Planning a full kitchen renovation can feel overwhelming. There are a lot of decisions to make, costs to manage, and moving parts that can quickly turn stress into second-guessing if you’re not prepared.
At Jenkins Restoration and Remodel, we work with Southern Maryland homeowners who want clear answers, realistic expectations, and steady guidance, whether you’re updating an outdated layout or reworking the kitchen from the ground up.
This guide walks you through the process step by step, from early planning and budgeting to design choices and construction, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid common renovation pitfalls.
Planning Your Full Kitchen Renovation
Start with solid planning before you swing a hammer. You have to know what you want, how much you’re willing to spend, when work will happen, and which design direction fits your home.
Assessing Your Needs and Goals
Begin by noticing what frustrates you about your current kitchen. Not enough counter space for chopping veggies? Storage feels tight? Or maybe the layout just makes cooking feel like a chore.
Write down your must-haves and your nice-to-haves. Maybe you absolutely need a working dishwasher or a second sink, while a wine fridge or pot filler would just be a bonus.
Think honestly about how you use your kitchen. If you’re always hosting big dinners, your needs are different than someone who mostly microwaves leftovers. Consider who else uses the space (kids, roommates, anyone) and what makes it easier for them.
Check the flow between your fridge, sink, and stove. This “work triangle” really affects how cooking feels. Maybe you want to add an island or even open up a wall to the next room.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Kitchen renovations usually cost between $15,000 and $50,000, but high-end projects can go well beyond that.
Break your budget into categories:
Cabinets: 30-40% of total budget
Labor and installation: 20-35%
Appliances: 15-20%
Countertops: 10-15%
Flooring: 5-10%
Lighting and fixtures: 5-8%
Miscellaneous: 5-10%
Add a 15-20% buffer for surprises. There’s almost always something: hidden plumbing issues, ancient wiring, you name it.
Decide where you’ll splurge and where you’ll save. A lot of folks put their money into cabinets and countertops since those see the most action.
Creating a Renovation Timeline
A full kitchen renovation usually takes 6-12 weeks, though custom features or structural changes can stretch that out.
Your timeline should include:
Design and planning: 2-4 weeks
Ordering materials: 4-8 weeks (often overlaps with planning)
Demolition: 1-3 days
Rough-in work (plumbing, electrical): 1-2 weeks
Installation (cabinets, countertops, flooring): 2-4 weeks
Finishing touches: 1 week
Expect delays. Maybe a permit takes forever, or your cabinets show up late. Custom cabinets, for example, can take 8-12 weeks to arrive, so order early.
Set up a temporary kitchen before work begins. You’ll want a microwave, a coffee maker, and probably a mini fridge stashed somewhere else.
Choosing Your Renovation Style
Your kitchen style should fit your home and your personality. Modern, farmhouse, traditional, and transitional are all popular right now.
Modern kitchens have clean lines, flat-panel cabinets, and almost no decoration. You’ll see materials like stainless steel, glass, and concrete.
Farmhouse kitchens lean into open shelves, apron-front sinks, and warm wood. They’re cozy and feel lived-in. Traditional kitchens use raised-panel cabinets, ornate details, and classic materials. They’re elegant and a bit timeless.
Transitional kitchens blend modern and traditional for a flexible look. Scroll through kitchen photos online and save the ones you like. Find a couple of main materials or colors so your design feels unified but not overwhelming.
Designing The Perfect Kitchen Layout
Your layout really determines how smoothly you can cook, clean, and store food. Good design makes the most of your space and fits your actual habits.
Maximizing Functionality
Map out your main activity zones: cooking, prepping, cleaning, and storage. Each one needs enough counter space and the right tools close by.
L-shaped layouts work in most homes. They use corners well and don’t interrupt foot traffic. You get two walls for cabinets and counters, which naturally separate zones.
One-wall kitchens save space but need careful planning. Put the sink in the middle, with the stove and fridge on either side. If you’ve got room, add a small cart or island for more prep space.
U-shaped designs are all about maximum counter and storage. They work best in rooms at least 10 feet wide, so you’re not bumping into cabinets. Galley kitchens use two parallel walls. Leave at least 4 feet between them so you can open everything without a struggle.
Work Triangle Optimization
The work triangle links your sink, stove, and fridge. Try to keep the total distance between all three points between 13 and 26 feet. Each side of the triangle should be 4 to 9 feet. Too short and you’re cramped; too long and you’re running laps.
