7 kitchen remodel tips HGTV designers swear by
When it comes to kitchen remodels, HGTV designers know what’s worth investing in—and what isn’t. These eight tips are smart moves that stand the test of time, whether you’re refreshing your space or planning a full renovation.
Don’t Skip Permits When It’s Major
Mike Holmes drives it home: if your remodel touches plumbing, electrical, or structure, you absolutely need proper permits. It’s not just red tape—it keeps your home legal, safe, and easier to sell later. Avoid contractors who try to skip this step—a real pro knows the paperwork is part of the plan.
Permits might feel like extra hassle at first, but they prevent expensive rework and headaches down the line. Clearing this with city or county officials before work begins saves stress and surprise costs later.
Plan Triple Hard Before You Knock Walls Down
A little planning upfront saves a lot of drama later. Mike emphasizes designing your layout carefully, even getting a digital walkthrough, to avoid clashes—like appliance doors hitting the cabinets or crowding your work triangle.
That’s especially useful if you’re tempted to go big. A well-planned remodel means no awkward surprises once demolition starts
Avoid Hardwood Floors in Kitchens
Kitchens are naturally wet, and hardwood isn’t built for that kind of moisture traffic. Mike suggests skipping it in favor of durable flooring better suited to splashes, steam, and spills—materials that hold up over time and keep your kitchen looking and functioning its best.
Paint Cabinets Instead of Replacing Them
Cabinets are one of the priciest parts of any kitchen upgrade—sometimes tens of thousands in cost. A fresh paint job or veneer can transform the look for a fraction of the price, especially if you prep and paint like a pro. You get style without the budget blowout.
Don’t DIY Load-Bearing Walls
Opening your kitchen layout by knocking down walls is tempting—but dangerous if you don’t know what’s structural. Mike cautions against DIYing it without a professional evaluation, since removing a load-bearing wall can compromise everything above it.
Leaving serious structural work to trained eyes isn’t being cautious—it’s being smart about safety, stability, and preserving your home.
Prioritize Ventilation
Even the smartest kitchen designs fall apart if you don’t move heat and moisture out. Mike recommends vent hoods that actually exhaust outside—not just move air around. And he reminds you to choose a fan with the right power so moisture leaves fast and doesn’t cause hidden damage.
Match Your Lighting Bulbs
It’s a tiny detail, but mismatched bulbs can throw off the whole vibe. Mike advises picking bulbs from the same family or brand to keep lighting consistent. You don’t want spotty color that makes your kitchen look off—it’s about feel, not just light levels.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
