Custom kitchen remodel: Planning a highly personalized remodeling project
A custom kitchen remodel can transform your Cincinnati home into a luxurious, functional space that reflects your style and meets your needs. Whether you live in a historic home in Over-the-Rhine or a modern residence in Hyde Park, planning such a project requires careful thought, expert guidance, and a clear vision.
For homeowners in the Cincinnati area, DeVol Design Build Remodel offers a proven process to make your dream kitchen a reality—hassle-free, tailored to your budget, and completed with minimal disruption. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to plan a custom kitchen remodel in Cincinnati, drawing on DeVol’s expertise to ensure a smooth, satisfying experience.
Step 1: Define Your Vision and Goals
The first step in planning a kitchen remodel is to clarify what you want to achieve. Are you dreaming of a sleek, modern kitchen with smart appliances, or a timeless design with custom cabinetry and marble countertops? Cincinnati homeowners often blend the city’s rich architectural heritage with contemporary upgrades, creating spaces that feel both unique and practical.
Start by asking yourself key questions:
- What’s the primary purpose of your kitchen? Cooking, entertaining, or a mix of both?
- What style speaks to you? Think about local influences—perhaps the warm tones of a Clifton Victorian or the clean lines popular in Montgomery.
- What features matter most? High-end appliances, a spacious island, or a wine cellar nook?
Once you have a vision, DeVol Design Build Remodel steps in with years of experience to refine your ideas. We emphasize open communication and collaboration, ensuring you’re involved in every aspect of the project. As one client shared …
I’ve heard stories about contractors who ‘take over’ a house during a remodel. Not with DeVol. That didn’t happen to us. The contractors were very respectful to me, my kids, and even our dog.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
A custom kitchen remodel doesn’t mean breaking the bank—it means getting the most value for your investment. With DeVol, your budget is set by you, and our team works to maximize it. In Cincinnati, costs can vary widely depending on the scope, materials, and labor. DeVol ensures transparency with detailed estimates, drawings, and plans—all in writing. This clarity eliminates surprises and keeps you in control.
To set your budget:
- Research average costs for high-end materials (e.g., custom cabinets, quartz countertops) in the Cincinnati market.
- Factor in labor, permits, and any structural changes (common in older homes near downtown).
- Decide on “must-haves” versus “nice-to-haves” to prioritize spending.
Our team, including DeVol’s architect, collaborate directly with you, transforming your ideas into sketches that become the roadmap to your dream kitchen. They explore cost-effective options for quality results, ensuring your budget aligns with your vision without compromising on luxury.
Step 3: Choose the Right Partner
A high-end remodel demands a contractor who understands both craftsmanship and client care. DeVol Design Build Remodel stands out in Cincinnati for our tailored process, designed to minimize disruption and maximize satisfaction. Our approach includes:
- Minimal disruption in your daily routine: Using dust-catching barriers and setting up temporary kitchens or bathrooms as needed.
- Open communication: Regular updates via phone and email keep you informed.
- Easy access to the team: From concept to completion, DeVol works side-by-side with you.
Our Designers are a unique perk, assisting you to choose everything from kitchen cabinets to light fixtures. This hands-on guidance ensures every detail reflects your taste while staying within budget. For Cincinnati homeowners hesitant after a friend’s renovation horror story, DeVol’s promise of a hassle-free experience—spelled out in writing—offers peace of mind.
Step 4: Select Custom Kitchen Remodel Materials and Features
Cincinnati’s climate and architectural diversity influence material choices for a custom kitchen remodel. With humid summers and cold winters, durability matters as much as style. DeVol helps you select premium materials that elevate your space:
- Countertops: Opt for quartz or granite for a timeless, upscale look that withstands daily use.
- Cabinetry: Custom wood cabinets in rich finishes (e.g., cherry or walnut) add warmth, perfect for Cincinnati’s cozy aesthetic.
- Appliances: High-end brands like Wolf or Sub-Zero bring functionality and prestige.
- Lighting: Statement chandeliers or under-cabinet LEDs enhance both ambiance and practicality.
Our team ensures these choices align with your design concept, sourcing options from trusted Cincinnati-area suppliers. Our expertise helps you balance luxury with practicality, creating a kitchen that’s both stunning and suited to local living.
Step 5: Plan the Timeline and Stages
A custom kitchen remodel isn’t a quick fix—it’s a carefully staged process. DeVol’s method, honed over years, breaks the project into manageable phases to minimize dust, disorder, and disruption. A typical progression includes:
- Demolition: Removing old fixtures and cabinetry with precision to protect your home.
- Framing: Updating plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems as needed (crucial in Cincinnati’s older homes).
- Drywall Installation: Sealing the space for a clean slate.
- Finish Work: Installing cabinets, countertops, flooring, and final touches.
Each stage is completed before the next begins, keeping your routine intact. DeVol manages schedules meticulously, providing you with a timeline so you always know what’s happening. For larger projects, expect 8–12 weeks, though careful planning can streamline this. Temporary setups—like a makeshift kitchen—can be utilized to ensure you’re not left without essentials during the process.
Step 6: Incorporate Cincinnati-Specific Considerations
Living in Cincinnati means factoring in local nuances. Many homes in areas like Mt. Adams or Mariemont feature unique layouts or historic elements that require thoughtful updates. DeVol’s experience with the region’s architecture ensures your remodel respects these traits while adding modern luxury. For instance:
- Historic Homes: Preserving exposed brick or original hardwood while integrating high-end appliances.
- Suburban Spaces: Opening up floor plans in places like Anderson Township for a contemporary feel.
- Weather Prep: Choosing moisture-resistant materials to combat Cincinnati’s humidity.
Our careful planning addresses these factors, tailoring the design to your home’s character and the city’s climate.
Step 7: Collaborate Throughout the Process
A custom remodel thrives on collaboration. DeVol’s process keeps you in the loop, from initial sketches to the final reveal. Our team team offers continuous communication, ensuring your input shapes every decision. Whether you’re tweaking layouts or picking finishes, you’ll have easy access to DeVol for adjustments.
Step 8: Enjoy the Finish and Follow-Up
Once your kitchen is complete, DeVol doesn’t just walk away. We’re committed to your satisfaction, offering a follow-up time to address any concerns. Need a cabinet tweak or a light fixture adjusted? They’re there to ensure everything meets your expectations. This dedication sets them apart, turning your remodel into a lasting investment.
Why Opt for a Custom Kitchen Remodel in Cincinnati?
Cincinnati’s blend of historic charm and modern growth makes it an ideal place for a standout kitchen. A high-end remodel not only elevates your daily life but also boosts property value—a smart move in neighborhoods like Oakley or Madeira, where home prices are climbing. With DeVol, you’re not just renovating—you’re crafting a space that reflects Cincinnati’s unique spirit.
