Kitchen Remodeling FAQs
Kitchen Design, Remodel & Installation Questions
How do I start a kitchen remodel?
The first step in any kitchen remodeling project is preparation. Gather inspiration photos, any existing plans, and rough measurements of your current kitchen. Schedule a consultation with a professional kitchen designer.
During your initial kitchen design consultation, your designer will review your layout options, design style, color preferences, construction needs, timeline, and overall budget. Bringing photos of kitchens you love helps communicate your vision clearly.
Important: Always hire a fully licensed and insured kitchen contractor with both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. If a contractor is not properly insured, the homeowner may be financially liable for any job-site injuries.
What decisions are involved in a kitchen remodel?
A successful kitchen renovation requires several key decisions, including:
Keeping the existing kitchen layout or changing the footprint
Selecting and ordering kitchen appliances (required before final design approval)
Choosing cabinet brand, door style, drawer construction, materials, and finishes
Planning kitchen lighting and plumbing locations
Selecting cabinet storage solutions and organizers
Reviewing and approving final kitchen design drawings
Cabinetry cannot be ordered until all designs are finalized and approved.
Should I hire a full-service kitchen remodeling firm or separate contractors?
Hiring a full-service kitchen design and remodeling firm simplifies the entire process. A design/build firm manages kitchen design, cabinetry, construction, and installation from start to finish. They also coordinate countertops, backsplashes, appliances, flooring, plumbing, electrical work, windows, doors, and hardware.
If you hire a separate kitchen designer and contractor, the designer will create the layout and supply cabinetry, while the contractor handles construction. In this case, ensure the designer remains involved throughout the project to support quality control and execution.
Do I need a permit for my kitchen remodel?
Most kitchen remodels require permits, especially when plumbing, electrical, or structural work is involved. Work with a licensed kitchen remodeling contractor who understands local building codes and will obtain all required permits.
What is the kitchen design and installation process?
After your initial meeting, your kitchen designer will present a preliminary design and estimated budget. Once you decide to proceed, a design retainer is typically required and is often applied toward your cabinetry purchase.
Your designer will then take detailed measurements of your kitchen space. The design process continues until the final kitchen layout is approved. A 50% deposit is generally required to place the cabinet order.
If construction work is required, a contractor will evaluate your home and provide an estimate. A design/build firm manages all design, cabinetry, construction, and installation services under one roof.
When should I select my kitchen appliances?
Kitchen appliances must be selected before the design is finalized. Appliance sizes and configurations directly impact cabinetry and layout.
Decisions such as:
Professional range vs. cooktop and wall ovens
Refrigerator size (30”, 36”, 48” or custom columns)
Built-in vs. counter-depth refrigeration
Microwave drawers, steam ovens, wine or beverage units
Hood – Style, size, vented out or not.
All influence the kitchen design and must be determined early.
What other kitchen selections will I need to make?
In addition to cabinetry and appliances, you’ll also choose:
Kitchen lighting fixtures
Plumbing fixtures
Flooring materials
Backsplash tile
Countertops
Paint colors
Cabinet hardware
Outlet color
Making selections early helps avoid delays, as many appliances and other materials have extended lead times.
Does the cabinet brand matter in a kitchen remodel?
Yes. Cabinet quality significantly affects durability, functionality, and long-term appearance. High-quality custom cabinetry offers superior construction, refined finishes, and longer warranties.
Cabinet options typically fall into three categories:
Luxury custom cabinets: Highest level of craftsmanship and finish
Semi-custom cabinets: Excellent quality with more budget flexibility
Stock cabinets: Best for lower budgets, with construction and finishes aligned with cost
Your kitchen designer can help you choose the best cabinetry for your budget and lifestyle.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost?
Kitchen remodel costs vary widely based on design choices and materials. Cabinetry typically ranges from $10,000 to $150,000, while appliance packages may range from $8,000 to $60,000 or more.
Cabinet quality should align with appliance investment and overall project goals. Labor complexity, materials, finishes, and construction scope all impact total cost. Discussing your budget early helps your designer create a well-balanced plan.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
The kitchen remodeling timeline begins after final design approval and deposit. Typical lead times include:
Custom kitchen cabinets: 12–15 weeks
Semi-custom cabinets: 6–10 weeks
Stock cabinets: approximately 2 weeks
Construction may begin before cabinetry arrives and can take 1–8 weeks depending on the scope. Cabinet installation typically takes 1–2 weeks.
Can a kitchen designer work with my architect or interior designer?
Yes. Professional kitchen designers regularly collaborate with architects and interior designers. The kitchen designer adapts architectural plans to work seamlessly with cabinetry, appliances, and construction requirements, ensuring a cohesive final result.
Do contractors typically offer remodeling services beyond kitchens?
Yes. Many kitchen design showrooms operate as full-service design/build firms. Licensed contractors can also remodel bathrooms, renovate entire homes, and design and construct home additions.