What you need to know before you start your kitchen renovation.
Remodeling a kitchen is an exciting yet overwhelming process, particularly if it’s your first time. The number of decisions can quickly become daunting, from hiring and coordinating contractors to selecting finishes and appliances. Hiring a project manager can be a game-changer, particularly if you don’t have a trusted network of professionals or if your property is a summer home or rental some distance from your primary residence. It’s important to be on-site when critical decisions need to be made, keeping the workflow moving forward. It is equally important to have the right team working on the project.
Why is a Project Manager a Smart Investment? These detailed projects can be very challenging, and a project manager reduces the stress by handling everything from scheduling contractors to ensuring the project stays on track. They communicate directly with tradespeople, manage unexpected challenges, and provide regular updates, so you’re always informed without being bogged down in the day-to-day details. A project manager is especially valuable for homeowners who live far from the reno property, as it ensures the project runs smoothly without frequent visits from the homeowner.
For those homeowners who will brave the project on their own, remember the big “O”! Organization, yes, I said it, and it is the key to a successful project. You’ll need to organize your lineup and coordinate multiple professionals, sometimes simultaneously. These professionals include:
✅ Electrician – To handle wiring, outlets, and lighting installations
✅ Plumber – For sink, dishwasher, and appliance connections
✅ Cabinet Company – To design and install cabinetry
✅ Interior Designer – To create a functional layout and coordinate a cohesive design
✅ Lighting Specialist – For task and ambient lighting planning
✅ Sheet Rocker & Painter – To finish walls after installation and paint
✅ Countertop Company – To source and install your chosen surface
✅ Flooring & Tile Installer – To complete the final look
The Selection Process: Decisions, Decisions!
Once the team is in place, the fun—but sometimes overwhelming—part begins: selecting finishes and all of the detailed design work. Homeowners will need to make decisions on the following:
Cabinet materials and colors
Countertop surfaces (granite, quartz, marble, concrete, etc.)
Backsplash materials, design, and grout color
Appliance styles and finishes
Lighting fixtures and placements for task lighting
Flooring type (tile, hardwood, laminate, etc.)
Hardware and faucet choices
With so many choices, it’s easy to get decision fatigue. Having a clear vision and working with a professional (whether an interior designer or project manager) can streamline the process and ensure a cohesive design. They will assist with making every decision to ensure the outcome is a beautiful, cohesive design for you to enjoy for many years to come.
Final Thoughts
A kitchen remodel is a significant investment; having the right plan makes all the difference. If you don’t have the time, experience, or ability to manage multiple contractors, hiring a project manager is the best way to ensure a smooth, stress-free renovation. But if you handle it yourself, be prepared to organize every step—from hiring the right team to making countless design decisions. Also, being prepared for troubleshooting issues as they come up is crucial during this process. Inevitably, it happens on every job, but an experienced project manager who assembles a great team of professionals handles all of the times of trouble and advocates for your interests. A project manager knows what your goals are and what your dreams are for the project. They work hard to ensure you get what you planned for from the onset of the project.
No matter which route you take, planning will set you up for success—and soon, you’ll be enjoying a beautifully transformed kitchen!
The following blog will tell you how much of your budget should be set aside for unexpected expenses, which will occur in every project.
Call us for all of your interior design and project manager needs.
