How to Plan a Kitchen Renovation from Start to Finish

HANNAH A · MAY 30 2025

Step 1: Define Your Kitchen Goals

Before diving into design boards or contractor interviews, start with a clear understanding of what you want from your new kitchen.

Ask yourself:

What’s not working in your current kitchen?
How do you use the space daily?
What style and finishes do you love?

Whether you’re craving a modern Mediterranean kitchen or a timeless farmhouse vibe, defining your priorities will help guide every decision ahead.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Your kitchen renovation budget sets the tone for the entire project. Factor in costs for:

Cabinetry and countertops (typically 40–50% of the total budget)
Appliances
Plumbing and electrical updates
Labor and permits
Design services

Need help creating a kitchen remodel budget? Our team at ENE Builders provides free estimates and cost breakdowns tailored to your goals. As well as provides all In House guide from permits to final fixture decision and installation.

Step 3: Find the Right Kitchen Remodeling Team

he success of your renovation depends on choosing professionals who understand your vision and can bring it to life.

Look for a design-build firm or contractor that offers:

In-house interior designers
3D renderings and architectural plans
Proven project timelines and transparent pricing
A portfolio of past kitchen remodels

Pro tip: At ENE Builders, our in house interior designers also serve as project managers, ensuring style and structure stay in sync.

Step 4: Create the Kitchen Layout & Design

Now comes the fun part — designing your dream kitchen. Your layout should enhance flow, storage, and natural light. Key design elements to consider:

Kitchen island or peninsula
Pull-out pantry cabinets
Coffee niche or appliance garage
Functional zones (prep, cooking, cleaning)
Lighting plan with ambient, task, and accent lights

We recommend starting with mood boards, then moving to 3D visualizations for a complete preview of your space.

Step 5: Choose Materials & Finishes

Your material choices define the look and feel of your kitchen. Consider:

Cabinetry: Custom wood panels, shaker-style doors, or sleek flat fronts
Countertops: Quartz, porcelain, or natural stone
Backsplash: Mosaic tile, marble slab, or clay tile for a rustic-modern blend
Flooring: Engineered wood, large-format tile, or terrazzo

Mix textures and tones for warmth and depth — for example, warm oak floors with a porcelain slab backsplash and matte black hardware.

Step 6: Secure Permits & Prep for Demolition

Depending on the scope of your project, you may need permits for plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Your contractor should handle:

Submitting plans to the city
Scheduling inspections
Coordinating timelines

While waiting for approval, clear out your existing kitchen and set up a temporary cooking space

Step 7: Installation & Construction Phase

Once demo is complete, your new kitchen begins to take shape. A general timeline:

Plumbing and electrical rough-ins
Drywall and paint
Cabinet installation
Countertop templating and installation
Backsplash and flooring
Appliance installation
Final inspections and walk-through

Clear communication with your remodeling team is essential during this phase to address surprises quickly.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches

Finally, bring your kitchen to life with thoughtful finishing touches:

Pendant lights or sconces
Bar stools or a cozy breakfast nook
Open shelves styled with ceramics or cookbooks
A vase of fresh herbs or flowers

This is where the space truly becomes yours — warm, welcoming, and designed for the way you live.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Kitchen?

If you’re ready to begin your kitchen renovation in Los Angeles or nearby, ENE Builders is here to guide you every step of the way. From free design consultations to full-service remodeling, we bring your vision to life with style, sustainability, and expert craftsmanship.

ENE BUILDERS | LA + OC Remodeling

Family owned affordable design+build firm

Specializing in Spanish revival , Modern Mediterranean Organic Design

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