If you’ve been following along since last year, you might remember when I first shared my plans for a major kitchen remodel. At that time, it was all vision boards and big ideas. Fast forward to today—construction is in full swing, and I’m finally seeing the transformation take shape.

And it’s not just about making the space prettier (though I can’t wait to reveal the final look). This remodel is deeply rooted in how our family actually lives.

Designing for a Growing Family

As my son grows, our routines have shifted. We spend more time in the kitchen all together now, cooking, talking, sharing meals. 

I needed a space that supports that. So we said goodbye to underutilized areas, like a long hallway and an outdated maid’s room, and reimagined them into a more functional layout. 

Now, there’s an open laundry space, improved flow, and yes, two sinks, because multitasking in the kitchen is real life.

Here’s what I suggest you consider for your own kitchen: 

• Prioritize the work triangle: Keep your sink, stove, and fridge within close reach to make cooking more intuitive and efficient.
• Eliminate wasted space: Hallways, dead corners, and unused rooms can often be reworked into practical zones like storage, laundry, or pantry space.
• Create designated zones: Separate areas for prep, cooking, and cleanup help reduce chaos and make it easier for multiple people to use the kitchen at once.
• Add function: Features like a second sink or custom storage may not be the first thing you wish for, but they drastically improve daily flow.

Design for your lifestyle, not just for looks: A beautiful kitchen that doesn’t serve your family’s needs will only lead to frustration in the long run.

Small Touches, Big Impact

Another one of my favorite additions is a little tunnel under the cabinets that leads to the laundry room, just for our dogs. It’s small, but it makes a big difference (no more pee pads in the middle of the kitchen 🙃).

We also made intentional upgrades for our family: imported U.S. appliances, 110-volt outlets, and a thoughtful layout that supports the work triangle (fridge, sink, stove) so that cooking daily feels less like a juggling act.

If you’re planning a remodel, think about this: 

• Think about your pets: Carve out space that works for them too, like hidden nooks or designated feeding areas, to keep the kitchen tidy.
• Don’t overlook electrical planning: Upgrading voltage or adding outlets can make a big difference if you prefer specific appliances or international brands.
• Customize for comfort: Whether it’s labels that are easy to read or tools that support your cooking style, design your kitchen around how you move and work.
• Details matter: Even the smallest convenience, like where the dog door goes, can transform how functional and peaceful your kitchen feels.

This remodel taught me that beauty should follow function. You can pin all the aesthetic ideas you want, but if the space doesn’t reflect your family’s habits, needs, and quirks, it’ll never feel like home.

If you’re dreaming of a remodel, I encourage you to design around your life, not just trends. Because the heart of your home deserves more than just surface-level pretty.

Now, I invite you to think about your own home: what changes would make your kitchen work better for your day-to-day? 

Ready to Start Planning Yours?

If this post got your wheels turning, you’ll love the two earlier posts I wrote that walk through the inspiration and vision behind this remodel. 

👉 Start with 12 Clear Signs It’s Time to Remodel Your Kitchen, a practical checklist to help you recognize when your kitchen is no longer serving your lifestyle.

👉 Then check out Practical Kitchen Layouts for Apartment Living, where I share layout strategies that make even small kitchens feel purposeful and joyful.

These posts will give you the clarity and confidence to begin designing a kitchen that works for you. Because the most beautiful kitchens are the ones that function seamlessly behind the scenes.

Before you go…

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