Keep the triangle clear. No one wants to dodge family members while carrying a hot pan. Islands can mess up the triangle if you’re not careful. Make sure you still have those 4 to 9-foot distances, even with an island.
Open Concept Vs. Traditional Layouts
Open kitchens flow right into living or dining areas. You can chat with guests or keep an eye on the kids while you cook.
Open layouts need solid ventilation because cooking smells travel fast. Get a powerful range hood (300 CFM or more is a good start). Be ready to clean more often since your kitchen is always on display.
Traditional closed kitchens hide messes and noise. You’ll get more wall space for cabinets and tall pantries, which is handy. A peninsula is a nice compromise. It marks the kitchen boundary but still keeps things open. Plus, you get more counter space and storage underneath.
Selecting Kitchen Cabinets And Storage Solutions
Cabinets shape your kitchen’s look and function. They’re also usually the biggest expense in a renovation. The material, level of customization, and storage features you pick will decide how useful your kitchen feels for years.
Custom Vs. Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinets come in standard sizes and are ready to grab from the store. They’re quick and affordable if your kitchen has typical measurements.
Semi-custom cabinets give you more flexibility. You can tweak the size a bit and pick from more door styles, finishes, and features.
Custom cabinets are made just for your kitchen. Odd space? Weird angles? No problem. You get to choose every detail, but expect to pay a premium. Prices vary a lot. Stock cabinets usually run $60-$200 per linear foot, semi-custom is $100-$650, and full custom starts at $500 and sometimes tops $1,500 per linear foot.
Smart Storage Ideas
Pull-out shelves make deep cabinets so much more usable. No more crawling around on the floor to find that lost pot lid.
Corner cabinets don’t have to be black holes. Lazy susans or pull-out organizers bring everything front and center. Drawer dividers keep your utensils and gadgets in line. You can customize them for what you actually own.
Vertical dividers are great for baking sheets, cutting boards, or platters. No more wrestling with a stack every time you need one.
Built-in spice racks, tray dividers, and appliance garages keep things tidy but close at hand. A tall pantry cabinet with pull-outs gives you a ton of storage in a small space.
Choosing Cabinet Materials And Finishes
Solid wood cabinets are tough, and you can refinish them if needed. Oak, maple, cherry, and hickory get a lot of love. They cost more but tend to last.
Plywood boxes outlast particleboard, especially around sinks and dishwashers. Always check what the cabinet box is made of, not just the doors.
Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is great for painted cabinets. It’s smooth and less expensive than solid wood, but it doesn’t love moisture.
Laminate cabinets resist spills and stains. They’re easy to clean and come in lots of colors and patterns. The finish doesn’t chip or peel like paint can.
Your finish changes both the look and the upkeep. Painted cabinets need more TLC than stained wood. Matte finishes hide fingerprints better than glossy ones. Dark colors show dust and dings more than lighter shades.
Countertops And Surface Options
Countertops set the tone for your kitchen and affect how much maintenance you’ll do. Each material has its own price, care routine, and vibe; some work better for certain cooks or styles.
Popular Countertop Materials
Granite is still a top choice for a lot of folks. It’s natural stone with endless colors and patterns. No two slabs are the same. Granite runs $40 to $200 per square foot installed, depending on the stone.
Quartz is engineered from crushed stone and resin. It offers more predictable patterns and colors than granite. Expect to pay $50 to $150 per square foot installed. Quartz never needs sealing.
Marble is classic and gorgeous, but it scratches and stains easily. It costs $50 to $250 per square foot installed. Butcher block brings warmth with wood. It’s $30 to $100 per square foot, good for prep areas, but you’ll need to oil it regularly.
Laminate is the budget pick at $10 to $40 per square foot installed. Modern laminate looks way better than the stuff from decades ago and comes in lots of styles, even ones that mimic stone.
Durability And Maintenance Considerations
Quartz and granite are both tough enough for daily use. Quartz resists stains and never needs sealing. Granite needs a yearly sealing to guard against spills.
Marble takes the most care. Acidic foods like lemon juice or wine can stain it, so you’ll need to be careful and clean up fast.
Butcher block needs monthly oiling to keep it from drying out. Leave water sitting and you’ll get stains or warping. Laminate can’t handle hot pans, and the edges can chip over time, especially near sinks. On the plus side, it’s super easy to clean.
