple who had custom-built their home 30 years ago, and their kitchen had sentimental value. They didn’t want to tear everything out, but it was really outdated. We refaced the cabinets in a classic shaker style, added soft-close hinges, and upgraded the hardware. When they saw the finished result, they were blown away—it looked brand new, but still felt like “their” kitchen.

7. What makes Better Than New Kitchens stand out from other companies offering cabinet refacing?

We’re not a big-box franchise—we’re a local, owner-operated business, and that means we’re hands-on with every project. Our team is made up of highly skilled craftsmen, and we use top-tier materials that we stand behind. Plus, we don’t cut corners. From custom color-matching to using real wood products, we go above and beyond to make sure every refacing job looks flawless and lasts for years.

8. Have you ever had a customer’s vision surprise you in a good way? What was the result?

Yes! A homeowner once asked for a bold, deep navy blue finish on their cabinets, which wasn’t a typical request at the time. I wasn’t sure how it would look at first, but once we finished, it was stunning. Paired with brass hardware and white quartz countertops, it gave the kitchen such a high-end, custom look. That project made me realize how much a little color can transform a space.

9. If you could reface any kitchen in the world, whose would it be and why?

That’s a tough one! I’d love to do Frank Lloyd Wright’s kitchen—not change the design, but modernize the functionality while keeping the integrity of his architectural style. His designs were all about craftsmanship and natural materials, which aligns with how we approach refacing.

10. What’s the most common misconception people have about refacing, and how would you clear it up?

A lot of people think refacing is just painting over old cabinets, but that’s not the case at all. We replace the doors and drawer fronts entirely and apply a real wood panels to the cabinet frames. The end result looks and feels just like brand-new custom cabinetry. Once people see the quality of our work, they realize refacing is just as good—if not better—than replacing cabinets.

Refacing is one of the best-kept secrets in kitchen remodeling, and at Better Than New Kitchens, we’re passionate about helping homeowners get the most out of their space. If you’re in or around Scottsdale, AZ and considering a kitchen update, give us a call—we’d love to show you how refacing can transform your home!

Would you like to schedule a consultation? Submit a request online, or call Dan directly at (480) 429-7615 today!