5 signs it’s time for a kitchen redesign

When your outdated kitchen goes from being a mere annoyance to a daily disruption, it might be time to renovate your space and bring your dream kitchen to life. To help you decide if you could use a kitchen redesign, we’ve put together a list of 5 common stylistic and functional pain points that signal it’s the right moment to turn your mood board into reality.

As you review these tips, take a moment to brainstorm your perfect refreshed kitchen using our free online tool, Rebode Jumpstarter. Jumpstarter is easy-to-use and lets you explore beautiful new cabinets, kitchen islands, countertops, hardware, storage solutions, and more for your new kitchen—all in just a few clicks! We can even connect you with one of our trusted designers, who can help you kick off your remodel to build the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of.

So, how do you know it’s time for a kitchen redesign?

1. The layout is inefficient

When homeowners chose a kitchen redesign, more than half revamped their layout, according to the 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study. A thoughtful new layout not only looks beautiful, but transforms the way you move through your day. No matter the size of your kitchen, a smart design brings ease and convenience to your everyday routine.

To make the most of your space, you might consider a multipurpose kitchen island that combines must-needed storage, food preparation, dining, and even a work and study space all in one. Adding a coffee station or an appliance garage gives your bulkier kitchen accessories a chic, dedicated area of the kitchen–so everything you need is right where you want it, making your kitchen as practical as it is creative. 

2. The style is outdated

If your kitchen’s aesthetics are dated, no longer inspire you, or don’t reflect your personal style, a renovation is a chance to bring in exciting new energy. 

For example, during a remodel, you and your designer can explore kitchen cabinet colors that will revitalize your kitchen. When you update your cabinets, you can also choose corresponding hardware, countertops, floors, and backsplashes that you love. Together, these elements will evoke your unique style and create a fresh space that inspires you anew. 

A remodeled kitchen can feature stunning neutrals like sage green and wood tones on the island and cabinets. Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

3. There’s wear and tear

Another key sign that a kitchen redesign might be a good idea is if there’s damage to your space. Water damage to your walls or cabinets, cracks in your floors or countertops, misaligned cabinet doors, sticky drawers, and faulty electrical are just a few common examples of wear and tear that can make your kitchen less pleasing to the eye—and harder to use and maintain. 

When updating your space, work with your designer to explore kitchen remodel ideas for cabinets, countertops, lighting, and flooring that not only suit your lifestyle but are built to last. For instance, if you live with a lot of family members who frequently use the kitchen to cook, eat, and hang out, you might want to prioritize materials that resist scratching. Oak and maple are two beautiful and durable wood types for your kitchen cabinets. When choosing a countertop material, we suggest opting for quartz or granite.

The multipurpose kitchen island can enhance your space with additional seating, storage, and preparation space. Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

The best layouts are the ones that work with your lifestyle. Partnering with a trusted designer ensures your kitchen is refreshed in a way that’s a joy to use every single day.   

4. Storage and organization are limited

Updating your storage is one of the simplest ways to breathe new life into your kitchen. For many homeowners, the need for a kitchen redesign becomes clear when countertops and cabinet drawers are overflowing with cooking and baking essentials. Smart storage solutions can make your kitchen feel effortless, organized, and inspired. 

There are several solutions to achieve a more structured kitchen. Recent research conducted by MasterBrand shows that 80% of kitchen designers recommend incorporating the following features:

• Trash and recycling bin pullouts
• Pantry and base cabinets with roll trays
• Cookie sheet and tray dividers
• Revolving and swing-out corner cabinets
• Deep drawers
• Floating shelves

Enhancing organization in the kitchen both tidies the space and optimizes your workflow.

Swing-out corner cabinets offer a handy storage solution for your kitchen. Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

5. The lighting is poor

Without good lighting, your kitchen can feel heavy and uninspired, masking its full potential. When you go through the process of remodeling your kitchen, we know you want to show off the vibrancy of your cabinets, floors, countertops, and backsplash. Whether you opt to install a sky light, cabinet lighting, or overhead fixtures, lighting is crucial to round out your kitchen redesign and make your elements pop. Your kitchen designer is a great resource to consult when deciding what type of lights will work well with the colors and materials you pick for your rejuvenated space.

Get started on your kitchen redesign today

If you found yourself nodding along as you read through these signs, your space might be due for a redesign. We invite you to fill out our simple and free questionnaire at Rebode Jumpstarter today. Jumpstarter is a great tool to help you discover new kitchen elements. Once you’ve identified some favorite colors, materials, and storage solutions, we’ll connect you with one of our trusted kitchen designers, who can help you get started in creating your renovated, beautiful, and functional space. 

There’s no better time than now. Get started on your kitchen redesign today!