Remodeling your kitchen is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home — both for improving your lifestyle and increasing resale value. But let’s be real: it can also be one of the most expensive undertakings. If you’re exploring how to finance a kitchen remodel, you’re far from alone. In fact, strategic financing is often what separates a stressful remodel from a smooth one.
So how do you fund your dream kitchen without biting off more than you can chew? We’ve tapped into decades of industry experience to bring you practical advice, financial tips, and expert recommendations for financing your kitchen remodel — without the regret.
Why You Should Think Strategically About Kitchen Remodel Financing
Before we get into the numbers, plans, and financing tools, let’s talk mindset.
Too often, homeowners start by diving into Pinterest boards and appliance catalogs — and don’t get us wrong, inspiration is great. But your kitchen remodel should begin with an honest evaluation of your financial situation, goals for your home, and long-term plans.
Ask yourself:
Is this your forever home, or will you sell in 5–10 years?
How much equity do you currently have in your home?
What is your ideal budget — and your maximum one?
Are you planning other major renovations soon?
Answering these questions early can help you avoid mid-project panic and ensure your financing plan aligns with your overall life strategy.
Step 1: Understand the Real Costs of a Kitchen Remodel
According to recent national averages, a midrange kitchen remodel costs between $25,000 and $70,000. A major upscale renovation with custom cabinetry, professional-grade appliances, and luxury finishes can soar well over $100,000.
Here’s how those costs typically break down:
Cabinetry & Hardware: 25–30%
Labor: 20–25%
Appliances: 15–20%
Countertops: 10–15%
Flooring: 5–10%
Plumbing & Electrical: 5–10%
Design & Project Management: 5%
Knowing these averages helps you better anticipate what your budget needs to cover — and where you can adjust to save or splurge.
Step 2: Explore Your Financing Options
Now that you have a rough budget in mind, it’s time to explore how you can finance the remodel. Below are the most common — and smart — ways to finance your kitchen remodel without regret.
1. Home Equity Loan
If you’ve owned your home for several years and have built up equity, a home equity loan is one of the most reliable ways to finance a major remodel. These loans offer fixed interest rates and predictable monthly payments.
Pros:
Fixed-rate, fixed-term
Interest may be tax-deductible (check with your CPA)
Ideal for large, one-time projects
Cons:
Uses your home as collateral
Must have sufficient equity
Longer approval process
This is a great option if you want to borrow a lump sum upfront and know your costs.
2. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
A HELOC is a revolving line of credit tied to your home’s equity. Think of it like a credit card with a lower interest rate and a higher limit.
Pros:
Flexible borrowing
Interest-only payments during draw period
Lower interest than personal loans
Cons:
Variable interest rates
Your home is still on the line
Can encourage overspending
A HELOC works well for phased remodels where costs vary month to month.
3. Cash-Out Refinance
With mortgage rates still relatively low, some homeowners choose a cash-out refinance — replacing their current mortgage with a larger one and using the difference to fund the remodel.
Pros:
Potentially lower interest than other loans
One monthly mortgage payment
Can be good if you need to refinance anyway
Cons:
Extends or resets your mortgage
Closing costs involved
Long-term debt increase
This is best for homeowners who want to improve both their home and their mortgage terms.
4. Personal Loan
Unsecured personal loans can be a quick and easy way to access funds without tapping into your home equity.
Pros:
Fast approval
No collateral
Fixed payments
Cons:
Higher interest rates
Shorter repayment periods
Lower borrowing limits
This works well for smaller-scale remodels or bridging a gap between savings and final costs.
5. Contractor Financing
Some reputable contractors, like Evergreen Home Exteriors, offer in-house financing options or have partnerships with financial institutions. These programs are designed specifically for home renovations.
Pros:
Streamlined process
Tailored to remodeling projects
Can bundle financing and remodeling into one agreement
Cons:
May have limited term options
Rates and fees vary
Working with a contractor who understands both construction and finance can ease the process tremendously.
Step 3: Protect Your Budget from Common Pitfalls
The best financing plan in the world won’t save you from remodel regret if the project goes off the rails. Here are expert tips to stay on track:
Set a Contingency Budget
Always add a 10–20% buffer to your budget for unexpected expenses — hidden plumbing issues, electrical upgrades, or material delays are common.
