Kitchen renovation: where to start, how to plan, and implement modern ideas

The kitchen is the heart of any home, where we gather with family, prepare meals, and welcome guests. Therefore, when the time for change comes, the question “Kitchen renovation: where to start?” becomes very pressing. In this article, you will find a step-by-step plan for a successful kitchen renovation, learn about modern design solutions, and receive tips on saving time, effort, and budget.

1. Define goals and budget

Before starting the kitchen renovation, it is very important to clearly understand what changes you want to achieve and how much money you are willing to invest. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises during the renovation.

• Assess the scope of work. Is it a complete kitchen renovation (replacement of furniture, wall and floor coverings, plumbing) or just cosmetic changes (updating facades, painting walls, etc.)?
• Set a budget cap. Think about what is a priority: a new set, quality appliances, or modern lighting.
• Compare prices and look for discounts. Often, you can purchase materials or appliances at a good price during sales or promotions.

Tip: If the budget is limited, focus on the most critical improvements — for example, replacing old plumbing or worn-out flooring.

2. Choose a style and design concept

When determining where to start the kitchen renovation, pay attention to what style you want to see in the new kitchen. A cohesive, thoughtful design will not only beautify the space but also simplify the choice of materials and furniture.

Popular styles for kitchen renovation

1. Modern

   • Concise shapes, smooth facades, minimal decorative elements.
   • A calm neutral color palette predominates: whites, grays, blacks, or pastel shades.

2. Minimalist

   • Maximum free space, hidden storage, minimal decor.
   • An ideal choice for small kitchens.

3. Scandinavian

   • Light tones, natural materials, simplicity, and coziness.
   • Wooden elements, white color, textiles in pastel shades are often used.

4. Provence

   • Romantic rustic style with elements of the French countryside.
   • Natural wood, floral prints, pastel shades, ceramic or stone decor.

5. Loft

   • Industrial style using “raw” materials: brick, concrete, metal.
   • Suitable for spacious rooms with high ceilings.

6. Traditional (Classic)

   • Expensive wooden facades, exquisite carvings, and decorative elements.
   • Warm colors and elegant hardware.

Tip: To determine the style, create a mood board (a collection of images) or review completed projects. This will help you better understand how you want your future kitchen to look.

3. Space planning: ergonomics and zoning

One of the key points in kitchen renovation is well-thought-out planning, as it affects your convenience in everyday life.

1. The triangle “stove — sink — refrigerator”

   • There is a “working triangle rule,” according to which the main zones (cooking surface, sink, and refrigerator) should be arranged so that each is easily accessible.

2. Distances and traffic flow

   • There should be a minimum of 90 cm between furniture and other elements for free movement.
   • If the kitchen is small, consider linear or L-shaped planning.

3. Storage

   • Ensure there are enough storage spaces for dishes, appliances, and groceries.
   • Use pull-out systems, corner cabinets, organizers, and railings to save space.

4. Lighting

   • Plan general ceiling lighting, task lighting for work surfaces, and, if desired, decorative lighting (for example, under cabinets).

5. Ventilation

   • Ensure quality exhaust. This is important to prevent odors from spreading throughout the home.

4. Choosing materials and furniture

Modern kitchen renovation is impossible without quality materials. Be sure to pay attention to their resistance to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical damage.

Furniture and facades

• Wood — aesthetic, but expensive and demanding in care.
• MDF/particleboard with protective coating — the most common option that combines affordable price and a variety of designs.
• Plastic (HPL) — durable, practical, easy to clean, suitable for modern kitchen renovation.

Countertops

• Natural wood — beautiful, but requires careful maintenance and protection from moisture.
• Stone (granite, quartz) — durable, strong, scratch-resistant, but quite expensive.
• Composite — a compromise between price and quality, resistant to stains.
• Acrylic — easy to process, has an aesthetic appearance, but sensitive to scratches and high temperatures.
• Stainless steel — professional appearance, but scratches and fingerprints easily appear on the surface.

Flooring

• Ceramic tiles — durable, easy to maintain, moisture-resistant.
• Laminate — choose a moisture-resistant option to avoid damage.
• Vinyl flooring — one of the most practical and modern options: water-resistant, easy to maintain.

5. Sequence of renovation work: from demolition to decor

Once you have determined the planning, style, and budget, it is important to properly organize the kitchen renovation process:

1. Demolition of old coverings and furniture

   • Remove old wall and floor finishes, dismantle cabinets and plumbing.
   • Check communications (water supply, electrical wiring, gas).

2. Laying and replacing communications

   • If necessary, replace pipes and wiring, add outlets in needed places.
   • Consider the power of appliances (dishwasher, oven, etc.).

3. Rough work

   • Leveling walls and floors, screeding, plastering, priming.
   • Ceiling installation (suspended, stretch, or other type).

4. Finishing work

   • Laying tiles, painting or finishing walls.
   • Installing flooring (laminate, tiles, vinyl, etc.).

5. Installation of furniture and appliances

   • Installing kitchen furniture, household appliances, exhaust hood.
   • Connecting plumbing (sink, faucet, dishwasher).

6. Final decor and accessories

   • Installing baseboards, backsplash, or protective panels.
   • Arranging small items: textiles, dishes, kitchen accessories, lighting fixtures.

6. DIY kitchen renovation or contractor?

When to do the renovation yourself

• If the renovation involves cosmetic changes: repainting walls, replacing cabinet facades, wallpapering.
• If you have your own experience and the necessary tools.
• When you have enough time and the desire to learn new skills.

When it’s better to hire professionals

• If a major renovation is needed with changes to communications (electricity, plumbing, gas).
• When installing complex built-in equipment.
• If you lack time or experience and want to achieve a guaranteed quality result.
• For complex projects with custom-made furniture, re-planning.

7. How to save on kitchen renovation

1. Compare offers from different stores and building supermarkets.
2. Use promotional offers and sales, discounts during the “sale season.”
3. Buy some materials online, where prices are often lower.
4. Consider alternative materials, for example, composite instead of natural stone.
5. Don’t skimp on important things: plumbing, exhaust, quality countertops. It’s better to choose durable materials to avoid overpaying in the future.

8. Useful tips for a successful kitchen renovation

• Plan ahead. Create a detailed list of all tasks and necessary materials.
• Consider practicality: finishing materials should be easy to maintain, especially in the stove and sink area.
• Don’t forget about small details: hardware (handles, hinges) can significantly affect the appearance and convenience of furniture.
• Think about lighting: multiple levels of light (general, accent, task lighting) will make the kitchen cozy and functional.
• Keep an eye on trends, but consider your lifestyle and tastes — this is your kitchen, and it should be comfortable for you.

Conclusion

Kitchen renovations always require careful planning, a balanced approach to choosing materials, furniture, and appliances. Determine your budget, style, planning, and sequence of work. It is equally important that the new kitchen meets your needs for comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. If you are planning a modern kitchen renovation, pay attention to minimalist forms, quality appliances, and convenient storage systems.

If you are just starting your journey in renovation and don’t know where to start the kitchen renovation, follow the steps outlined in the article — and you will definitely achieve the desired result. May your dream kitchen become a reality!