How Long Does It Really Take to Design a Kitchen?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:“How long should kitchen design take?”

The short answer? Longer than you think — and for good reason. A smooth, successful kitchen remodel depends on thoughtful planning, not rushed decisions.

Below is a realistic design timeline that helps homeowners avoid costly mistakes and enjoy the process instead of stressing through it and feeling overwhelmed.

Phase 1: Discovery & Planning (2–4 Weeks)

This is the thinking phase — and it’s critical.

During this stage, homeowners should ask:

• How do we actually use our kitchen day to day?

• What isn’t working right now?

• Are there structural limitations?

• Is the kitchen large enough, or should we expand?

• Do we want an open-concept layout?

• What is our realistic investment range?

This phase sets expectations and prevents regret later.

If you haven't grabbed my Kitchen Remodel Starter Kit, this is exactly what it overs along with tips for establishing a realistic budget. Click below for the homepage of my website to access.

Phase 2: Layout & Space Planning (About 1 Month)

This is where design truly takes shape.

Key decisions include:

• Cabinet configuration

• Island size

• Walkways and clearances

• Seating areas

• Pantry and storage zones

Multiple revisions are normal — and encouraged. Seeing the layout on paper in 2D or 3D allows you to catch issues early, before construction begins.

Phase 3: Material Selections (4–6 Weeks)

This is where many homeowners think design starts — but by now, the layout is already locked in.

Selections include:

• Appliances

• Cabinet finishes

• Countertops and edge profiles

• Backsplash

• Lighting

• Plumbing fixtures

• Hardware

• Flooring

These decisions affect budget, lead times, and installation sequence, which is why they shouldn’t be rushed.

Phase 4: Construction-Ready Documents (1–2 Weeks)

Before hiring a contractor, everything should be finalized:

• Drawings

• Appliance specs

• Electrical plans

• Material quotes

This allows contractors to provide accurate, apples-to-apples bids and significantly reduces surprises during construction.

So, How Long Should Kitchen Design Take?

👉 Plan for about four months to design your kitchen properly. Then allow another month to interview and select a contractor. All in, 4–6 months of planning leads to:

• Fewer change orders

• More accurate budgets

• Smoother construction

• Better long-term satisfaction

Why This Timeline Matters

Kitchen remodels are expensive and disruptive. Most homeowners only do them once or twice in a lifetime.

A well-designed kitchen:

• Adds value to your home

• Supports daily life

• Reduces stress during construction

• Prevents long-term regret

Six months of planning is a small investment compared to decades of daily use.

If you’re eager to get started, that excitement is normal, but clarity always beats speed.

When design is intentional, construction is smoother — and the results last... so take my best advice and design smarter, not faster.

To catch my new podcast all about this conversation "How Rushing Kitchen Design Costs You Money", click to listen. I'm so glad you're here!