Starting a kitchen renovation can feel overwhelming. From choosing the right design to staying within budget, it’s easy to get lost in the details. But don’t worry — with the right plan, transforming your kitchen can be a smooth and even enjoyable experience! 🎯
In this article, we’ll break down where to begin, what steps to follow, and how to ensure your project is a success — especially if you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Chicago with the help of professionals like Easy Remodeling.
🧠 Step 1: Define Your Goals and Priorities
Before you touch a single cabinet, ask yourself:
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❓ Why are you renovating? (More space? Better layout? Modern look?)
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👨👩👧👦 Who uses the kitchen and how?
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🏡 Are you staying long-term or prepping to sell?
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💵 What’s your realistic budget?
Understanding your needs and lifestyle will help shape your kitchen design from the very beginning.
📏 Step 2: Measure and Assess the Space
Take time to measure your existing kitchen — or let your remodeling team handle it. This includes:
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Wall-to-wall dimensions
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Window and door placements
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Ceiling height
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Location of plumbing and electrical points
This info helps you figure out what changes are possible, especially when planning cabinet installation or moving appliances.
🧾 Step 3: Set a Budget (And Add a Cushion)
Budget is one of the biggest factors in kitchen renovation. Start by allocating costs roughly as follows:
| Category | Budget % |
|---|---|
| Cabinets | 30-35% |
| Appliances | 15-20% |
| Countertops | 10-15% |
| Flooring | 5-10% |
| Labor & Installation | 20-30% |
| Contingency | 10-15% |
💡 Tip: Always add a 10–15% cushion for unexpected costs, such as plumbing issues or custom fitting challenges.
🎨 Step 4: Get Inspired & Choose a Style
Now comes the fun part — designing your dream kitchen! Whether you’re into a modern minimalist look, rustic charm, or a bold, colorful space, this step sets the tone for everything else.
🔍 Browse platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, or visit showrooms in Chicago to explore:
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Color schemes
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Cabinet styles
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Backsplash ideas
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Lighting fixtures
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Countertop materials (quartz, granite, butcher block, etc.)
Your kitchen remodeling contractor can help you align your vision with practical design solutions.
🧱 Step 5: Choose the Right Contractor
A trustworthy, experienced contractor can make or break your kitchen remodel. Look for:
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✅ Local experience (especially in Chicago neighborhoods)
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✅ Strong reviews and portfolios
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✅ Transparent pricing and timelines
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✅ Licensed, insured, and certified teams
Easy Remodeling is a trusted name in kitchen renovation in Chicago, known for handling projects from concept to completion with attention to detail and customer satisfaction.
🛠️ Step 6: Demolition & Prep Work
Once the planning is complete, it’s time for demo day! Your contractor will:
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Remove old cabinets, countertops, and appliances
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Update electrical wiring and plumbing if needed
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Prepare the subfloor and walls for new finishes
This step reveals any hidden issues (like water damage or outdated pipes) — so it’s smart to have that contingency budget ready.
🪜 Step 7: Structural Work & Utilities
Now the real transformation begins. This stage includes:
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Moving or adjusting walls (if required)
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Rerouting or updating plumbing and electrical systems
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Installing exhaust vents and lighting systems
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Ensuring everything meets building codes in Illinois
Having licensed professionals ensures your renovation is safe, compliant, and long-lasting.
🧰 Step 8: Cabinets, Countertops & Flooring
Here’s where your kitchen takes shape:
🗄️ Cabinets:
Choose from stock, semi-custom, or fully custom options based on your space and budget. Soft-close hinges, drawer organizers, and pull-out trays add functionality.
🧱 Countertops:
Quartz is the top choice for durability and elegance, but granite, laminate, and even concrete are great options depending on your design goals.
🧼 Flooring:
Popular kitchen flooring options include ceramic tile, luxury vinyl planks (LVP), and waterproof laminate. Choose a surface that’s durable, stylish, and easy to clean.
💡 Step 9: Lighting & Fixtures
Lighting plays a huge role in how your kitchen looks and feels.
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✨ Ambient lighting – ceiling lights or recessed fixtures
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🔦 Task lighting – under-cabinet strips or pendants over the island
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🌟 Accent lighting – highlights backsplash or decor
Don’t forget your faucet and sink — go for a durable, deep basin sink and a high-quality, stylish faucet with pull-out features.
🧹 Step 10: Final Touches & Clean-Up
The finishing phase includes:
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Painting walls
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Installing the backsplash
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Sealing countertops and tile grout
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Final appliance installation
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Thorough clean-up of the space
Your contractor will walk you through a final inspection and make sure everything is perfect. 🧼✨
✅ Bonus Tips for a Smooth Kitchen Renovation
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📦 Order materials early to avoid delays
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📅 Plan for a temporary kitchen setup (microwave, toaster oven, etc.)
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📷 Take before/after photos — you’ll be amazed by the transformation!
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🧠 Be flexible — sometimes minor changes are needed as the project progresses
🏁 Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?
Now that you know where to begin, it’s time to turn your dream kitchen into a reality! Whether you’re looking to upgrade your cabinets, reconfigure your layout, or start from scratch, Easy Remodeling is here to help.
We offer full-service kitchen remodeling in Chicago, with expert designers, experienced craftsmen, and a commitment to delivering top-quality results — on time and on budget. 🛠️
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s build the kitchen you’ve always wanted!
