The kitchen is the crown jewel of your home—and often the biggest budget item when it comes to remodeling. So why do so many renovations still end in regret?
Because homeowners tend to fall for one (or more) of the most common kitchen renovation mistakes: choosing materials before a layout is finalized, skipping lighting planning, misplacing appliances, or simply designing for Pinterest—not for how they actually cook, move, and live.
And each of those decisions can cost you thousands.
Mistake #1: Prioritizing Looks Over Layout
Yes, finishes are fun. Who doesn’t want to pick tile and countertops first? But that beautiful island or pendant light won’t matter if your layout doesn’t flow.
Every kitchen needs a clear work triangle between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. If one of those is blocked by an oversized island or poorly placed drawers, you’ll feel it every time you cook dinner.
Before choosing a single material, focus on your layout. Ask:
- How do I cook and clean in this space?
- Where will foot traffic come from?
- Do my cabinets and drawers open into each other?
If you need help answering those, consult an expert or browse our Kitchen Renovation Portfolio for examples of smart, seamless design.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Electrical and Lighting Plans
One of the most underestimated parts of a kitchen remodel is the lighting and electrical plan.
Homeowners often forget:
- Outlets for countertop appliances
- Proper task lighting over prep zones
- Ambient lighting for mood and entertaining
This usually means late-stage changes (read: extra charges) or poor visibility for years to come.
Avoid this mistake by looping in your electrician during the planning stage—and use a lighting layout that suits your daily routine.
For guidelines that follow industry best practices, see the NKBA’s Kitchen Planning Guidelines.
Mistake #3: Designing Without a Professional
You wouldn’t build a house without a blueprint. So why gut a kitchen without a plan?
Yet many homeowners jump into renovations with nothing more than a Pinterest board and a hope.
That’s where working with a designer pays off. A professional interior designer:
- Helps you visualize layout and scale
- Aligns style with practicality
- Flags expensive decisions before they’re made
- Keeps your budget and timeline realistic
At Commercial and Residential Contractors LLC, we guide you through every step—from layout to lighting to the finishes you’ve been dreaming of. You can learn more about how to hire the right interior designer right here on our blog.
Build Smarter, Not Harder
A stunning kitchen should be more than a collection of trends. It should work.
By planning smart, avoiding the most common kitchen renovation mistakes, and involving a pro early, you’ll avoid costly rework and enjoy a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
Ready to plan a kitchen that flows as well as it looks? Contact our team and let’s get started.