Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Get multiple quotes, don’t go too trendy, and always, always remember the budget. The usual advice around kitchen remodeling mistakes is worth listening to. 

But what are the lesser-known or unexpected errors that turn up once the sawdust has cleared? What would thousands of homeowners do differently if they had another chance?

Settle in as we share 11 common kitchen remodel mistakes. From unsuitable materials to DIY disasters (and plenty more in between), consider the following fair warning. 

Avoid these common kitchen remodel mistakes

As you plan your kitchen remodel, take care to avoid these regrettable errors. 

Going light on lighting

Poor lighting is the most visible sign of a carelessly planned remodel. Your new kitchen should feature ambient lighting, task lighting, and from there, consider decorative lighting. Recessed ceiling lights, under-cabinet lights that illuminate the counterspace, and hanging pendants are a good example configuration.

Choosing materials by appearance or price alone

Here are the three criteria for choosing the best materials for cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, and more:

• Aesthetically pleasing
• Within budget
• Functional and durable

Unfortunately, many homeowners check off the first two boxes and keep moving. Some materials, like limestone or marble, don’t stay beautiful in an active, functional kitchen. 

Deciding on a kitchen island too quickly

A kitchen island is great to have for many reasons. However, don’t sign off on it just because it technically fits the space. Overlarge or poorly positioned islands can make it hard to open a cabinet or fridge all the way, or slide your chair back to stand up. 

Speeding through the flooring selection

This kitchen remodel mistake aligns with our previous warning about materials, but you should pay even more careful attention to the floor. Visualize traffic patterns in a new kitchen to anticipate areas of wear. 

Trying to save money on flooring can lead to a base that ages badly, quickly. Some more expensive materials aren’t up for a lot of activity or moisture, either.

Being unrealistic about storage

Prioritizing presentation over storage is a very common kitchen remodel mistake that homeowners pay to fix. Too much open shelving, large appliances, and wide clearances between counters and cabinets are taking away essential square footage you probably need. 

Putting too little thought into utilities

Considerations like ventilation and electrical outlet placement are frequently overlooked. Your new kitchen may look beautiful, but lingering smells and excess humidity make it a less pleasant sensory experience. Where you plug in countertop appliances will determine how much you enjoy using the kitchen, too.

Dragging your feet on appliances

It was nice of you to leave a slot for the stove, but now that it’s here, would you call that a seamless fit? In most cases, it’s not. Appliances should be selected with measurements confirmed early in the process, even if they’re arriving later. 

Ignoring the kitchen triangle

Sink, stove, refrigerator. Using these three components to form the kitchen triangle isn’t just some tradition to buck; it’s perhaps the most important kitchen design principle to exist. The ideal kitchen triangle for your workflow and space is a great foundation to build a functional kitchen off of.

Trying to DIY things you honestly shouldn’t

Even those with decent DIY experience have been broken by biting off more than they can chew during a kitchen remodel. The most DIY-friendly remodeling tasks, like demolition and painting, still require skill and patience. Unless you want to remodel your remodel, don’t cut corners on skilled labor. 

Not putting your stamp on it

This is another reason why good designers and contractors rarely rush through the planning process. Whether you’re trend-averse or anxious to have a kitchen that looks just like a certain picture, you might end up regretting a few choices. 

Consider elements that speak to your personal style. A particular type of hardware, a space for your plants, special seating for your family, or incorporating your very favorite color palette. A kitchen you’re happy with is ultimately one that feels like home. 

Thinking you don’t need a designer 

There’s no doubt that as a homeowner, your take (and taste) matters most. A designer helps build upon those ideas, introducing unique solutions for the areas you’re stuck on. They also know how to avoid every single kitchen remodel mistake we’ve shared today.

More than anything, designers help coordinate various stages of a kitchen remodel. They advocate for you when selecting materials, appliances, contractors, and more. 

Upcoming kitchen remodel? Your designer is waiting.  

If you could use an extra hand maximizing space, optimizing project phases, or finding more inspiration, The Designery has a team waiting to meet you. 

Get access to the best products and materials, experienced design professionals, and contractors focused on quality craftsmanship, all at the same time. Browse the stunning results for yourself and book your free consultation now.