Yes, it is possible to live through a kitchen remodel, with a few key remodeling tips in hand

Remodeling your kitchen is a smart move and you’ll be pleased that you took the leap and did it. However, for a short time during the project, you might feel some…frustration, especially if you are accustomed to being at home most days.

It’s all manageable, however, and you’ll do fine if you know what to expect. It’s all about adaptability and making as many choices proactively as possible. Get things set up before it feels like an emergency. You’ll be inconvenienced for several weeks or so, if the project goes as planned. Sweeten outlines how to live through a kitchen remodel below.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Set up a temporary kitchen

Naturally, you’ll have to feed the family and clean up after meals and snacks, so you’ll need some sort of temporary kitchen. If you have room for a temporary kitchen, old dismantled kitchen cabinets could create a makeshift mini-kitchen space. Even some of the old countertop could be used.

If you don’t have an extra room, where can you carve out some space for, say, 2–4 weeks? You might use the patio/deck and grill for a lot of cooking and the default dining table, if the weather cooperates.

Moving the refrigerator to a space where it’s still usable is typically mandatory. Go over changes like these with the contractor so you don’t block a space they’ll need to access.

You might wonder if the fridge can move to the deck or patio, and it’s possible, but it’ll depend on the weather. Refrigerators have an ambient operating temperature range, and if the outdoor temperature goes below ~40 degrees, the compressor won’t run. If the compressor doesn’t run, then the freezer won’t work. Likewise, avoid setting a refrigerator in full sun. The heat will force the compressor to work much harder and more often, which will shorten its life.

Cooking without a normal kitchen

Cooking is really pretty easy. You can use a camp stove, toaster oven, microwave oven, instant pot, and/or grill for numerous meals. You probably can’t move and use your freestanding range, as they require a 240v outlet and dedicated circuit for power.

Staying at home during a kitchen remodel

If you are accustomed to being at home quite a bit, the process of construction might unnerve you. Naptime for the kids will be tough to keep going, as will any work duties you plan to accomplish. Going to the office a bit more may turn into an attractive option, along with coffee shops and shared office spaces.

Do the daily work hours work for you? Tradespeople often start early and their work is often noisy. If you like to sleep in, you will probably chafe at having workers at the house early in the morning, but that’s what it takes—temporarily.

Talk with your contractor about the daily schedule to set shared expectations. Surprises happen and everyone has to roll with them. An organized and professional contractor will set you up as well as possible.

Living in a hotel during the remodel

Another option that has unique benefits is staying at a hotel. You can choose a standard stay or an extended-stay suite, which may even have a mini-kitchen. These offer clear and compelling advantages: low commitment and high flexibility, as in booking and leaving with little notice.

Cost may seem high but it may be well worth it to avoid the chaos of living in a remodeling zone. You will have to live somewhere during the work, so a hotel could be just part of the project budget.

Create a contingency plan to cover surprises

Finally, have a contingency budget plan of 10-15% if something goes awry. The worst-case scenario would be something like discovering asbestos or mold, which must be professionally remediated. Those professionals are specialty crews, not your contractor or subcontractors. That could stop other work until they are done. There’s no good way to estimate how long that work could take, but your general contractor will know how to find the experts and rearrange the schedule and sequencing.

Other common scenarios are occasional shortages of materials or mistakes in ordering or fulfillment. Special-order items, for example, can be subject to delays. Luckily, a good contractor can peruse your plan and spot potential bottlenecks quickly, but it’s good to be prepared.

There’s a lot to consider for a kitchen remodel, but the hassle is temporary and the benefit is long term. With preparation and a flexible mindset, you’ll be on the way to your dream kitchen.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

In this Hoboken home remodel, a kitchen and bathroom modernize with black, white, and wood

“After” photos by Jeffrey Rosenberg Photography for Sweeten

• Homeowners: Danielle and Michelle Dobrusin found their general contractor by posting their Hoboken home remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Hoboken, New Jersey
• Primary renovation: Gut redos of both kitchen and bath for their new condominium in a converted 19th-century schoolhouse
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovators with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Written in partnership with homeowners Danielle and Michelle

Remodeling a converted condo in Hoboken, New Jersey

We purchased our home in June 2020, a 1,100-square-foot condominium in a former 1800s schoolhouse. The downtown Hoboken, NJ building was converted into condos 30 years ago, and we love its character—our apartment has 24-foot ceilings with original wood beams.

We are Danielle, an attorney, and Michelle, a human resources manager, and our plan was to move here with our two cats, Sylvia and Eleanor. We knew going into the purchase that we would renovate the kitchen and bath. Both needed a facelift. We posted our project on Sweeten, with accurate specs, and soon got responses from contractors interested in working with us. It wasn’t long before we found a contractor we felt was a great fit.

Our goals for the renovation were easy to convey, since the existing rooms’ shortcomings were obvious. The kitchen was closed off from the rest of the living area and outdated—we wanted to open it up and connect it to the living area. It was not only badly designed, but in poor condition, too. The cabinets were falling apart; we had to lift one of the doors with a foot to open or close the dishwasher. The bathroom was also in bad shape, with cracked tiles and water damage.

A black kitchen, bold yet neutral

We wanted our remodel to be clean, modern, and simple, but still a statement. In 5 to 10 years, it should still look updated. We chose black cabinets and other features because they would stand out and look timeless. Neutral tones would complement decorative accents, and we like the clean feeling of white surfaces. We also wanted natural elements that would tie to the condo’s existing wood floors and warm up the space. We felt the palette would come together to create a modern, edgy vibe.

Our objectives in the kitchen included opening the room, increasing storage, and tailoring the cabinets and drawers to our specific needs. Seating would be added to the design to keep the cook company during dinner prep.

In planning the layout, the inclusion of base cabinets with drawers to maximize storage was important to us. We wanted, too, to add a pantry, which the kitchen did not previously have; we managed to fit it in just right of the fridge. We were excited to find matte black cabinets—they look expensive but were more affordable than traditional cabinets, and almost as customizable. Plus, they’re made from recycled plastic! The wooden floating shelves add not only a natural touch but easy-access storage for dishes and glasses.

Creating a home baker’s kitchen

The plan also included new appliances and we decided to splurge on a high-end package. Danielle is an avid baker and successfully jumped on the sourdough bandwagon when the pandemic began—she loves being able to preheat the oven from her phone. We were set on a full-size fridge with an ice maker. We also fit in the world’s smallest wine refrigerator, at about six inches wide. We don’t drink much but love to have a few cold bottles on hand—this fridge holds seven.

Wallpaper and black paint for a bathroom

For the bathroom, we wanted to go simple and coordinate with the kitchen. We wanted the space to feel connected, and to that end, we kept to a similar neutral color scheme and same tile shapes. We installed a glass shower, knowing that the transparent walls would make this space feel bigger. In any case, we already have a tub upstairs. We went with a statement wallpaper. We thought it made sense to go playful in the small bathroom. 

What we did participate in was shopping for all of our materials, creating our vision and the end result!

Managing during the home remodel

As first-time renovators, we were unsure about the timing of various phases and what the overall costs would be. We talked about when the materials, which we sourced on our own, needed to come. During the renovation, we retreated to Danielle’s parents’ home in Arizona. The condo is an open loft and isn’t conducive to phone calls—we didn’t think it would be possible to live, work, and renovate from home. What we did participate in was shopping for all of our materials, creating our vision and the end result!

It was hard not being able to see the project’s daily progress, and to step back from our inclinations to micro-manage. But we did. We communicated our choices and concerns to our Sweeten contractor, from afar, usually over texts or on phone calls. Our contractor was patient and sent pictures as progress updates. Along the way, we learned the importance of communicating—ask questions and tell your contractor what you want, as you are your best advocate.

