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Revamping the Heart of Your Home

Nowhere in your home is a better gathering place than the kitchen. So much happens here—from grabbing that first cup of coffee in the morning to making dinner for the family in the evening, and all the moments in between. Kids congregate here, important conversations happen here, and most importantly, families make connections here. But being the central focus of your home comes with a lot of wear and tear. And as the years go by, the heart of your home might need a full kitchen remodel.

If your kitchen is starting to feel outdated, inefficient, or just too small for your family, a kitchen remodel can fix these issues and create a comfortable space that reflects your style while meeting your needs. However, there are lots of things to consider when undertaking a kitchen remodeling project.

Luxury Kitchen Renovation Ideas

Once you decide on a full kitchen remodel, it’s time to dream! And dream big. It’s easier to trim your ideas and budget in the beginning than it is to add something once the plan is in place. You’ll meet with your builder to discuss their process and understand the benefits of selecting a design/build firm. After your initial consultation, architects and interior designers will meet with you to discuss your personal style and ideas to transform the space.

Luxury upgrades can make your new kitchen both aesthetically pleasing and functional while also increasing resale value. Here are a few to consider:

Premium Materials

  • Cabinetry: A great cabinet designer will take your ideas and design custom cabinetry that addresses your needs, whether you want a minimalistic design or expansive storage solutions. Additions, such as a beverage center or butler’s pantry can be added to match. Undercabinet lighting can improve visibility in work areas.
  • High-end Countertops: Marble, quartz and granite all offer durability and sophistication to your kitchen. The design and color choices are endless so it’s easy to find a countertop to match your personal style.
  • Flooring: Think beyond the standard oak or maple floors and consider exotic hardwood, such as Tigerwood, or natural stone. Both can add warmth to your kitchen.
A modern kitchen at the Oxbow Ranch Home features wooden cabinets, a white island, and a gas stove. A glass door leads to a pantry, while wooden beams grace the ceiling. A potted plant sits on the island, adding a touch of nature to this stylish space.
A modern cottage kitchen with white cabinets and gray countertops.

High-end Fixtures and Appliances

  • Refrigerated Drawers: Put frequently used items right at your fingertips with undercounter refrigerated drawers. They come in a variety of widths and depths and can be customized with drawer fronts to match your cabinetry.
  • Built-In Wine Cooler: Display your wine collection while storing bottles at the optimal temperature with a built-in wine cooler. It’s the perfect addition to that new beverage center.
  • Espresso Station: Coffee connoisseurs can unite at a station built just for them. Surround your espresso maker with stylish coffee containers, mugs and accessories for the perfect wake-up routine.
  • Statement Lighting: Pendant lights are one of the first things people see when walking into a kitchen, especially if they make a statement. Splurge on imported or designer light fixtures to give visual impact to the space.

Steps in a Professional Kitchen Remodel

Some home remodeling companies may follow different construction processes, but most adhere to these structured phrases to ensure a smooth execution. As the homeowner, it’s important to understand each phase in preparation for your kitchen to be unusable for a length of time.

Phase 1: Kitchen Planning and Design

During this phase, the remodeling team will help define your needs for the kitchen, discuss your design style, and map out the kitchen’s new floor plan. You’ll also work with an interior designer to select materials, finishes, and new appliances.

Phase 2: Demolition

Next, the demolition team goes to work, removing old cabinets, countertops, and flooring. Walls will be demolished if the plan dictates, and all debris will be removed.

Phase 3: Structural Work

Once your kitchen is down to its bare bones, plumbing and electrical move in to redirect or install new pipes and wiring. The HVAC system is updated if necessary. New walls are built and others are reinforced for structural integrity to accommodate the new floor plan. The entire area is sheet rocked and painted in preparation for the next phase.

Phase 4: Installation

Now your new kitchen is starting to take shape. It’s exciting to watch the installation of new cabinetry and countertops. The flooring is laid and major appliances are moved into place. The backsplash is tiled, new lights are hung, and fixtures are installed.

Phase 5: Cleanup and Walkthrough

A deep clean removes any remaining dust and debris before your final walkthrough. The kitchen remodeling contractor will ensure everything is up to code and functioning properly and will discuss any work or appliances under warranty.

Finding the Right Custom Kitchen Remodeler

Revamping the heart of your home is a big decision, and so too is the company you choose for your kitchen renovation. Highmark Builders offers the following benefits not found at every kitchen remodeling company:

  • Years of Experience: With more than 20 years in business, we’re a top custom remodeler in the Twin Cities.
  • Warranty: All craftsmanship is covered by our warranty, and you’ll be assigned a dedicated Warranty Specialist if any issues arise.
  • In-house Teams: Sub-contractors can delay timelines. We employ in-house interior designers, project managers, job supervisors, and carpenters to streamline the process and keep your kitchen remodel on schedule.
  • Access to Quality Materials: Relationships matter in the construction industry. We’ve built connections with many suppliers that offer the high-end materials you want.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your full kitchen remodeling project, contact Highmark Builders to schedule an initial consultation with our in-house design and build team.

For more kitchen inspiration, check out our kitchen design photo gallery.