Don’t Overcapitalize
Be mindful of your home’s value and neighborhood comps. A $100,000 kitchen in a $300,000 home could be overkill and hurt resale ROI.
Prioritize ROI-Positive Features
Focus on upgrades that offer high returns:
Energy-efficient appliances
Durable countertops like quartz or granite
Quality cabinetry with smart storage
Timeless design elements over trendy fads
Get Detailed Estimates
Work with licensed professionals who provide detailed line-item estimates. Vague bids lead to cost creep.
Step 4: Partner With Experts Who Understand Design, Construction — and Budgets
A successful kitchen remodel isn’t just about materials and craftsmanship. It’s about planning, coordination, and aligning vision with resources.
That’s why it pays to work with full-service remodeling firms like Evergreen Home Exteriors, which bring engineering precision, decades of experience, and client-first communication to the table.
With a legacy dating back to 1998, Evergreen Home Exteriors has been helping families across the Pacific Northwest transform their homes — efficiently, beautifully, and affordably. Our family-first philosophy ensures your needs always come first, and our design-build model means your remodel is handled from concept to completion under one expert roof.
No handoffs. No surprises. No regrets.
Step 5: Know When to Say “Yes” and When to Wait
Sometimes, it’s worth postponing your remodel for a few months if it means securing better financing terms or more savings. Other times, interest rates, material costs, or your life schedule align so perfectly that it’s best to move forward now.
A good contractor will help you evaluate both the financial and life-timing aspects of your project — not pressure you.
Bonus Tips for Financing a Kitchen Remodel Without Regret
To wrap it up, here are a few expert-backed strategies to keep your kitchen remodel on track and on budget:
Automate Your Payment Plan
Once your financing is secured, set up auto-payments to ensure you never miss a due date. Avoid late fees and protect your credit score.
Consider Phased Upgrades
If you’re short on funds but want to start now, prioritize infrastructure (plumbing, electrical, flooring) first, then move on to finishes and appliances as funds allow.
Use Cash Wisely
If you have some savings, use it strategically — to pay down high-interest financing first or cover low-cost items like lighting and backsplashes.
Track Every Dollar
Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor expenses in real time. This helps prevent overages and keeps your financial plan on course.
Ready to Build the Kitchen You Deserve?
Your kitchen is the heart of your home — a place to nourish, connect, and create memories. At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we believe every family deserves a kitchen that reflects their values, meets their needs, and inspires joy.
Whether you’re ready to start tomorrow or just beginning to explore your options, our team is here to help guide you — not pressure you. From design consultations and material selection to personalized financing solutions, we handle every detail with care, expertise, and engineering-level precision.
Don’t wait for the perfect time — create it. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and start your journey toward a more beautiful, functional, and family-friendly kitchen.
Let’s bring your dream kitchen to life — without the regret.
Outdated appliances. Poor lighting. Worn-out countertops. Cramped layouts. If any of these describe your kitchen, you’re not alone. But the good news? You don’t have to live with a kitchen that doesn’t inspire you. With the right kitchen renovation services, your current space can be transformed into the heart of your home—a place where functionality meets beauty, and your family gathers to make memories every day.
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we’ve helped homeowners throughout the Pacific Northwest transform tired, inefficient kitchens into stunning spaces that work for the way they live today. With over 20 years of experience in full-service remodeling, our team blends engineering precision, creative design, and craftsmanship to deliver kitchens that aren’t just attractive—they’re engineered to stand the test of time.
Why Kitchen Renovation Is a Smart Investment
Kitchens aren’t just cooking spaces anymore—they’re command centers, social hubs, and design statements. A well-renovated kitchen can significantly:
Increase your home’s resale value
Improve energy efficiency
Optimize layout and functionality
Create a more enjoyable space for daily living
According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range major kitchen remodel in the Pacific region can return more than 70% of its cost at resale. That’s not just a home upgrade—it’s a smart investment.
