Renovating Your Kitchen or Bathroom: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about renovating your kitchen or bathroom butfeeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Many homeowners struggle with where tostart, what to prioritize, and how to stay on budget. Here’s how we approachthe design process to help you make informed decisions.

Assessing the Existing Space

The first step is evaluating the current space. Regardlessof project size, this step is crucial for understanding what we’re workingwith. We take detailed measurements, check the space’s condition, and createboth 2D drawings and 3D models to visualize the design.

Conducting a Feasibility Study

Next, we conduct a feasibility study to align the client’s goals with their budget and ensure the vision is achievable within the home’sconstraints. We also assess structural elements, like whether a fixed windowmust be worked around or if construction challenges require additionalplanning.

Designing the Space

Once technical details are sorted, we present 2–3 design concepts based on the client’s lifestyle and preferences. While aesthetics are important, functionality is key. A beautiful kitchen or bathroom is only successful if it works well day to day.

For example, a kitchen might look stunning but be frustrating if the stove is too far from the sink or the fridge doors don’t fully open due to poor layout. Similarly, inefficient corner cabinets can become wasted space. Working with experienced professionals can help avoid costly mistakes.

Choosing the Right Layout

For kitchens, we explore layouts like:

• One-wall
• Galley
• L-shape
• U-shape

Each has pros and cons, and we help clients choose the best fit for their needs.

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Selecting Materials

We guide clients through selecting cabinetry, countertops, flooring, backsplashes, lighting, and fixtures. To simplify decisions, we categorize materials into good, better, and best options.

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Understanding Permit Requirements

Many homeowners assume permits aren’t necessary for a kitchen or bathroom renovation, but that depends on the scope. If structural changes, plumbing, or electrical work are involved, a permit is likely required. Updating finishes like paint, flooring, or cabinetry typically doesn’t require one. Checking with a professional can help avoid legal complications.

Ordering Cabinetry

Once designs are approved, we order cabinetry. Cabinetry companies usually visit the site to verify measurements before producing 2D and3D drawings for manufacturing. For DIYers, we offer ready-to-assemble (RTA)cabinets with instructions—an affordable alternative to pre-assembled options.

Preparing for Construction

While waiting for cabinetry, we recommend setting up a temporary kitchen or bathroom. A temporary sink and counter space can make the transition much easier. Once that’s set, construction begins, and your new space starts taking shape.

Final Thoughts

If you found this guide helpful, follow our channel! We’rean architectural firm with a sister company specializing in cabinetry, and welove sharing our expertise to help homeowners navigate renovations—whetheryou’re going DIY or working with a professional.

See you in the next one!

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