Every homeowner heading into a renovation shares the same fears: What if it goes over budget? What if I hire the wrong contractor? What if I hate the final result? These are valid concerns, but they are also completely avoidable with the right planning. This guide is your playbook for sidestepping the most common renovation mistakes. Weβll cover how to create a solid budget, vet your contractor, and make design choices you wonβt regret. By understanding what to watch out for, you can confidently hire kitchen renovation services and ensure your project is a success from start to finish.
Key Takeaways
- Define Your Vision and Budget First: Before you start picking out finishes, get clear on your project’s scope and what you can realistically spend. A detailed plan and a firm budgetβincluding a 10-20% contingency fund for surprisesβare the most important tools for a successful renovation.
- Your Contractor is Your Most Important Choice: The right professional partner makes all the difference. Do your homework by reviewing portfolios, verifying licenses and insurance, and reading third-party reviews to find a team you trust to manage your project with skill and clear communication.
- Design for Your Real Life, Not Just a Photo: A great kitchen is more than just beautifulβit’s highly functional. Prioritize a smart layout, clever storage solutions, and durable materials that can handle daily use. Timeless choices for core elements will ensure you love your kitchen for years to come.
What Do Kitchen Renovation Services Include?
When you start thinking about a kitchen remodel, itβs easy to picture the big things, like shiny new appliances or a beautiful island. But a professional renovation involves so much more. Kitchen renovation services cover a wide range of tasks, from small cosmetic updates to a complete overhaul of the space. Understanding whatβs possible helps you define your own project goals and communicate your vision clearly.
Whether youβre dreaming of a minor refresh or a full-gut transformation, a design and build firm can manage every detail. This approach ensures all the moving partsβfrom plumbing and electrical to cabinetry and countertopsβcome together seamlessly. It takes the stress off your shoulders, as one team handles the project from the initial concept to the final walkthrough. Letβs walk through the specific services that can turn your current kitchen into the one youβve always wanted.
Full Kitchen Remodels
A full kitchen remodel is the most comprehensive option, perfect for when you want a complete transformation. This isn’t just about swapping out a few fixtures; it’s a total makeover. This service typically involves gutting the entire space down to the studs and starting fresh. Itβs your chance to rethink the entire layout for better flow, add a spacious island, or even remove a wall to create an open-concept living area. A full kitchen renovation includes all new cabinetry, countertops, appliances, flooring, lighting, and plumbing fixtures, all designed to create a cohesive and highly functional space youβll love for years to come.
Cabinet Updates and Refacing
If your kitchen’s layout works well but the style feels dated, you don’t necessarily need to tear everything out. Cabinet updates can make a huge impact without the cost or timeline of a full remodel. Cabinet refacing is a fantastic option where you keep your existing cabinet boxes but get all-new doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. Itβs a quicker, more budget-friendly, and eco-conscious way to achieve a brand-new look. Other simple updates, like a professional paint job or adding modern hardware, can also breathe new life into your existing cabinetry and completely change the feel of your kitchen.
New Countertop Installation
Few things define a kitchenβs style quite like its countertops. Installing new countertops is a high-impact upgrade that can instantly modernize your space. You have a wide array of materials to choose from, each with its own unique look and benefits. Popular choices include durable and elegant quartz, timeless granite, and classic marble. The right material depends on your aesthetic, lifestyle, and how you use your kitchen. A professional team ensures precise measurements and a flawless installation, giving you a beautiful and durable surface that serves as the centerpiece of your new kitchen design.
Flooring and Backsplash Upgrades
The right flooring and backsplash are the finishing touches that tie your entire kitchen design together. A new backsplash does more than just protect your walls from splatters; itβs a major design statement. From classic subway tile to intricate mosaics, itβs a great place to add a pop of color or texture. Similarly, new flooring needs to be both durable enough for a high-traffic area and stylish enough to complement your cabinets and countertops. Options like hardwood, ceramic tile, and luxury vinyl plank offer different levels of durability and aesthetics to complete your kitchenβs look from the ground up.
Modern Lighting and Electrical Work
Great lighting is essential in a kitchen, affecting both its functionality and its mood. A well-planned lighting scheme includes multiple layers: ambient lighting for overall brightness, task lighting for work areas like countertops, and accent lighting to highlight features. Upgrades often include adding recessed lights, installing pendants over an island, or placing under-cabinet lighting to eliminate shadows. This is also the perfect time to add more outlets or integrate smart home technology. Since this involves electrical work, itβs crucial to have it handled by licensed professionals who ensure everything is safe and up to code.