Coordinating Surfaces With Design
Pick countertops that work with your cabinet color and backsplash. Light-colored counters like white marble or pale granite can open up a small kitchen. Dark counters add drama and hide stains in busy spaces.
Think about your cabinet finish, too. White or cream cabinets play well with almost any countertop. Dark cabinets usually look best with lighter counters for contrast.
The edge profile makes a difference. Square edges feel modern, while rounded or beveled ones look more traditional. Your backsplash should complement or contrast the countertop, without clashing.
Flooring Choices For A Full Kitchen Renovation
Kitchen floors have to take a beating: spills, dropped pans, constant foot traffic, while still looking good. The material you choose affects your budget and how well your kitchen holds up over time.
Hardwood, Tile, And Other Materials
Hardwood brings warmth and natural beauty to your kitchen. Oak, maple, and hickory are great picks because they handle dents better than softer woods.
You have to seal hardwood well to keep water from ruining it, especially around sinks and dishwashers. If you skip this step, you might regret it later.
Tile opens up endless design choices and shrugs off moisture. Porcelain tile is denser and more water-resistant than ceramic, so it's usually the smarter call for busy kitchens.
You can pick from a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes to fit your taste. There's almost too much to choose from, honestly.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has gotten really popular. It mimics wood or stone, costs less, and goes down without much hassle. It's fully waterproof and feels cushy underfoot if you spend hours standing. Vinyl resists scratches and stains better than lots of natural materials.
Concrete floors bring in that industrial vibe, and you can stain or polish them for different looks. They're tough as nails, but you have to seal them, or they'll stain. Natural stone like slate or travertine looks elegant, but it needs regular sealing and costs more upfront. It's a splurge, but some people swear by it.
Durability And Slip Resistance
Your kitchen floor takes a beating, probably more than any other room. You want materials rated for high-traffic areas that can handle dropped pots and pans without falling apart.
Porcelain tile tops the list for durability, followed by natural stone and good-quality vinyl. Hardwood can last decades, but it shows dings and scratches more easily.
Slip resistance matters, especially near sinks and stoves where water and grease tend to land. Textured tiles and matte finishes grip better than polished surfaces.
The Coefficient of Friction (COF) tells you how slip-resistant a floor is. Shoot for a rating of 0.5 or above for kitchen safety. Grout lines in tile actually help with traction. Wood and vinyl with embossed textures also provide more grip when things get wet.
Appliance Selection And Integration
Appliances are the workhorses of your kitchen. They shape how the space feels and how well it functions. The right choices can save you money on energy, make cooking less of a chore, and help your kitchen look pulled together.
Choosing Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances save money over time and shrink your environmental footprint. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when you're shopping for refrigerators, dishwashers, and other big-ticket items.
Modern ENERGY STAR refrigerators use about 40% less energy than models from the early 2000s. Induction cooktops heat up fast and waste less energy since they only heat the pan, not the air around it.
Dishwashers with soil sensors adjust water use depending on how dirty your dishes are. That saves both water and electricity. Front-load washers usually use less water than top-loaders if you're adding laundry to the kitchen.
Check those yellow EnergyGuide labels to compare yearly operating costs. Sometimes paying more up front for an efficient appliance pays off in just a couple of years.
Built-In And Smart Appliance Options
Built-in appliances sit flush with your cabinets for a streamlined look. You can get built-in fridges, ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers that blend right in.
Panel-ready appliances let you attach custom cabinet panels, so your fridge or dishwasher disappears into the cabinetry. It's a slick trick if you want a seamless kitchen.
Smart appliances connect to your phone or home network. Preheat your oven on the way home, get notified when the dishwasher finishes, or peek inside your fridge while grocery shopping.
Plenty of smart ranges let you turn off burners remotely, handy if you worry you left something on. Think about which smart features you'll actually use before shelling out extra. Sometimes, simple things like remote preheating are more helpful than a fancy touchscreen.
Blending Appliances With Design
Matching finishes across appliances gives your kitchen a unified look. Stainless steel, black stainless, matte black, and white are all popular.
Mixing finishes can work if you plan it out, but it's easy to miss the mark.
Key finish considerations:
Stainless steel hides in plain sight but shows fingerprints
Matte black looks sharp in modern or industrial kitchens
White and panel-ready options suit traditional or minimalist styles
Bold colors make a statement, but might lock you into a look
Plan appliance placement early, before cabinets go in. Fridges need enough space for doors to open, and ranges need proper ventilation and clearance.
