Kitchen Remodel in Concord MA: Cost & Planning Tips

The cost of a kitchen renovation can feel like a huge, mysterious number. Our goal is to demystify it for you. When you undertake a kitchen remodel in Concord, MA, you’re in control of the biggest factors that determine the final price. From the type of cabinets you choose to whether you move the plumbing, every decision has a budget impact. In this article, we’ll pull back the curtain on pricing. We’ll explore material costs, labor expenses, and those pesky hidden fees, giving you the clarity you need to plan effectively and invest your money wisely.

Key Takeaways

Plan Your Budget Beyond the Obvious: A realistic budget accounts for more than just materials. Be sure to factor in labor, permit fees, and a contingency fund of 15-20% to ensure unexpected issues don’t derail your project.
Choose Your Remodeling Partner Wisely: The right contractor is your most important asset. Go beyond the initial quote by thoroughly checking their credentials, calling references, and making sure their communication style is a good fit for you.
Design for Your Daily Life, Not Just for Looks: While aesthetics are important, a great kitchen is one that functions seamlessly. Prioritize a smart layout and clever storage solutions that solve your everyday frustrations to create a space you’ll love using.

How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost in Concord?

Thinking about a kitchen remodel is exciting, but let’s be honest—the first question on everyone’s mind is always about the cost. In the Concord area, the price of a kitchen renovation can vary quite a bit. A smaller project with cosmetic updates might start in the tens of thousands, while a major overhaul with high-end materials and a new layout can be a much larger investment. The final number really depends on the scope of your project, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the installation. Understanding where your money goes is the first step toward planning a remodel that fits both your vision and your wallet.

A Look at Material Costs

Materials are one of the biggest variables in your kitchen remodel budget. This is the fun part, where you get to pick the finishes that define your style. This includes everything from cabinets and countertops to appliances, flooring, and that perfect backsplash tile. For example, stock cabinets from a big-box store will cost significantly less than custom-built cabinetry designed specifically for your space. Similarly, laminate countertops are a budget-friendly option, while quartz or natural stone will be a larger investment. Your choices here will have the biggest impact on your total spending, so it’s a great area to balance splurges with smart savings.

What to Expect for Labor and Installation

Labor and installation costs typically make up a significant portion of your total project budget, often around 25%. This covers the skilled work of the professionals who bring your vision to life—from demolition and framing to plumbing, electrical work, and the precise installation of your new cabinets and countertops. While it might be tempting to cut corners here, investing in experienced, licensed professionals is crucial. Quality craftsmanship ensures your kitchen is not only beautiful but also safe and built to last. Hiring a reputable team for their professional services means you’re paying for expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Don’t Forget Permit and Planning Fees

Permits might not be the most glamorous part of a remodel, but they are absolutely essential. In the Concord area, permit fees can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on the scale of your project. These permits ensure that all work—especially electrical and plumbing—is done to code, which is critical for your family’s safety and your home’s value. A great contractor will handle the entire permitting process for you, managing the paperwork and scheduling inspections so you don’t have to. It’s a background task that makes a huge difference in keeping your project running smoothly and legally.

Factoring in Design and Consultation

Investing in professional design is the difference between a kitchen that just looks new and one that truly works for you. This is where you figure out the best layout for your space, solve annoying storage problems, and create a cohesive look. Our design and planning services help you visualize the final product and make informed decisions before construction even begins. This upfront planning helps prevent costly changes down the line and ensures the final result is a perfect match for your lifestyle. Think of it as creating a detailed roadmap that guarantees you’ll love your destination.

Watch Out for These Hidden Costs

Every renovation project, big or small, has the potential for surprises. The most common hidden costs pop up during demolition when we might uncover unexpected issues like outdated wiring, hidden plumbing problems, or water damage. Material delivery delays or unforeseen structural issues can also impact your timeline and budget. That’s why we always advise setting aside a contingency fund of about 10-20% of your total project cost. This buffer isn’t for adding new features on a whim; it’s a safety net that ensures surprises don’t derail your project, giving you the flexibility to handle them without stress.