How to Plan Your Kitchen Renovation Budget
Setting a budget is the first, and arguably most important, step in any kitchen renovation. Itβs the framework that guides every decision youβll make, from the layout to the cabinet finish. While it might seem daunting, breaking your budget down into clear categories makes the process much more manageable. A well-planned budget not only keeps your project on track financially but also helps you and your contractor align on expectations from day one. Think of it as your roadmap to a beautiful, functional kitchen that you can afford. By understanding where the money goesβfrom materials and labor to those unexpected costsβyou can make informed choices that balance your dreams with your wallet. Letβs walk through how to build a realistic budget for your kitchen remodeling project.
What’s the Average Cost for a Remodel?
Itβs helpful to start with a general idea of what a kitchen remodel costs. Nationally, the average project can range from around $15,000 to over $40,000, with the median cost sitting near $27,000. Of course, this is just a ballpark figure. The final price tag for your Chicagoland kitchen depends entirely on the size of your space, the quality of materials you choose, and the complexity of the work. A simple refresh with new paint and hardware will be on the lower end, while a full gut renovation with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry will cost significantly more. Use this average as a starting point to ground your expectations before you start planning the specifics.
Breaking Down Material Costs
Your choice of materials will have the biggest impact on your budget. Cabinets, countertops, appliances, flooring, and backsplash are the main players here. Custom cabinets are a significant investment, while stock or semi-custom options can offer savings. Similarly, laminate countertops are more budget-friendly than granite or quartz. As you make these decisions, you might also want to explore eco-friendly options like bamboo flooring or countertops made from recycled materials. These choices can create a healthier home environment and add a unique story to your kitchenβs design. Planning these costs upfront helps you allocate your funds effectively.
Understanding Labor and Installation Fees
Unless youβre a seasoned DIY pro, youβll be hiring professionals, and their labor is a major budget line item. This fee covers everything from demolition and installation to the specialized work of plumbers and electricians. A typical kitchen remodel can take four to eight weeks, and the timeline directly influences labor costs. Investing in a reputable, experienced team like THP Builders ensures the work is done correctly, efficiently, and up to code. Our design and build services streamline this process, managing all the tradespeople and schedules so you donβt have to worry about coordinating multiple contractors.
Uncovering Potential Hidden Costs
Every renovation project has the potential for surprises. When you open up walls, you might find outdated electrical wiring, plumbing issues, or unexpected structural problems that need to be addressed. To avoid letting these discoveries derail your budget, itβs smart to set aside a contingency fundβtypically 10% to 20% of your total project cost. One way to minimize potential hidden costs is to keep your kitchenβs existing layout. Moving plumbing and gas lines is a significant expense, so keeping your sink and appliances in the same spots can lead to big savings. A good contractor will help you anticipate these potential issues during the planning phase.
Smart Ways to Save on Your Project
You donβt have to sacrifice style to stick to your budget. If your existing cabinet boxes are in good shape, consider refinishing or repainting them instead of a full replacement. A fresh coat of paint and new hardware can completely transform the look of your kitchen for a fraction of the cost. Another great option is cabinet refacing, which involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts while keeping the cabinet structure intact. You can also save by choosing a more affordable backsplash tile, selecting appliances from a single brand to get a package deal, or opting for a durable and stylish laminate countertop that mimics the look of stone.
How to Choose the Right Kitchen Renovation Company
Choosing a partner for your kitchen renovation is one of the most important decisions youβll make. This isnβt just about hiring someone to install cabinets; itβs about finding a team you can trust to bring your vision to life, respect your home, and manage the project with skill and professionalism. The right company will make the entire process feel collaborative and exciting, not stressful. To find that perfect fit, youβll want to do a little homework. By looking into their past work, verifying their credentials, and understanding their process, you can feel confident youβre placing your home in the right hands.
Review Their Experience and Portfolio
Before you even pick up the phone, take a look at a companyβs past projects. A contractorβs portfolio is the best evidence of their craftsmanship and style. Do their finished kitchens match the aesthetic youβre hoping for? Look for high-quality photos and videos that show off the details. A strong portfolio demonstrates a history of successful projects and a commitment to quality. You want a team with experience in complete kitchen remodeling, from the initial design concepts to the final installation. A great place to start is their online project gallery, which should give you a clear sense of what they can do.
