The kitchen is often called the heart of the home, and for good reason. It’s where families gather, meals are prepared, and memories are made. Yet, while many homeowners dream of a beautiful, functional kitchen, actually remodeling it can feel overwhelming. From planning layouts to choosing materials, appliances, and finishes, there are countless decisions to make. Knowing what to expect during your kitchen remodel in Lakewood Ranch or the Sarasota area can help you feel confident and prepared throughout the process.
The Benefits of a Kitchen Remodel
Remodeling your kitchen is about more than aesthetics. A thoughtfully designed kitchen improves function, organization, and lifestyle, while also increasing your home’s value. Common goals for Sarasota homeowners include:
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Improving the kitchen workflow for easier cooking and entertaining
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Adding storage solutions to reduce clutter
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Updating appliances and countertops for style and convenience
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Enhancing lighting and ventilation for better visibility and comfort
Whether you’re updating a small galley kitchen or overhauling a spacious, open-concept layout, a kitchen remodel allows you to create a space that truly works for your family.
The Kitchen Remodel Process
While every kitchen remodel is unique, working with a design build remodeling firm like Gilbert Design Build ensures a smooth, coordinated process. Here’s what homeowners can typically expect:
1. Initial Consultation
This meeting is an opportunity to ask questions about the design-build process, timelines, and budget considerations. At Gilbert Design Build, we start with a conversation getting to know you and your goals regarding the space you’d like to remodel. This is also an opportunity for you to see the type of company we are and if our process seems like what you are looking for.
2. First Design Home Visit
After the initial meeting in our showroom, your consultant will visit your home to see the space in person, take measurements and photos, and discuss your style and preferences. Then we begin product selection and design.
3. Design and Product Selection
With your goals in mind, the design team creates initial 3D drawings of your kitchen. During this stage, you’ll select materials, finishes, cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. Your consultant will guide you through these decisions, refining the design to ensure it’s both functional and visually stunning.
4. Construction Agreement
Once the design is finalized, your team presents a detailed construction plan and agreement. This document outlines the full scope of work, material selections, timeline, and costs. After signing, your contractor will begin ordering materials, securing permits, and preparing for the construction phase.
5. Pre-Start Meeting
Typically a week prior to the start of work, an on-site meeting is scheduled between the client and their assigned project manager. At this time, you will review all things related to your project, including but not limited to: site access, work hours and what to expect along the way.
6. Construction Phase
Each project is unique so the length of your remodel will depend on the details and complexity of your project. The process often begins with site preparation and protective measures. Demolition of existing cabinets, flooring, and countertops follows, along with any structural modifications. Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are updated as needed. The team then installs cabinets, countertops, flooring, and fixtures, before finishing with paint and hardware installation.
7. Final Walkthrough and Enjoyment
Once construction is complete, the team performs a final walkthrough with the homeowner to ensure every detail meets expectations. By the end of the project, your kitchen is ready to be used and enjoyed, combining both beauty and functionality.
What Is the Difference Between Design-Build and Traditional Method?
Working with a design build firm like Gilbert Design Build simplifies the kitchen remodeling process from start to finish. With one dedicated team responsible for both design and construction, homeowners benefit from a single point of contact and clear accountability. This approach reduces confusion, improves communication, and results in a kitchen that is not only beautiful, but also functional, organized, and tailored to your lifestyle.
With the traditional method, homeowners typically hire a designer or architect first to create the plans. Once the design phase is complete, the project is sent out for bids and a separate contractor is selected to perform the work. While this process may seem straightforward, it often leads to challenges such as miscommunication, unexpected costs, and extended timelines. Especially if the designs don’t align with what’s realistically possible in construction.
When carefully planned and professionally executed, a kitchen remodel can truly transform the heart of your home into a space that supports everyday living, enhances entertaining, and reflects your personal style.
Is It Time To Upgrade Your Kitchen? Get The Custom
Kitchen You’ve Been Dreaming Of
When you’re ready to update your kitchen, don’t settle for less. Get the best kitchen remodeling in Sarasota! Here at Gilbert Design Build, our goal is to ensure you have the best remodeling experience possible. We’ve been doing it for over 20 years.
Book your free consultation today.