Common Budgeting Mistakes to Avoid

One of the easiest traps to fall into is underestimating the total cost of a kitchen remodel. Many homeowners create a budget based only on the big-ticket items they can see, like appliances and countertops, while forgetting to account for labor, permits, and that all-important contingency fund. To avoid this, it’s best to be upfront and realistic about your budget from the very beginning. A transparent conversation with your contractor will help you align your vision with your finances, ensuring you can complete your full home remodel without financial strain. A well-planned budget is the foundation of a successful and enjoyable renovation experience.

Key Features That Affect Your Remodel’s Cost

When you start to budget for a kitchen remodel, it helps to think of the total cost as a collection of smaller choices. Every decision, from the cabinet finish to the faucet style, has an impact on the final number. Understanding these key features is the first step to creating a realistic budget that aligns with your vision. While a complete overhaul involves many moving parts, a few major components will always account for the largest portion of your spending.

Breaking down your project this way helps you see where you can save and where you might want to splurge. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of a marble waterfall island, but you’re happy with more budget-friendly flooring. By looking at each element individually, you can make informed decisions that balance style, function, and cost. A successful kitchen remodeling project is all about smart planning, and it starts with knowing exactly where your money is going.

Choosing Your Cabinets and Storage

Cabinets are the foundation of your kitchen’s look and feel, and they are also one of the biggest investments you’ll make. Typically, they account for 25% to 30% of the total remodel cost. Your choice between stock, semi-custom, or fully custom cabinets will be the primary driver of that expense. Stock cabinets are the most affordable, while custom cabinets offer endless personalization at a premium price. Beyond the cabinets themselves, consider adding clever storage solutions like pull-out pantries or drawer organizers. These features add to the cost but can dramatically improve your kitchen’s everyday usability.

Selecting the Right Countertops

Your countertops are a major focal point, and the material you choose will have a significant effect on your budget. Options like laminate are very wallet-friendly and have come a long way in style. On the other end of the spectrum, natural stones like granite or marble and engineered materials like quartz offer high-end durability and beauty at a higher price point. When making your decision, think about the balance between aesthetics, maintenance, and cost. A durable, beautiful countertop is a long-term investment in your home’s value and your daily enjoyment.

Picking and Placing Your Appliances

The appliance suite is another area where costs can vary widely. You can choose standard, reliable models or opt for high-end, professional-grade appliances with advanced features. The trend toward colored appliances and integrated, panel-ready designs can also influence the price. It’s not just about the appliances themselves, but also where you put them. Moving a gas line for a new range or plumbing for a refrigerator’s ice maker will add to your labor costs. Thinking through your kitchen’s layout early on can help manage these expenses effectively.

Finding the Perfect Flooring

The right flooring pulls the entire kitchen design together. Natural materials like warm hardwoods and sleek stone tiles are popular choices that add texture and depth, but they also come with a higher price tag for both materials and installation. More budget-conscious options like luxury vinyl tile (LVT) offer the look of wood or stone with excellent durability and a lower cost. When you’re planning, remember to factor in the cost of removing the old flooring and preparing the subfloor, as this is a crucial part of a quality installation for any major renovation.

Planning for Lighting and Electrical

Great lighting is non-negotiable in a functional kitchen, but it’s often an afterthought in budgeting. A well-designed lighting plan includes ambient (overall), task (for workspaces), and accent lighting. This often means more than just a single overhead fixture. Adding recessed lights, under-cabinet LEDs, or pendant lights over an island will require an electrician to run new wiring. The same goes for adding more outlets, which is a common need in older homes. Proper lighting makes your kitchen safer and more enjoyable, so it’s worth planning for from the start.

What to Know About Plumbing Changes

Like electrical work, plumbing modifications can quickly add to your remodel’s cost. The most affordable approach is to keep your sink and dishwasher in their current locations. If your new layout requires moving the plumbing, you’ll need to budget for a licensed plumber to re-route pipes within the walls or floor. This is especially true if you’re adding a new feature like a pot filler over the stove or a prep sink in the island. These changes often require permits and inspections, so it’s important to work with a professional who understands local codes.

Adding Smart Kitchen Technology

Today’s kitchens are getting smarter, and integrating technology is a growing trend. From refrigerators that can create shopping lists to voice-activated faucets and ovens you can preheat from your phone, smart features offer a new level of convenience. While these innovations are exciting, they come at a premium. The devices themselves are more expensive than their non-smart counterparts, and they may require specialized installation. If a high-tech kitchen is on your wish list, be sure to account for these additional costs in your budget.