Since we had a great relationship with our contractor, and we made all of the budgetary and design decisions, we didn’t end up needing to use some services Sweeten had to offer. Still, we were grateful for the match with a contractor we knew was vetted. We felt peaceful knowing that Sweeten had our back if an issue were to arise.

Tips on staying on budget

If we had one piece of advice to share, it would be about the budget. Figure out what your limit is—the one that you can actually afford. From there, expect a few unexpected costs. Go through your projection line by line with your contractor and be clear about what isn’t included in their quote. If money is a concern, pick a few pieces you’re in love with to splurge on and go for more affordable options for everything else. We paid about $50,000 for both rooms, all-inclusive of work and materials. We went for the pricier appliance package, which cost about $8k.

It’s such an incredible feeling to transform a space into exactly what you want and what you need. We’ve never experienced that before. We now understand the appeal. Amazing! At home! It was worth every penny.

Thank you, Danielle and Michelle, for sharing the results of your Hoboken home remodel with us!

Renovation Materials:

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Cement Nord hex porcelain tile: Tile Shop. Meringue II Canvas polished ceramic tile: Floor and Decor. Precis Silgranit 23″ L x 18″ W undermount kitchen sink in white: Wayfair. Matte black Delta Lenta Touch2O pull-down kitchen faucet: Lowes. Counter-depth 23.1 cu. ft. matte black fingerprint-resistant smart French door refrigerator: Home Depot. Cafe fingerprint-resistant built-in 24” dishwasher with 45 dBA in matte black: Home Depot. Matte black 30” slide-in smart double oven gas range with self-cleaning convection: Home Depot. Seven-bottle 5.8” touchscreen wine cooler: VinoTemp. Maple floating shelf with hidden bracket: Ultrashelf. Kungsbacka cabinets; Hackas knobs and pulls: IKEA. Calacatta Laza countertop: MSI.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Cement Nord hex porcelain tile: Tile Shop. Meringue II Canvas polished ceramic tile: Floor and Decor. Wrought Studio Aminata 30” single bathroom vanity set: Wayfair. American Standard Clean 2-piece WaterSense toilet in white: Lowes. Lady Body wallpaper: Chasing Paper. Linden toilet paper holder and hook: Pottery Barn. Gardenia 2-spray shower panel in black matte; framed fixed glass shower screen: Vigo. Modland single hole bathroom faucet; Miki traditional accent mirror: Wayfair.  Semi-flush mount ceiling light with 6 bulbs: Amazon.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

A remodel in a Jackson Heights co-op delivers an open floor plan, kitchen peninsula, and spa bathroom

“After” photos by Kate Glicksberg for Sweeten

• Homeowners: Dia, a personal trainer, and Alex, a technology executive posted their pre-war co-op remodel on Sweeten
• Where: Jackson Heights in Queens, New York
• Primary renovation: A full-scale remodel of a three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in a 1920s co-op building, including gut remodels of both kitchen and bath
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.
  

Written in partnership with homeowner Alex

Keeping their Jackson Heights remodel in view—for years

We purchased our co-op roughly three years before embarking on the renovation. Our goal was to totally revamp the apartment into open-plan spaces, while preserving its period features. Like many pre-war homes, it had a lot of small rooms. I think our result is proof that, even if there’s no perfect moment to remodel, intensive planning pays off.

Keeping historic details

The 1,400-square-foot unit is located in a 1921 historical-district co-op in Jackson Heights, Queens. The place hadn’t been touched since the 1970s and was in rough shape. But there were nice original details, like beautiful wood floors with inlaid borders and a period fireplace. It needed a significant overhaul.

Dia and I didn’t rush it. We’d rented in the neighborhood for a couple of years to make sure we liked the area—and we did. After finding the co-op, we wanted to take our time and put our stamp on it. We spent almost two years planning the remodel. By the time we were ready to proceed, Dia was pregnant with our daughter, Madeleine. We were eager to get the job done, and ready to pick up the pace. 

In-depth research and planning 

We posted our project on Sweeten. We made clear in our overview that we were ready to obtain our co-op board approvals, navigate the permitting, order materials, and get started. By then we’d spent a lot of time planning the layout, materials, and finishes. We had 40 pages of diagrams, renderings, and materials lists. 

Five or six Sweeten contractors came for site visits and gave us estimates. Right away, one stood out. He had printed out our mammoth set of plans (which he jokingly referred to as “the bible”), came armed with excellent questions, spoke knowledgeably about what would and would not be possible given NYC building codes, and gave us a detailed and reasonable estimate. We knew immediately that we wanted to hire him.

A gut remodel with an extensive to-do list 

Going in, we made sure the contractor understood that we had a specific vision, and that we were demanding. We planned to open the kitchen, living, and dining rooms, build a modern kitchen, renovate both bathrooms to spa standards, and add closet space. At the same time, we intended to keep original details, and even increase them by adding period chandeliers and other fixtures that would complement the co-op’s 1920s style.

Our renovation scope was specific. It included replacing and relocating the breaker box, and installing new switches and sockets. We wanted to remove several unnecessary walls, and rebuild two walls and two water-damaged window encasements. We requested new baseboards and crown moldings. In the kitchen, we planned to add a peninsula, a custom pantry, and a sideboard. We wanted to build closets in the bedrooms and entryway, as well as custom cabinets and radiator covers. We’d paint every room and refinish the floors.

Problem solving with the general contractor team

Several miracles occurred in the kitchen. When we removed a wall to make way for the new peninsula, it resulted in a break in the floor inlay, but the floor subcontractor recreated the multi-wood pattern so skillfully that you can’t tell what is original and what is new. Our appliance vendor’s repeated delivery delays caused a need for our countertops to be installed before the appliances. Our Sweeten contractor got them in when they arrived, despite incredible difficulty—installing our refrigerator even required removing the baseboard temporarily.

Our initial instincts about planning carefully were validated, but the process also taught us to always have a Plan B.

When our single-piece sideboard countertop was too big for the elevator, the guys carried them up five flights of stairs. And when the new electrical box occupied the former microwave place, the cabinetmaker came up with a built-in pantry, designed with an interior cutout to fit the oven.

In our bathroom, we had other inspired solutions. We wanted to move the toilet but a steel beam prevented placement in the new rough-in location. Our contractor proposed a wall-hung toilet that freed up space for it to stay in the original location and squeezed in a vanity, which wasn’t possible with the traditional commode. Thanks to supply-chain disruptions during Covid-19, we ended up sourcing bathroom tile other than that from our original wishlist—and the manufacturer offered no coordinating trim. Our general contractor found a trim that matched and drove more than 700 miles to collect every piece they could find.

Homeowners share their renovation advice

As first-time renovators, our biggest questions from the beginning were about how to manage the many subcontractors and aspects of the work happening simultaneously. But our Sweeten contractor pulled it all together. Our initial instincts about planning carefully were validated, but the process also taught us to always have a Plan B. We certainly learned the value of picking the right contractor—one who inspires confidence and keeps your best interests at heart.

We couldn’t have asked for a more professional and dedicated team. At the start, he helped us gather the necessary co-op board sign-offs and connected us with an architect. He managed the permitting process seamlessly, despite NYC Department of Buildings changes during Covid-19. At every step, our general contractor went above and beyond to help us realize our vision.

I’m not sure anyone comes in under budget in a renovation. We didn’t, but we stayed roughly in line with our expectations. There was a payoff, in any case. Our beautiful result! Even having done the project six months after having our baby and during a pandemic, we feel peaceful. We are in love with our home.

Thanks for sharing your Jackson Heights co-op remodel story with us, Dia and Alex.

