Kitchens Direct, Inc. (Lic. NJ Home Improvement Contractor #13VH00862300) has been a cornerstone of kitchen and bath design, remodeling, and installation in Central New Jersey since its founding in 1971. Located at 739 Route 206, Hillsborough, NJ 08844, this family-owned business is currently under the leadership of its President, Ron Tobia, who continues a proud legacy of craftsmanship, dedication, and community trust. With over five decades of service, Kitchens Direct has evolved from a small cabinetry shop into a full-service remodeling powerhouse, offering personalized attention, high-end design capabilities, and professional installation services.
1.2 Legal & Administrative Credentials
Established: 1971
Licensing: Verified NJ state licensing ensures regulatory compliance and guarantees the quality and safety of all projects.
Ownership: Family-owned, ensuring a culture of continuity, personalized attention, and accountability.
2. Market & Service Area
2.1 Geographic Reach
Kitchens Direct’s service area encompasses a range of communities across Central New Jersey, with a strong footprint in the following towns:
Belle Mead
Somerville
Princeton
Skillman
Hopewell
South Brunswick
Pennington
Rocky Hill
Bound Brook
Warren Township
These areas are primarily situated within Somerville, Hillsborough, and northern Mercer counties, positioning kitchens Direct to serve both suburban and semi-urban markets with a concentration of older homes ready for modernization and new residences in active growth zones.
2.2 Community Connection
Being family-owned, Kitchens Direct fosters strong relationships within its market. Clients consistently highlight responsive service and genuine care for their homes and ideas. Engagement spans local chambers of commerce and referral networks from happy customers—word-of-mouth remains a significant growth channel.
3. Core Services
Kitchens Direct provides end-to-end remodeling solutions, tailored to kitchen, bathroom, and entire home transformations—from initial design to final finishes.
3.1 Design & Planning
Computer-Aided Layouts: Detailed floor plans, elevations, and 3D perspectives help clients visualize new spaces well before construction begins.
Interior Design Consultation: Beyond kitchens/baths, the team extends services to home offices, libraries, entertainment centers, and laundry areas.
Client-centric approach: all design decisions are refined through collaboration, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functional excellence.
3.2 Installation & Full-Scale Remodeling
Custom Cabinetry & Countertops: Professional installation of custom and factory-direct cabinetry, tailored to client preferences.
Appliance Integration: Seamless incorporation of ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, and smart devices, optimizing flow and efficiency.
Surfaces & Finishes: Skilled installation of flooring (hardwood, tile, luxury vinyl), backsplashes, and wall finishes.
Windows, Doors & Plumbing: Installation and integration of doors, fixtures, faucets, sinks, and more—ensuring cohesive design and operational reliability.
As a full-service remodeling firm, Kitchens Direct handles projects from demolition to finishing, delivering cohesive results and peace of mind.
3.3 Drafting & Engineering Services
Technical Expertise: Precise floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and perspectives that guide both clients and the construction process.
Compliance & Permitting: Complete support for building-permit documentation and engineering coordination—facilitating a smooth project cycle.
4. Design Portfolio & Philosophy
4.1 Aesthetic Versatility
Kitchens Direct merges timeless and contemporary styles—from transitional shaker cabinets to sleek European minimalist designs.
Projects often integrate mixed-material palettes (quartz, granite, marble) alongside modern fixtures (matte black, brushed gold, satin nickel), achieving balance of warmth and sophistication.
4.2 Innovation-Driven Approach
Use of advanced 3D rendering software ensures clients make informed design decisions before breaking ground.
Close vendor partnerships mean clients have access to the latest materials and appliance innovations.
4.3 Functional Design Focus
Ergonomics and flow are key: typical considerations include appliance “work triangle” dynamics, accessible storage solutions, and optimized traffic patterns.
Retail-inspired storage—pull-out trays, utensil organizers, full-extension drawers—enhance both form and function.
5. Notable Projects & Awards
Kitchens Direct’s design excellence has earned recognition across several prestigious awards:
5.1 Awards
Chrysalis Award – Recognized for transformative kitchen remodel in the Northeast region.
NARI Contractor of the Year (CotY) – Honored by the Central Jersey chapter, underscoring excellence and community commitment.
Master Design Award – Silver Winner – Highlighting creativity and execution quality.
Qualified Remodeler Janus Award – Award-winning innovation in kitchen/bath design and renovation practices.
These accolades reflect both peer recognition and the firm’s delivery on superior design, craftsmanship, and client satisfaction.