How to Plan Your Concord Kitchen Remodel

A successful kitchen remodel starts long before the first hammer swings. Thoughtful planning is the secret ingredient to creating a space you’ll love without the stress of last-minute decisions or budget surprises. It’s the difference between a project that flows smoothly and one that’s full of frustrating setbacks. When you invest time upfront to define your goals, set a clear budget, and think through the details, you create a solid foundation for the entire renovation. This planning phase is where your vision truly takes shape, moving from a collection of ideas into a concrete, actionable blueprint. A well-thought-out plan acts as your roadmap, guiding you and your contractor toward the finish line and ensuring everyone is on the same page. It helps you anticipate challenges, make informed decisions, and maintain control over your investment. From choosing the right layout for your family’s needs to understanding local permit requirements, every step you take before demolition begins will pay off tenfold. Let’s walk through the key steps to plan your Concord kitchen remodel and set your project up for success from day one.

Set a Realistic Budget

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the costs of a remodel. Before you start picking out finishes, it’s crucial to establish a realistic budget. Begin by researching the average costs for a kitchen remodel in the Concord area and decide what you’re comfortable spending. A good rule of thumb is to set aside an additional 15% to 20% as a contingency fund for any unexpected issues that might pop up, like hidden plumbing problems. This financial cushion gives you peace of mind and prevents a small surprise from derailing your entire project. A clear budget will be your guide for every decision ahead.

Create Your Project Timeline

Patience is a virtue, especially during a renovation. Most kitchen remodels take longer than homeowners initially expect due to things like permit approvals, custom material orders, or unforeseen issues found during demolition. Work with your contractor to create a detailed project timeline that outlines each phase, from design and demolition to installation and final inspection. Understanding the sequence of events helps you prepare for the disruption. While a good contractor will work hard to stick to the schedule, building a little flexibility into your own expectations will make the entire process feel much smoother.

Think Through Your Design and Layout

It’s easy to get swept up in the beauty of a kitchen’s aesthetics, but don’t forget about its core function. A great kitchen layout should make your daily routine easier. Consider the classic “work triangle” connecting the sink, refrigerator, and stove to ensure an efficient workflow. Think about how you use your space now and what frustrates you. Do you need more counter space for meal prep? More accessible storage for pots and pans? A thoughtful design balances stunning visuals with practical functionality, creating a kitchen that is both beautiful and a joy to work in.

How to Choose Your Materials

Your material choices define the look, feel, and durability of your new kitchen. From warm, textured woods for cabinets to sleek, polished quartz for countertops, the options are endless. When selecting materials, consider your lifestyle and maintenance tolerance. A busy family might prefer durable, low-maintenance surfaces, while a passionate home chef might prioritize a specific type of countertop. We always recommend getting physical samples to see how they look in your home’s unique lighting throughout the day. This step helps ensure the materials you loved in the showroom look just as good in your actual space.

Understand Local Permit Rules

Navigating building codes and permits can feel overwhelming, but it’s a non-negotiable part of any major renovation. In Concord, any project involving changes to your home’s structure, plumbing, or electrical systems will require a permit. Attempting to skip this step can lead to fines, safety issues, and major headaches when you eventually sell your home. An experienced and licensed contractor will manage the entire permitting process for you. They understand local regulations and will ensure all work is done to code, giving you confidence that your new kitchen is not only beautiful but also safe and compliant.

Special Considerations for Historic Homes

Remodeling a historic home in Concord requires a special touch. The goal is to update the kitchen for modern living while preserving the home’s unique character and architectural integrity. This often means dealing with challenges like outdated wiring, quirky layouts, or the need to match original millwork. Rushing the planning phase is one of the biggest mistakes you can make with an older home. It’s essential to work with a contractor who has experience with historic properties. They will know how to anticipate potential issues and find creative solutions that honor your home’s past while building its future.

Explore Sustainable Design Options

Creating a beautiful kitchen can also be an opportunity to make environmentally friendly choices. Sustainable design is about more than just looks; it’s about long-term efficiency and health. You can incorporate eco-friendly elements by choosing energy-efficient appliances that lower your utility bills, using materials like reclaimed wood or recycled-content countertops, and opting for low-VOC paints that improve your home’s air quality. Many homeowners are embracing bolder, more conscious choices in their remodeling projects, proving that you can create a stunning kitchen that is also kind to the planet.