Verify Licenses and Insurance
This step is non-negotiable. Any professional renovation company you consider must be fully licensed and insured. A valid license proves they meet state and local requirements for competency and professionalism. Insurance, including liability and workers’ compensation, protects you and your home from any accidents or damages that might occur during the project. Donβt be shy about asking for proof. A reputable contractor will provide this information without hesitation. You can also use resources like the Better Business Bureau to check a companyβs accreditation and see if they adhere to high standards for honest business practices.
Ask About Their Design Process
A beautiful kitchen doesnβt happen by accident; it starts with a thoughtful design. Ask potential contractors about their design process and how they collaborate with homeowners. Do they offer in-house design services, or will you need to hire a separate designer? A company with a comprehensive design and build service can streamline the entire project. Their goal should be to understand how you use your kitchen and create a layout thatβs perfect for your lifestyle, whether youβre cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or need smarter storage solutions. A great partner will work with you to make the most of your space.
Understand Their Project Management
A smooth renovation requires excellent project management. Ask who will be your main point of contact and how they keep the project on schedule and within budget. A dedicated project manager is essential for coordinating tradespeople, overseeing material deliveries, and handling the day-to-day details. This person is your go-to for questions and updates, ensuring the work is done correctly and efficiently. You want a team that is professional, friendly, and genuinely cares about your project. Understanding their management style from the start helps set clear expectations and minimizes stress once construction begins.
Set Clear Communication Standards
Clear and consistent communication is the foundation of a successful renovation. From the very beginning, you should feel comfortable talking with your contractor. Ask them how they prefer to communicateβis it through phone calls, emails, or a project management app? How often can you expect to receive updates? Establishing these standards early on prevents misunderstandings and ensures youβre always aware of whatβs happening in your home. A team that prioritizes communication will listen to your needs, answer your questions promptly, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Read Customer Reviews and References
What past clients have to say is incredibly valuable. Look for reviews on third-party websites like Google, Yelp, and Houzz to get an unbiased perspective on a companyβs work and customer service. Pay attention to comments about their ability to stick to a budget, finish on time, and handle challenges. While a companyβs website may feature glowing testimonials, donβt stop there. Ask for a list of recent references you can speak with directly. Talking to a past client gives you the chance to ask specific questions and get a real sense of what itβs like to work with the company.
Your Renovation Timeline: What to Expect
A home renovation is an exciting journey, but itβs also a complex project with many moving parts. Understanding the general timeline can help you feel prepared and confident as your new space takes shape. While every project is unique, a professional renovation follows a structured path from initial ideas to the final reveal. A clear process ensures your project stays on track and minimizes surprises along the way. At THP Builders, we manage every detail so you can focus on the fun parts.
Our design and build services are built around clear communication and a predictable schedule. We believe that knowing whatβs coming next is the key to a stress-free renovation experience. Letβs walk through the typical phases of a remodel so you know exactly what to expect when you partner with us.
The Initial Design Consultation
This is where the magic begins! Your initial design consultation is a creative meeting where you share your vision, frustrations with your current space, and your must-have features. Itβs a collaborative conversation where we listen to your goals and offer our expertise to make them a reality. Weβll discuss your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget to get a clear picture of what you want to achieve.
Think of this as the foundation for your entire project. Weβll talk through potential layouts, functional improvements, and design possibilities. This first step ensures weβre all on the same page from day one, creating a solid plan that guides every decision that follows.
Selecting and Ordering Materials
Once the design plan is set, itβs time to choose the materials that will bring your new kitchen to life. This includes everything from cabinets and countertops to flooring, tile, and lighting fixtures. Weβll guide you through the options, helping you find high-quality materials that match your style and fit your budget. You can browse our project gallery for inspiration and see how different finishes come together.
We handle the ordering process early to account for any lead times, especially for custom items. Getting materials on-site before construction begins is crucial for keeping the project on schedule. Our team coordinates all the logistics, ensuring every piece is ready when itβs needed.
Securing Permits and Approvals
Navigating building codes and permits can feel overwhelming, but itβs a critical step we manage for you. Most significant renovations require permits from your local municipality to ensure the work is safe and compliant with all regulations. This process involves submitting detailed plans for review and approval before any construction can start.
As your general contractor, we handle all the paperwork, submissions, and communication with the building department. We also coordinate the necessary inspections at key stages of the project. This ensures your home renovation is done right and meets all legal requirements, giving you complete peace of mind.
