Remodeling your kitchen is a big decision—financially, logistically, and emotionally. It’s the heart of the home, where meals are made, memories are shared, and daily routines unfold. A well-designed kitchen can improve your lifestyle and significantly boost your home’s value. But how do you begin?
At ECS Cabinetry, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners and contractors take the stress out of remodeling with custom cabinetry, countertops, and flooring—offered at direct-from-manufacturer pricing. Here’s our expert guide to planning a kitchen remodel from start to finish.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before you look at materials or browse Pinterest boards, start by clarifying what you want from your new kitchen. This will guide every decision that follows.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Is your main goal more storage, better function, or updated aesthetics?
- Are you cooking daily or occasionally entertaining guests?
- Will you be keeping your current layout or changing it?
💡 Tip: If you plan to sell your home in the next 5 years, aim for broad appeal with timeless design and neutral colors.
Step 2: Establish a Realistic Budget
A kitchen remodel can range from a few thousand dollars to well over $50,000 depending on your materials, layout, and labor. Creating a realistic budget ensures you get the results you want without unexpected financial stress.
Major Budget Categories:
- Cabinets: Usually 30–40% of your total kitchen budget
- Countertops: 10–20%
- Flooring: 10–15%
- Appliances, plumbing, and labor: The rest
💡 Budget Saver: ECS Cabinetry offers American-made custom cabinets and RTA options at factory-direct pricing—helping you get premium materials for less.
Step 3: Measure Your Space
Accurate measurements are critical before you choose cabinets or appliances. Start by sketching your kitchen and noting:
- Wall lengths and ceiling height
- Window and door placements
- Plumbing and gas locations
- Appliance dimensions
💡 Don’t worry! If you’re not sure how to measure, ECS Cabinetry provides simple instructions—or you can bring your layout to our showroom and we’ll help you design around it.
Step 4: Choose Your Cabinet Style and Layout
Cabinets are the foundation of your kitchen’s design and function. At ECS Cabinetry, you can choose from:
✅ Shaker Style RTA Cabinets
- Perfect for budget-friendly remodels
- Available in White, Gray, Blue, Sage Green, and more
- In-stock and ready to ship
✅ Custom Flat Panel Cabinets
- Sleek, modern, and made in the USA
- Over 100 colors and custom sizing
- Tailored to your exact layout and storage needs
Layout Tips:
- Create work zones (cooking, prepping, washing)
- Add vertical storage to maximize wall space
- Use deep drawers for pots and pull-outs for spices
💡 Design Bonus: ECS offers free kitchen design with your cabinet quote—saving you time and money on hiring a designer.
Step 5: Select Countertops That Complement Your Style
Once your cabinets are chosen, it’s time to pick your countertops. You want something that balances beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance.
ECS Cabinetry Offers:
- Quartz – Sleek, durable, and low-maintenance
- Carrara & Calacatta – Elegant veined finishes that mimic marble
- Laza & Concrete – Contemporary textures and modern appeal
💡 Matching Tip: Pair white shaker cabinets with Carrara quartz for a clean, timeless look—or go bold with navy cabinets and Calacatta gold veining for drama.
Step 6: Don’t Forget Flooring
Flooring is often the last element chosen—but it pulls the entire kitchen together. At ECS Cabinetry, we offer:
✅ SPF Waterproof Flooring
- Thicknesses from 5mm to 9.5mm
- Over 30 color and style options
- Durable and water-resistant—ideal for kitchens
💡 Style Tip: Choose light wood-look floors for a spacious, open feel or darker tones for a cozy, rich vibe.
Step 7: Plan Delivery and Installation
At this point, you’re almost ready to bring your vision to life. ECS Cabinetry offers flexible delivery options:
- Local Delivery – Available throughout Southern California
- Nationwide Shipping – Fast, freight delivery to most U.S. locations
- Showroom Pickup – Ideal for contractors and DIYers
📌 Note: ECS does not offer installation, but we’re happy to refer trusted installers if you call or visit the showroom.
Bonus Tips: Keep Your Remodel on Track
- Plan Ahead: Custom cabinets and countertops may take 3–5 weeks
- Stay Organized: Keep all your samples and receipts in one place
- Check Inventory Early: For in-stock RTA items, confirm availability ahead of time
- Trust Your Team: ECS designers are here to guide you and answer any questions throughout the process
Your Dream Kitchen Starts with ECS Cabinetry
Whether you’re working with a small galley kitchen or a large open-concept space, ECS Cabinetry has everything you need to plan, design, and build your perfect kitchen—without going over budget.
✅ Custom or RTA Cabinets
✅ Quartz & Stone-Style Countertops
✅ Waterproof Flooring
✅ Free Design Services & Estimates
✅ Local Delivery or Nationwide Shipping
Let’s Get Started Today
📞 Call ECS Cabinetry at (626) 631-9002
📍 Visit our showrooms in City of Industry or North Hollywood
📤 Submit your kitchen dimensions for a free design + quote:
👉 Click here
🔹 ECS Cabinetry: Built Around You.