6. Customer Testimonials & Reputation
6.1 Client Praise
Client
Testimonial
Russell Grimm
“Ron was extremely helpful throughout the entire process… The quality of both [granite countertops and kitchen cabinets] are top notch.”
Jobe P.
“Ron of Kitchens Direct is not only worthy of trust, he becomes a true partner in your remodel… Our kitchen looks amazing for THOUSANDS less than other quotes we received.”
Debbie B.
“Ron and Regina were wonderful to work with, listened to my concerns, and created living spaces that I love!”
These testimonials highlight four key themes:
Value-conscious pricing—great results for less
Collaborative process—Ron and Regina foster strong partnerships
Client-centric responsiveness—attentive listening and responsiveness
6.2 Online Reputation
Kitchens Direct earns consistently high reviews on Houzz, Manta, and Chamber of Commerce listings. Rated highly for:
Trustworthiness and reliability
Excellence in design
Efficient project management
Friendly and professional staff
7. Competition & Market Position
7.1 Landscape of Local Competitors
Nearby remodeling firms in similar markets may include:
Larger upscale showrooms in Princeton, Windsor, and Somerville
Smaller boutique contractors focused primarily on kitchens or bathrooms
Franchise-based operations (e.g., Home Depot and Lowe’s design-build services)
NARI-certified independents with specific niche expertise
7.2 Differentiators
Kitchens Direct maintains a competitive edge through:
Family-owned dedication—tailored attention with personal accountability
In-house drafting and 3D rendering—crucial for envisioning complex designs
Transparent pricing—full-scope quotes with breakdowns, minimizing hidden costs
Award-winning track record—multiple industry awards affirm quality
Deep local expertise—decades-long presence builds shortcuts in permits, vendors, and local design trends
8. Business Model & Operations
8.1 Physical Facilities
Their Hillsborough showroom serves as a client showroom and consultation studio, equipped with cabinetry finishes, countertop materials, appliance samples, and lighting fixtures. The studio doubles as a meeting and brainstorming space during project briefs.
Site Measure & Survey – Precise on-site evaluation
Design Stage – Conceptual and technical plans, 3D visuals
Proposal & Budgeting – Itemized scope, material selections, vendor options
Contract & Permitting – Regulatory compliance and approvals
Demolition & Prep – Careful protection and staging
Construction & Installation – Teams of skilled cabinetmakers, installers, plumbers, electricians
Finishes & Inspections – QA checks, punch list completion
Final Walk-Through – Client walkthrough, instruction on care and maintenance
8.3 Materials & Supplier Relationships
Long-standing partnerships with cabinetry manufacturers—both custom woodworkers and factory-direct suppliers—ensure flexibility in material, finish, and budget. Similarly, reliable access to premium countertops (granite, quartz), plumbing fixtures, appliances, and specialty hardware supports both quality and efficiency.
9. Key Strengths & Strategic Positioning
Award-backed credibility – Awards provide third-party validation.
Full-service integration – Offices, libraries, baths: the team handles every room.
Cutting-edge design tools – Empowering clients through visualization
Personal, family-oriented service – Trust-based reputation and long-term client loyalty
Strong regional presence – Network of referrals, partnerships, and word-of-mouth fuel repeat business
Transparent, value-driven pricing – Enables positioning as cost-effective without sacrificing quality
10. Opportunities for Growth
10.1 Digital Marketing & Online Visibility
Content marketing: Project case studies with before/after galleries and blog features
Social media: Instagram reels, YouTube walkthroughs, TikTok tips on remodeling
SEO & Listings: Continued optimization on Houzz, Google My Business, and local directories
Educational Workshops: Topics like smart-home upgrades, selection of cabinetry finishes, sustainable remodeling benefits
18. Summary & Conclusion
Kitchens Direct, Inc. stands out as a well-established, family-owned, full-service design and remodeling firm rooted in Central New Jersey since 1971. Its core strengths lie in deep market experience, honed design capabilities using high-end rendering and drafting tools, transparent processes, and a strong reputation backed by industry awards and personal testimonials.
By combining advanced technology (3D visuals, AR capability), intimate client engagement, and a comprehensive range of services—from cabinetry to full remodels across every home space—the company provides both aesthetic inspiration and functional excellence. Its recognized value positioning, local roots, and award-winning credentials underscore its appeal to homeowners seeking stylish, professionally executed renovations.
To stay ahead, Kitchens Direct is primed for digital expansion, enhanced showroom engagement, and greater sustainability—strategically widening its reach while deepening the level of service. These initiatives ensure that the company continues to serve as a trusted partner in transforming New Jersey homes for decades to come.