Popular Kitchen Design Trends in Concord

Thinking about a kitchen remodel means balancing your personal taste with timeless design. While you want a space that feels uniquely you, it’s also helpful to know what’s current. The latest trends can offer incredible inspiration for creating a kitchen that’s not only beautiful but also highly functional and adds lasting value to your home. From the overall layout to the smallest details, here are some of the most popular design ideas we’re seeing in Concord homes. These trends can help you shape your vision and have a more productive conversation with your design-build team about what you want to achieve.

Open and Modern Layouts

The days of the kitchen being a small, closed-off room are long gone. Today, it’s all about creating an open and inviting hub for your home. Homeowners are moving away from single-color palettes and embracing layouts that encourage gathering and conversation. An open-concept kitchen that flows into your living or dining area makes the entire space feel larger and more connected. This design is perfect for families who want to cook and spend time together, or for those who love to entertain. It transforms the kitchen from a purely functional room into the true heart of the home.

High-End Material Selections

There’s a strong movement towards incorporating natural, high-quality materials that add warmth and texture. Think warm woods for cabinetry, polished marble for backsplashes, and durable quartzite for countertops. These materials bring an organic, sophisticated feel to the space. While they can represent a larger portion of your budget, they also offer incredible longevity and a timeless appeal that won’t go out of style. Using natural materials is a fantastic way to add depth and character, making your kitchen feel custom and luxurious.

Clever Storage Solutions

A beautiful kitchen is a tidy kitchen, and smart storage is the key to keeping it that way. Clutter is a common frustration, which is why custom storage solutions are in high demand. We’re talking about more than just standard cabinets. Think about pull-out pantry shelves that let you see everything at a glance, deep corner drawers that make use of awkward spaces, and dedicated cabinets for appliances to keep your countertops clear. These innovative storage options are all about maximizing every inch of your kitchen for a more organized and functional workflow.

Current Color and Style Palettes

While neutral kitchens will always be classic, many homeowners are now choosing to express their personality with color. This doesn’t mean you have to paint your whole kitchen a bright color. Instead, you can introduce pops of color in thoughtful ways. Consider a vibrant tile for your backsplash, a statement color for your island, or even appliances in an unexpected shade. Boldly veined countertops are another way to make a statement. These personal touches are what make a kitchen feel truly your own, turning it from a generic space into one that reflects your unique style.

The Rise of Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability is becoming a bigger priority for many homeowners, and it’s definitely showing up in kitchen design. Choosing eco-friendly materials is a great way to create a healthier home and reduce your environmental impact. This can include countertops made from recycled materials, cabinetry built from sustainably harvested wood, or energy-efficient appliances that lower your utility bills. Even materials like natural stone can be a sustainable choice due to their durability and long lifespan. An eco-friendly kitchen is a smart investment for both your family and the planet.

Integrating Smart Technology

Technology is making our lives easier in every room, and the kitchen is no exception. Smart kitchen technology is all about adding convenience and efficiency to your daily routine. Imagine preheating your oven on your way home from work with your phone, or using a touchless faucet when your hands are messy. You can also integrate smart lighting that adjusts for different tasks, or a smart refrigerator that helps you keep track of your grocery list. These features might seem like small luxuries, but they can make a big difference in how you use and enjoy your kitchen every day.

Mixing Old Charm with New Style

Especially in a place like Concord with its rich history, many homeowners want to update their kitchens without losing the home’s original character. This is where transitional design comes in. This popular style beautifully blends traditional elements with modern touches for a look that feels both fresh and timeless. You might pair classic Shaker-style cabinets with sleek, modern hardware, or install a vintage-inspired light fixture over a contemporary waterfall island. This approach allows you to enjoy all the modern amenities you need while honoring the unique charm of your home.

How to Hire the Right Remodeling Pro

Finding the right contractor is the single most important decision you’ll make for your kitchen remodel. This is the team you’ll be trusting with your home, your budget, and your vision for what could be months. Think of it less as hiring a service and more as entering a partnership. You need someone who not only has the technical skills to execute the job flawlessly but also communicates clearly and genuinely understands your goals. A great professional will guide you through the process, anticipate challenges before they become problems, and maintain transparency every step of the way, especially when it comes to costs and timelines.