Counter-depth fridges sit flush with your counters, so your kitchen feels more open. You lose a bit of interior space, but the look is worth it for some.
Lighting Design For Kitchens
Good lighting makes cooking safer (nobody likes chopping in the dark) and sets the mood for your kitchen. The trick is mixing different types of lights and picking fixtures that fit your vibe.
Task And Ambient Lighting
Task lighting puts bright light exactly where you prep, cook, and clean. You want strong, shadow-free light over counters, the stove, and the sink.
Install task lights close to where you work, not just in the middle of the ceiling.
Ambient lighting fills the rest of the kitchen with a comfortable glow. Recessed ceiling lights do the job, but don't stop there.
Mix it up with:
Overhead fixtures for general light
Pendants over islands or eating areas
Wall sconces for softer, decorative touches
Under-cabinet strips for focused counter lighting
Each light should have its own switch. That way, you can tweak the mood depending on what you're doing or the time of day.
Under-Cabinet Lighting Ideas
Under-cabinet lights get rid of shadows and make food prep less of a hassle. These mount right under your wall cabinets and shine down where you need it.
LED strip lights are super popular. They last ages and barely sip electricity. You can pick warm white (2700-3000K) for a cozy look or bright white (4000-5000K) for a cleaner, more clinical vibe.
Puck lights throw out small circles of light, handy if you only need to light up a few spots. Linear bars provide even coverage across the whole counter.
Position the lights toward the front edge of the cabinet to avoid glare on shiny counters. It's a small detail, but it makes a difference.
Selecting Fixtures For Style And Function
Your light fixtures need to work hard and look good. Pendant lights over an island can make a real statement while giving you the focused light you need.
Hang pendants 30-36 inches above the counter. It's not an exact science, but that's a good starting point. Match fixture finishes to your cabinet hardware and faucet for a cohesive feel. Brushed nickel, matte black, brass, and chrome are all solid choices.
Glass shades fit in almost anywhere, while metal shades lean more industrial or modern. Think about bulb type and brightness for each fixture. LED bulbs save energy, and you almost never have to replace them.
Check the lumens rating, not just the watts. Aim for 50-75 lumens per square foot for ambient light and 75-100 for task areas. Dimmer switches are a game-changer. They let you shift from a bright workspace to a warm hangout spot in seconds.
Plumbing And Electrical Considerations
Your kitchen's plumbing and electrical systems need careful planning. They affect how well everything works and, honestly, your safety. These upgrades often eat up a big chunk of your renovation budget and need pros to make sure everything meets code.
Upgrading Plumbing Systems
Old plumbing might not cut it for new appliances and fixtures. Corrosion, low water pressure, or out-of-date pipes can cause headaches.
Moving sinks, dishwashers, or fridges means running new water lines and drains. That gets pricey fast since it usually means opening up walls and floors. If you can, keep major plumbing fixtures where they are to save money.
Consider upgrades like:
PEX or copper pipes for better flow and durability
Larger drain lines if you have a garbage disposal
Shut-off valves for each fixture (future you will thank you)
Water filtration systems hooked up to your main line
Dishwashers need hot water and a drain. Ice-maker fridges need a dedicated cold water line with enough pressure.
Modern Electrical Needs
Kitchens today use way more electricity than older homes were built for. You might have to upgrade your panel and add circuits to handle all the gadgets safely.
Building codes require GFCI outlets near water and dedicated circuits for big appliances. The fridge, microwave, and dishwasher each need their own. Electric ranges need a 240-volt circuit, not the usual 120-volt.
Plan for plenty of outlets. You don't want to rely on extension cords. Space counter outlets every 4 feet. Toss in a few USB ports for charging phones and tablets. Lighting needs its own plan. Under-cabinet, pendant, and recessed lights all need proper wiring. Dimmer switches are great, but need compatible bulbs and fixtures.
Safety Codes And Compliance
All plumbing and electrical work has to meet local codes. You'll need permits and inspections for big changes. It's a pain, but it protects you and your home's value.
Hire licensed contractors who know the codes in your area. Requirements vary but usually cover outlet placement, circuit size, GFCI protection, and correct grounding. Plumbing codes spell out pipe types, drain slopes, and venting.
