Renovate a Kitchen Where to Start

Renovating a kitchen can seem like a daunting task, but with careful planning and strategic decisions, it can be a rewarding experience. Here's a detailed look at how we completed the latest Cure Designs kitchen renovation, transforming it into a modern, functional space while sticking to a budget of $20,000 by doing most of the work ourselves. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the kitchen remodel process:

Creating a Plan and Budget

The first step in any renovation project is to create a detailed plan and set a realistic budget. For this kitchen renovation, I planned to keep the budget at $20,000 based on the ARV (After Market Value) of the property. This involved making smart choices and prioritizing the most important aspects of the renovation. I created a list of everything I wanted to change and then researched costs to allocate funds appropriately.

Demolition

Demolition is a crucial step for any kitchen renovation as it provides a fresh start. I planned this phase meticulously to avoid any unexpected surprises. All the old cabinets, countertops, and appliances were removed so I could open up the walls to check and fix plumbing and electrical needs. By doing some of the demolition work ourselves, we were able to save money.

Scheduling Installations

The sequence of installations is key to a smooth kitchen remodel. First I scheduled the plumbing and electrical work to avoid any rework later. This ensured that all the necessary systems were in place before moving on to other installations.

Testing Systems

Before closing the walls, we tested the plumbing and electrical systems thoroughly. This step saved us from potential future headaches, ensuring that everything was functioning correctly before proceeding with the renovation.

Drywall, Mud, Prime and Paint

First the textured ceilings had to go. These were plaster so the process was to scrape the high pieces then apply mud to create a flat smooth ceiling surface for this kitchen renovation. Before mud, we patched the holes where we opened the wall to work on the plumbing and electrical. Before installing everything, I primed and painted the areas in the kitchen where cabinets and appliances were going to be installed.

Installing Cabinets

Once the systems were in place and tested, we moved on to assembling and installing the cabinets. This step is crucial as the cabinets need to be installed first to measure precisely for the quartz countertops. We used lag bolts to ensure the cabinets were secure and properly aligned.

Installing the Vent Hood

Installing the vent hood was next on our list. First we built a custom plywood box to house the vent insert that was ordered and on its way. This was done before painting the wall and adding any shelving to ensure proper alignment and functionality. The vent hood installation required careful measurement and precision to fit seamlessly with the overall kitchen design.

Smart Storage Solutions

Maximizing space was a priority in our renovation. We incorporated custom storage solutions and open shelving to create a bright and clean feel. These solutions not only enhanced the kitchen’s functionality but also added to its aesthetic appeal.

Budget-Friendly Choices

To stick to the budget, I made some strategic choices. Instead of opting for all quartz countertops, I chose butcher block countertops for certain areas. Additionally, I up-cycled old cabinet hardware, cleaning and spray-painting them to look brand new. These choices helped stay within the kitchen renovation budget without compromising on style or quality.

Creative Lighting

Lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of a kitchen. I found great deals on lighting fixtures and customized them with spray paint to match the kitchen’s design. This not only saved money but also added a personal creative touch to the space. 

DIY Additions

This kitchen lacked a dishwasher and garbage disposal, so I decided to install these myself. Adding these appliances enhanced the kitchen’s functionality and convenience, making it more suitable for our lifestyle.

Final Touches

After all the major installations, I added the final touches, including installing the upcycled hardware, paint touch ups and styling. These final steps brought the entire renovation together, creating a cohesive and stylish kitchen.

Renovating a kitchen is no small feat, but with careful renovation planning, strategic choices, and a bit of DIY effort, it’s possible to create a beautiful and functional space within a reasonable budget. Looking for kitchen renovation ideas? Check out Cure Design Style Blog: Custom Kitchen Renovation. Ready to tackle your own kitchen renovation? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Jessica Cure today. Not sure if you need renovation insurance? Read more about builder’s risk insurance.

Here is the Kitchen Renovation Budget Breakdown

• Demo: $500 - dump fee
• Plumbing: $2000 - home depot snake rental + materials
• Electrical: $1000 - new can light + sconces - updated plugs + dimmers
• Window: $500 - Ply Gem replacement window from Home Depot
• Cabinets: $3000 - materials + labor
• Hardware: $100 - spray paint for upcycled cabinet knobs + out of box deal faucet
• Lighting: $400 - canned lights, out of box deal sconces + spray paint
• Appliances: $3000 - new dishwasher, oven + garbage disposal - reused refrigerator
• Sink: $300 - out of box deal from Wayfair
• Vent Hood: $1000 - metal insert + custom plywood box
• Shelving: $500 - butcher block ripped shelves
• Flooring: $500 - LVP from Home Depot - we picked up which saved $$
• Countertops: $4500 quartz + butcher block materials + labor
• Backsplash: $1000 quartz materials + labor
• Drywall Mud + Patching: $800 - materials
• Prime and Paint: $1000 - materials