A kitchen remodel is a multi-faceted process that can seem complicated–until you learn how to take it one step at a time. Here’s a guide to kitchen remodeling in the less-stress way.

What Do You See?: Brainstorming Kitchen Remodel Ideas

Visualization is the first step to kitchen remodeling. Does your prefect kitchen have marble countertops, acres of cabinets, or a picture window? Aside from magazines, TV and the Internet, consider gathering kitchen remodel ideas from:

• Open houses
• Friends and family: ask them what they like and dislike about their own kitchens
• Family members that frequently use the kitchen: what features do they want to keep? What do they think would make the kitchen more functional?

During this step, it’s important not to be blinded by the aesthetics of your new kitchen—of course, you’ll need to seriously consider function as well, particularly if you love to cook. If you often host large parties, for example, a double oven may be worth a splurge (and it might make more sense for you than fancy light fixtures or marble countertops if you’re on a budget). Sketch your ideas.

Choose Your Design

Here’s the step in the process where you meet with professional designers to discuss what your kitchen remodel will look like–and how much it will cost. When meeting with a designer, you’ll be able to look at a wide variety of ideas to remodel a kitchen and materials ranging from cabinets to countertops to flooring.

You can also sketch out a budget with your designer’s help. Your designer can assist with coming up with a reasonable cost estimate for your kitchen remodel–and can help you stick to that estimate along the way.

See How it Fits in Your Home

Viewing a design in the showroom is one thing, but how is it going to fit in your home? At this point in the kitchen remodel process, your designer will do an in-home consultation to get exact measurements and dimensions. They will often use technology in this step by videotaping the home or producing computer-aided drawings so you can better visualize how your remodeled kitchen will look.

Construction Begins

Finally some ground is broken on your kitchen remodeling project! Here’s where you get the materials you’ll need, as well as any permits that must be obtained. Keep in mind that this may take some time, depending on where you live.

Sometimes, your designer will also be in charge of hiring and handling subcontractors. When working with your designer, make sure that he or she has a reliable team of subcontractors for your project, and don’t be afraid to ask for references.

Completion and Wrap-up

As your remodeling project starts to wrap up, excess construction materials and supplies will be taken off the premises. A final inspection will be done so that you can give your official thumbs-up.

Happy cooking!