How to Prepare for a Custom-Designed Kitchen Remodel

Are you planning on undertaking a kitchen renovation project? Are you looking for information about building a kitchen in your new house? A custom-designed kitchen might just be your best option, especially if you’re dreaming of a functional, aesthetic and personalized space.

What Are the Makings of a Custom-Designed Kitchen? 

When it comes to a custom-designed kitchen, we’re talking about a kitchen built with standard or custom-made materials, one that’s entirely adapted to the room’s configuration. It’s a modular (factory-made) kitchen alternative. With a custom kitchen, the materials are moulded around the space instead of the other way around. Quality is a must. Custom cabinets are made with resistant, long-lasting materials.

This type of kitchen is recommended for new-build and renovation projects. A custom-designed kitchen adds character to a home and makes for a functional space, no matter where the walls stand. This concept allows for a wide range of kitchen models, allowing you to create a personalized space. Moreover, it can make for a wise choice if you’re working with a small space.

You can hire an experienced kitchen designer when planning your custom kitchen, someone who is trained in the latest trends and organization methods. They’ll be able to optimize your space and meet all your requirements. Your hired expert will handle your kitchen design and creation. They can also coordinate with other hired individuals throughout the project, such as the tiler, plumber, electrician, etc. However, you can also design the concept yourself and hire experienced workers to make it come alive. Should you prefer that route, measure everything carefully so that you’re not met with ill-fitting cabinets or appliances when it comes time to install everything.

The Advantages of a Custom Kitchen Remodel

The reason why custom kitchens have been so sought-after in recent years is because they offer unique advantages that aren’t necessarily made possible with a standard kitchen:

An Optimized and Efficient Layout

A custom kitchen’s primary asset is its seamless fit inside the room itself. You can easily have angled furniture, floor-level furniture, or wall-mounted furniture. You can also optimize every nook and cranny to achieve the desired result.

When commissioning a custom kitchen, there’s a freedom of will, if you might, when designing the space. You can combine different layouts, creating unique furniture in the process for a user-friendly setting. You can, for example, choose to feature furniture with standard measurements or personalize the size of your shelving and cabinetry. Another option consists of pairing different types of openings. 

A Functional Kitchen with More Storage, Modern Cabinets, Optimized Floor Plan

Chris Dyke, from FIDM, mentioned that one of the many advantages of this type of kitchen is the efficient use of space. There’s nothing more annoying than a poorly organized kitchen or one cluttered with all sorts of appliances.

With custom kitchens, you can design and furnish the space based on your lifestyle to maximize your well-being in said room. You can have built-in features like specific appliances to save space. You’ll never have to deal with layout constraints again. You can commission a furniture unit, featuring a built-in unit fitting your oven, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, etc. That way, you’ll have a more functional and elegant kitchen, featuring appliances that blend with the overall decor. 

A Customizable Space with Endless Possibilities

Every detail inside your kitchen is designed with your needs and wants in mind. It makes for kitchen unique while highlighting your preferred aesthetic. Your only limitation? Your creative mind. You can pick and choose everything down to the smallest detail: furniture materials, designs, and colours; countertops, doors, structure, etc. Style-wise, you have the final say, too. Are you drawn to modern kitchens? Vintage, maybe? Straight-up maximalist? Or industrial is your calling? The choice is all yours! Hire a qualified kitchen designer to help you find the best solutions and run unique ideas by you.

How to Design a Custom Kitchen: Key Steps

When designing a custom kitchen that meets all your expectations, it’s important to stick to a prescribed checklist:

1- Measure the kitchen

Before doing anything, it’s important to meticulously measure the space available. Jot down the kitchen’s square footage and general layout. Are you working with a big or small space? Is it open-concept or enclosed? Write down where the windows, outlets, light switches, and water supply lines are located. These features will allow you to better plan the space’s layout.

2- Outline your needs and aesthetic

It’s essential to consider the kitchen’s intended use. Are you looking to design a space fit for cooking delicious meals or are you looking to plan and host parties?

Moreover, decide on the type of style you want for your kitchen—cabinetry, finishes, colour scheme, etc. What kind of design do you prefer? Are you more rustic, contemporary, or professional? 

3- Set a budget

When it comes to budgeting for your project, include all elements featured in your kitchen: furniture, materials, appliances, countertops, accessories, hardware, backsplash, lighting, prep work, and installation. To stick to your allocated budget, you can have several quotes drawn up using different quality materials.

4- Create a plan, submit it, and execute it

Sketch some sort of plan where you can write down measurements taken prior: length and height of walls, windows, etc. Include pictures as a bonus. Then, submit your project to a kitchen designer, who will assess your design, allocate exact costs, and propose a final plan. Once you’ve reached an agreement, they can take final measurements, start building the different items commissioned, and begin setting up your custom kitchen.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Custom Kitchen?

