What to expect during a kitchen remodel - Archipelago Hawaii

This month’s Design Minds question comes from a fan who is looking to kick start 2016 with a new kitchen:

“What does the process look like when undertaking a kitchen remodel?

I would love to start the New Year with a new kitchen, but I’m scared that the commitment will be overwhelming.”

Our team at Archipelago Hawaii is the perfect resource for homeowners when tackling full-scale remodels of any size or space. We understand that renovating any part of your home can be a daunting prospect, and we aim to ease any concerns or fears our clients may have. Tiare Pinto breaks down the process that Archipelago Hawaii has mastered when undertaking a luxury kitchen remodel:

1. Getting to know our clients’ wants and needs

For a project of any size, our first step is always meeting with our clients and determining the design that will work best for their lifestyle.

We ask our clients to fill out a detailed questionnaire, which will help us get a better sense of both their wants as well as their needs, allowing our team to create the most functional design for the homeowners.

Our team values functionality as much as we do aesthetics, so the more we learn about our homeowners, the better we can perform our job of creating a luxurious and practical design.

Archipelago Hawaii staff in client meeting

2. Creating schematic plans and 3D drawings

Laurent looking over schematic design plan

After measuring and documenting the home’s existing kitchen, we create a schematic design plan, displaying multiple options for a new design.

Once the clients choose a footprint, we then create 3D drawings to help them visualize the space in which we’ll work.

These steps are crucial when undertaking any remodel, since each client has a unique lifestyle, and a very different concept of the perfect kitchen. While one client may desire extensive countertop space, another may be prioritizing ample storage options. During this step, we can determine the ideal design scheme for our clients.

3. Selecting fixtures and finishes

The next step in a kitchen remodel is taking a few field trips with lead designer Tiare Pinto!

During these excursions, our clients will choose everything from plumbing and appliances to flooring, cabinetry and lighting, with Tiare guiding these decisions every step of the way.

Working through the plans and selecting finishes can take anywhere from one to three months, depending on both clients’ availability as well as their decision making process.

4. The waiting period – permits

Creating permit plans is the next step in the remodel, and though it can be the most frustrating part of the process, our team at Archipelago Hawaii is committed to making the experience as painless as possible for all involved. The general timeframe for submitting permits and receiving approval is around five months, we work to expedite the process as much as possible.

5. Ordering materials

While pending approval of permits, we order all materials and furnishings to ease the pain of waiting.

From cabinetry and appliances to plumbing and lighting fixtures, our team coordinates the orders with the contractor’s schedule, to avoid any damages or storage costs.

Tile, flooring and baseboard samples to be ordered

6. Beginning Construction

Designer Tiare Pinto with contractor at jobsite

We are approaching the finish line! Once we receive approval of the permits, the contractor’s team can finally undertake construction of the space. From here, homeowners watch their dream kitchen come to life!

While the construction process may take anywhere from two to four months, our team will be available for the duration of the project. For each remodel, we are the first ones in and the last ones out.

As the liaison for all communication between client and contractor, we perform regular site visits, ensure the proper execution of the design, and address all issues that may arise during the construction process.

Though a complete kitchen remodel may appear intimidating, our team at Archipelago Hawaii will always ensure that your kitchen desires are recognized and your needs are addressed.