Full-Scale Kitchen Remodel: Ideas, Tips, Costs, and Timelines

Full-scale kitchen remodeling is a transformative project that can completely upgrade your home’s overall style and look.

According to The Airoom Companies LLC, a firm that offers personalized Lincolnwood kitchen remodeling, full-scale kitchen remodeling is the most complex kitchen project and, therefore, requires proper planning for optimal results.

Full-scale kitchen remodeling ideas

A major kitchen remodel typically requires replacing many things in the kitchen to transform it into a better-functioning and more aesthetically pleasing haven. It is a project that usually excites homeowners interested in a customized space.

Redo your flooring

Upgrading the flooring can give your kitchen a different look and enhance the overall beauty of the remodeling project.

When choosing a perfect flooring type, there is no specific answer except that it all boils down to personal preference. Consider factors like comfort, durability, and care.

Some flooring options to choose from include:

Hardwood
Tile
Vinyl
Laminate
Cork
Concrete

Upgrade your appliances

When remodeling your kitchen, it is recommended that you change appliances that are halfway through their lifespan. Similarly, do not hesitate to replace any appliance that develops faults easily and replace it with a more durable brand or model.

When replacing your kitchen appliances, prioritize energy efficiency and also consider colors that blend with your overall theme for the remodeling. This also applies to any kitchen accessories you replace.

However, to reduce costs, only replace appliances you frequently use. For instance, if you barely use your full dishwasher, purchasing an energy-efficient dishwasher drawer to replace the old appliance might be a smart choice.

Change your countertops

Aside from being used during cooking, countertops also play a significant role in the overall look of a kitchen. A new countertop can bring life to any kitchen.

When choosing a countertop for your kitchen, ensure it is beautiful, functional, and durable. Some of the common countertop options are:

Granite
Quartz
Marble
Concrete
Soapstone
Tiles
Laminate
Butcher Block
Travertine
Stainless Steel

Install open shelves

Open shelving is one of the latest favorite kitchen trends, endorsed by many interior designers.

It is versatile and can easily blend into any kitchen style to upgrade the aesthetic without sacrificing functionality. With no dividers, unlike typical kitchen cabinets, open shelves offer more storage space.

If you possess vintage and custom dishes, open shelves can subtly help display them to visitors.

Replace or repaint cabinets

It is possible to combine open shelves and cabinets. Regardless, if you prefer cabinets, consider repainting the old ones to give them a brighter look or replacing them.

For a clean, sophisticated look, try neutral tones or a bright shade of white.

Add a kitchen island

A kitchen island provides additional workspace, a gathering center, and storage space in your kitchen. Adding a sink to your island can make it more functional.

However, when choosing your island, do not allow functionality to prevent you from choosing a design that perfectly complements and beautifies your kitchen. There are usually alternative options for all functionalities an island can handle.

Upgrade your lighting

The lighting of a kitchen can affect its functionality, look, and how you feel when spending time there.

Four layers need to be considered for proper illumination of your kitchen space.

Task: This lighting is installed to illuminate workspaces such as countertops where you prep your food.
Accent: They add depth and dimension to the kitchen environment.
Decorative: Even though they illuminate, they are mainly for decorative purposes. Examples include chandeliers and candlestick-type wall sconces.
Ambient: This lighting is used to set the tone for the kitchen and may influence your mood when using it.

Install stylish backsplashes

A backsplash is an extension of your countertop with the major function of preventing water splashes, grease splatters, and other messes that can occur during food production from damaging the wall.

It is also a decorative covering. Installing a stylish backsplash can make your kitchen more visually appealing.

Tips to make your kitchen remodeling project less stressful

Kitchen remodels can be exciting, but they can also be stressful if not well-planned.

Set a realistic budget

Decide on the maximum amount you can afford for the project, then check the cost of everything you will need to decide on things to do and what to remove. Set aside 20 percent as a budget for a contingency to ease stress if unforeseen costs arise.

Choose the right contractor

Ask your friends and family for recommendations of reputable contractors. Get quotes from several licensed and insured contractors. Check references and ask about their experience with similar projects.

Source design ideas

Check online and watch videos of full-scale kitchen remodeling projects for inspiration. Discuss with your contractor to finalize the perfect design style for your kitchen.

How much does a full-scale kitchen remodel cost?

Full remodels can cost between $42,000 and $60,500 or more. The project usually involves demolition, electrical work, plumbing, and other things that will help change the structural footprint of the kitchen space.

However, the total expense is primarily determined by the size of the space and the extent of the remodel.

Appliance: Between $400 to $600
Backsplash: Between $800 to $1,200
Cabinets: Between $300 to $500 per cabinet
Countertops: Between $1,000 – $2,500
Faucet: Between $300 to $550 each
Flooring: Between $1,500 to $3,000
Sink: Between $400 to $600

Full-scale kitchen remodels and home value

Spending on a kitchen remodel is more about personal taste and optimal comfort than improving home value. Meanwhile, there is growing interest in major kitchen upgrades among home buyers.

In 2023, a full-scale kitchen remodel was estimated to add only 41.8 percent to your home’s value. This has changed. The latest report for 2024 indicated it adds about 49.5 percent to your home value.

How long does a major kitchen remodel project last?

Do not be deceived by the home remodeling projects you watch on TV. They do not show every part of the process, thereby making it seem like something achievable in a few days.

In reality, a full-scale kitchen remodel can last for months, depending on the scope of the project. Discuss a temporary kitchen with your contractor, as you might be unable to make use of the kitchen during structural changes.