Renovation Materials

KITCHEN RESOURCES: Wall paint in Cascade White Eggshell, lower cabinet paint in Space Black, and top cabinet paint in Snow White: Benjamin Moore. Kitchen cabinets: Custom through contractor. Julian cabinet pull: Liberty Hardware. Countertops: LX Hausys. Ivy Hill Pacific White Shells Pearl Mosaic backsplash tile: The Home Depot. Signature Hardware Mitzy 36” farmhouse sink and Pfister Mystique kitchen faucet in polished chrome: Build.com. GE Energy Star french-door refrigerator: The Home Depot. Bosch 800 DLX Series dishwasher: Appliances Connection. Cafe CGY366P2MS1 36” freestanding all gas range: Appliances Connection. Hadley 12’’ flush mount ceiling light: Antique store purchase. American Lighting LED under-cabinet light: Amazon.

BATHROOM RESOURCES: Daltile bathroom floor tile and Marble Attache Lavish 12” x 24” wall tile: Build.com. Shelf brackets in Aged Brass: Rejuvenation. Delta robe shower hook in Brilliance Stainless: Build.com. Hansgrohe Raindance shower head in chrome, GROHE Chrome Rotaflex 59” hand shower hose, and Hansgrohe Raindance S 100 air 3-jet rain handheld showerhead: Wayfair. Grohe Grohtherm 2000 thermostatic valve in brushed nickel: Plumbers Stock. Kohler Artifacts 30” shower slidebar: Wayfair. Kohler Bancroft bathtub faucet in polished chrome: Ferguson. Shower glass doors: Custom through contractor. Sunroom bathroom sink: Signature Hardware. Paulmier 16” sink: Appliance Connection. Main bathroom sink- Scarabeo 9007 by Nameeks rectangular vessel sink: The Bath Outlet. Vanity: Custom through contractor. Vanity paint in Snow White: Benjamin Moore. Kohler Wellworth toilet: Wayfair. WAC lighting vector LED 4 light fixed rail: Lights Online. Minka George Kovacs 2-light vanity light in gold: Build.com. Greyleigh Weslaco beaded medicine cabinet: Wayfair. 

LIVING ROOM RESOURCES: Minka Aire 54” fan: Wayfair.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Six open concept kitchen ideas by Sweeten imbue space, flow, and natural light

When asked what they want in a kitchen remodel, many homeowners echo the same idea: an open-concept kitchen. Gone are the days of the kitchen being cordoned off. No more swinging doors or small entryways. Renovators want big, open spaces that connect the kitchen to the dining area and sometimes to the living room, too. It is a modern concept that is both inviting and multifunctional. It also can give a smaller space the appearance of more square footage.

Here, a look at six open concept kitchen ideas from Sweeten renovations that make kitchens the star of the remodel. 

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

A soaring ceiling for the win

Ann looked for a contractor for two years to update her dark and dated kitchen in East Hampton. She wanted a space that was welcoming and large enough to accommodate her family and guests. A place that felt open and airy and just enjoyable to be in. She finally pulled the trigger on the renovation after finding a contractor through Sweeten. They teamed up to create the bright, airy kitchen of Ann’s dreams.

Ann knew she wanted the faux-brick backsplash and dark cabinetry replaced with lighter, more modern options. To go along with that contemporary update, Ann also decided to remove the wall between the dining area and cook space. But the ultimate game-changer was the detail her contractor recommended: a cathedral ceiling. Bumping up the ceiling added a feeling of spaciousness far above and beyond just taking down a wall. It gives the space a grand appearance and regal style. “I just love having the open space, where everyone can sit and hang out together,” Ann said.

A galley kitchen opens up

Elizabeth and Martin lived in their Bronx home for a year-and-a-half before they decided to renovate. It was time. They were tired of the small, inefficient 124-square-foot galley kitchen. They wanted more natural light. To make this happen, their Sweeten contractor took down the wall between the kitchen and entryway. He also removed a partial wall between the kitchen and dining, effectively connecting the two.

Since the kitchen was still on the smaller side, they had to get creative with storage. They included a peninsula breakfast bar that seats four to six and features additional storage. Glass-front cabinets, a microwave cabinet, and a built-in paper towel holder are all prime examples of their extra storage solutions. “We wanted to make the most of our floor space, have an open layout, and have comfortable dimensions for navigating the kitchen,” said Elizabeth. Mission accomplished.

Flooring that ties it all together

Like many, living through the pandemic made Amy and Kevin re-evaluate their living situation. The conclusion? It was time to make the move to get more space. So they purchased a 1950s home in Los Angeles, California. From the get-go, they knew it needed to be remodeled to fit their work-from-home lifestyle. In addition to turning two of their three bedrooms into office space, they wanted to rethink their kitchen and living room.

Their Sweeten contractor recommended widening the kitchen doorway and removing part of the six-foot wall to help the L-shaped kitchen flow. This opened the kitchen up to the living area. To unify the two spaces that were now one, they chose white-oak engineered hardwood in eight-inch planks. They felt this would showcase the oak’s natural grain and make the house’s interior feel more cohesive. In addition, they created a nook for the refrigerator in the peninsula area. This gave them the additional room to add a large pantry—a must-have for most renovators. “The result is a gorgeous home with space for both of us to do our things,” says Amy. “I’m so happy!”

A more kid-friendly remodel

Samantha is a stay-at-home mom and Jameson is an executive at a creative agency. They loved their Clinton Hill, Brooklyn co-op but it wasn’t optimal for their family of four. The couple wanted a space that was more kid-friendly. “ We wanted the whole apartment to be social, conducive to entertaining, and hanging out,” said Samantha. To achieve this they decided to renovate. They opened the kitchen to the living room. This way Samantha can see the family in the living room while she’s cooking in the kitchen. Plus, they added a breakfast counter with a cut-out. It serves as the perfect setting for homework—a win-win as Samantha can be doing dishes or prepping meals while she helps the kids with their school work. 

They also rethought their old layout. They switched the dining area, which was previously by the window, with the living room sofa to make the table easily reachable. Samantha says her new open-concept kitchen is “an absolute pleasure.”

A tight New Jersey home gains valuable kitchen space

When this Sweeten renovator and his wife moved to Montclair, New Jersey, they knew the home they bought needed a lot of updates. The kitchen was one of the first projects on their list. The house was almost a hundred years old and it looked its age. It was small, with “looming” cabinets all around. There were only eight feet of usable counter space. And the stove looked like it was out of a 1940s movie. Not to mention the cracked “McDonald’s” tiles (red terracotta tiles that are found in some older McDonald’s restaurants). 

The goal of the renovation was to gain square footage and a better layout. Their Sweeten contractor’s plan was to tear down two walls. One had an old butler’s pantry. By removing it, they gained 18 square feet of space. That was enough to add an island. They also turned the unused cellar entryway into a walk-in pantry. The other wall that they removed was between the kitchen and dining room. Once it was down, the kitchen really took shape—their open-concept kitchen idea transformed the first floor with improved flow and natural light.

An open concept kitchen idea joins minimalism with functionalism

Roxana and Gabriel loved their Long Island City, Queens, apartment, especially the 15-foot ceilings. They reveled in the natural light that beamed in. What they didn’t love, however, was the functionality or feel of their already-open kitchen. It didn’t match their Scandinavian style and had little to no counter space. They wanted a more open space with integrated appliances, clean lines, and minimal clutter.

They worked with a Sweeten contractor and used the IKEA kitchen design tool to develop a new layout. The result is a gorgeous space with a walnut matte finish. The kitchen is seamlessly integrated into the living and dining area, with no walls to be seen anywhere. This open kitchen concept idea lets the family cook, dine, and hang out with ease all together. “It feels modern, calm, and welcoming,” said the couple. “It fits our needs and it feels like home.”