Taking the time to properly vet your options is an investment in the project’s success. It will save you from common frustrations, budget overruns, and a final result that doesn’t quite match what you had in mind. The right pro turns what can be a stressful process into an exciting and collaborative one, making sure your investment results in a beautiful, functional space you’ll love for years to come. It’s about finding a team that respects your home and is as committed to your vision as you are.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Your initial conversations with a potential contractor are your chance to see if you’re a good fit. Come prepared with a list of questions that go beyond the price tag. Start by being upfront about your budget. It’s helpful to have a range in mind and share the top end of what you’re comfortable spending. Ask for a detailed, itemized quote so you can see exactly where your money is going. You should also ask about their experience with projects similar to yours, their typical timeline for a kitchen remodel, and who your main point of contact will be. This is your opportunity to gauge their communication style and professionalism.

Check Credentials and References

Before you sign any contracts, do your homework. A reputable contractor will be happy to provide you with their license number, proof of insurance (both liability and workers’ compensation), and a list of recent references. Don’t just glance at the list—actually call a few of their past clients. Ask them about their experience, how the contractor handled challenges, whether the project stayed on budget, and if they were happy with the final quality of the work. Checking these credentials protects you and confirms you’re working with a legitimate, trustworthy business that offers a wide range of professional home improvement services.

Understand the Payment Schedule

A clear payment schedule is a sign of a well-organized contractor and is essential for managing your budget. Avoid any professional who asks for the full amount upfront. The industry standard is a reasonable down payment followed by progress payments tied to specific project milestones, like the completion of demolition, cabinet installation, or passing a major inspection. Make sure the payment schedule is clearly outlined in your contract. This structure keeps the project moving forward, ensures you’re only paying for completed work, and gives you leverage if issues arise. It’s a simple way to maintain financial control and keep everyone accountable.

Ask About Their Project Management Style

A successful remodel is built on a solid plan. One of the most insightful questions you can ask a contractor is about their project management process. How do they schedule subcontractors? How do they track progress and handle material orders? Do they use any specific software to keep you updated? A contractor who can clearly explain their structured approach is more likely to keep your project on track and on budget. This is especially critical for a major renovation where many moving parts need to be coordinated. A well-managed project is a less stressful project for everyone involved.

Set Clear Communication Rules

Miscommunication is the source of most remodeling frustrations. Before the first hammer swings, establish clear expectations for communication. Agree on how and when you’ll receive updates—is it a daily text, a weekly email summary, or a scheduled phone call? Clarify who your main point of contact is for questions and decisions. Setting these ground rules from the start ensures everyone is on the same page, helps you feel informed and in control, and makes it easier to address any concerns as they come up. Good communication is the foundation of a smooth and successful renovation experience.

How They Ensure Quality Work

You’re investing a lot in your new kitchen, so you want to be confident in the quality of the craftsmanship. Ask potential contractors how they ensure high-quality work from their team and subcontractors. Do they have a quality control checklist? How do they handle punch list items at the end of the project? It’s also important to ask about warranties. A professional contractor should stand behind their work with a written warranty that covers both labor and materials. This gives you peace of mind knowing that if any issues pop up after the project is complete, they will be there to make it right.

What to Expect During Your Renovation

A kitchen remodel is an exciting process, but it’s also a major undertaking that temporarily turns your home into a construction zone. Knowing what’s coming can make the entire experience much smoother for you and your family. From the first day of demolition to the final walkthrough, being prepared for the daily realities of a renovation helps you manage stress and keep your eyes on the prize: your beautiful new kitchen. Let’s walk through the key phases of the construction process and what you can do to make it a success.

Getting Your Home Ready for Construction

Before the crew arrives, your first job is to prep the area. This means completely clearing out your kitchen—every cabinet, drawer, and countertop. Pack up dishes, food, and small appliances, and move any furniture out of the way. It’s also a good idea to cover furniture in adjacent rooms with plastic sheeting to protect it from dust. Mentally prepare for some schedule changes, too. It’s wise to remember that most kitchen renovations can take longer than planned due to permit holdups or unexpected issues found during demolition. Building a little flexibility into your timeline from the start will save you a lot of stress later on.

