If You Could Only Renovate One Room—Start Here
Let’s say you just hit the jackpot—or maybe you’ve finally convinced yourself (and your wallet) that it’s time to tackle that long overdue building construction project. But there’s a catch: budget’s tight and you can only renovate one room. So… where do you begin?
Drumroll please…
Start with the kitchen.
Why? Because your kitchen isn’t just where you burn toast—it’s where life happens. From midnight snacks to family feasts, the kitchen is the heart of the home, and remodeling it gives you the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to resale value and everyday satisfaction.
The Heart of the House Deserves Strong Bones
A good general contractor will tell you: before you pick tile samples or paint swatches, focus on the foundation. That includes everything from framing and floor plans to proper flashing and fire-resistive insulation around the range hood. And let’s not forget that essential GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) for safety near sinks.
Your construction company might bring in a backhoe just to adjust plumbing grade or dig a better footer (footing) for that kitchen bump-out. Or maybe you’re working with expansive soils and need to plan some serious damp proofing to keep your dream kitchen from becoming a swamp.
The Unsung Heroes Behind the Drywall
Construction workers and home builders know the magic is in the details—like reinforcing countertops with glulam beams, updating outdated forced air heating/cooling ductwork, and replacing old fascia boards for a seamless roofline over your new kitchen nook.
Your crew will be flipping through blueprints, consulting CAD and BIM (Building Information Modeling) files, and probably submitting at least one change order when you decide you must have that hidden pantry.
And don’t overlook what’s under your feet: that kitchen slab may need flatwork, floating, or even ready mix concrete poured fresh to support heavy appliances or an island built like a tank.
Style Meets Sustainability
Going for a green building approach? Opt for pressure-treated lumber (green board) for moisture-prone areas, energy-efficient passive house features like triple-pane windows, and felt (underlayment) beneath your flooring to reduce heat loss.
Not only does this reduce the cost to build a house over time, it sets you up for long-term comfort and resale appeal. Bonus points if you avoid VOCs and lean into recycled materials—it’s a win for you and the planet.
Pro Tips from the Trenches
Get multiple bids from custom home builders and compare more than just the bottom line—ask about their daily reports, experience with cost codes, and whether they work under a cost-plus contract.
Ask your contractor if they’ve worked with firms like L&T Construction or local specialty builders—network matters on the construction site when it’s crunch time.
Want to avoid surprises? Check the grade of your current floor. Kitchens need it level and true, or you’ll be chasing runaway meatballs for years.
Honorable Mentions
Still tempted to pick the bathroom or master suite? Totally fair—but unless you’re dealing with a tub from 1974 and a frieze board falling off the wall, kitchens typically deliver more ROI. If you're eventually planning a full custom build, having your dream kitchen already done can simplify your future floor plan and form layout.
Oh—and don’t skimp on aesthetics! Whether you’re into cozy farmhouse or ultra-modern chic, your kitchen should feel like you. Think of the gable views, the grain in your new cabinets, the flashing glint of hardware as the sunlight hits just right…
Bottom line:
If you can only renovate one room, make it the kitchen. It’s where your story simmers—and if you’re lucky, it’s where the cookies bake, too.
Ready to get started? Let your favorite contractor (hi, that’s us 👋) know, and we’ll bring the blueprints, formwork, and maybe even some cookies. Let's build something amazing.