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

This well-timed Bed-Stuy remodel preserves an inherited family home for years to come

“After” photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten

• Homeowners: A young couple posted their Bed-Stuy remodel on Sweeten to revitalize their townhouse
• Where: Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY
• Primary renovation: Outfit their 1,500-square-foot Bed-Stuy home with a new kitchen, bath, and open-concept living area
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Reimagining the Bed-Stuy home for family life

This Bedford-Stuyvesant home once belonged to the homeowner’s grandmother. The home came with fond memories of her childhood, so she happily inherited it. However, as the townhouse had been built in the early 20^th century, it needed a lot of work. She would remodel it to accommodate the needs of her own family. They planned for an open concept layout, with open sightlines to keep the family together while in different rooms. To modernize the spaces, they’d outfit their dream kitchen and bathroom with new, state-of-the-art appliances and finishes.

She turned to Sweeten to find a contractor she’d be comfortable with handling this important renovation. She posted her project and found the right contractor with experience in old-home remodels. They signed the contract and the work began!

Necessary behind-the-wall updates

First, fixing the systems behind the walls had to be done to support updated materials and appliances. The plumbing had corroded and was located in inefficient places. The electrical also needed to be upgraded. Their Sweeten contractor found improperly connected wires in the ceiling, which posed a fire hazard. The subfloor had to be ripped out, and the joists had to be reinforced to keep the kitchen floor from collapsing.

All this work made the kitchen functional and safe. The design aesthetic came next. The homeowner chose a contemporary combination of white cabinets along the kitchen perimeter, and gray base cabinets for the island. The owners selected quartz countertops for the work surface, due to their reasonable price point and durability. The island became the focal point of the room, which also featured deliberate pops of color, like the must-have bright red range. Other features, such as a gold-finish pot filler, pull-out storage cabinets, and a built-in wine rack, completed the look.

New layout and features

The rest of the Bed-Stuy home benefited from the remodel, too. Their contractor removed a wall between the kitchen and living area to open up the flow. They also installed new wood floors, along with all-new recessed lights, a closet, and a front door. Another addition: a new laundry room, which replaced an existing screened-in porch area. The contractor fully outfitted the laundry room—from reconstructing electrical, plumbing, and insulation to subflooring and venting.

Rejuvenating the master bathroom

Like the kitchen, the master bathroom would become her dream bathroom. As a mom, it would be her sanctuary. A standalone tub would give her the chance to unwind. The construction crew faced a challenge: nestling the tub into a tight niche without damaging or touching the walls. But the crew completed the task handily, with the result being an inviting clawfoot oasis, flanked on one end by a custom vanity. In a nod to wainscoting, the team installed the bathroom tile halfway up the wall.

Working with the right contractor

For this nostalgic renovation, the homeowner saw and worked with her Sweeten contractor for months. Fortunately, she found the right partner who understood her vision. This partnership allowed them to communicate throughout the process and solve problems when issues arose. A solid working bond between the client and Sweeten contractor formed, so much so, when it looked like their renovation would not be done in time for Thanksgiving, their contractor invited them to celebrate with his family. Luckily, their new home is now ready to create brand new memories for years to come.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration, and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Modern kitchen backsplash ideas with budget, maintenance, and functionality in mind

How to get started on your modern kitchen backsplash ideas

You’ve decided to renovate your cookspace. Where should you begin? There are plenty of factors to consider, from the scope of the project to how you want the backsplash to function. You’ll also decide on the professionals who will guide you and handle the measuring and installation. Sweeten breaks down the elements, whether you’re considering budget ideas or feature walls.

It’s important to go into your project with a general idea of what your needs are. Is there a heavy emphasis on the budget? Do you want an extremely durable material or have ongoing maintenance concerns on your mind? Are you curious what goes into a more complex backsplash project? Once the budget, materials, and project scope are more clear, you can bring your modern kitchen backsplash ideas to life.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free. Learn more about how Sweeten works.

(Top photo) Deanna and Daria’s green subway backsplash. (Above) Amanda’s arabesque-pattern backsplash.

What is the budget for the backsplash material?

Whether you’re looking to keep material costs low or don’t mind spending a little extra, here are a few options for each of these considerations.

Ceramic tile kitchen backsplash

Ceramic tile comes in a variety of shapes and colors, making it a good place to start your material search. On the lower end of the budget spectrum, you may want to consider a subway tile backsplash. Ceramic subway tile, known for being both affordable and classic, comes in around $3 a square foot. Classic doesn’t have to be boring, though. Consider arranging bright white tiles in a different pattern, such as herringbone, to change the aesthetic of the entire room.

(Above) Sweeten homeowners’ Jenn + Jon’s chevron pattern

Porcelain tile kitchen backsplash

A close second in the low-to-mid range budget area is porcelain tile. Coming in at around $3–$5 a square foot, porcelain is stain and water-resistant, but is very fragile during installation. Similar to ceramic, porcelain comes in a large variety of different sizes, colors, and shapes. If you decide on porcelain tile, be sure to hire a professional with experience in working with this delicate material.

Brick kitchen backsplash

In the mid-range cost per square foot, brick veneer can bring a warm and inviting feel to your kitchen. Coming in at around $9 a square foot, this material gives your kitchen a unique backdrop reminiscent of a cozy coffee shop.

Marble tile kitchen backsplash

If you have a larger budget, you could consider using a natural stone such as marble. Marble is a beautiful material to use for a kitchen backsplash, creating a more polished look and feel. This higher-end material will cost you somewhere between $25–$30 a square foot. Bear in mind that because marble slabs or tile and natural stone are generally more porous than other materials, this could mean more maintenance in the long run.

Most durable materials

Metal tiles are a unique and durable option for a working kitchen. The surface is easily cleaned and resistant to most kitchen messes, like water and food splash-back. Metal may be a good option if you want something low-maintenance without sacrificing your sense of style.

If you love the look of natural stone, but worry about the durability, consider using granite. Granite is an extremely resistant natural stone often used in countertops but also works well as a stone backsplash material. It is easy to clean and only requires occasional maintenance such as re-sealing and polishing. It’s a great durable option for a natural stone look that you could even coordinate to match your countertops.

Low-maintenance backsplash ideas

In a kitchen with a lot of daily usage and traffic, consider a backsplash material that is resistant against things such as food stains, heat, or water. Glass tile is modern, easy to clean, and non-porous, and at around $7 a square foot, really affordable. The peel-and-stick variety is also very common, which generally means you can find it at a good price. Glass tile is low maintenance and does not require anything special to clean. It’s a great backsplash option for busy people who don’t have the time to do a lot of deep cleaning.

Another low-maintenance backsplash option is slabs of stone such as quartz. Stone slabs have fewer seams, and thus, less grout to keep clean. Quartz slabs are particularly popular because they give a marble-style aesthetic for less than the cost of actual marble. If quartz isn’t your thing, consider other slab backsplash options like soapstone or solid-surface.

If you are interested in a stone slab backsplash like quartz, expect to pay somewhere in the range of $65-$80 a square foot.

Tip: To cut down on expenses during a kitchen remodel, utilize leftover slab pieces from your countertop replacement for your backsplash.

Modern kitchen backsplash ideas make a statement

This vertical surface is the centerpiece of your kitchen; why not make it a feature wall? Consider a detailed ceramic-tile backsplash using one to two-inch tiles. The tiles are small enough to arrange in several different designs, and you can use alternating colors and shapes to create a piece of art right in your kitchen.