The Main Construction Phases
This is when youβll see your vision physically take shape. Construction begins with demolition and site preparation, creating a blank slate for your new kitchen. From there, our skilled team moves through a sequence of phases: framing, plumbing and electrical rough-ins, drywall installation, and painting. This is often the longest phase and can feel a bit chaotic, but itβs where the foundational work happens.
After the core structure is in place, we begin installing the beautiful elements you selected, like flooring, cabinets, and countertops. The final steps include appliance installation, lighting fixtures, and finishing touches. We provide regular updates throughout this process, so youβre always in the loop.
Tips for Setting Up a Temporary Kitchen
Living without a kitchen can be a challenge, but a little planning goes a long way. We recommend setting up a temporary kitchen station in another room, like your dining room or basement. Equip it with a microwave, a coffee maker, a toaster oven, and a mini-fridge to handle simple meals.
Consider this your chance to grill more often or explore local takeout spots youβve been meaning to try. Using disposable plates and cutlery can also save you from washing dishes in a bathroom sink. Weβll work with you to make the construction phase as comfortable as possible, and you can always contact our team for more tips on how to prepare your home.
Making Smart Design Decisions for Your Kitchen
This is where your vision truly starts to take shape. Beyond the major construction, the design decisions you make will define how your kitchen looks, feels, and functions for years to come. Itβs about creating a space that not only reflects your personal style but also supports your daily life. From the flow of the room to the finish on the cabinet pulls, every detail matters. A thoughtful approach here ensures your new kitchen is a place youβll love spending time in.
Perfecting Your Layout and Workflow
A beautiful kitchen thatβs frustrating to cook in isnβt a success. The layout is the foundation of a great kitchen, dictating how easily you can move between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. A professional design and build process will help you make the most of your space, creating a perfect workflow for everything from making your morning coffee to hosting a dinner party. We focus on creating distinct zones for prepping, cooking, and cleaning, ensuring your layout is intuitive and efficient. The goal is a kitchen that works with you, not against you.
Clever Storage Solutions You’ll Love
Clutter is the enemy of a calm kitchen. Smart storage is about more than just having enough cabinets; itβs about having the right kind of storage. Think about incorporating solutions like deep drawers for pots and pans, a pull-out pantry for dry goods, or vertical dividers for baking sheets. If your current layout works but the cabinets feel dated, cabinet refacing can be a fantastic option for a fresh look without a full overhaul. By planning your storage strategically, you can keep your countertops clear and find exactly what you need, right when you need it.
Choosing the Best Materials and Finishes
The materials you choose set the tone for your entire kitchen and are key to its longevity. When selecting countertops, cabinets, and flooring, itβs important to find a balance between beauty and durability. Quartz countertops offer incredible resilience against stains and scratches, while natural stone brings one-of-a-kind character. For cabinets, solid wood is a timeless choice that stands up to years of use. We can guide you through the options to find materials that fit your aesthetic, budget, and lifestyle. You can see how different finishes come together in our project gallery.
Integrating Smart Home Technology
Technology can bring a new level of convenience to your kitchen. Itβs not about filling your space with unnecessary gadgets, but about integrating thoughtful features that make life a little easier. Consider adding a dedicated charging drawer to keep devices powered up and out of sight. Smart appliances are another popular addition, allowing you to preheat your oven from your phone or check your grocery list on a smart fridge. These modern touches can streamline your routines and make your kitchen work even harder for you.
Exploring Eco-Friendly Options
A kitchen renovation is a great opportunity to make more sustainable choices for your home and family. Opting for eco-friendly materials can reduce your environmental impact and create a healthier living space. You can choose cabinets built from sustainable materials like formaldehyde-free or FSC-certified wood, bamboo, or reclaimed wood. Installing ENERGY STAR-rated appliances will lower your utility bills, while low-flow faucets conserve water. These conscious choices contribute to a kitchen that is not only beautiful and functional but also kind to the planet.
Getting Your Kitchen Lighting Right
Great lighting can completely transform your kitchen, making it feel brighter, larger, and more inviting. The best approach is to layer your lighting with three types: ambient, task, and accent. Ambient lighting, like recessed cans or a central fixture, provides overall illumination. Task lighting is crucial for work areas, so think about under-cabinet lights for your countertops. Finally, accent lighting, such as pendant lights over an island or in-cabinet lighting, adds personality and highlights your kitchenβs best features. A well-planned lighting scheme makes your kitchen safer, more functional, and a true showpiece.
