Kitchen Remodel Checklist: Which Features Need an Upgrade?

When planning a kitchen remodel, it’s easy to focus on the big elements, but the details matter just as much.

Here are key kitchen features you won’t want to overlook, along with expert tips to help you decide what to upgrade and how to do it right.

A well-designed backsplash does more than protect your kitchen walls from stains, moisture, and heat—it also adds style and character to your space. Whether you’re cooking, prepping food, or cleaning up, a backsplash makes maintenance easier and your kitchen more durable.

Today’s backsplash materials range from classic subway tile to modern glass, metal, or stone, giving you endless opportunities to personalize your kitchen renovation. You can choose a bold pattern to make a statement or go with a subtle design that complements your countertops, kitchen cabinets, and overall room aesthetic.

As both a functional upgrade and a design element, installing a new backsplash is one of the simplest ways to refresh your kitchen while boosting visual appeal and long-term value.

Custom cabinetry is one of the most valuable upgrades in a kitchen remodel. Unlike stock options, custom cabinets are built to fit your exact kitchen layout, maximizing every inch of space for better storage, organization, and workflow.

You can personalize everything—from materials and finishes to hardware and internal features—creating a cohesive design that reflects your style and meets your needs. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern look or a more traditional aesthetic, custom cabinets give you the flexibility to bring your vision to life.

Beyond aesthetics, custom cabinet installation delivers lasting value. With high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, these cabinets are built to perform well for years to come. While the remodel cost may be higher upfront, custom cabinetry provides superior durability and usability that standard options simply can’t match.

A kitchen island is one of the most versatile and impactful upgrades in any kitchen remodel. It serves as a central hub for food prep, casual dining, additional storage, and even entertaining. With thoughtful planning, your island can elevate both the functionality and design of your entire kitchen.

To enhance workflow and efficiency, consider features like an integrated sink, cooktop, pull-out drawers, or hidden trash bins. These additions help streamline everyday tasks and reduce congestion in high-traffic areas.

A kitchen island also contributes significantly to your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. It can be designed to contrast with your countertops or kitchen cabinets for a bold, modern look, or complement them for a more unified feel. Paired with statement lighting overhead, the island often becomes the visual focal point of the space.

Whether your layout is large or compact, a well-designed island can adapt to your needs and greatly improve the flow, usability, and appeal of your kitchen.

Over time, even the most durable countertops can show signs of wear—stains, chips, scratches, warping, or other damage that affects both appearance and hygiene. When regular maintenance is no longer enough, it may be time for a full countertop installation as part of your kitchen remodel.

Replacing outdated countertops can instantly transform the look and feel of your space, especially when paired with other upgrades like new kitchen cabinets or a stylish backsplash. Popular materials such as quartz, granite, and other natural stones are highly resistant to stains and scratches, easy to clean, and built to last for decades when properly cared for.

A thoughtfully chosen countertop not only improves functionality but also enhances the overall kitchen design, giving you a surface that’s as beautiful as it is practical.

Upgrading your kitchen appliances is one of the most impactful ways to improve efficiency, performance, and style during a kitchen remodel. Choosing ENERGY STAR®-certified models can significantly lower utility bills and reduce your home’s carbon footprint. For example, an ENERGY STAR refrigerator uses up to 15% less energy, helping you save money while protecting the environment.

Beyond efficiency, design trends are shaping the modern kitchen. Statement stoves are gaining popularity, offering luxury, French-inspired designs with advanced features like induction cooking, delivering faster cook times, precise heat control, and a striking visual focal point.

Smart appliances are also transforming kitchens with built-in technology. From dishwashers that track water and energy usage to ovens that send alerts when your meal is ready, these innovations bring convenience, sustainability, and precision into daily life.

Selecting the right appliances not only supports better cooking and cleaning but also elevates the overall design and value of your kitchen renovation.

A kitchen nook is a cozy, functional corner that adds charm and comfort to your kitchen layout. Picture a built-in bench with plush pillows, a small table for casual meals, or a sunny spot for your morning coffee. This inviting space can also double as a reading corner or a relaxed gathering spot.

By adding soft lighting installation, layered textures, and personal touches—such as artwork or plants—you create warmth, personality, and a welcoming atmosphere. A thoughtfully designed nook not only enhances your kitchen renovation but also makes your kitchen a space you’ll truly love spending time in.

Your kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in the home, so flooring must be both durable and beautiful. Popular kitchen remodeling choices include patterned tile for visual interest and wood-look vinyl for a warm, timeless aesthetic that’s also water-resistant and easy to maintain.

Area rugs or runners placed in work zones—like near the sink or stove—not only define specific areas in your kitchen layout but also add visual appeal and cushioning underfoot. When chosen carefully, flooring and rugs can complement your countertops, kitchen cabinets, and overall design while standing up to heavy daily use.

Lighting plays a crucial role in both the function and atmosphere of your kitchen remodel. A balanced design uses three main types. Ambient lighting creates a warm, inviting glow that fills the room. Accent lighting highlights statement features such as a kitchen island, unique backsplash, or open shelving. Task lighting improves visibility and efficiency for cooking, dining, and entertaining.

Practical upgrades like under-cabinet lighting brighten work areas, while vintage-inspired fixtures or bold pendants add style and personality. For added convenience, consider motion-activated lighting in pantries or high-traffic work zones. The right mix of lighting enhances performance, elevates design, and transforms the feel of your kitchen.

Your kitchen should reflect more than just trends—it should reflect you. Beyond the functional upgrades of custom cabinetry, premium kitchen appliances, or a thoughtfully designed kitchen island, your personality shines through the details.

Showcase your style by incorporating personal collections like vintage cookware, heirloom serving pieces, or carefully chosen artwork. Add warmth with fresh greenery, unique textiles, or display shelves that hold meaningful décor. These finishing touches not only personalize your space but also make your kitchen renovation feel truly complete.