Natural stone can also be used to create a mosaic-style backsplash. Use different-sized pieces and combine them to fit naturally against each other.

(Above) Sweeten homeowners’ Nilda + Brian’s renovation

Adding a patterned tile or mosaic-style kitchen backsplash will increase your labor costs, so you should take into consideration an additional $17–$20 per square foot. More complex designs will cost more in labor due to the intricacies of laying the tile. To save some money in labor costs, you could opt to create a small section of tile artistry. Consider a square cut-out with different colored tiles in the middle of your regular backsplash tiles. This could be placed in a focal-point area above your stove or sink, depending on the layout of your kitchen. You could also decide to lay rectangular tiles in a linear style, which will typically cost less in installation because it is generally less time-consuming.

Ordering the right quantity

When purchasing the materials for a piece of intricate backsplash art, large or small, measurements become crucial. Have a design plan for the area in the form of a sketch or inspiration picture, and measure everything as accurately as possible. This can get complicated quickly, so it’s best to ask your general contractor for guidance rather than undertaking an intensive project by yourself.

Kitchen backsplash material considerations take time and careful planning. Know what your budget is and what materials work best for your lifestyle. It is the first place to start towards your dream cook space.

A note on fixture and appliance deliveries: If you’re on a tight timeline, Appliances Connection has over 50,000 items in stock and ready to ship nationally. If you’re in the NY/NJ metro area, in-stock items typically deliver within 2-3 days.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

These classic Colonial kitchen renovations show interiors ready for modern-day life

(Above) The 1919 Colonial of Sweeten homeowners Amanda and Cory

The quaintness of Colonial-style homes is undeniable. Usually marked by two or three stories and brick or wood facades, these dwellings are traditionally found on the east coast. They are typically characterized by a simple almost minimalist shape. The floor plan keeps the kitchen and dining room on the first floor with bedrooms on the second. And while some have open-concept layouts, it is more common to see separation between rooms. They are also easy to remodel by adding on to the side or back.

Here, we look at three Colonial kitchen renovations by Sweeten—examples of their older interiors redone to bring in modern style and conveniences.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Bringing a Tudor Colonial into the next century

Built in 1912, Nilda and Brian’s Tudor Colonial in Westchester County, NY, desperately needed a remodel. The 4,400-square-foot home featured a kitchen that was last updated almost 60 years ago. It was time for a change. “The floor was three inches off-level,” says Nilda. “You could peek through the floor to the basement.” 

The couple hired a Sweeten contractor for the remodel. To honor the historic style, they maintained some separation between the kitchen and the other living spaces. New cabinets, flooring, and lighting updated the look. They also opened up the back wall to install a patio door. 

They kept a traditional feel by opting for Shaker cabinets in a modern gray color. The butler’s pantry also keeps the turn-of-the-century vibe but with a contemporary twist.

A Colonial Revival home gets rejuvenated

Fiske Terrace, Brooklyn, is a quiet enclave built at the turn of the 20th century. Interestingly, the Flatbush neighborhood is filled with Colonial Revival homes. So when Nydia and Jonathan bought their 3,240-square-foot home in 2012, they decided to renovate. But at the time, they put off the larger renovation of the outdated kitchen. 

Eventually, they turned to Sweeten to find the right contractor for their old-home renovation. They wanted to take advantage of the natural light the house afforded. However, like in many other Colonial home renovations, the small windows blocked out the light. As a solution, they replaced them with white-framed ones. In addition, they updated the kitchen with gray-blue cabinets and brushed gold accents. These design choices make the aesthetic modern yet still warm and inviting. The bonus? The exposed brick from the chimney area brings even more character.

From challenged to Colonial charming 

Dated salmon-colored Formica didn’t stop Amanda and Cory from buying their 1919 Colonial home. For a while, they actually found it charming. However, they knew eventually it needed to be renovated. They hired a Sweeten contractor to update the kitchen to accommodate their family’s needs. 

On their list of goals was creating a better flow of traffic and light. A challenge of renovating Colonial homes is their notorious separation of rooms. The main entrance to the kitchen by way of the dining room was too narrow. As a result, it isolated the kitchen. But taking down the wall felt disrespectful to the house’s character, so instead, they simply widened and centered it.  

Like a lot of Colonials, there was some asymmetry in the house. One example was the sheetrock box-beam in the kitchen. They assumed it encased something hard to move, so they left it. However, they fixed the problem by giving it a matching beam which created symmetry. 

“Our new space makes us feel happy,” says Amanda. “It feels so harmonious with the rest of our beautiful old Colonial home.”

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Want to start a kitchen remodel successfully? Start by gathering details and staying flexible

(Above) Laura + Randy’s Sweeten apartment renovation

Statistically speaking, kitchens are the most remodeled room in a home. This is due to many factors, not the least of which is that few things date a home faster than a kitchen design. Kitchens tend to last a long time. Whether this is your forever home or you plan to move in a few years, you can choose to personalize your kitchen or give it a classic design. Below, Sweeten outlines how to start a kitchen remodel and how the pros put everything back together.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

How to start a kitchen remodel: Gather information

To answer that question, you’ll need to answer a few others first. Here are a few:

Are you DIY-ing your kitchen?

To answer the first question, consider not just the money you’ll need, but the time as well. For example, you may have the skills to do some or all of the work yourself. Many homeowners will perform fairly low-skill projects, such as painting and caulking to save money. More experienced do-it-yourselfers can also install trim, insulation, and even floor coverings. However, these projects will take a while, so make sure you have the time to complete them. (We recommend reading about the cons of DIY in home renovation.)

A very common mistake of first-time remodelers is underestimating the time needed to finish a renovation. If you plan to do some of the work yourself, make sure you can complete the project in a timely manner. For example, if you hire contractors, you don’t want to delay them because you didn’t finish your project in a weekend.

How will you communicate with contractors?

If you plan to use contractors, will you be available to answer questions during the day? A good solution is to set up a window of time for communication. For example, make yourself available for a couple of hours each morning to discuss the events of the following day. That way your contractor can meet with you once, instead of playing phone tag throughout the day.

What part of your kitchen remodel is the most important?

This question is probably the most important because it really doesn’t matter how much your project costs, or how long it takes if you don’t like the end result. For instance, in a kitchen remodel, you’ll likely spend most of your budget on the cabinets and the countertops. (Note: this excludes appliances if you plan to replace those as well). Cabinets and counters are typically the first things you see when you enter a kitchen, so most owners want to make a good impression. Know what you care about the most and make sure it’s covered in your budget.

“Must-haves” & “Nice-to-haves”

A great way to stay on track and keep your costs under control is to make two lists. The first should list all of the renovation “must-haves” that are the most important to you. These items are non-negotiable and must be included. The second list will include any “nice-to-have” features. These are things you would like to include if you have the resources available, but not at the expense of your “must-have” list.

Why are you remodeling your kitchen?

Lastly, ask yourself why you want to remodel the space. It may seem like a silly question, but one thing many homeowners fear is over-remodeling. To illustrate, if you plan to live in a home forever, buying exotic wood cabinets or installing customized materials can be very satisfying. However, if you plan to sell the home for a profit in the near future, installing those features could actually lower your home’s value by comparison if few other comparable homes have them as well. A potential buyer may be able to afford your neighborhood, but not share your same taste. They may place very little value on your personalized choice, which affects your return on investment.

Avoid this scenario by deciding upfront what your end goal is and act accordingly. There is nothing wrong with personalizing your home, but it may be useful to know in advance which features will have a good return on the investment and which will not. Asking this one question will often save renovating homeowners thousands of dollars.

What happens if you’re gutting a kitchen?