Common Renovation Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
A kitchen renovation is a big undertaking, and even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make a misstep. Knowing the common pitfalls ahead of time can save you from headaches, unexpected costs, and a design you don’t love. The good news is that with a little foresight and the right team, you can sidestep these issues entirely. Let’s walk through some of the most frequent mistakes homeowners make and, more importantly, how you can avoid them for a smooth and successful project. A beautiful, functional kitchen that you’ll enjoy for years is completely within reach when you plan carefully from the start.
Poor Space Planning
A beautiful kitchen that doesn’t function well for your family is a design failure. Before you fall in love with a specific layout, think about how you actually live. How often do you cook? Is the kitchen the central hub for homework and family gatherings? Answering these questions helps create a floor plan that supports your daily routines. A poorly planned space can lead to cramped work areas, inefficient traffic flow, and daily frustration. The goal is to create a kitchen that not only looks great but also makes your life easier. Working with a professional on design and build services ensures your layout is tailored perfectly to your lifestyle.
Not Enough Storage
One of the most common regrets after a kitchen remodel is not including enough storage. Itβs easy to underestimate just how much stuff you have, from small appliances and cookware to pantry staples. Before finalizing your cabinet design, take a full inventory of your kitchen items. Think about where everything will go. Itβs much more difficult and costly to add specialized solutions like pull-out pantry shelves or a lazy Susan after the fact. Planning for smart, accessible storage from the beginning will keep your new kitchen organized and clutter-free, making it a more enjoyable space to work in.
Miscalculating Your Budget
Itβs exciting to dream about high-end finishes and appliances, but it’s crucial to ground your vision in a realistic budget. The cost of a kitchen remodel can vary widely, and it’s easy for expenses to add up. A common mistake is failing to account for a contingency fundβan extra 10% to 20% of your total budget set aside for unexpected issues that might pop up during demolition or construction. To avoid surprises, get a detailed, itemized quote from your contractor that breaks down all material and labor costs. This transparency helps you understand exactly where your money is going and make informed decisions along the way.
Choosing the Wrong Size Appliances
This might seem like a basic detail, but ordering appliances that don’t fit the designated space is a surprisingly frequent and costly mistake. Imagine your beautiful new cabinets are installed, only to find the refrigerator is two inches too wide. To prevent this, you should select and measure all of your new appliances before the cabinet layout is finalized. Provide these exact specifications to your designer and contractor. This ensures that every element is built to fit perfectly, preventing delays, reordering fees, and the stress of last-minute changes to your kitchen design.
Ignoring Building Codes
Building codes aren’t just suggestions; they’re legal requirements designed to ensure your home is safe. Renovations involving electrical, plumbing, or structural changes must comply with local regulations. Ignoring these can lead to failed inspections, costly tear-outs, and even safety hazards. A reputable, professional contractor will be well-versed in Chicagoland’s building codes and will manage the entire permitting process for you. This is a key reason to work with an experienced teamβit gives you peace of mind knowing your home renovation is being completed correctly and safely from the ground up.
Trying to Do It All Yourself
The appeal of a DIY renovation is strong, especially when you’re trying to save money. While you might be able to handle tasks like painting, more complex jobs like plumbing, electrical work, and cabinet installation are best left to the professionals. A botched DIY attempt can lead to bigger problems and more expensive repairs down the road. Be honest about your skill set and the time you can realistically commit to the project. Hiring a professional team like THP Builders ensures the work is done to a high standard, adds real value to your home, and saves you from the stress of managing a complex project on your own.
How to Create Long-Term Value
A kitchen renovation is more than just a beautiful updateβit’s a significant investment in your home. Making strategic choices during the design and build process ensures you not only love your new space for years to come but also see a tangible return. By focusing on quality, functionality, and timeless design, you can create a kitchen that adds lasting value and enhances your daily life.
Focus on High-Return Investments
When youβre planning your budget, it helps to know where your money will make the biggest impact. A kitchen remodel is one of the best home improvement projects for return on investment, often recouping a significant portion of its cost at resale. To maximize this, concentrate on the elements that buyers notice most: quality cabinets, durable countertops, and modern appliances. These core components form the foundation of a functional and appealing kitchen. Investing wisely in these areas ensures your renovation not only looks fantastic but also makes solid financial sense. Our approach to kitchen remodeling focuses on balancing beautiful design with smart, value-driven choices that pay off in the long run.
