12 Things You’ll Wish You Did (or Didn’t) in Your Kitchen Remodel

Okay, if you're planning a kitchen remodel right now, you’ve probably been lurking in those Facebook kitchen groups, right? Don’t worry, I see you. I’m in there too, reading, learning, and sometimes cringing. There’s a lot of gold... and a lot of chaos.

One of my favorite threads often comes up:“Looking back, what do you wish you did or didn’t do in your kitchen remodel?”

After scrolling through hundreds of comments, I pulled together the 12 most helpful and eye-opening tips. And of course, I’m throwing in my own designer thoughts along the way.

Let’s get into it.

1. Get Everything in Writing

A detailed contract with budget and timeline are a must before proceeding.

2. Do Your Research First

People get burned by vague allowances and sneaky upgrade costs. Know what appliances, countertops, and cabinets you want before signing anything. Price it out, then compare bids.

3. Design First, Hire Later

Give yourself 3 to 6 months to plan your layout and finishes. This puts you in control, not your contractor. And it gives you time to watch for sales or adjust the budget as needed.

4. Use Integrated Appliances

Cabinet-paneled appliances give a clean, custom look. They’re not as expensive as you’d think if your cabinet maker can accommodate them.

5. Choose Drawers Over Doors

Most homeowners said they love having drawers instead of doors for lower cabinets. Easier to access, better for storage, and just plain smarter.

6. Get a 3D Rendering

Even after twenty years in the design world, I swear by 3D visuals. It’s the best way to avoid surprises and see your layout come to life.

7. Build a Mockup (or Measure Carefully)

One homeowner had their banquette built too tall because no one accounted for the cushion height. If you can’t build a test version, at least tape it out and measure everything twice.

8. Carry Your Countertop Up the Wall

Stone backsplashes are a game changer. They’re easier to clean and look incredibly sleek. If you’re on a budget, use the slab behind the range wall and do tile elsewhere.

9. Hide the Outlets

Under-cabinet outlets are genius. They keep your backsplash clean and clear and make plugging in small appliances a breeze.  

*Bonus points if you include hidden coffee stations behind doors with outlets. 

10. Cabinets to the Ceiling

If you have 8 to 10-foot ceilings, run cabinets all the way up. No more dust, no awkward shadows. Just a beautiful, finished look.

11. Microwave Drawers Are Worth It

They’re pricey but totally worth it if you don’t have a walk-in pantry. They save counter space and free up room for a decorative range hood. I love these so much I made a whole reel about them.

12. Don't Rush it, Be Flexible with Timing

If your contractor says 4 months, expect 7. Trust me. Delays happen. Plan for it so you’re not stressed when things take longer. Rush jobs never end well.

Bonus Tips from Real Homeowners

• Add garbage disposals to all sinks, especially prep sink

• Install a reverse osmosis filter and instant hot water at the sink

• Use dimmers for lighting

• Go for an induction cooktop

• Shop your stone slab before finalizing the island size for seam location

• Double-check your hood height so nobody bumps their head

  
  

Whew. That was a lot, but I hope it helped!

If you're feeling overwhelmed, I created the Kitchen Remodel Made Easy program just for you. It’s a step-by-step course that walks you through the planning process from start to finish. No surprises, no regrets, no wasted money.

You can catch the complete PODCAST EPISODE on all of these tips and more right here! 🎧

You’ve got this, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

Here’s to smarter choices and stress-free renos.