On average, a custom kitchen is typically 30% more expensive than a standard one. However, the reality of the matter is that the total cost hinges on the selected materials. According to Chris Dyke, FIDM, “The base price for a standard custom kitchen (10 ft by 10 ft [Ed.]) ranges from $20,000 to $25,000.” He also mentioned that, on average, installation takes between one to two weeks. 

Examples of Features to Choose From: Kitchen Counter

One of the primary features included in a custom-designed kitchen is the countertop. When choosing, it’s important to consider its aesthetic appeal as well as the material. According to Dyke, “The most common materials used in a kitchen are quartz, granite, and porcelain.” Note that the use of marble isn’t recommended in kitchens, given that it’s extremely porous, fragile, and prone to scratching.

The following are examples of countertops suited to custom kitchens, including material-specific characteristics and advantages: 

Laminate Countertop

Laminate countertops are the most sought-after on the market. They come in an array of colours and finishes—matte, glossy, or textured. Laminate can have a square edge or be pasted onto a particle board. A Corian edge can also be a low-maintenance feature.

A laminate countertop is a long-lasting, stain- and shock-resistant feature. It’s also more affordable than other countertop materials and rather easy to maintain. Use water and a damp cloth for cleaning purposes. Simply wipe down the surface and use a clean rag to wipe it dry.

Laminate suits all types of designs, whether you prefer a wood look, faux concrete, a natural stone-like effect, or bold patterns. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for a modern, contemporary, or classic aesthetic.

Quartz Countertop

Quartz is commonly used in kitchens due to its numerous advantages. Its sophisticated and elegant appearance adds value to the room. Whether you prefer a black, white, or beige countertop, or another colour altogether, quartz comes in a wide range of colours and finishes: glossy, matte, honed, etc.

A quartz countertop benefits from its durability and a fine-grain surface. Beyond its low maintenance properties, it’s polished and doesn’t need to be sealed. Moreover, it’s antibacterial and stain-proof, and has minimal porosity. It all makes for an ideal material for preparing food in the kitchen. 

While quartz is fireproof and heat-resistant, it should not be exposed to very hot temperatures. Doing so could crack or stain the surface. Also, avoid leaving warm pots and pans or anything else too warm on a quartz countertop.

Porcelain Countertop

Although porcelain countertops may not be widely recognized by the general public, they offer exceptional benefits. They're made of a very dense material that's also heat- and scratch-resistant. Porcelain comes in stunning finishes, which also suit a backsplash. This material is especially sought after in custom kitchens due to its antibacterial and stain-proof properties. 

Granite Countertop

Granite is a natural stone slab that withstands heat better than quartz. The material’s low porosity, waterproof, durability, and high stain resistance make it perfectly suited to kitchens and bathrooms.

A granite countertop can make any room look more sophisticated and polished. Granite is easy to upkeep and suits all styles of kitchen cabinets. Moreover, its use is highly recommended on long-spanning surfaces requiring extensive shaping. 

Note, however, that white granite isn’t available and said material should undergo material-specific maintenance every two years.

Butcher Block Countertop

Last but certainly not least, butcher block countertops make for a great option. This type of countertop is very sought-after right now in Canada. Made with a slab of hardwood, it suits all decors and aesthetics, conveying an appealing warmth to the kitchen. When properly maintained, it can be a long-lasting option—simply clean butcher block surfaces with a damp cloth.

Butcher block countertops are perfect for cutting and chopping food. However, note that this sort of countertop tends to fade over the years, and it may also be prone to staining, depending on food exposure and usage. The good news is, to avoid or limit these drawbacks, seal the wooden surface with wood-specific oil.

FAQ About Custom Kitchen Remodels

Can I redo my kitchen for $10,000?

Yes, you can redo a kitchen for $10,000, but keep in mind that it won’t be custom-designed. To stay within budget, focus on budget-friendly materials and prioritize key elements like cabinets, countertops, and backsplash. Adding new, aesthetically pleasing light fixtures can make a significant difference in the overall look. It's also important to choose a specific aesthetic and stick with it to ensure a cohesive design. As mentioned, custom kitchens typically cost $25,000, so sticking to a more affordable approach will help you achieve a refreshed kitchen without the high price tag.

How much does it cost to have someone design a kitchen?

When hiring a kitchen designer, it's important to consider their consultation fee, which can vary depending on their expertise. Many designers charge an hourly rate, and while prices can differ, opting for a designer with a strong reputation can ensure you receive quality service and a design that fits your needs.