Planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel can be an exciting design adventure, but with so many details to consider, the process can also feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why having a solid plan is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly—whether you’re a homeowner pursuing a dream renovation or a design professional helping a client bring their vision to life.
This guide will walk you through key steps to plan your remodel effectively while highlighting how MasterBrand Cabinets can support your project with a variety of cabinet brands designed to suit every style and budget.
Before You Begin
The foundation of any successful kitchen or bathroom remodel starts with careful preparation. Here are three things to consider before starting your project:

- Define Your Vision
Think about what you want to achieve with your remodel. Are you looking for modern functionality in your kitchen? Or a spa-like retreat in your bath? Collect inspiration through Pinterest, design magazines, or even MasterBrand’s Inspiration Gallery to get ideas for your dream space.
- Measure Your Space
Take precise measurements of your kitchen or bathroom to ensure everything fits perfectly. This step will make the design process more efficient and help you decide what’s possible in your given space. If you are not comfortable measuring your own space, a design professional is happy to help! We also have a handy blog to help guide you through taking measurements linked here.
- Locate Trusted Dealers
Good news! MasterBrand Cabinets makes finding an expert designer easy with its Dealer Locator. Enter your zip code and connect with one of more than 4,500 trusted dealers across North America and Canada, ready to help with your kitchen and bathroom remodel.
Setting the Budget
No remodel is complete without a clear budget. Here’s how to allocate your funds wisely:
- Set Realistic Expectations
Be honest about what you can spend. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends setting aside 20-25% of the home’s value as your renovation budget.
- Plan for Surprises
Always keep 10-15% of your total budget for contingencies—it’s common for unexpected costs to arise during remodeling.
- Cabinetry that Fits Your Budget
MasterBrand offers cabinets for every budget, from affordable yet stylish options to custom-made cabinets for premium designs. No matter your price range, you’ll find something that doesn’t compromise on quality or design. Use our Budget Estimator to get an idea of the cost of your cabinetry.
Designing Your Space

Now that you have a clear vision and budget, it’s time to start designing! Here are some key tips and resources to help navigate each step:
- Consider Functionality
Think about how you use your kitchen or bathroom on a daily basis. What features and layout will make it more efficient? Consider storage needs, traffic flow, and ergonomics.
- Choose the Right Cabinets
Your cabinets will be one of the most prominent design elements in your space. Take into consideration factors such as cabinet brand, door style, material, finish, and hardware options to find the perfect fit for your vision and budget.
Timeline Expectations
Remodeling isn’t an overnight process, but knowing what to expect can help you plan:
- Consultation & Design Phase: 4-6 weeks. This includes working with your designer and finalizing your plan.
- Material Sourcing: 4-8 weeks. Cabinets, countertops, and custom pieces must be ordered in advance.
- Demolition & Installation: 2-4 weeks, depending on the scope of the remodel.
- Finishing Touches: 1-2 weeks for painting, hardware updates, and cleanup.
Being aware of these timelines can help you avoid surprises and set realistic expectations.
Must-Have Checklist
Don’t forget the essentials! Here’s a quick checklist to review as you plan your dream remodel:
- [ ] Establish a clear budget.
- [ ] Find a trusted designer or dealer to help with cabinetry selections and layouts.
- [ ] Choose the right MasterBrand cabinet style that fits your aesthetic and budget.
- [ ] Select your room finishes such as paint, countertops, flooring and backsplash.
- [ ] Select new appliances – determine before your cabinet layout begins.
- [ ] Plan a timeline and set realistic expectations. Delays and obstacles will likely occur.
- [ ] Book your contractor early.
- [ ] Plan logistics of your remodel.
Ready to Begin?

Planning a kitchen or bath remodel takes effort, but with the right preparation and partners, it becomes an exciting and rewarding process. MasterBrand Cabinets makes it easy to bring your vision to life with a variety of cabinet styles, quality materials, and reliable support for any budget size.
Use our Cabinet Dealer Locator to connect with experienced professionals near you and start bringing your kitchen or bath remodel dreams to life today.
Don’t wait to upgrade your home—start planning your perfect space!