Kitchen Remodel Planning
Design the heart of your home. Critical decisions for layout, cabinetry, and appliances to avoid costly changes later.
By Dan Gold · Sources reviewed
Begin with how you cook, store food and move through the room. Design recommendations are not local code; have the designer and licensed trades verify the actual plan before ordering or demolition.
Work through the checklist
- Workflow: Map prep, cooking, cleanup and storage. Check aisle and door clearance with the expected users and mobility needs.
- Existing problems: List inadequate storage, lighting, ventilation or access and decide which changes address them.
- Appliances: Select exact models and download installation specifications before final cabinet dimensions; include door swings and service access.
- Lighting: Plan task, general and accent light with controls and wiring access. Check dimmer compatibility.
- Cabinets: Measure contents and choose usable storage, hardware and appliance clearances.
- Countertops: Compare maintenance, heat and support requirements. Confirm sink/cooktop cutouts using the actual product templates.
- Electrical: Have a qualified electrician design required circuits and current receptacle protection/placement. Do not assume island rules from an old design guide still apply.
- Flooring: Match moisture, traffic and appliance-installation requirements; plan transitions and finished height.
- Structure and openings: Have load-bearing changes and window/door work assessed before ordering.
- Permits and ventilation: Confirm approvals, range exhaust routing, makeup-air needs where applicable and inspection stages.
- Household plan: Budget, schedule and arrange safe food preparation while the kitchen is unavailable.
Progress is saved in this browser. Revised tasks start a new checklist.
Check the result and follow up
Check the finished drawing against appliance specifications and a floor mock-up. Resolve access conflicts and required approvals before demolition. The cited NKBA document is a design reference with older code references, so local current requirements take precedence. Compare material deliveries with the approved schedule before installation.
Sources and scope
- NKBA: kitchen planning recommendations and code context
- FTC: hiring a home-improvement contractor
- EPA: indoor air quality during remodeling
These references support the guidance above. Source review is not a hands-on test of your home or a certification of a product. Follow the instructions for your exact model and local requirements.
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