Evergreen Home Exteriors’ Kitchen Renovation Services: Built with You in Mind
At Evergreen Home Exterior, we understand that no two kitchens—or families—are the same. That’s why we offer highly customizable kitchen renovation services tailored to your home’s needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Here’s what sets our kitchen remodeling apart:
1. Design-Build Efficiency
We use a design-build model, meaning you work with one cohesive team from start to finish. This minimizes delays, miscommunication, and surprises—because every expert involved is working toward the same goal: your dream kitchen.
2. Engineering-Driven Solutions
We think like engineers, with function at the forefront. Want to remove a wall to create an open-concept space? Need structural support for a ceiling-height pantry? Our team handles complex construction challenges with confidence.
3. Family-First Focus
We were founded by Jon and Anne Marie with family values at our core. We know that renovating your kitchen isn’t just about changing how it looks—it’s about improving how your family lives.
What You Get with a Full Kitchen Renovation
Here’s what’s typically included in a full-scale kitchen remodel with Evergreen Home Exteriors:
• Layout Reconfiguration
We’ll assess your existing footprint and determine how to best optimize your space. This may include relocating appliances, removing walls, or expanding into adjacent areas.
• Custom Cabinetry and Storage
Say goodbye to cookie-cutter cabinets and hello to custom-built solutions that reflect your taste and storage needs—from soft-close drawers to pull-out spice racks.
• Countertop Upgrades
We work with durable and beautiful materials like quartz, granite, butcher block, and engineered stone. Not sure what’s best for your family? We’ll guide you.
• Lighting Enhancements
From task lighting under the cabinets to pendant fixtures over the island, we ensure your kitchen shines—literally and stylistically.
• Smart Appliance Integration
We can help you select and install energy-efficient, Wi-Fi-enabled appliances that bring modern convenience to your kitchen routine.
• Flooring Installation
Whether you prefer tile, hardwood, or luxury vinyl plank, we provide durable options that can stand up to daily wear and tear.
• Plumbing and Electrical Updates
We bring your infrastructure up to code while accommodating your desired upgrades—like a pot filler faucet or extra outlets for small appliances.
Signs It’s Time to Renovate Your Kitchen
If you’re unsure whether now’s the right time for a renovation, consider these indicators:
Your appliances are older than 10-15 years
Cabinet doors are sagging or misaligned
Countertops are stained, cracked, or warped
The lighting is dim or poorly placed
Storage feels inadequate or disorganized
Your kitchen just doesn’t “feel right” anymore
Sometimes, the clearest sign is emotional: if you avoid hosting because of your kitchen, or if it frustrates you daily, it’s time for a change.
Real-World Transformations: What Evergreen Home Exteriors Can Do
Let’s look at a few examples of how we’ve turned uninspired kitchens into functional, jaw-dropping focal points:
➤ From Galley to Great Room
We took a narrow, outdated galley kitchen and opened it up to the adjacent dining and living rooms. By installing a structural beam to support the new open-concept layout, we gave our clients sight lines across the main floor and room for a central island.
➤ Vintage to Modern Farmhouse
One client loved the idea of a classic farmhouse feel but needed modern amenities. We installed shaker cabinets, white subway tile, quartz counters, and matte black fixtures to give them a timeless style—with all the modern perks.
➤ Builder-Grade to Gourmet
Another client’s kitchen was functional but uninspiring. With new high-end appliances, a two-tier island with seating, and layered lighting, we gave them a space worthy of a professional chef.
Each renovation is a story of transformation—and it starts with understanding what matters most to your family.
How Our Process Works
We know that renovating can be overwhelming. That’s why we break the process down into manageable, transparent steps:
1. Free Consultation
We start with a no-pressure consultation at your home. This helps us understand your goals, style preferences, budget, and timeline.
2. 3D Design & Planning
Using advanced design software, we create a 3D model of your new kitchen so you can visualize the layout and make confident decisions before demolition begins.
3. Permitting & Prep
We handle all local permitting and code compliance to ensure your project stays on track and stress-free.
4. Construction & Installation
Our in-house craftsmen and licensed tradespeople handle everything from demolition to finish carpentry. We keep your home clean, safe, and livable throughout the process.
