Kitchen renovations deliver some of the best returns on investment. A mid-range kitchen remodel typically recoups 75% of its cost at resale. But without proper planning, costs can spiral quickly.
This guide covers everything you need to know before starting your kitchen renovation in 2025. From setting a realistic budget to choosing materials that last, we'll walk through each step of the process.
Setting Your Kitchen Renovation Budget
Your kitchen renovation budget depends on the scope of work and your location. Here's what to expect:
**Budget breakdown by renovation level:**
- Minor refresh ($10,000-$15,000): New paint, hardware, and lighting
- Mid-range remodel ($25,000-$50,000): New cabinets, countertops, and appliances
- Major renovation ($50,000-$100,000+): Full gut renovation with layout changes
**Where the money goes:**
- Cabinets: 30% of budget
- Labor: 25% of budget
- Appliances: 15% of budget
- Countertops: 10% of budget
- Flooring: 7% of budget
- Lighting and electrical: 5% of budget
- Other (permits, design, etc.): 8% of budget
Always add 15-20% contingency for unexpected issues. Old homes often hide surprises behind walls.
Realistic Timeline for Kitchen Renovations
A typical kitchen renovation takes 6-8 weeks of active work. But the full process from planning to completion often spans 3-6 months.
**Phase 1: Planning (4-8 weeks)**
- Finalize design and layout
- Get permits if needed
- Order cabinets (lead time: 4-12 weeks)
- Order appliances
**Phase 2: Demolition (3-5 days)**
- Remove old cabinets and countertops
- Demo flooring if needed
- Address any structural issues
**Phase 3: Rough work (1-2 weeks)**
- Electrical updates
- Plumbing rough-in
- HVAC modifications
**Phase 4: Installation (2-3 weeks)**
- Cabinet installation
- Countertop templating and install
- Appliance installation
- Flooring
**Phase 5: Finishing (1 week)**
- Backsplash
- Paint and trim
- Final electrical (outlets, switches)
- Punch list items
Kitchen Design Trends Worth Considering
Some trends add lasting value. Others date quickly. Here's what's working in 2025:
**Timeless choices:**
- Shaker-style cabinets in white, gray, or wood tones
- Quartz countertops (durable and low-maintenance)
- Large-format tile backsplash
- Mixed metals (matte black and brushed gold)
**Growing trends:**
- Hidden appliances with panel-ready fronts
- Oversized islands with seating
- Statement range hoods
- Integrated charging stations
**Skip these:**
- All-white kitchens (showing signs of dating)
- Open shelving everywhere (dust collectors)
- Trendy cabinet colors (stick to neutrals)
Common Kitchen Renovation Mistakes
Learn from others who've done this before:
**Budget mistakes:**
- Not getting multiple contractor quotes
- Skipping the contingency fund
- Choosing the cheapest cabinets (they don't last)
**Layout mistakes:**
- Ignoring the work triangle (sink, stove, fridge)
- Not enough counter space
- Poor lighting plan
**Timeline mistakes:**
- Starting demo before materials arrive
- Underestimating permit time
- Scheduling appliance delivery too early
**Pro tip:** Order your cabinets and appliances before starting any work. Lead times can be 8-12 weeks, and delays here stop everything.
A well-planned kitchen renovation pays for itself in both daily enjoyment and resale value. Start with a realistic budget, add contingency, and order materials early.
Want to visualize your new kitchen before committing? Try Archmaster's AI interior design tool to see different styles and layouts in your actual space.