Failed inspections slow down your project and cost extra to fix. Your contractor should handle permits and schedule inspections at the right times. Keep all your permits and inspection records with your house documents. You never know when you'll need them.
Choosing Backsplashes And Wall Treatments
A backsplash protects your walls from water and food splashes, but let's be honest, it also sets the tone for your whole kitchen. The materials and colors you pick need to play well with your counters, cabinets, and overall style.
Popular Backsplash Materials
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the go-to for backsplashes. They run about $3 to $15 per square foot and come in a dizzying array of colors, sizes, and patterns. These tiles shrug off heat and moisture, and they're easy to clean with basic household cleaners.
Glass tiles give a modern, reflective look that can make a small kitchen feel bigger. You'll pay $7 to $30 per square foot, and while glass doesn't stain, it does show water spots and fingerprints.
Natural stone like marble, granite, or travertine adds a luxe touch and unique patterns, but expect to pay $10 to $50 per square foot. Stone needs regular sealing to avoid stains from oils and acidic foods.
Stainless steel panels fit right into contemporary kitchens and match pro-grade appliances. They're tough and heat-resistant, but they do show scratches and fingerprints. Metal backsplashes run $20 to $50 per square foot.
Statement Walls And Color Choices
A bold backsplash can become the focal point in a kitchen with neutral cabinets and counters. Bright colors, geometric patterns, or hand-painted tiles add personality and draw the eye.
Neutral backsplashes (white, gray, beige) let other elements shine. White subway tile is still a crowd favorite since it works for both traditional and modern kitchens. Plus, it helps small kitchens feel more open.
Pick a backsplash color that either complements or contrasts with your counters. If your counters are busy granite or quartz, go simple with the backsplash. If your counters are plain, you can go wild with tile patterns.
Consider running your backsplash all the way up behind the range for more protection and a bigger visual punch. Full-height treatments work especially well with bold materials like patterned cement tiles or colorful mosaics.
Eco-Friendly And Sustainable Renovation Choices
Going for eco-friendly materials and fixtures lowers your environmental impact and can cut your utility bills. Plus, it just feels good to know your kitchen's healthier for your family.
Sustainable Materials For Kitchens
Bamboo cabinets are a fast-growing alternative to classic wood. Bamboo matures in just three to five years, while hardwood trees take decades.
Reclaimed wood brings character and keeps old materials out of landfills. You can use it for countertops, shelves, or flooring.
Recycled glass countertops turn old bottles and windows into beautiful, durable surfaces.
Cabinet refacing is a smart move if your cabinets are still solid. You use fewer materials and spend less than replacing everything.
Cork flooring is renewable since it comes from tree bark that regrows. It's comfy underfoot and naturally resists mold.
Low-VOC paints and finishes help your indoor air quality. VOCs release nasty chemicals, so it's worth hunting for low-VOC options.
Water And Energy Saving Fixtures
Energy Star appliances use 10-50% less energy than standard ones. That includes your fridge, dishwasher, and oven. LED lighting uses 75% less energy than old-school bulbs and lasts way longer. Stick LED strips under cabinets and in overhead fixtures.
Low-flow faucets can save thousands of gallons of water a year. Modern designs keep the pressure up while using less water.
Energy-efficient dishwashers use less water than hand-washing. Look for models with soil sensors that adjust water use based on how dirty your dishes are. Induction cooktops heat quickly and waste less energy than gas or electric ranges. Only the pan gets hot, not the air around it.
Hiring Professionals Vs. DIY Renovation
How you tackle your renovation depends on your budget, skills, and how much you're willing to take on. Pros bring expertise and save time, but you'll pay for it. DIY saves money, but it's a big commitment and not for the faint of heart.
Working With Kitchen Designers
Kitchen designers know how to squeeze the most out of your space and make daily tasks flow better. They’re familiar with building codes, standard measurements, and all those sneaky pitfalls that can turn into costly headaches.
A designer typically charges between $50 and $200 per hour, or takes 5-10% of your total project cost. That investment pays off with smarter space planning and fewer last-minute changes once the dust starts flying.
You’ll team up to pick out materials, finishes, and appliances that actually fit your budget. Designers often have access to trade-only products and can sometimes snag discounts that help offset their fees.
They’ll also whip up detailed drawings contractors rely on when putting together bids. Designers usually offer a range of services. Some just consult, while others handle everything from your first idea to the final reveal.
