A kitchen remodel starts with cabinet doors and countertop samples, but the kitchens people love to cook in are decided earlier, by four choices that are hard to change once the work starts. Make these first, and every bid you get will be easier to compare.
1. The work triangle
Sink, stove and fridge are the three places you move between the most. Keep them a few steps apart, close enough to turn from one to the next, and keep the main walkway out of the triangle so nobody walks through the cook's path.
- Counter space on both sides of the stove and next to the fridge
- The dishwasher next to the sink
- Room for two people if more than one person cooks
2. Outlets and lights before the walls close
Wires run inside the walls and the ceiling. Decide where you want outlets, under-cabinet lights, pendants over an island and switches before drywall and backsplash go up. Under-cabinet lighting is the change most people say they wish they had planned.
3. Give every remodeler the same list
Bids are only comparable when they price the same job. Write one list and send it to everyone:
| On the list | Say |
|---|---|
| Cabinets | Replace, reface or paint; how many; any island |
| Countertops | The material you want, or ask for options |
| Backsplash | Where it goes and the tile, if chosen |
| Appliances | Who buys them and who installs them |
| Plumbing and electrical | Anything that moves; new outlets and lights |
| Flooring and paint | Included or not |
Then compare what each bid includes, the schedule and the warranty, not just the total.
4. Countertops come after the cabinets
Countertops are measured after the base cabinets are in and level, then cut to fit. That gap is normal, and it is the part people forget to plan for. Set up a temporary kitchen in another room: the fridge, a microwave, a coffee maker, a small table and a bin for dishes.
What to expect during the remodel
- Final design and ordering of cabinets, counters and appliances
- Demolition and any wall changes
- Plumbing and electrical rough-in, then inspection
- Drywall, paint and flooring
- Cabinets, then the countertop measure and install
- Backsplash, sink, faucet, appliances and lighting
- Final walk-through and punch list
Get kitchen remodel bids on BidHandyman
Post your kitchen once with your list and photos, and local remodelers send you bids. Only pros approved by BidHandyman can bid. Compare them side by side, message the pros and hire the one you trust, with no obligation. Request kitchen bids, or read kitchen remodel bids and kitchen and bathroom remodels.