Generally speaking, in a gut remodel, everything will be removed down to the wall studs. This allows for inspection of the wall cavities and the installation of any fixtures, like a pot filler, while all of the pipes are still accessible. Any new features, such as a window, are also framed at this stage.

Renovations can also be done in phases. For example, it is often convenient to replace light fixtures or add ceiling-mounted speakers before removing cabinets and flooring. As we tend to need our kitchens during a renovation, performing the project in phases can be a welcome option.

Remodel Your Kitchen In the Correct Order and Save Money

Staying code compliant

So now that you have an empty room, what do you do? After gaining access to the wall studs, any insulation, framing, electrical, or plumbing work can be done. If your project will be built in a jurisdiction with code requirements, there will usually be an inspection made by a local codes official to ensure compliance. Any required inspections will need to be made and passed before installing new drywall. An experienced and licensed general contractor will know the code requirements for your municipality and will be responsible for adhering to them. After any new features are installed, inspected, and approved the drywall is then replaced and finished.

Paint and lighting

In many situations, the next step is to paint. This may seem counter-intuitive, but the pros will usually spray on paint, because it is super fast when the room is empty. This prevents the need to stand on a step ladder for hours on end painting around light fixtures and wall switches, saving you money.

Professionals will often install the light fixtures next. Again, this may seem odd, but wall sconces and overhead fixtures need to be in an open space to distribute the light, keeping them out of the way of other projects. Contractors often work in low lighting, because during the beginning phase the space is essentially bare. By installing the lighting first, the need for pole lights and other portable lighting is reduced or eliminated.

Now that the kitchen is painted and well lit, the cabinets are usually installed, followed by the countertops, and finally, the sink. As mentioned earlier, you may also be adding new plumbing fixtures such as a bar sink, or pot filler. These would be installed at this stage, as well as new features such as GFCI outlets or a hot water recirculation pump.

Lay flooring down last

Floor covering such as vinyl or cork can be damaged easily during a remodel. Even durable materials such as porcelain tiles can be broken by a falling tool. Hardwood floors are especially vulnerable, as repairs often involve removing large sections. For this reason, professionals will usually install floor coverings last. This also prevents wasting materials in areas that will never be walked on, such as under cabinetry. At this stage, any trim required, such as the baseboard or casing can be replaced.

Ready to get started?

Remodeling a kitchen can be the most rewarding project a homeowner can take on. It’ll likely pay off with prospective buyers, too, since the kitchen is often considered the most important room in a home. Knowing how to start a kitchen remodel can be simple if you’re prepared with the right details. Remember to do your homework, ask your contractor lots of questions, and stay involved in the process.

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Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.

Planning a kitchen renovation in NYC? Here’s what you might spend on materials, labor, and permits

UPDATED: Read our most up-to-date NYC Kitchen Remodeling Costs

Imagining your dream kitchen is easy; budgeting for it is complicated. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, we’ll help you understand your options, and offer guidance on major expenses and hidden costs you may encounter. 

From building requirements to permits and design, here are the average kitchen renovation costs to expect in NYC. These figures are broken out by finish level, and are based on Sweeten renovations: 

• Budget kitchen renovation costs: Starting at $25,000 
• Mid-grade kitchen renovation costs: Starting at $35,000
• High-end kitchen renovation costs: Starting at $65,000

Pro tip: Start planning your kitchen renovation now. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a backlog in the supply of many construction materials and fixtures. For homeowners interested in remodeling, it’s smart to quickly sign with a contractor to lock in your material prices. We also advise locking in a start date on the contractor’s calendar. Waiting could lead to longer delays, and even more severe price inflation on materials. Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and up to $50,000 in renovation financial protection—at no cost to you.

From budget to high-end kitchen appliances and finishes 

Appliances, fixtures, and finishing materials all lie on a spectrum, whether you’re doing a budget kitchen remodel or a high-end one. Your choice of quality level (often called “finish level”) is a major factor in the cost of a kitchen renovation.

“Budget” kitchen materials are generally off-the-shelf items from “big box” stores or IKEA.

“Mid-grade” kitchen materials balance cost with quality. Examples include engineered wood flooring and products from GE, Caesarstone, Kohler, or Benjamin Moore.

“High-end” kitchen materials prioritize quality over cost. Products include hardwood flooring or marble, and brands like Bertazzoni, Ann Sacks, and Farrow & Ball. This category may also include special materials sourced from overseas suppliers, and fully custom fabrications.

How much do materials for a kitchen renovation cost?

Cabinets   budget: $130/linear foot (LF)  |  mid-grade: $1000/LF |  high-end: $2000/LF Appliances  budget: $2,500  |  mid-grade: $5000  |  high-end: $17,000–$26,000 Vent hood  budget: $200  |  mid-grade: $500  |  high-end: $5,000+ Countertops  budget: $5/sqft  |  mid-grade: $50/sqft |  high-end: $100/sqft Backsplash  budget: $3/sqft  |  mid-grade: $15/sqft  |  high-end: $35/sqft Flooring (tile)  budget: $3/sqft  |  mid-grade: $15/sqft |  high-end: $35/sqft Sink  budget: $150  |  mid-grade: $500  |  high-end: $2000+ Cabinet hardware  budget: $5/piece  |  mid-grade: $30/piece |  high-end: $300/piece Lighting  budget: $50/piece  |  mid-grade: $200/piece |  high-end: $500/piece

A note about cabinetry: In high-end kitchens that feature custom millwork, the cabinetry often accounts for a high percentage of both materials and labor costs. The starting point for basic custom cabinetry is $1,000 per linear foot. There are many other factors—drawers are costlier than shelves, and features such as Lazy Susans, pull-out pantries, specialized compartments, and soft-close hinges all increase costs. 

Custom cabinets are not just for large houses; apartment owners with limited kitchen depth may benefit even more by going custom. Shallower cabinets can fit tighter spaces, while deeper cabinets can hold larger dinner plates and platters. You may also have an odd-shaped space or awkward corner that you’d like to accommodate with a cabinet, to maximize a small kitchen’s storage. Choices like these require custom work, because prefabricated cabinets offer fewer options. Read more about the difference between custom and prefab cabinets here.

Kitchen renovation costs for permits, design, and behind-the-scenes items

The average kitchen remodel costs are comprised of both visible and invisible items. Here are the “invisible” behind-the-scenes budget items to keep on your radar.

Building requirements

Building boards / HOAs can play a significant role in dictating design and budget needs for apartment owners. These requirements can range from insurance coverage minimums, which limit your ability to work with professionals who aren’t carrying high-value insurance policies, to alteration agreements that require anyone doing any work in the building to have far-reaching coverage for problems they may never encounter, like asbestos removal or collapse scenarios.

Contractors who can afford to work in buildings with more extensive requirements tend to have higher operating costs and can meet higher insurance requirements, more stringent debris removal expectations, limited noise and hours-of-work requirements, and stricter parking rules. While there is no exact figure on this, you may see this translate into higher rates overall for teams that can meet those demands.

City permits

• Plumbing services: $2,000 – $3,500.  Possibly higher, if you have more than the usual number of plumbing fixtures.
• Plumbing permits: $2,000 – $5,000 
• Electrical permits: $900
• Asbestos inspection: $500 – $1,000

The City’s Department of Buildings requires a permit for any plumbing work that exceeds a minor repair or a direct swap of a similar fixture. Adding outlets or electrical circuits will require an electrical permit. You may also need an asbestos inspection, depending on your building’s requirements and any work that requires opening the walls.

