Plan & Prep Phase|Step 1 of 33
Assess Current State
Before spending a dime, take stock of exactly what you have. Document what works, what doesn't, and what you dream of changing.
Time Required
1-2 hours
Cost
$0
Difficulty
Very Easy
Documentation Steps
1
Take photos of everything
Capture wide shots of the full kitchen from each corner. Then document every surface, cabinet, and appliance. Good lighting reveals true conditions.
2
Document problem areas
Water damage under sink? Peeling cabinet finish? Cracked tile? Note every issue with close-up photos and written descriptions.
3
Note appliance ages
Check model numbers and manufacture dates. Average lifespans: fridge 13 years, dishwasher 9 years, range 13-15 years.
4
Create a "keep vs. replace" list
Divide every element into categories: definitely keep, definitely replace, and undecided. This becomes your planning foundation.
What to Evaluate
- Countertops: Damage, stains, heat marks, outdated color or pattern
- Cabinets: Structural integrity, door condition, hardware, interior organization
- Appliances: Age, efficiency, functionality, appearance
- Flooring: Condition, style compatibility, installation quality
- Lighting: Adequacy, style, energy efficiency
- Plumbing: Faucet condition, sink quality, disposal operation
- Backsplash: Style, grout condition, cleanliness
- Paint/Walls: Color, condition, compatibility with your vision
Pain Points to Identify
- Storage issues: Not enough cabinet space? Poor organization?
- Workflow problems: Fridge too far from prep area? No counter space by stove?
- Lighting gaps: Dark corners? No task lighting over counters?
- Dated style: What feels most embarrassingly outdated?
- Functional failures: Drawers that stick? Doors that don't close?
- Maintenance nightmares: Grout that never looks clean? Hard-to-reach spots?
Pro Tips
- •Cook a full meal: Use your kitchen normally while taking notes. You'll notice issues you'd otherwise miss.
- •Ask family members: Everyone uses the kitchen differently. Get input from all household cooks.
- •Check under the sink: Water damage here indicates plumbing issues that need addressing.
- •Open every drawer and door: Test functionality. Note sticky slides, loose hinges, misaligned doors.