Just in case there is a group of closet DIYs out there, I thought an article in that vein might come in handy. While tackling a complete kitchen renovation is something I would probably not do myself, I realize that some folks have all kinds of time on their hands and might actually relish the idea of tearing out the old and popping in the new. Let’s see what’s involved.
Most of the early steps have already been worked out for you in my series of articles. Start with what you have. You already know it well but try to look at it from a design standpoint. Why is the stove where it is? Is it where it should be? Decide for yourself if everything fits well and then look at what extras you might want to add. An island? Make sure you have space.
Layout your present plan on paper or, better yet, in a CAD program. Get some 3D views of it and change around different things to see how new ideas fit with old ones.
Check out door styles and colors either on the net using my links or in the various showrooms around your area. If you wear your oldest clothes, you can bet that no one will bother you. Everyone knows that only well-dressed people buy kitchens!
Once you have settled on a style, loosely at least, head to a local ‘box’ store to see if there is a matching style in the DIY line of cabinets. Most big name box renovation stores have a line of cabinets that come in an RTA or ready to assemble format. Some of these cabinets have a lifetime warranty and are not to be ignored as far as quality and value are concerned. One particular line offers 3/4 inch construction all the way around, including shelves and a wide selection of doors to fit most tastes. Make sure you have a few strong friends around to assist you when you have these cabinets delivered. They are strong like bull but heavy like stone.
While you are in the big store, ask politely if one of the designers can assist you with your design, and also ask what lines of cabinets the designer would suggest for a person who prefers to do it themselves.
Why a box store? I agree that boxes are impersonal, no matter what the ads say. I agree that they are understaffed and generally have a vast array of inexperienced personnel as employees. But they do have a policy of which you should already be aware. That policy is ... customer
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