What Not to Do in a Kitchen Remodel

Remodeling a kitchen is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming if you jump in without a plan. I’ve seen homeowners make choices they regret later, from skipping storage solutions to picking trendy materials that don’t last. As kitchen remodeling contractors in Seattle, we’ve fixed plenty of these mistakes, so today, I’m sharing what to avoid so your dream kitchen stays a dream and not a nightmare.

1. Ignoring Your Kitchen Workflow

One of the biggest mistakes I see is designing a kitchen that looks amazing but doesn’t function well. Ever heard of the kitchen work triangle? It’s the layout rule that connects your stove, sink, and refrigerator for easy movement. If these areas are too far apart, cooking feels like running a mini marathon.

As quoted by 2025 Houzz survey, most homeowners, about 64%, keep their kitchen the same size during a remodel. Around 35% choose to make it bigger, often by taking space from a dining room (29%) or even part of the living room (12%). A majority of homeowners cited improved layout and flow as their top reason for a kitchen remodel. Planning your workflow first saves you headaches later.

2. Choosing Trend Over Function

Trendy features can be tempting, but trends fade fast. I once had a client who insisted on a bright yellow backsplash because it was “so cheerful.” A year later, they called me to replace it with something neutral because it clashed with everything.

Focus on durable, timeless materials for things like countertops and cabinets, and use trends in small accents like bar stools or wall paint. Your future self will thank you.

3. Forgetting About Storage

You’d be surprised how many kitchens we remodel that have zero practical storage. Deep drawers for pots, pull-out trash bins, and vertical dividers for baking sheets make life easier.

If you’re doing a kitchen remodel in Bellevue WA, consider your lifestyle. Do you bake a lot? Host dinner parties? Storage should fit how you actually use your kitchen, not just how it looks in a showroom.

4. Poor Lighting Choices

Lighting makes or breaks a kitchen. I always suggest three layers of lighting:

• Ambient lighting for general brightness
• Task lighting for countertops and cooking
• Accent lighting for style

LED under-cabinet lights are a game changer. I’ve had clients tell me it feels like they got a brand-new kitchen just from adding proper lighting.

5. Skipping Proper Ventilation

Cooking smells are great when you’re hungry, but no one wants last night’s fish dinner lingering for two days. Poor ventilation is a mistake I see far too often.

A range hood that vents outside is ideal. According to Energy.gov, proper ventilation also reduces indoor air pollutants and moisture buildup, which protects your cabinets and walls.

6. Not Setting a Realistic Budget

I get it—Pinterest makes you want marble everything. But without a clear budget, costs can spiral. I’ve seen homeowners start with a $30,000 plan and end up at $50,000 because they kept adding last-minute upgrades.

Here’s a simple cost vs. value snapshot for an average Seattle kitchen remodel:

Remodel Type	Avg. Cost	Resale Value	% Return
Minor Kitchen Remodel	$28,000	$20,800	74%
Major Kitchen Remodel	$80,000	$48,000	60%
Luxury Upgrade	$130,000	$70,000	54%

Source: Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report

You can trust us for an affordable kitchen remodel Bellevue homeowners rely on for quality and style. We focus on creating a beautiful, functional kitchen without stretching your budget. However setting aside 10–15% of your budget for surprises is smart. Trust me, there’s always a surprise.

7. DIYing Complex Tasks

I love a good DIY project as much as anyone, but kitchens are tricky. Plumbing, electrical, and ventilation all need to be done right. I once got a call from someone who tried to install their own gas cooktop, let’s just say the fire department made a cameo.

Save DIY for painting or installing hardware. Leave the big stuff to the pros.

8. Ignoring Professional Advice

As someone who has remodeled countless kitchens, my team and I have learned what works and what doesn’t. Sometimes homeowners push back on suggestions because they “saw it on Instagram.” My advice, hear your contractor out. We’ve already seen what leads to regrets.

Hiring experienced contractors helps avoid costly mistakes, ensures code compliance, and saves time. Working with professionals like us for kitchen redesign in Bellevue is like having a guide through a maze—except this maze has countertops and cabinets.

If you’re ready to remodel, my team at TBH Sterling, INC can help make it fun and stress-free. We understand what delivers the best results because we’ve successfully handled every type of project. Visit our site and let’s talk about your dream kitchen before any mistakes happen.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

• What is the most common mistake when remodeling a kitchen?

Skipping proper layout planning. If your workflow isn’t smooth, cooking and cleaning will feel like a chore. A well-thought-out layout saves time, energy, and daily frustration in the kitchen.

• What is a reasonable budget for a kitchen remodel in Seattle?

Minor remodels start around $25,000 to $30,000, while high-end renovations can exceed $100,000 depending on size and finishes. Setting a clear budget early helps prevent unexpected costs and keeps the project on track.

• Do I need permits for a kitchen remodel?

Yes, if you’re moving plumbing, electrical, or walls. We handle permitting for our clients to keep things stress-free. This helps your remodel stay compliant with local codes and prevents hold-ups during inspections.

• How long does a typical kitchen remodel take?

It can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the project’s size and complexity. Larger projects with custom cabinetry or structural changes may take longer. Planning ahead with a clear timeline helps reduce stress and keeps the remodel moving smoothly.

• Should I hire a professional contractor or DIY my kitchen remodel?

Hire a professional for plumbing, electrical, and major construction. DIY small tasks like painting or installing cabinet hardware. This approach keeps your project safe, efficient, and up to professional standards.

• Does a kitchen remodel increase home value?

Absolutely. Kitchens and bathrooms are the top selling points for homes, and remodeled kitchens often recoup 60–75% of the investment. A beautiful, functional kitchen can also help your home sell faster in a competitive market.