Nicole is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design. She has 20 plus years of experience in the kitchen & bath cabinet industry/and loves assisting people in finding the perfect solution to their remodeling projects. Nicole and her husband reside in Brownstown and Cockapoo “Aero Smith”. In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her family, camping on the west side of Michigan and spending time with friends.
Renovating your kitchen is one of the most exciting — and potentially overwhelming — projects you can take on in your home. It’s not just about choosing the right countertop or finding the perfect shade of white for your cabinets. A successful kitchen renovation takes thoughtful planning, the right materials, and a solid team.
At Great Lakes Granite & Marble, we’ve worked with countless homeowners as they are renovating. Over the years, we’ve seen a few common missteps that can create big problems later on. In this article, we’re breaking down the top 7 mistakes to avoid during your kitchen renovation so you can enjoy a smoother experience and a space that truly works for your lifestyle.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is rushing into a renovation without a comprehensive plan. It’s tempting to start shopping for fixtures or scheduling contractors, but without a clear vision and realistic budget, you risk delays, overspending, and design choices that don’t align.
Start with a full understanding of your goals: Are you renovating for resale? Creating a better flow for family life? Solving storage issues?
Once you know your “why,” outline a budget that includes a 10–20% buffer for unexpected costs. Work with a project manager if possible to help organize selections, timelines, and tradespeople.
Our One-Stop Shop model at Great Lakes Granite & Marble was designed with this exact need in mind. We guide you through each stage, from design to installation, with all services under one roof.
The layout of your kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics—it directly impacts how functional your space feels day to day. Many homeowners forget to prioritize the “work triangle”: the path between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. When these zones are too far apart or obstructed, your kitchen becomes inefficient and frustrating.
Beyond the triangle, make sure your layout includes smart storage: drawers that fully extend, pantry access, and deep cabinets where it makes sense. Consider how you use the space now and what improvements could help. Full-height cabinets can reduce clutter, and thoughtful drawer inserts can transform everyday functionality.
Looking for inspiration? Check out our Kitchen Design Trends article for insights on modern, functional layouts that blend beauty with purpose.
It may seem logical to finalize cabinetry first, but appliance dimensions often determine how your cabinets and countertops are built. Waiting too long to purchase or specify your appliances can cause last-minute redesigns or installation issues.
Choose appliances early in your planning process and share specifications with your designer and contractor. This ensures a seamless fit and can prevent expensive changes down the line.
In today’s kitchens, we rely on more gadgets and appliances than ever—from espresso machines to charging stations. Yet electrical planning is often overlooked until the end.
Be sure to walk through your space and plan outlet placement for convenience and code compliance. Think about adding outlets in the island, under cabinets, or even integrating USB charging stations. If you plan to entertain, plug-in convenience is a big plus.
It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference.
Trying to save money by choosing cheaper materials or skipping quality lighting may save a few dollars upfront, but it often leads to regret. Your countertops, cabinets, and lighting get daily use and set the tone for your entire space.
Countertops in particular are an investment that need to balance durability, maintenance, and style. Our guide to Countertop Options can help you compare materials and make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle.
As for lighting, incorporate a mix of overhead, task, and ambient lighting to create a kitchen that’s functional at any time of day.
There are plenty of aspects of a renovation you can tackle yourself, but cutting out professionals entirely can lead to costly mistakes. Structural work, plumbing, electrical, and countertop installation all require skill and experience.
Hiring a qualified team means your project will be done safely, correctly, and often more efficiently. At Great Lakes Granite & Marble, we offer not only material selection and fabrication but also expert installation. Our project managers are here to coordinate the details and keep things moving smoothly.
We all love a gorgeous, trendy kitchen—but chasing the latest design fad can make your kitchen feel dated in just a few years. Instead of building your entire space around one trend, focus on timeless elements and use trends in flexible areas like paint color, light fixtures, or bar stools.
Looking for ideas that balance longevity with style? Explore our latest Kitchen Design Trends for inspiration that will stand the test of time.
If you’re planning a renovation and want expert guidance every step of the way, our One-Stop Shop approach at Great Lakes Granite & Marble is here to help. Let us simplify the process, so you can focus on creating your dream kitchen.