Selecting Contractors And Trades
Licensed contractors take care of permits, coordinate the subs, and make sure everything meets code. Always check their license, insurance, and references before you sign anything.
Get at least three written bids that separate labor and materials. The lowest price isn’t always the winner. Sometimes it means corners get cut, or surprise costs pop up later.
Key contractors you might need:
General contractor (runs the show)
Plumber (handles water, drains, gas)
Electrician (wiring, outlets, lighting)
Cabinet installer
Tile setter
Countertop fabricator
Ask about warranties on their work. Most reputable pros guarantee their labor for at least a year. Don’t pay everything upfront. 10-20% as a deposit, then progress payments, and save the final payment for after the job’s done.
Managing A DIY Project
DIY works best for cosmetic updates like painting cabinets, installing backsplash tile, or swapping out hardware. You can save 20-30% of total costs by rolling up your sleeves.
Leave plumbing, electrical, and structural stuff to licensed pros. Permits and inspections aren’t optional, and mistakes here can be dangerous or tank your home’s value.
Create a detailed timeline, and add buffer time for the inevitable hiccups. Order all your materials before you start swinging hammers to avoid delays.
DIY-friendly tasks:
Demolition and debris hauling
Painting walls and cabinets
Installing cabinet hardware
Simple backsplash tile jobs
Assembling and hanging open shelves
Rent specialty tools instead of buying. Home improvement stores usually rent out tile saws, paint sprayers, and other gadgets you’ll only use once.
Preparing For Construction
Before anyone shows up, you’ll need to sort out permits and figure out how you’ll keep meals on the table. It’s not glamorous, but it matters.
Permits And Regulations
Most kitchen renos need building permits from your city or county. You’ll need them for electrical, plumbing, and anything structural, like taking down a wall. Some places even want permits for new appliances or venting.
If you’re working with a contractor, they usually handle permits. Doing it yourself? That’s on you. Call your local building department to see what’s required. They’ll review your plans and probably want to inspect a few points.
Permit costs are all over the map: $100 to $2,000 or more, depending on where you live and what you’re doing. The process takes 2-4 weeks, so get started early.
Skip the permits, and you risk fines, headaches if you ever sell, or being denied insurance if something goes sideways.
Setting Up A Temporary Kitchen
You’ll be without a kitchen for at least 4-6 weeks for even a basic remodel. Figure out a temporary setup: dining room, garage, basement, wherever you can squeeze it in.
Set up a table with these essentials:
Microwave for quick meals and leftovers
Coffee maker or kettle
Toaster oven for simple baking
Mini fridge for basics
Paper plates, cups, and utensils
Cooler with ice for overflow
Move your trash can over, too. Stock up on easy meals, frozen stuff, and foods that don’t need much prep. Most people end up eating more takeout during this time, just part of the process. If you want to skip disposables, set up a washing station with a big basin for dishes.
Final Touches And Decorating Your Renovated Kitchen
This is the fun part: bringing it all together with details and personal touches. The hardware, lighting, and little extras make the space feel like yours, not just another project.
Choosing Finishing Details
Hardware can totally change the vibe. Cabinet knobs and pulls come in everything from modern stainless to quirky vintage brass, and prices can range from $2 to $50 each.
Window treatments need to let in light but also give you privacy. Roller shades, cafe curtains, or wooden blinds that stand up to kitchen moisture are all good options.
Lighting isn’t just about seeing. Pendant lights over the island grab attention, and under-cabinet strips make meal prep easier. Dimmer switches are great for dialing the mood up or down.
Don’t overlook grout color for your backsplash. White grout pops, while gray or matching grout blends in. Sealing grout helps keep stains from setting in.
Even the little things (outlet covers, switch plates, toe kicks) should match your style. Brushed nickel, matte black, or classic white can tie everything together.
Personalizing Your Space
Show off what matters to you, but keep counters clear enough to work. Open shelves are perfect for everyday dishes, favorite cookbooks, or a few pieces of pottery.
Plants bring life into the kitchen. Herbs like basil and rosemary love a sunny window and taste great, but snake plants or pothos are fine with less light.
Art in the kitchen? Sure, just keep it away from heat and moisture. Canvas or framed photos hold up better than paper prints. Hang them away from the stove to dodge grease.
Color isn’t just for walls and cabinets. Tea towels, soap dispensers, canisters, and even your toaster can add pops of color. Pick two or three accent colors for a pulled-together look.