How to Set Up a Temporary Kitchen

Living without a kitchen is tough, but a well-planned temporary setup can make all the difference. Find a space outside the construction zone, like your dining room, laundry room, or a corner of the garage, to serve as your mini-kitchen. Your goal is to maintain some normalcy, so include a microwave, a small refrigerator, and your coffee maker. A slow cooker or an electric skillet can also be great for making simple meals. Stock up on disposable plates and cutlery to avoid washing dishes in the bathroom sink. This temporary kitchen will be your command center for meals and snacks, helping your household run smoothly while the main event is underway.

The Day-to-Day Construction Process

Once work begins, your home will be buzzing with activity. Expect noise, dust, and a team of professionals coming and going. To keep everything on track, it’s important to have regular communication with your contractor. As experts from Peaks Precision note, homeowners should engage in detailed discussions covering the scope of work, budget, and timeline. Establish a preferred method of communication—whether it’s a daily text, a quick phone call, or a weekly meeting. This ensures you stay informed about progress, and you can address any questions or concerns as they come up. A strong partnership with your remodeling team is key to a successful project.

Navigating Project Inspections

During your renovation, you’ll hear the word “inspection” come up a few times. Don’t worry—this is a standard and essential part of the process. Municipal inspectors will need to visit at different stages to sign off on the work, ensuring it meets local safety and building codes. Your contractor will manage scheduling these visits. As Cosmo Appliances points out, things like electrical work and plumbing modifications require permits and professional oversight. Inspections are there to protect you and your investment, confirming that every part of your new kitchen is safe, sound, and built to last.

Caring for Your New Kitchen

As the project wraps up, it’s time to think about how you’ll care for your beautiful new space. Your contractor should provide you with all the warranty information, manuals, and product details for your new appliances, cabinets, and countertops. Create a folder to keep everything organized. Take time to learn the specific cleaning requirements for your new surfaces—what works for quartz might damage marble. By understanding how to maintain everything properly from day one, you’ll keep your kitchen looking brand new for years to come. A little prep work now ensures your investment continues to pay off.

Handling Common Remodeling Challenges

Even with the best team and a solid plan, unexpected issues can arise during a remodel. You might discover old, faulty wiring behind a wall or find that your desired backsplash tile is on backorder. The best way to handle these challenges is to plan for them. This is why one of the biggest renovation errors to avoid is starting without proper planning. We always recommend setting aside a contingency fund—about 10% to 20% of your total budget—to cover unforeseen costs. This financial cushion gives you peace of mind and the flexibility to deal with surprises without derailing your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my kitchen remodel actually take? The timeline for a kitchen remodel can vary quite a bit depending on the scope of your project. A straightforward cosmetic update might take a few weeks, while a full gut renovation with a new layout could take several months. Factors like custom cabinet orders, permit approvals, and inspections all play a role. A professional contractor will provide you with a detailed project schedule upfront so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Can I stay in my home while the kitchen is being renovated? Yes, most homeowners do live at home during their kitchen remodel. It just requires a bit of planning. Setting up a temporary kitchen in another room with essentials like a microwave, coffee maker, and small fridge will make a huge difference. While there will be some dust and noise, a good contractor will work to minimize the disruption and keep the work area contained, making the process much more manageable for you and your family.

What’s the best way to save money on a remodel without cutting corners? The smartest way to save is by making strategic choices, not by opting for the cheapest materials or labor. Keeping your kitchen’s existing layout is one of the biggest money-savers, as it avoids the cost of moving plumbing and electrical lines. You can also mix materials, splurging on a durable countertop you love while choosing a more budget-friendly tile for the backsplash. The one area you should never skimp on is quality installation, as that’s what ensures your investment will last.

Why is a contingency fund so important? Think of a contingency fund as your project’s financial safety net. It’s not extra money for adding new features; it’s a buffer set aside specifically for the unexpected. During demolition, it’s common to uncover issues like old wiring that isn’t up to code or hidden water damage. Having a fund of 10-20% of your budget ready for these surprises means they become manageable problems instead of project-derailing disasters, which significantly reduces stress.

What is the very first step I should take to get started? Before you even start looking at tile samples, the best first step is to define your goals and your budget. Spend some time thinking about what isn’t working in your current kitchen and create a wish list of features you’d love to have. Once you have a clear vision and a realistic idea of what you’re comfortable investing, you can have a productive conversation with a design and remodeling professional to explore what’s possible.