5. Final Walkthrough & Satisfaction Check
Once the dust settles, we walk through the space with you to make sure every detail meets your expectations—and then some.
Engineering Kitchens That Work as Hard as You Do
Our clients often include engineers, architects, and professionals who expect more than just pretty finishes—they want logic, efficiency, and precision. That’s why we take an engineer’s approach to design and construction.
We ask:
How will this space flow during daily use?
Is the “kitchen triangle” optimized for efficiency?
Are the materials chosen for durability and longevity?
Can we integrate smart tech without sacrificing style?
We sweat the details so you don’t have to.
The Evergreen Home Exteriors Difference: 20+ Years of Trust
Founded in 1998 by husband-and-wife team Jon and Anne Marie, Evergreen Home Exteriors has grown from a small family business into one of the most trusted names in home renovation across the Pacific Northwest.
What hasn’t changed? Our values.
We still believe in:
Family-first service
Transparent communication
High-quality craftsmanship
Pride in every project
We treat your home like it’s our own—and that means doing things the right way, every time.
Let’s Build Your Dream Kitchen
If your kitchen is holding you back from loving your home, Evergreen Home Exteriors is ready to help you make a change.
We specialize in kitchen renovation services that don’t just update your space—they upgrade your life. From smart layouts to beautiful finishes, we engineer kitchens that serve your family for decades to come.
Let’s talk about your vision, your goals, and your home.
Ready to get started? Schedule your free kitchen consultation today!
Give us a call—we’re always happy to answer questions and help you dream big.
Let Evergreen Home Exteriors turn your dated kitchen into a dream-worthy masterpiece. After all, you deserve a space that works as hard—and shines as bright—as you do.
Remodeling your kitchen is one of the best ways to enhance your home’s value, functionality, and beauty—but it can also come with a hefty price tag. If you’re wondering how to finance a kitchen remodel without putting your financial well-being at risk, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find themselves caught between the desire for a beautiful, modern kitchen and the reality of budget limitations.
The good news? With careful planning, the right financing strategies, and support from an experienced contractor like Evergreen Home Exteriors, you can bring your dream kitchen to life without upending your finances. Let’s break it down step by step.
Understanding the True Cost of a Kitchen Remodel
Before diving into financing, it’s important to have a solid understanding of what a kitchen remodel might cost. Depending on your location, the scope of work, material choices, and labor, the average kitchen remodel can range from $15,000 to $60,000 or more.
Here are a few cost categories to consider:
Cabinetry: Custom cabinets can eat up a significant chunk of your budget—often 30–40% of total costs.
Appliances: High-end appliances can quickly escalate costs, especially if you’re upgrading from basic models.
Countertops and Surfaces: Materials like granite, quartz, or butcher block come with different price tags.
Plumbing and Electrical: Rerouting plumbing or updating wiring can introduce hidden expenses.
Design and Labor: Professional design, engineering, and installation come with essential but often underestimated costs.
These numbers highlight the importance of going into your project with a realistic budget—and a firm plan for how to pay for it.
Step 1: Set a Detailed Budget and Stick to It
Start by creating a comprehensive remodeling budget. Work with your contractor to understand what you need vs. what you want. Prioritize elements that improve function and safety first, and then move on to aesthetics.
Break your budget down into these key components:
Design and Planning
Demolition and Prep Work
Structural Changes
Materials (Cabinets, Countertops, Flooring, etc.)
Fixtures and Appliances
Permits and Inspections
Labor
Leave a contingency of 10–20% for unforeseen expenses—this cushion will help prevent financial stress later.
Step 2: Explore Financing Options
Now that you know your numbers, let’s talk about how to finance a kitchen remodel wisely. You don’t need to drain your savings or rack up credit card debt. Here are some financing solutions to consider:
1. Home Equity Loan
A home equity loan allows you to borrow against the equity you’ve built in your home. It typically offers a fixed interest rate and predictable monthly payments.
Best for: Large remodels with long timelines
Pros: Stable payments, often lower interest than credit cards
Cons: Your home is used as collateral
2. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
A HELOC is a revolving line of credit you can tap into as needed. It usually comes with variable interest rates.
