A guide to planning your kitchen remodel

This guide will walk you through key steps to plan your remodel effectively while highlighting how Rebode can support you in starting your project and connecting with local kitchen designers.

Planning a kitchen remodel can be an exciting design adventure, but with so many details to consider, the process can also feel rather overwhelming. As a homeowner imagining your new dream kitchen, having a solid plan is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly.

We also know that getting started can be overwhelming, so the Rebode Kitchen Jumpstarter tool makes it easy to envision your kitchen ideas before meeting with a kitchen designer. By completing our easy online quiz and sharing your goals, style, design, and budget, you can make the design process easy, fun, and flexible. Explore Jumpstarter today and begin creating a kitchen you’ll love.

Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

Before you begin

The foundation of any successful kitchen remodel starts with careful preparation. Here are three things to consider before starting your project:

1. Define your vision

Think about what you want to achieve with your remodel. Are you looking for modern functionality in your kitchen, or a homey, rustic farmhouse feel? Collect inspiration through Pinterest, design magazines, or even MasterBrand’s Inspiration Gallery to get ideas for your dream space.

2. Measure your space

Before beginning the remodel, you should take precise measurements of your kitchen to ensure everything will fit perfectly. This step will make the design process more efficient and help you decide what’s possible in your given space. If you are not comfortable measuring your own kitchen, a design professional is also always happy to help! MasterBrand also has a blog that can help guide you through taking measurements, which is linked here.

3. Locate trusted designers

Rebode Kitchen Jumpstarter will match you with kitchen designers in your area, in select markets. You can share your design portfolio before meeting to help start the conversation on creating the kitchen you’re dreaming of.

Setting the budget

No kitchen remodel plan is complete without a clear budget. Here’s how to allocate your funds wisely:

Set realistic expectations

It is important to be honest about what you can spend. In general, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends setting aside 20-25% of your home’s value as your kitchen renovation budget. However, you should always evaluate your own finances, your goals for your home, and the average costs of similar remodels in your neighborhood when establishing your remodel budget.

Plan for surprises

You should always keep 10-15% of your total budget for contingencies, as it’s common for unexpected costs to arise during remodeling, such as repairing hidden damage, adding additional structural reinforcements, or managing code violations.

Cabinetry that fits your budget

MasterBrand offers cabinets for every budget, from affordable yet stylish options to custom-made cabinets for premium designs. No matter your price range, you’ll find something that doesn’t compromise on quality or design.

Designing your space

Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

Once you have a clear vision and budget for your remodel, it’s time to start designing your new kitchen! Here are some key tips and resources to help you navigate each step:

Consider functionality

Think about how you use your kitchen on a daily basis. What features and layout will make it more efficient? Consider storage needs, traffic flow, and ergonomics.

Choose the right cabinets

Your cabinets will be one of the most prominent design elements in your space. The Kitchen Jumpstarter quiz can help to consider your preferences for door style, material, finish, and hardware to find the perfect fit for your vision and budget.

Timeline expectations

Remodeling isn’t an overnight process, but knowing what to expect can help you plan:

Consultation & Design Phase: 4-6 weeks. This includes working with your designer and finalizing your plan.

Material Sourcing: 4-8 weeks. Cabinets, countertops, and custom pieces must be ordered in advance.

Demolition & Installation: 2-4 weeks, depending on the scope of the remodel.

Finishing Touches: 1-2 weeks for painting, hardware updates, and cleanup.

Being aware of these timelines can help you avoid surprises and set realistic expectations.

Must-have checklist

Don’t forget the essentials! Here’s a quick checklist to review as you plan your dream remodel:

[ ] Establish a clear budget and style (if you need assistance, the Rebode Kitchen Jumpstarter quiz can help).

[ ] Meet with your local kitchen designer to help with cabinetry selections and layouts.

[ ] Choose the right MasterBrand cabinet style that fits your aesthetic and budget.

[ ] Select your room finishes such as paint, countertops, flooring and backsplash.

[ ] Select new appliances—and pick these before your cabinet layout begins.

[ ] Plan a timeline and set realistic expectations. Delays and obstacles will likely occur.

[ ] Book your contractor early.

[ ] Plan logistics of your remodel.

Ready to get started?

Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

Planning a kitchen remodel takes effort, but with the right preparation and partners, it becomes an exciting and rewarding process. To get started, Rebode Kitchen Jumpstarter can help you navigate your remodeling journey. Our innovative design tool offers tailored solutions that suit your unique space, style, and budget and will match you with local pros From simplifying decisions to connecting users with trusted resources, Jumpstarter simplifies the remodeling process.

Don’t wait to upgrade your home—start planning the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of!