Are you thinking about renovating your kitchen or bathroom but feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. A lot of homeowners struggle with where to start, what to prioritize, and how to make sure their project stays on budget. So today, I want to walk you through how we approach the design process, whether for a kitchen or bathroom renovation, to help you make informed decisions.

Whenever a client reaches out to us, the first thing we do is assess the existing space. No matter how big or small the project is, this step is crucial because it gives us a clear understanding of what we’re working with. We take detailed measurements, check the condition of the space, and create a 2d drawings and also 3D model to help visualize it.

Feasibility Study

Next, we conduct a feasibility study, which is basically a reality check. This is where we align the client’s goals with the budget and make sure their vision is actually possible within the constraints of the home. We also look at structural elements, like whether we need to work around a set window ( we recommend to workaround it) or if there are any tricky construction challenges that might require a additional work.

Designing the Space

Once we’ve ironed out the technical details, we move on to the fun part—designing the space. Typically, we present 2–3 design concepts based on the client’s preferences and lifestyle. This part of the process can be exciting but also overwhelming because there are endless design ideas out there. With so much inspiration online, it’s easy to get caught up in aesthetics and overlook functionality. That’s why we encourage clients to think beyond looks and focus on how the space will work for them day to day.

For example, a kitchen might look stunning in pictures, but if the stove is too far from the sink or the fridge doors don’t fully open because of a tight layout, cooking in that space will quickly become frustrating. Another common issue is poorly designed corner cabinets that end up being unusable because the doors block each other. These little details make a huge difference, and fixing them after construction can be costly. That’s why working with professionals who have experience in space planning can save homeowners a lot of headaches—and money.

When designing kitchens, we typically explore layouts like the one-wall design, galley kitchen, L-shape, double L, or U-shape. Each has its pros and cons, and we help clients choose the one that best fits their needs and space.

Material Selection

Once we have a clear direction, we move into material selection. This is where we help clients pick cabinetry, countertops, flooring, backsplashes, lighting, and fixtures that fit their budget. There are so many choices available, and it’s easy to get lost in all the options. That’s why we narrow it down to good, better, and best materials, making the decision process easier. If you’re curious about the most common flooring, countertops, and cabinetry used today, we have a separate video on that—links are in the description.

Permits

Now, let’s talk about permits. Many homeowners assume they don’t need one for a kitchen or bathroom renovation, but that’s not always the case. If your project involves structural changes, new plumbing, or electrical work, you’ll likely need a permit. However, if you’re just updating finishes like paint, flooring, or cabinetry, you usually won’t need one. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to check with a professional to avoid issues down the line.

Ordering Cabinetry

For minor renovations, once everything is approved, we move on to ordering cabinetry. Cabinetry companies will typically visit the site to verify measurements before producing 2D and 3Ddrawings for manufacturing. If you’re a DIYer who still wants customized cabinetry, some companies—ours included—offer ready-to-assemble (RTA)cabinets that come with instructions, making them a more budget-friendly option compared to pre-assembled cabinets.

While waiting for cabinetry to arrive, we always recommend setting up a temporary kitchen or bathroom space. If you’re renovating your kitchen, finding an area with a sink and some counter space will make the transition much easier. Once that’s sorted, construction begins, and before you know it, your new space starts taking shape.

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Wrap-up

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