Whether to paint before installing cabinets or vice versa depends on the specific project, the design, and the preferences of the homeowner or designer. Here are the pros and cons of each option:
Painting before installing cabinets: This approach can provide a cleaner finish and allows you to paint without worrying about drips or other mistakes on the cabinets. Additionally, it allows you to paint the walls behind and around the cabinets without having to work around them.
Installing cabinets before painting: This approach can make it easier to install the cabinets, and it may be more practical in situations where the cabinets need to be installed first in order to be able to use the kitchen. Additionally, if you're installing custom cabinets, it can be difficult to paint around them after they've been installed.
It's important to consult with the contractor and the designer before making a decision as they will be able to advise on what is the most suitable approach for your project.
Also, if you plan to paint the cabinets it's more practical to install them first, this way you can make sure that the paint color matches the cabinet's finish and also you'll have better access to the back side of the cabinet during the painting process.
You also want to consider factors like dust and debris generated by the cabinet installation. If the painting process was done before the cabinet installation process then it would make sense to touch up the paint job after the installation is done, If the painting is done after the installation, then you have to account for dust and debris getting on the paint job and clean them before you start painting.