A family photo wall or bulletin board can serve as a command center. Tuck bills, shopping lists, and school notes here to keep the chaos in check.
Maintaining Your New Kitchen
A new kitchen needs some love to stay looking sharp and running smoothly. A few habits and a little planning go a long way to keep things working and looking good.
Cleaning And Care Tips
Wipe down counters daily with a soft cloth and a cleaner that’s right for your surface. Granite and quartz like pH-neutral cleaners, but laminate’s fine with mild dish soap. Skip abrasive scrubbers; they’ll scratch up anything.
Cabinets need a weekly wipe with a damp microfiber cloth. Too much water can wreck wood finishes, so keep it light. Clean up spills right away to dodge stains or water damage.
Appliances each have their quirks. Clean fridge coils every six months to keep it efficient. Run your dishwasher with a cleaning tablet monthly. Wipe your stove and oven after each use to avoid sticky messes.
Sink and faucet? Wipe them after each use. That’ll cut down on water spots and mineral buildup. Use a strainer to keep food bits from clogging the drain.
Long-Term Maintenance Planning
Plan a deep kitchen clean every three months. Get inside cabinets, scrub walls and backsplash grout, and dust light fixtures. Check under the sink for leaks or moisture while you’re at it.
Look over grout and caulking twice a year. Reseal grout yearly if you have tile floors or backsplash. Swap out tired caulk around sinks and counters to keep water where it belongs.
Once a year, check cabinet hinges and drawer slides. Tighten any loose screws and add a little lubricant if things stick. It’s a small job that prevents bigger headaches later.
Keep a folder or digital file with appliance warranties and maintenance schedules. Most appliances need a pro tune-up every few years to stay in top shape. Don’t wait on repairs. Fixing small problems early saves money.
A Clear Path Through Your Kitchen Renovation
A full kitchen renovation doesn’t have to feel confusing or stressful. With the right plan, realistic expectations, and clear communication, the process becomes far more manageable and far less overwhelming.
Jenkins Restoration and Remodel helps homeowners across Southern Maryland navigate each phase with steady guidance, quality craftsmanship, and attention to the details that affect how your kitchen functions every day.
If you’re ready to move forward without guesswork, contact us to schedule a consultation and start planning a kitchen that truly works for your home.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Does A Full Kitchen Renovation Typically Include?
A full kitchen renovation usually includes cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, appliances, plumbing, and electrical updates. Many projects also involve layout changes, new backsplashes, paint or wall finishes, and updated storage solutions.
The exact scope depends on your goals, budget, and how much of the existing kitchen can be reused or improved.
How Long Does A Full Kitchen Renovation Take?
Most full kitchen renovations take 6 to 12 weeks once construction begins. Projects with custom cabinets, structural changes, or permit delays may take longer.
Planning and material ordering often happen weeks or months before demolition starts, so the full process is longer than just the construction window.
How Much Should I Budget For A Full Kitchen Renovation?
In most homes, a full kitchen renovation ranges from $15,000 to $50,000, depending on size, materials, and layout changes. High-end finishes, custom cabinetry, and premium appliances can push costs higher.
It’s smart to include a 10–20% contingency in your budget to handle unexpected issues uncovered during construction.
Can I Live In My Home During A Kitchen Renovation?
Yes, most homeowners stay in their homes during a kitchen renovation, but you’ll need to plan for limited access to cooking and cleanup.
Setting up a temporary kitchen with a microwave, coffee maker, mini fridge, and simple meal options makes the process much easier.
Should I Change My Kitchen Layout Or Keep It The Same?
Keeping your existing layout usually saves money because plumbing and electrical lines stay in place. However, if your kitchen feels cramped, inefficient, or poorly organized, a layout change may be worth the investment.
A good design balances cost, functionality, and long-term comfort.
What Are The Most Common Mistakes Homeowners Make?
Common mistakes include underestimating costs, skipping a contingency budget, rushing design decisions, and choosing finishes based on looks alone instead of durability.
Another big issue is not planning storage and lighting carefully, which can affect how the kitchen works every day.
Is A Full Kitchen Renovation Worth It?
A full kitchen renovation can significantly improve daily function, comfort, and home value when done thoughtfully. Kitchens are one of the most-used spaces in the home, and updates often deliver strong long-term returns. The key is choosing durable materials and a layout that fits how you actually live, not just current trends.