Thinking about remodeling your kitchen? A kitchen remodel can add serious value to your home and make it way more enjoyable to live in. But, there are some kitchen remodel mistakes that can cost you more in the long run.
With a little planning and a few hints, you can avoid most of the common kitchen remodeling mistakes people make.
Let’s break down the kitchen remodel do’s and don’ts.
Mistake #1: Ignoring the Kitchen Layout
One of the biggest kitchen renovation mistakes is not thinking through the layout. You might fall in love with that Pinterest-perfect modern kitchen photo with open shelves and aesthetically placed items, but if it doesn’t work for your space… it’s going to be a pain to live with.
Think about the “work triangle.” That’s the path between your stove, sink, and fridge. You don’t want to walk across the kitchen just to drain pasta. Keep things efficient.
👉 Tip: Before you commit to anything, sketch out your kitchen layout or better yet, talk to a professional kitchen remodeler who knows how to design a space that actually works.
Mistake #2: Going Cheap on the Cabinets
It’s tempting to cut costs with those big-box “budget” kitchen cabinets, but cabinets are one of the most used items in the kitchen. Opening and closing them multiple times a day, spills, slams, heat, steam… they’ve got a tough job.
Cheap cabinets might save money now, but you’ll pay for it later when doors warp, hinges snap, or drawers fall apart.
👉 Tip: Invest in quality cabinets, even if you have to wait a little longer to upgrade. It’ll pay off long term.
Mistake #3: Skimping on Lighting
Good lighting makes or breaks a kitchen. A lot of homeowners just toss a single fixture in the center of the ceiling and call it a day.
You need layers: overhead lights, task lighting (like under the cabinets), and maybe even accent lighting if you’re looking to add extra style.
👉 Tip: Light fixtures don’t have to cost a fortune, but plan for a few different sources so your kitchen feels warm, bright, and easy to work in day or night.
Mistake #4: Forgetting About Storage
Don’t let style ruin function. You’ll need dedicated space for those necessary but sometimes unslightly appliances like your blender, toaster, coffee mugs and condiments. Make sure you’re thinking about exactly how you want your storage to function and what items it needs to hide.
👉 Tip: Include a mix of open shelves and closed cabinets. And don’t forget the inside pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, or even a dedicated drawer for trash and recycling can make your kitchen way more user-friendly.
Mistake #5: DIYing Things That Shouldn’t Be DIYed
While DIY can be a handy way to save money during a remodel, it may not work for everything. When dealing with things like plumbing, electrical, gas lines, sometimes it best to leave that to the pros.
By hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor near you, like Gettum Remodeling,can actually save money by preventing costly errors.
👉 Tip: DIY what you can (maybe paint or demo), but don’t mess with the more technical items unless you know exactly what you’re doing.
Mistake #6: Following Trends Too Closely
One of the biggest kitchen design mistakes is getting swept up in trends that don’t match your home, your style, or your lifestyle.
👉 Tip: Aim for a balance, add trendy touches in ways that are easy to change (like lighting, hardware, or wall paint), and keep the big items like flooring and cabinets timeless.
Mistake #7: Not Setting a Realistic Budget
It’s easy to go overboard. Kitchen remodels can get pricey fast, especially if surprises come up – which sometimes happens.
👉 Tip: Add a cushion of at least 15–20% to your renovation project budget. That way, when things pop up and they will, you’re ready.
Mistake #8: Choosing Style Over Function
You fall in love with a cool stainless-steel appliance that doesn’t actually fit the space. Or a farmhouse sink that doesn’t match your countertop.
👉 Tip: Always ask yourself: “Will this make my life easier or harder?” Then make your design decisions around function first, style second.
Mistake #9: Hiring the Wrong Contractor
Hiring someone who cuts corners, disappears halfway through, or doesn’t listen to what you want can turn your dream kitchen into a nightmare.
👉 Tip: Ask for referrals. Read reviews. Interview a few friends and family before you pick. A professional kitchen remodeler will listen, communicate, and show up.
Mistake #10: Rushing the Process
You don’t have to pick everything in one weekend. Take your time. Look at samples in your own lighting. Think about how you actually use your kitchen.
Remodeling isn’t just about how things look. It’s about how they work and feel every single day.
Plan Smart. Remodel Right.
Kitchen remodels are exciting, but can be easy to mess up. Knowing the kitchen renovation mistakes to avoid can help you save time, money, and sanity. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern kitchen or something a bit more cozy, taking your time and working with the right people makes all the difference.
Need a hand or some guidance? Reach out to a professional kitchen remodeler near you and take that first step toward a space you’ll love for years to come.
Ready to Remodel Without Regret?
If you’re thinking about a kitchen remodel and want to avoid the mistakes most homeowners make, the team at Gettum Associates is here to help. We’ve been designing and remodeling kitchens across the Indianapolis area for decades, so we know what works, what doesn’t, and how to get it right the first time.