Design costs for kitchen renovation

In the design stage, you’ll collaborate with the professionals you hire, who will create detailed drawings for all the tradespeople to follow. The design will cover details of the room footprint, plumbing, cabinetry, counters, sinks, backsplashes, flooring, lighting, hardware, and appliances. Kitchen renovation design costs will depend on the scope, and also who you hire. In some cases, your Sweeten general contractor will have design experience and will be able to make recommendations and draw up basic plans. For a higher level of service, some general contractors operate full-service design/build firms, with dedicated designers on staff. Some contracting firms also have architects on staff; many can refer an architect. 

• If you are considering major layout changes, such as removing walls, rerouting gas or plumbing lines, and rewiring electrical, you are looking at spending at least $32,000 for a basic kitchen gut. If you are considering this kind of transformative work, you’ll need architectural designs from a registered architect and to plan for the cost of permits, building approvals, high insurance coverage requirements, and more involved oversight from your general contractor.
• These “soft costs”—expenses critical to the success of the work but often invisible or unforeseen—can represent 15 to 20% of the total cost of a kitchen renovation. Read more about layout changes here.

Demolition and site prep

In the site prep stage, your general contractor needs to do significant work behind the scenes to ensure that your kitchen renovation maintains its value over time. Old materials and fixtures need to be pulled out and disposed of—this can be complicated on busy city streets with limited parking. Your contractor will probably need to strip the walls and flooring in order to frame and level the room. This step is labor-intensive, typically costing around $4,000. Other site prep includes protecting surfaces and valuables outside the renovation area, fixing any problems discovered within the walls, and adding insulation or waterproofing.

Installation

This is the main event. High-quality materials are only as good as the installation—if hinges are not properly aligned on drawers or cabinets, or if the shelving is not completely level, these faults can make the work look shoddy, can make your kitchen harder to use, and can lead to your expensive fixtures aging poorly. Appliances are often installed by the store where you made the purchase (as a built-in cost or an added delivery/installation fee), while countertop suppliers often also manage installation. If installation costs aren’t included in an item’s purchase price, they’ll typically fall under the “general construction” or “labor” budget and be handled by your general contractor.

Behind-the-scenes kitchen renovation costs

Overhead costs

General contractors always factor in a percentage of the project to cover overhead costs, including insurances, administrative support, and the inevitable costs of growing a business. Sweeten contractors range from two-person crews to firms employing dozens of professionals (including designers, project managers, millworkers, laborers, bookkeepers, and operations staff). No matter the size of your contractor’s business, you will absorb some of the cost increases they bear from year to year.

Sweeten contractor Thomas explained that as a business grows, costs also go up. “Insurances increase yearly, and anything related to MEPs (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) has also increased a bit as these subcontractors—especially plumbers—have seen an increase in their costs.” This is because the rules have become more stringent and there needs to be “more eyes on the project.” Additionally, he mentions, “Buildings are being more stringent on their [insurance] requirements which cause us to keep up with those needs.”

Raw material costs

While Sweeten contractors attempt to explore all avenues to stay competitive, the industry is affected by global trade. The prices you’re quoted at any given time may not be the same six months or a year from now. Prices on labor and materials fluctuate and this will be reflected in your overall quote.

For 2021, Sweeten general contractors are seeing wood materials as the main increase in costs. “These material costs have increased approximately 3x the amounts mainly due to Covid related issues, from what we have seen,” said Sweeten contractor Thomas. “These, in turn, relate to higher costs for plywood subfloors, kitchen cabinets, and other woodwork-related projects.”

Frequently asked questions about kitchen renovations in NYC

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

Anywhere from 3 weeks to 4 months, depending on the complexity of your project. Will you be altering the room’s footprint? Changing or adding electric wiring, plumbing, or gas lines? Ordering custom cabinetry or millwork? Each of these options will add significant time. You may also encounter delays with the city’s permitting process, or with permission from your building’s board.

Do you need a permit to remodel a kitchen?

If you’ll be changing the kitchen’s footprint, making changes to wiring, gas lines, or plumbing, or removing asbestos, you’ll need the appropriate permits from the city. If you live in an apartment building, you’ll almost certainly need approval from the building’s board for any construction work. Discuss with your Sweeten general contractor if they’ll assist with the permit process which is typically 10% of the budget. 

How do I remodel a kitchen on a budget?

The first step is to make a clear, prioritized list of must-haves and nice-to-haves. Next, you should think about your wishes for appliance quality, quality of materials and fixtures, and overall finish level. Explore scaling back the biggest budget items: footprint changes, changes to wiring/plumbing/gas, custom cabinetry, and millwork, high-end appliances. Your Sweeten general contractor may help find creative solutions—like Ikea cabinets with a similar look to the custom ones you were considering, or ways to accomplish your goals without moving walls. Sweeten recommends setting aside a 10% contingency budget, so you won’t have to worry about unwelcome surprises. Ready to budget for your NYC kitchen renovation costs? Knowing the real costs involved in a New York City kitchen renovation will help you align your budget to your scope, avoid surprises, and bring your dream kitchen within reach. Find out how long a kitchen renovation takes—and what’s involved—in our step-by-step guide and process timeline.

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Refer your renovating friends to Sweeten and you’ll both receive a $250 Visa gift card when they sign a contract with a Sweeten general contractor.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

Stifled by work-at-home requirements, a newly-purchased 1950s home transforms with a remodel

“After” photos by Advanced Focus Photography for Sweeten

• Homeowners: Amy and Kevin posted their 1950s home remodel project on Sweeten
• Where: Westchester neighborhood, Los Angeles, California
• Primary renovation: Updating the 1,538-square-foot house, the couple revised the living room, kitchen, and “his” and “her” bathrooms—one even got a skylight.
• Sweeten general contractor
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches homeowners with vetted general contractors for residential renovation projects, offering knowledge, support, and secure payments— for free.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Amy

Making the decision in a work-from-home moment

When it came to this renovation and our decisions about it, the pandemic was a true influence. Kevin and I previously lived in a two-bedroom apartment, using one bedroom as an office—but working from home, we needed more space. I am a television producer and Kevin is a broadcast engineer. In the end, never leaving home was the motivator we needed to make a move.

Semihandmade cabinet doors transform Sweeten kitchens without breaking the bank

Homeowners have a personal style that they express through their designs. Kitchen cabinetry uses a good percentage of an overall renovation budget. So, how do you stay true to your design aesthetic without breaking the bank? One way is to opt for the look of custom cabinets without actually ordering custom. That’s where Semihandmade kitchen cabinets come in!

Semihandmade makes doors specifically for standard Ikea kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, media, and storage units. Here, we round up some top Sweeten renovations which used these doors transforming a wow-level on an affordable budget. (See if you can tell the difference!) Bonus: Semihandmade’s president, Beth Brenner, shares some tips on the different ways a kitchen can be customized.

Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering guidance, tools, and support—for free.

Duo-tone Semihandmade cabinets

(Above) Tina + Andrew’s kitchen

Tina loved her charming 1930s prewar building she grew up in. So when a two-bedroom co-op became available, she and her husband, Andrew, jumped at the chance. It needed to be renovated but that didn’t stop them. They posted their project on Sweeten and hired a general contractor to update their kitchen.

The couple needed to stay on budget, so they looked into Semihandmade cabinet doors. “We tried to be clever and save where we could,” says Tina. “Instead of custom cabinets, we went with Ikea but purchased the cabinet doors from a company that specializes in stylish and modern cabinetry for Ikea kitchen systems.”  They chose a beautiful super matte shaker cabinet in white and light gray.

Tip from Beth: Semihandmade doors are simple to screw on and off, so if down the road you want a totally different look, you can easily change out the doors instead of tearing out your kitchen all over again!

