Not Sure How to Renovate Your Kitchen? Start Here

You know your kitchen needs updating, but where do you even begin? The sheer number of decisions—from cabinets to countertops to layouts—can paralyze even the most decisive homeowners. Here's how to get started.

Step 1: Identify Your Why

What's Not Working?

• Not enough counter space
• Poor traffic flow
• Dated appearance
• Insufficient storage
• Appliances that don't work for you

What Do You Want?

Dream a little:
• Better entertaining capability
• Modern aesthetic
• More family time in kitchen
• Professional-level cooking
• Increased home value

Step 2: Assess Your Budget

Determine Your Investment

Consider:
• What can you comfortably spend?
• Will you finance any portion?
• What contingency do you need?
• How long will you stay in the home?

Budget Categories

Rough guidelines:
• Cosmetic refresh: $15,000-$30,000
• Mid-range remodel: $40,000-$80,000
• Major renovation: $80,000-$150,000+

Step 3: Gather Inspiration

Where to Look

• Houzz for browsing and idea books
• Pinterest for collecting images
• Kitchen design magazines
• Home tours and showhouses
• Friends' recently remodeled kitchens

What to Notice

• Layout configurations you like
• Cabinet styles and colors
• Countertop materials
• Hardware and fixtures
• Overall aesthetic direction

Step 4: Consider Your Timeline

Realistic Expectations

Plan for:
• Design phase: 2-4 weeks
• Material selection: 2-4 weeks
• Permit process: 1-4 weeks
• Cabinet lead time: 4-12 weeks
• Construction: 4-16 weeks

Life Factors

• Upcoming holidays or events
• Work schedule constraints
• Family considerations
• Living arrangements during construction

Step 5: Decide on Scope

Questions to Answer

• Keep existing layout or change it?
• Replace cabinets or refinish them?
• All new appliances or keep some?
• How much do walls, floors, and ceiling change?

Scope Options

• Refresh: Paint, hardware, countertops
• Moderate: New cabinets, counters, appliances
• Major: Layout changes, everything new

Step 6: Find the Right Partner

Contractor Selection

Look for:
• Proven kitchen remodeling experience
• References from recent projects
• Proper licensing and insurance
• Clear communication style
• Detailed written estimates

Interview Questions

• How long have you been doing kitchen remodels?
• Can I see recent completed projects?
• Who will be on-site daily?
• How do you handle changes and problems?
• What's included in your estimate?

Step 7: Make Decisions Systematically

Start with Permanent Elements

Decide in this order: 1. Layout and cabinet configuration 2. Cabinet style and color 3. Countertop material 4. Appliance selections 5. Backsplash and fixtures 6. Hardware and lighting

Decision-Making Tips

• Don't rush major decisions
• Get samples and live with them
• Consider maintenance requirements
• Think about longevity, not just trends