Add Energy-Efficient Features
Integrating energy-efficient elements into your kitchen is a smart move for both your wallet and the planet. Modern smart appliances not only offer incredible convenience but are also designed to consume less energy, leading to lower utility bills over time. Think about installing ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens. You can also make a difference with smaller changes, like switching to LED lighting, which uses far less electricity and lasts longer than traditional bulbs. Low-flow faucets are another great addition, conserving water without sacrificing performance. These thoughtful upgrades make your kitchen more modern, sustainable, and cost-effective for years to come.
Why Quality Materials Matter
Choosing the right materials is about more than just looks; itβs about durability and long-term performance. High-quality materials like solid wood cabinets, quartz countertops, and porcelain tile flooring can withstand daily wear and tear, saving you from costly repairs and replacements down the road. They also contribute to a healthier home environment. For instance, selecting low-VOC paints and sustainable flooring reduces indoor air pollutants. Opting for eco-friendly materials can also reduce your environmental footprint. While premium materials might have a higher upfront cost, their longevity and lower maintenance needs provide better value over the life of your kitchen. You can see examples of our commitment to quality in our project gallery.
Incorporate Universal Design
A truly great kitchen is one that works for everyone, regardless of age or physical ability. Thatβs the core idea behind universal design. Incorporating universal design principles means making thoughtful choices that improve accessibility and ease of use for the long haul. This could include creating wider walkways to accommodate wheelchairs or strollers, installing countertops at varied heights for different tasks and users, or choosing pull-out shelves and drawers for easier access to storage. A multi-level island, for example, can serve as a prep space for an adult and a homework spot for a child. These features make your kitchen more comfortable and functional for your family today and ensure it remains accessible for years to come.
Future-Proofing Your Kitchen Design
While itβs tempting to jump on the latest trends, the most valuable kitchen designs are the ones that stand the test of time. Future-proofing your kitchen means choosing timeless styles for the most permanent and expensive elements, like cabinetry, countertops, and flooring. Classic choices like Shaker-style cabinets or a neutral-colored backsplash will look just as good in ten years as they do today. You can always introduce trendy colors and patterns through more easily updated items like paint, light fixtures, and decor. An adaptable layout that can evolve with your familyβs needs is also key. This forward-thinking approach ensures your investment continues to feel fresh and relevant, preventing your beautiful new kitchen from looking dated too soon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a typical kitchen renovation take from start to finish? While the on-site construction for a full kitchen remodel often takes between four and eight weeks, the entire process is a bit longer. You should also account for the initial design phase, material selection, and ordering, which can take several weeks before any demolition begins. The total timeline really depends on the project’s complexity and the lead times for custom items like cabinets. We create a detailed schedule from the start so you always know what to expect.
I have a general idea of what I want, but I’m not a designer. How does your design process work? That’s perfectly fineβin fact, that’s why our design and build process is so helpful. You bring the vision, and we bring the expertise to make it a reality. Our process is collaborative from day one. We’ll sit down with you to talk about how you use your kitchen, what your frustrations are, and what your dream space looks like. From there, our design team translates those ideas into a functional layout and helps you select materials and finishes that fit your style and budget.
What’s the biggest factor that impacts the final cost of a kitchen remodel? The scope of your project and your material choices will have the most significant impact on your budget. For example, a project that involves moving walls or changing the plumbing and electrical layout will cost more than one that keeps the existing footprint. Similarly, your selections for cabinets, countertops, and appliances can create a wide range of price points. Custom cabinetry and high-end stone countertops are a larger investment than stock options and laminate, so these decisions are key.
How can I prepare my home and family for the construction phase? A little preparation makes a huge difference. We always recommend setting up a temporary kitchen in another area with essentials like a microwave, coffee maker, and mini-fridge. It’s also a good idea to pack up the contents of your kitchen and adjacent rooms to protect them from dust. We take great care to seal off the work area, but planning for a bit of disruption helps everything go smoothly. We’ll also establish a clear communication plan so you know what to expect each day.
Is it better to follow current trends or stick with a classic design? We recommend a balanced approach for the best long-term value. For the most permanent and expensive elementsβlike your cabinets, countertops, and flooringβitβs wise to choose timeless styles and neutral colors that won’t feel dated in a few years. You can then have fun with trends in less permanent ways. Things like paint color, light fixtures, cabinet hardware, and decor are much easier and less expensive to update when you’re ready for a fresh look.Still curious about how our process works? Submit your details through our contact form, and after sending, youβll be redirected to a quick thank-you page confirming everything.
For more inspiration and ideas, check out our blog.