Best for: Ongoing projects where you might not need all funds at once
Pros: Flexibility to borrow as needed
Cons: Interest rates can fluctuate; may require disciplined repayment
3. Personal Loan
Unsecured personal loans are a great option if you don’t want to tie the loan to your home.
Best for: Smaller-scale remodels or if you lack home equity
Pros: Fast approval, no collateral required
Cons: Higher interest rates compared to secured loans
4. Contractor Financing
Many reputable remodelers, including Evergreen Home Exteriors, offer in-house financing or work with third-party lenders to provide competitive loan options to clients.
Best for: Homeowners who want a one-stop solution
Pros: Convenience, potentially tailored plans
Cons: May require a credit check
5. Credit Cards (With Caution)
While it’s tempting to swipe your remodel into reality, use credit cards with caution. Look for promotional 0% APR offers if you’re confident you can repay within the introductory period.
Best for: Small, immediate expenses
Pros: Reward points, convenience
Cons: High interest rates if not paid off quickly
Step 3: Balance Savings with Smart Borrowing
Financing doesn’t have to mean borrowing the entire project cost. Many homeowners opt for a hybrid approach—using savings for part of the expense and financing the rest. This can reduce monthly loan payments and interest while still keeping your emergency fund intact.
Tips for smart borrowing:
Only borrow what you can reasonably repay.
Choose fixed-rate options when possible to avoid payment surprises.
Align loan terms with the expected lifespan of the remodel (e.g., 7–15 years for kitchen upgrades).
Step 4: Choose the Right Remodeling Partner
Your contractor can make or break your remodeling experience. A reputable, transparent company will help you:
Set a realistic budget
Offer fair, upfront pricing
Help you prioritize spending
Provide financing guidance
Deliver on time and on budget
This is where Evergreen Home Exteriors shines. With over two decades of experience, our team is dedicated to making your remodeling project stress-free and successful—from financing to final walkthrough.
Step 5: Engineer Your Remodel Like a Pro
Approach your remodel like an engineer would a project plan. That means systematizing decisions and focusing on ROI. Here’s how:
Optimize for Function First
Focus on functionality—better storage, traffic flow, lighting, and appliance placement. The aesthetic upgrades can follow, but usability should always come first.
Select Materials Strategically
Some materials offer long-term value at a lower cost. For example:
Laminate countertops have come a long way in mimicking granite and quartz.
Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets can be high-quality and lower-cost.
LED lighting adds function and saves on energy bills.
Schedule for Efficiency
Avoid peak construction seasons when contractor demand—and prices—are higher. Planning ahead can save time and money.
Step 6: Avoid Common Financing Pitfalls
Even the best-laid plans can go awry if you’re not careful. Watch out for these common financing missteps:
Overborrowing
It’s tempting to “just add a little more,” but ballooning your loan amount can derail your overall financial health.
Ignoring Fees
Factor in closing costs, origination fees, or early payoff penalties when considering loan options.
Underestimating Project Scope
Scope creep is real—adding “just one more thing” can snowball into a budget disaster. Stick to the plan!
Choosing the Wrong Contractor
The cheapest bid isn’t always the best. Choose a contractor who listens, explains costs clearly, and has a strong track record—like Evergreen Home Exteriors.
Step 7: Take Advantage of Incentives and Rebates
Remodeling your kitchen may also offer energy-saving opportunities. Look into:
Local or federal energy efficiency rebates
Tax credits for ENERGY STAR appliances
Utility company rebates for LED lighting and low-flow fixtures
These incentives can lower the overall cost of your remodel and make financing more manageable.
Step 8: Plan for the Long Term
Think of your kitchen remodel as a long-term investment. Consider:
How long you plan to stay in your home
Resale value in your market
Durability of materials and fixtures
Financing a remodel responsibly means thinking beyond the immediate upgrade—toward how it adds lasting value to your home and life.
Remodel Smart, Not Hard
Financing a kitchen remodel doesn’t have to feel like navigating a financial minefield. With thoughtful planning, smart borrowing, and help from experienced professionals, you can create the kitchen of your dreams without compromising your financial future.
