For Anton and Anna, founders of ARKA Cabinets, the American dream became a driving force behind their incredible journey. What started with nothing but a few suitcases has grown into a thriving custom cabinetry business, built from the ground up, starting from their garage in Portland, OR.
From Humble Beginnings: The Spark of Inspiration
When Anton and Anna first arrived in the U.S., they brought their determination and skills. Their path was clear: to create something meaningful, not just for themselves, but for their community.
Reflecting on their move, Anton says, “We came to the U.S. with just three suitcases, not knowing a single person. Immigration is a humbling experience, and for us it meant starting our lives completely over.” With a shared ambition, they quickly set to work on making connections and finding a way to become productive members of society.
Their first business ideas were far from what ARKA Cabinets has since become. From a food cart selling loaded potatoes (a quirky idea that makes them smile today) to exploring different paths, they had a deep desire to make their mark. Anton began working for a woodworking shop, and Anna found her niche in HR. Little did they know, those early jobs would lay the groundwork for their future endeavors.
Turning Passion into Profession
Anton’s love for woodworking started on a small scale, restoring free furniture and building pieces like coasters and cutting boards. Armed with limited tools but an unwavering work ethic, he took on small woodworking projects, gaining the skills and experience to move from hobbyist to entrepreneur.
Anna recalls, “Anton started by finding free furniture online and restoring it, that’s how we furnished our entire apartment. Some pieces he kept, others he sold.” What began as a small side project soon grew into a serious business.
By 2019, Anton and Anna knew it was time to take their business seriously. They launched ARKA Cabinets as an LLC, acquired a general contractor’s license, and began taking on larger projects. Their first clients were friends who needed carpentry work done at home, and they accepted every job, big or small. Whether it was building a deck or crafting a custom coffee table, word-of-mouth referrals began to flow, and business boomed.
Milestones and Growth: A Family Business
In the early days, ARKA Cabinets was a one-man operation. But as the business grew, so did the need for a larger space. Anton moved into a woodworking shop, where he crafted his first kitchen orders.
A defining milestone for the company came when they purchased their first serious tool—a SawStop saw. Anton explains, “Purchasing our first serious tool, a SawStop saw (an Oregon company!), was a big moment for us.” The purchase marked their commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency. They continued to reinvest in their business, attending trade shows, networking, and building relationships with suppliers and clients alike.
In 2023, ARKA Cabinets reached a new height with the opening of a new facility in Hillsboro. Now equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and a dedicated team, they continue to uphold the highest standards in custom cabinetry.
Evolving with Experience: The ARKA Cabinets Approach
With backgrounds in real estate, manufacturing, hospitality, and global experience, Anton and Anna approached ARKA Cabinets with a unique, methodical mindset. Their diverse skills helped shape the business, allowing them to continuously innovate and improve. From sourcing American-made materials to enhancing their production processes, they’ve learned to grow while maintaining the integrity and quality their clients expect.
“Relationships are everything,” says Anna, speaking about their approach to customer service. “Our approach to serving our clients is simple—we build for them as we would build for ourselves.” They invest time in understanding their clients’ needs and visions, creating beautiful, custom cabinets that enhance the functionality and aesthetic of every space.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
“People didn’t believe in us when we started,” says Anton. “They didn’t take us seriously, but we were committed. The key is persistence. Success doesn’t come from grand gestures; it comes from the small steps you take every day. Every connection you make, every ‘no’ you turn into a ‘yes.’”
For anyone thinking of starting their own business, Anton and Anna offer this advice: “Stay curious, stay resilient, and never stop learning. Success is not an overnight thing; it’s a journey that takes time, hard work, and the ability to overcome setbacks.”
A Perfect Match for Your Custom Cabinet Needs
At ARKA Cabinets, Anton and Anna are more than just cabinet makers—they are passionate creators who believe in bringing your vision to life.
Anton and Anna’s vision for their business has always been clear: “If you appreciate the finest things, have a unique vision, value your time, and share our passion for perfection, we might just be the perfect match.”
When you work with ARKA, you’re not just getting custom cabinetry—you’re getting a partnership. Whether you’re looking for a stunning kitchen makeover or a custom piece for your home, Anton and Anna are ready to help you transform your space into something that infuses your personality in your home from initial design to the final installation.
