How to Plan a Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade Without Feeling Overwhelmed

No one likes walking into their kitchen to find overflowing shelves, a pantry that won’t close completely, and nowhere to put the dishes. When any of these happen, your kitchen is probably begging for a storage upgrade. For you, that means a whole new remodeling project to work on.

Planning a kitchen cabinet upgrade can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time getting one. However, there are many ways to make it exciting and easier to plan. Here are some practical tips for making the process smooth and simple.

Research Which Styles You Like in Advance

Before you start renovations, get clear on the style of kitchen cabinets you love. Storage is a huge visual element, so your choices will shape the whole feel of your kitchen. Take screenshots on Pinterest or cut out photos from magazines of kitchen cabinets you want to draw inspiration from. Save those photos even if they don’t seem consistent at first. Create a vision board to put it all together. Later, you’ll start to see patterns in your style preferences.

This will start to familiarize you with cabinet types you might want in your kitchen. For example, if you want a classic look, you might fall in love with shaker-style cabinets. If your goal is to make your space look high-end, sleek slab doors might be for you.

Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It

Remodeling projects, even if they’re just for cabinets, have a sneaky way of racking up costs quickly. Setting a clear budget keeps you grounded and prevents stress. List out all the potential expenses for the upgrade, from labor to permits to the cabinets themselves. Think of what you want to splurge on, like the custom cabinetry, and what you’re willing to scrimp on, like hinges and hardware. 

Then, set a budget and stick to it. Be sure to pad your budget by about 10% just in case there are surprises down the line. Knowing your limits for the project keeps you from overspending. This helps you save money on your remodel without feeling deprived.

Choose Materials That Fit Your Lifestyle

Decide whether you want to prioritize function or aesthetics in your kitchen cabinets. Do you want materials that are easy to clean because you use the kitchen daily, or ones that stand out because you’re more about entertaining than cooking?

If your priority is longevity and durability, go for solid wood. Thermofoil is another good option if you want easy cleaning. For a more aesthetic-focused choice, consider sleek glass-front cabinets paired with elegant Calacatta countertops for a luxe look.

Hire a Professional Installer Instead of DIY

Poor installation by a newbie can ruin even the most beautiful set of cabinets. If you have no experience with cabinet remodeling, don’t attempt to do it yourself. Hire a pro instead to ensure your storage is secure, level, and built to last.

Research kitchen remodel professionals with fantastic reviews. It’s best if they’re in your area so they’re more familiar with the local market. For example, if you live in the Phoenix metropolitan area, hiring a Scottsdale kitchen designer makes the most sense. They’ll know the best suppliers near you and understand common building codes in your area.

Endnote

These tips can help you feel more in control of your kitchen cabinet remodel. By taking it step by step, the entire process can be fun and exciting, never stressful. When you follow these tips, you’ll be surprised at how manageable this mini kitchen makeover can be, and how much joy it brings you.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Previous post:
Why Is the Texas Cost of Living So High?

Next post:
Pest-Proof Your Home Before Selling