Whether you’re redesigning your space to make room for family dinners, better workflow, or just to enjoy a fresh new look, the key is intentionality—know your numbers, explore all options, and partner with a company that understands your goals.
Let Evergreen Home Exteriors Help You Build the Kitchen You Deserve
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we understand the challenges and joys of home remodeling. Since 1998, we’ve helped families just like yours turn outdated kitchens into stunning, functional spaces—without financial stress. As a family-first company, we take pride in delivering high-quality results with flexible financing options and a team of expert craftsmen and designers.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how to finance your kitchen remodel with confidence and clarity.
When it comes to kitchen remodeling in Tacoma, even the smallest kitchens can be transformed into modern, efficient, and beautiful spaces with the right approach. For many homeowners in Tacoma—where craftsman bungalows and mid-century homes are common—kitchen remodels are not just about luxury; they’re about practicality, space optimization, and increasing a home’s long-term value.
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we understand that remodeling your kitchen is both a technical project and a deeply personal journey. That’s why we bring two decades of design-build expertise to help you reimagine your kitchen, regardless of size. Let’s break down how to truly make the most of a small kitchen remodel in Tacoma.
Understanding the Challenges of a Small Kitchen
Small kitchens present a unique set of design challenges: limited floor space, insufficient storage, and often outdated layouts. These kitchens often serve as both utility zones and social hubs and when square footage is tight, thoughtful planning is crucial.
Common pain points include:
Inadequate countertop space
Poor natural lighting or awkward layouts
Limited room for storage or appliances
Inefficient workflows
Tacoma homeowners—especially those in older homes—often inherit these limitations, which is why remodeling isn’t just about aesthetics but also about solving systemic space and design inefficiencies.
Step 1: Define Your Goals with Precision
Before a single cabinet is removed, clarify your project goals. Are you seeking:
Better traffic flow?
Increased storage?
Upgraded appliances and finishes?
A more open-concept layout?
Take time to evaluate how you use your kitchen daily. For instance, if you enjoy cooking but rarely host guests, focus on optimizing prep areas rather than creating bar seating. This analytical approach allows your contractor to tailor every inch to your lifestyle.
Step 2: Choose the Right Layout
In small kitchens, the layout is the cornerstone of functionality. The most effective designs for compact kitchens often include:
1. Galley Kitchens
This layout offers two parallel runs of cabinets with a corridor in between. Galley kitchens maximize space with minimal square footage and are perfect for efficiency.
2. L-Shaped Kitchens
With cabinets along two adjoining walls, this layout works well in small, open-plan spaces and allows for better flow than a galley.
3. One-Wall Kitchens
Ideal for studio apartments or open-concept homes, one-wall kitchens place all the cooking components along a single wall.
Engineering Tip:
Focus on the kitchen “work triangle”—the optimal distance between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Maintaining this triangle ensures a smoother cooking experience even in tight spaces.
Overhead pot racks – Saves cabinet space and adds a rustic flair.
Corner carousel cabinets – Makes use of dead corner zones.
Vertical Thinking:
Don’t stop at standard cabinet heights. Take cabinetry up to the ceiling. Use the top shelves for infrequently used items like holiday platters or large pots.
Appliance Integration:
To save space while maintaining functionality, opt for compact or multi-functional appliances, such as microwave drawers or combination convection ovens.
Step 5: Invest in Multi-Functional Fixtures
Multifunctionality is key in small kitchen designs. Think about fixtures and furniture that can do double duty:
Rolling kitchen islands: Offer counter space and can be moved when not in use.
Drop-leaf tables: Expandable surfaces for dining or prep.
Built-in seating with storage: Perfect for breakfast nooks or bay windows.
These features allow your space to remain fluid and adaptable, ideal for small households or growing families.
Step 6: Select Finishes That Expand Perception
A small kitchen doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. Choosing the right finishes and materials can dramatically change how large and inviting your kitchen feels.
Materials That Work:
Quartz or light granite countertops: Bright and reflective.
Glass cabinet inserts: Visually open up cabinetry.
Neutral or light paint tones: Whites, grays, and soft blues work well.
