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Essential Steps to Your Dream Kitchen

Your complete roadmap from inspiration to installation - everything you need to create the perfect kitchen

Progress Tracker
📋 Planning 💰 Budget 📐 Design 🛠️ Execute
Main Content
PHASE 1: PLANNING & PREPARATION

Phase 1: Planning & Preparation

Lay the foundation for your dream kitchen

Step 1: Vision & Inspiration
1

Define Your Vision & Gather Inspiration

Create your dream kitchen mood board

Start With Your Why

  • What frustrates you about your current kitchen?
  • How do you use your kitchen? (Quick meals, gourmet cooking, entertaining)
  • Who uses the kitchen and when? (Multiple cooks, kids doing homework)
  • What's your hosting style? (Formal dinners, casual gatherings, cooking parties)

Style Discovery Exercise

Browse our Designer Showcase galleries and save your favorites:

💡 Pro Tip: Create a digital folder or Pinterest board with at least 20 images you love. Look for patterns - do you prefer light or dark? Modern or traditional? This will guide all future decisions.
Step 2: Assess Your Space
2

Assess Your Current Space

Document what you have and what's possible

Measurement Checklist

  • ☐ Overall room dimensions (length × width × height)
  • ☐ Window locations and sizes
  • ☐ Door locations and swing direction
  • ☐ Existing plumbing locations
  • ☐ Electrical outlet and switch locations
  • ☐ HVAC vents and returns
  • ☐ Structural elements (beams, columns, load-bearing walls)

Structural Considerations

Can Change Easily:
  • Cabinet placement
  • Lighting fixtures
  • Backsplash
  • Flooring
Expensive to Change:
  • Plumbing locations
  • Gas lines
  • Load-bearing walls
  • Windows/exterior doors
Step 3: Lifestyle Planning
3

Plan for Your Lifestyle

Design around how you actually live

Kitchen Zones for Modern Living

Primary Work Triangle

The classic triangle between sink, stove, and refrigerator should total 12-26 feet. Each leg should be 4-9 feet for optimal efficiency.

Secondary Zones to Consider
  • Prep Zone: Near sink with cutting boards and knife storage
  • Cooking Zone: Stove, spices, oils, and cooking utensils
  • Cleaning Zone: Dishwasher, sink, and dish storage
  • Storage Zone: Pantry items and bulk storage
  • Kids Zone: Low drawers with snacks, plastic dishes
  • Coffee Station: Dedicated morning routine area
  • Tech Zone: Charging station, tablet holder for recipes

Traffic Flow Guidelines

  • Minimum 36" for single-cook walkways
  • 42-48" for multi-cook work aisles
  • 36" clearance for appliance doors
  • 42" minimum for island clearance
  • 15" landing space beside appliances
PHASE 2: BUDGET & PLANNING

Phase 2: Budget & Financial Planning

Smart financial planning for your investment

Step 4: Budget Planning
4

Create Your Realistic Budget

Understand costs and allocate wisely

Typical Kitchen Remodel Budget Breakdown

Category % of Budget $30K Kitchen
Cabinets & Hardware 35% $10,500
Labor/Installation 20% $6,000
Appliances 15% $4,500
Countertops 10% $3,000
Flooring 7% $2,100
Backsplash 5% $1,500
Lighting 5% $1,500
Plumbing Fixtures 3% $900

Money-Saving Strategies

Save 30-50% on Cabinets:
  • Choose stock over custom
  • Keep existing layout
  • Reface instead of replace
  • Mix open shelving
Smart Splurges:
  • Quality cabinet boxes
  • Soft-close hardware
  • Good ventilation
  • Durable countertops
⚠️ Don't Forget: Add 10-20% contingency for unexpected issues like water damage, electrical updates, or structural surprises.
Step 5: ROI Planning
5

Maximize Your Return on Investment

Make choices that add value

Best ROI Kitchen Improvements

Minor Kitchen Remodel 85% ROI
Cabinet Refacing 75% ROI
Countertop Upgrade 70% ROI
Major Kitchen Remodel 65% ROI
PHASE 3: DESIGN & SELECTION

Phase 3: Design & Product Selection

Choose your materials and finalize your design

Step 6: Cabinet Selection
6

Select Your Cabinets

The foundation of your kitchen design

Cabinet Decision Framework

Door Style Selection
  • Shaker: Versatile, works with any design style (60% of kitchens)
  • Flat Panel: Modern, minimalist, easy to clean
  • Raised Panel: Traditional, adds visual depth and elegance
  • Inset: Premium craftsmanship, flush appearance
Our Cabinet Lines
American Made: SOLLiD & ENVii - Premium quality, faster delivery, lifetime warranty
International Value: DL, ROC, AVA - Exceptional value, wider style range, 5-year warranty
Explore Cabinet Collections →
Step 7: Layout Design

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