Ah, kitchen renovations. They’re arguably the most expensive and time-consuming home projects you can possibly undertake, but the reward is almost always worth the months-long hassle. Not only does an updated kitchen increase your home’s value, it can significantly improve the functionality of your entire space — just imagine the entertaining possibilities with your dream kitchen!

With that said, a few common kitchen renovation faux pas can easily derail your project. From overestimating your DIY abilities to measuring once (instead of 100+ times), small errors in judgement and an overall lack of knowledge can seriously hinder the success of a kitchen renovation — and leave you with more than a few regrets.

But never fear! The Havenly interior design team is here to share their reno wisdom. Ahead, find the most common kitchen renovation mistakes our team has come across, from personal projects to client homes and beyond. Keep scrolling for their advice on what not to do and how to avoid a few common reno regrets.

Mistake #1: Winging it

A true kitchen renovation calls for a plan — like a spreadsheet, timeline, budget, and color-coded to-do list sort of plan. In addition to researching and hiring a qualified contractor and setting a budget up-front, you’ll need to think through the layout, functional needs, and design choices for the entire space — from the backsplash tile style, configuration, and color to the countertop material. 

What’s more, you’ll need to determine how you’re going to cook for the three-plus months when you’re out of a proper kitchen. While this meticulous planning up-front may feel daunting, it will set you up for success and a smooth reno down the line.

Mistake #2: Waiting to choose appliances

Believe it or not, selecting appliances should come near the beginning of the renovation process, not the end. Pick out and order your appliances ASAP (and don’t forget to account for shipping delays) so that you can plan cabinetry and countertop dimensions around them. While appliances may seem like more of a finishing touch, reverse engineering it in this way ensures that everything will fit and flow perfectly — and that you won’t be waiting for weeks to months for your new refrigerator. 

Mistake #3: Failing to plan for walkways

We’ve all been in a home where an open cabinet, door, or drawer completely obstructs a walkway or bumps up into an appliance. To avoid this amateur faux pas, always draw up your walkways with swinging doors and open cabinets in mind — you’ll want to account for the entire footprint of each piece, and carve out space for wider walkways wherever possible. This thoughtfulness will ensure optimal flow and functionality. 

Mistake #4: Budget blindness 

Underestimating costs is the cardinal sin of renovations big and small. Even the most meticulously-planned projects can incur unforeseen expenses, whether it’s plumbing complications or structural issues. Always budget for contingencies to prevent financial headache down the line — you’ll be happy you did! 

Mistake #5: Failing to measure 

There’s no such thing as too much measuring when tackling a kitchen renovation.  Overlooking precise measurements can lead to a cascade problems, from ill-fitting appliances and cramped walkways to improperly cut countertops. Take the time to measure and remeasure every nook and cranny before ordering anything, and triple check everything with your contractor. 

Mistake #6: Form over function 

While sleek aesthetics are enticing, don’t sacrifice functionality for style. Those trendy open shelves and sleek marble countertops might look Instagram-worthy, but if they leave you scrambling for storage space or leaving stains every time you cook, they’re more hassle than they’re worth. Always prioritize practicality to ensure your kitchen works as hard as you do! 

Mistake #7: Ignoring the “triangle rule” 

The layout of your kitchen should adhere to the golden rule of design: the work triangle. This means that the sink, stove, and refrigerator should form a triangle to optimize workflow. When done properly, the work triangle ensures that you’re never more than a few feet away from your essential appliances when prepping, cooking, and serving meals. Neglecting this fundamental concept can result in a disjointed and inefficient cookspace that fails to check the “function” box.

Mistake #8: Too much DIY 

DIY enthusiasm is commendable, but it’s important to know when to call in the professionals. Botched tile installations and plumbing and electrical mishaps can quickly derail your kitchen renovation and cost you more money in the long run. Don’t hesitate to seek expert help for tasks beyond your skillset! 

Mistake #9: Going too trendy

You don’t want to look back on your expensive kitchen renovation in five short years and cringe at the aesthetic choices you made. These spaces are important workhorses in any home, and should have a timeless look to match. We recommend bringing in trendy touches via decor and furniture that you can easily swap out, like counter stools, vases, utensils, and the like, and going more neutral and timeless with the hard finishes, like countertops, cabinetry, and backsplash tile.

Want expert advice on your own space, straight from an interior designer? Get started today with our style quiz.