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Chris Hollon Construction

Field note / Kitchens

The First Five Decisions in a Kitchen Remodel

A homeowner-first sequence for making kitchen layout, storage, appliance, lighting, and finish decisions.

Kitchen cabinet, tile, countertop, and hardware samples on a countertop
Kitchen cabinet, tile, countertop, and hardware samples on a countertop
Field note image

Kitchen choices are connected. Making them in the right order reduces rework and keeps the design focused on everyday use.

1. What stays and what changes?

Identify walls, windows, plumbing locations, and appliances that may move. Layout decisions have the largest effect on budget and schedule.

2. How does the room need to work?

Map everyday tasks, traffic, landing space, seating, and storage. A beautiful room also needs to be easier to use.

3. Which appliances come first?

Appliance dimensions affect cabinetry, electrical needs, ventilation, and clearances. Confirm them before final cabinet ordering.

4. Where does lighting belong?

Plan ambient, task, and accent lighting together. Under-cabinet lighting and well-placed controls are easiest to coordinate before walls close.

5. Which finishes carry the room?

Choose the anchor finishes first, then coordinate the supporting pieces. Avoid judging samples under showroom light alone.

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