When the budget is the top priority

(Above) A Queens kitchen in a rich neutral

Like many homeowners who renovate, this couple’s biggest concern was budget. After renting for years, they had saved up to buy their own place, a two-bedroom, two-bath in Flushing. They decided updating the kitchen would be the most dramatic change. They chose a mix of neutrals and opted for Semihandmade cabinet doors with Ikea bases. This allowed the couple to get a customized look for a fraction of what fully custom cabinets cost. “The space is much more open and inviting,” says one of the homeowners. “I’ve never been one to hang out in the kitchen, but now I want to spend more time here.”

Tip from Beth: Semihandmade doors come in 45 different colors and styles, but the doors are also available unpainted so you can unleash your DIY spirit.

More storage space, coming right up!

(Above) Dan + Mike’s kitchen open shelving storage

Dan and Mike’s one-bedroom, one-bath co-op was in desperate need of a kitchen renovation. To achieve their desired aesthetic, it would require removing a wall, gutting the entire kitchen, and extending the counters and cabinetry.

Removing the wall had a major impact on the look as did taking down the upper cabinets and replacing them with open floating shelves. The shelves were sourced from a shop in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, that specializes in salvage pieces. For the lower cabinets, they installed Ikea cabinets with Semihandmade doors and hardware. Floating shelves can make up for storage lost in the removal of upper cabinets.

Tip from Beth: Lower shelves are perfect for easy-to-grab cooking essentials like cutting boards, spices, and cookbooks. Higher shelves tend to be more decorative. It’s the mix of objects and textures that makes floating shelves a standout in any kitchen.

Finding savings to splurge

(Above) Jennifer + Alex’s two-toned kitchen

When Jennifer and Alex Figueroa bought their beach house in East Hampton, they wanted to renovate it in order to meet their family’s needs. They have two young boys, so they wanted a space where they could run and play freely. This meant opening up the choppy layout and gutting the kitchen.

“We felt excited about this part of the project,” says Alex. “We splurged on a wine fridge, quartz countertops, and an integrated refrigerator but otherwise kept the open kitchen fairly simple.” This “fairly simple” design included their contractor customizing Ikea cabinets with walnut panel doors for a two-toned look. He also added paneling on the ceiling for a luxe look. This took the 1970s home into the new millennium.

Tip from Beth: Two-toned looks work well when complementary styles and colors are used for the upper and lower cabinets. Another popular trend right now is a pop of color for the kitchen island, paired with base cabinets that are more neutral.  

No time for custom cabinets? No problem.

(Above) Marc + Steve’s kitchen

After seven months of living in their new home, Marc and Steve decided it was time to take the plunge and renovate. “The kitchen was perhaps the most outdated room,” says Marc. The existing cabinets were grimy and the doors were falling off the hinges. They wouldn’t be able to measure for new cabinets before work began. Marc and Steve decided to use Ikea cabinets with Semihandmade doors in order to get the cabinets quicker (custom cabinets have longer lead times.)

To streamline the look of the kitchen, they chose flat-panel doors rather than the popular shaker style. They needed to order cabinets of varying sizes so this choice helped to unify the space. “Design-wise, it’s the kitchen we always wanted and I don’t think we have any regrets about the choices we made (and there were so many choices),” said Marc.

Tip from Beth: Since we make our door fronts to order, the time it takes from payment to delivery depends on the materials purchased. Currently, the average lead time is 3-6 weeks.

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See even more inspiring kitchen remodels using Semihandmade!

Need help deciding on cabinets for your reno? Check out Sweeten’s guide, How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, and scope, helping until project completion. Follow the blog for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation on Sweeten.

A couple creates an entertainment-focused kitchen, including a multifunctional island

• Homeowners: Dawn and David posted their Park Slope kitchen renovation on Sweeten
• Where: Brooklyn, New York
• Primary renovation: Refitting a kitchen with a more efficient layout and better lighting
• Sweeten design-build firm
• Homeowner’s quote: “[Our home] makes us happy every day.”
• Sweeten’s role: Sweeten matches home renovation projects with vetted general contractors, offering advice, support, and secure payments—for free.

Written in partnership with Sweeten homeowner Dawn. Photos by Miao Jiaxin for Sweeten.

Improve layout and impersonal lighting

The kitchen in Dawn and David’s loft apartment was not ideally configured. After living in the home for a dozen years, the pair decided to finally redo the kitchen. The cabinets had seen a lot of wear and tear, and appliances and drawers were not in the best positions.

The couple also wanted to fix a prior renovation mistake: a contractor had convinced them to go with recessed lighting in the kitchen and living room areas. Dawn found the choice too commercial and wanted to find statement pendants with a bit more character. The couple also wanted to add personal touches, like a Moroccan-style tile backsplash.

Make the kitchen’s storage function smarter

The goal was to borrow square footage from the kitchen to give more breathing room to the dining and living room areas. They’d create more kitchen counter space and cabinet storage but within a smaller footprint. An efficient layout would be key. She said, “We wanted to get the most out of each nook and cranny while not ending up with a lot of nooks and crannies!”

Given their penchant for entertaining, large serving pieces and other odd-shaped items needed specific spots. To accomplish this, Dawn “spent a lot of time measuring the things that’d go into storage and were plotted out correctly in the kitchen. I was careful not to over-allocate space.”

The peninsula becomes multifunctional

An expanded peninsula with drawers on either side—facing the kitchen as well as the entryway—was a key part of executing this vision. Dawn wanted “tons of room for prepping and cooking a meal as well as serving space for hors d’oeuvres when we entertain. People like to congregate in the kitchen when they arrive. I wanted to have a space that didn’t interfere with the process of making dinner. With a much bigger peninsula, we confine the prep/cooking work to one half of the surface while making room for an attractive presentation on the other.”

“We wanted to get the most out of each nook and cranny while not ending up with a lot of nooks and crannies!”

Focal point: A yellow Moroccan tile backsplash

They created dedicated space for serving trays and her largest pots. A good deal of thought went into the best placement of appliances and cabinets; the utensil drawer faces the dishwasher, while the speed oven is hidden in the peninsula keeping the countertops clear.

Dawn also worked with her Sweeten contractor to add a full-length pantry that had both interior drawers and shelves. A spice rack mounted at eye level sits inside of the door.

For the finishes, Dawn, the founder and CEO of Arcadia Home, an artisan-made home accessories brand, had a vision: “grainy flat-paneled cabinets, beautiful organic pulls, extraordinary color in the backsplash, killer lighting, and a fairly clean white but interesting countertop.”

The lighting redesign transformed the look of the space. Now, the peninsula sports two handmade pierced nickel-plated brass shades from Egypt. The light from the pierced holes creates a unique pattern when illuminated. The centerpiece of the entire kitchen was the yellow Moroccan tile, inspired by a yellow Moroccan rug in the couple’s living room—a purchase from their first trip together during their dating days. “It makes us happy every day,” she said.

Thank you, Dawn and David, for sharing your new kitchen with us!

Renovation Materials

Rift-cut oak painted kitchen cabinets: Custom designed by Sweeten contractor. Cabinet paint color in Blackberry and White Dove: Benjamin Moore. Schaub and Company Martello #174-N cabinet pulls in natural: Build.com. Pinecone cabinet knobs: Appliances Connection. Montclair #AQ501 quartz countertops: Alleanza Quartz. Batha #1-18 yellow Moroccan tile backsplash: Mosaic House. Zenza Bella Filisky peninsula pendants: Zenza Home. Transparent ceiling light: Sonneman Lighting.

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When you’re ready to get started on your kitchen or home remodel, work with Sweeten to renovate with the best contractors.

Sweeten handpicks the best general contractors to match each project’s location, budget, scope, and style. Follow the blog, Sweeten Stories, for renovation ideas and inspiration and when you’re ready to renovate, start your renovation with Sweeten.