The big housing boom of the 1990s leading through to about 2010 saw a very large number of homes built very quickly.

Neighborhoods seemed to rise up overnight due to the number of contractors who were building cookie cutter homes from the same materials used by the house next door.

Drive around any neighborhood with multiple subdivisions and you'll see what I mean. Very few things distinguish one home from another, and this was pretty standard for the interior as well.

Steps to Remodeling Your Kitchen

I've put together a list of steps to follow for remodeling your kitchen. I hope they help make the decision, and the process, as painless as possible.

Don't Rush

You can't rush a true work of art. I understand that you don't want to have to deal with life without a fully functional kitchen for weeks, but unfortunately, that's the true price of designing and building the perfect custom kitchen.

Consult a Kitchen Remodeling Specialist:

You need the advice and expertise of a full-service design build company in order to make the project go as smoothly as possible.

Make a Budget

Whatever your budget, plan for 16% to go toward the walls, ceiling, floor, doors, and windows; 9% for electrical and plumbing; 29% for cabinets and hardware; 22% for design and installation; 14% on appliances and ventilation; and 10% on countertops. These are, of course, rough estimates, but relatively accurate to most custom kitchen remodels.

Order Custom Woodwork in Advance

If you've chosen custom cabinets, order them weeks before the project begins. No one wants to be mid-project and the primary component isn't available.

Splurge on These Items

Second Sink

Many homeowners don't realize the convenience of a second sink until they have it installed. The second sink is most often installed in the kitchen island where the majority of food prep takes place.

Paneled Cabinet Ends

This is very important when you're installing custom cabinets. The bare ends of the cabinets that face open areas need to have a more finished and customized look.

Soft-Close Cabinet Hinges and Drawer Glides

Custom cabinets must be maintained and taken care of. Regular cabinet and drawer closing mechanisms (such as hinges) don't protect cabinet doors, allowing them to slam shut if care is not taken. Soft-close mechanisms prevent loud slams and protect the woodwork.

Cabinet and Drawer Hardware

Custom cabinets do not deserve cheap hardware. If you're going with all custom cabinets, spend the extra money to get really nice hardware.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

I cannot stress enough how important under-cabinet lighting is in a custom kitchen. You use countertop space to prepare food, and proper lighting helps tremendously. I put this particular item under the splurge on this list because it isn't really a big expense, but it makes a huge difference.

Design Your Custom Kitchen with Us

Call us to schedule a consultation at your home. We will help you design the perfect kitchen to suit your individual needs. We will use your ideas and our expertise to create a perfectly functional, absolutely amazing custom kitchen within your budget.