Your Kitchen Reno Checklist: Prep Before Ordering Cabinets
This compact checklist is like your “pre-flight check” for a kitchen remodel: brief, actionable, and designed to ensure you’re aligned on decisions before ordering cabinets.
1. Set Your Budget
Cabinets can make up 30–40% of your remodel cost, so it’s important to set a realistic budget and include a 10–15% contingency for unexpected expenses.
If you need to, visit your financial institution to figure out the best way you can achieve your budget goals.
2. List Must-Haves
Note the non-negotiables (like island seating, specific storage, or style preferences) to guide decision-making. Be picky here, choosing only the things you cannot live without.
If features need to be compromised on, this way you’ll know what matters and what can go.
3. Collect Inspiration
Build an idea board from sources like Pinterest, magazines, online galleries, or showrooms. This helps clarify your vision and direct your design style.
4. Measure Your Space (Preliminary)
Rough dimensions can guide design discussions for now. The final precision is a designer’s job, but you’ll need something to go off of for inicial meetings and brainstorming.
5. Sketch Your Layout
Decide whether you’re keeping the current layout or reconfiguring (e.g. adding an island). Designers will refine it and add their expertise, but getting your ideas on paper gives them something to work off of.
6. Plan Storage Needs
Inventory what needs storing: pots, pantry items, small appliances, etc. This will guide cabinet configuration.
7. Pick Appliances
Appliance dimensions dictate cabinet sizing. Plan early to avoid fitting issues. This will also give you the opportunity to choose integrated and panel ready appliances for a cohesive design.
8. Note Plumbing & Electrical
Communicate any shifts in plumbing, outlets, or vents upfront. This changes the scope of the reno and what trades will need to be involved.
9. Plan Lighting
Think about under-cabinet lighting, pendants, and general brightness. What areas of your kitchen are currently lacking? Note any lighting needs you would have.
10. Decide on Flooring
Flooring thickness affects cabinet height and alignment. If you are replacing your flooring, note this now to account for any changes.
Get the Guide: How to Plan a Kitchen Remodel
Planning a kitchen project can be daunting, but it’s an exciting step in the process of creating your dream home. Unsure where to begin? We have created a step-by-step guide that includes everything you need to get your next kitchen remodel started. Let’s make your dream space a reality, with Decor Cabinets!