Avoid:
Heavy dark woods or finishes
Overly ornate cabinet designs
Large-format tile patterns in tight spaces
These can make the kitchen feel more cramped. Instead, think sleek, streamlined, and subtle.
Step 7: Integrate Technology Thoughtfully
Modern technology can enhance small kitchens through space-saving and efficiency. Here are a few innovations:
Smart appliances that optimize energy use and provide functionality through compact designs.
Touch-activated faucets and smart lighting that adjust to your cooking routines.
Cabinet organizers with motion sensors or soft-close drawers for high-end functionality.
When applied intelligently, these features increase usability without cluttering your design.
Step 8: Plan for the Unexpected
Surprises are common in remodeling, especially in older Tacoma homes. Once demolition begins, electrical systems, outdated plumbing, or hidden structural issues might arise.
Working with a licensed, experienced contractor like Evergreen Home Exteriors ensures:
Comprehensive inspection before remodeling begins
Transparent budgeting with contingency planning
Engineering-backed solutions for legacy structural challenges
Step 9: Work With a Design-Build Team
The benefits of working with a design-build company—especially for a small kitchen—are significant:
Single point of contact: Fewer miscommunications
Integrated planning and execution: Ensures your ideas translate seamlessly into reality
Value engineering: Maximizes your budget with cost-effective, high-quality solutions
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, our design-build model allows us to balance aesthetic vision with construction expertise, ensuring that your dream kitchen meets both your budget and your needs.
Tacoma-Specific Considerations
Living in Tacoma brings unique regional factors into play. Your remodel should consider:
Climate durability: Materials must withstand damp Pacific Northwest conditions.
Architectural style matching: Blending new elements with existing home aesthetics is key, especially in heritage neighborhoods like North End or Proctor.
Permit requirements: Tacoma’s building regulations can vary based on location and scope of work. We help navigate all local compliance issues so your project remains stress-free.
Small Kitchen Remodel Case Study: A Tacoma Transformation
One of our recent small kitchen projects involved a 1920s Craftsman in the Stadium District. The homeowners wanted more storage, better lighting, and a space that felt bigger, without removing any walls.
Our approach:
Reconfigured cabinets to a full-height L-shape with corner carousels
Installed new LED under-cabinet lights and a small skylight
Upgraded appliances to slim-profile energy-efficient models
Added a quartz-topped rolling island with built-in outlets
The result? A once-cramped kitchen now feels expansive, bright, and tailor-made for the homeowners’ daily rhythm.
Why Evergreen Home Exteriors Is the Right Partner
Since 1998, Evergreen Home Exteriors has served Tacoma and the greater Puget Sound with personalized, family-first remodeling. We specialize in taking even the most compact kitchens and transforming them into engineering marvels that feel expansive, functional, and timeless.
Our core values:
Family-focused: We remodel homes like we would our own.
Full-service: From design to final inspection, we manage every step.
Experienced: With over two decades of remodeling experience, we’ve seen—and solved—it all.
We blend design sensibility with structural expertise to deliver kitchens that not only look incredible but work smarter for your family’s everyday life.
Ready to Remodel? Let’s Make It Happen
Don’t let the size of your kitchen limit your dreams. With strategic planning, expert craftsmanship, and a team that genuinely cares, your small kitchen can become the heart of your home.
Let Evergreen Home Exteriors help you transform your kitchen into a space that’s functional, stylish, and uniquely yours.
If you’re looking for ideas for kitchen remodel inspiration that break the mold, you’re in the right place. For decades, white cabinets have dominated the kitchen remodeling scene, and for good reason—they’re classic, clean, and visually spacious. But maybe you want something different. Maybe your kitchen should reflect your personality, your lifestyle, and your desire for a space that feels anything but generic.
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we’ve spent over 20 years turning houses into dream homes across the Pacific Northwest.
1. Embrace Natural Wood and Earth Tones
Natural wood tones—from walnut to white oak—offer warmth, texture, and an organic feel that white simply can’t match. Instead of painting over beautiful grains, highlight them. Pair a warm walnut island with matte black fixtures or try light oak lower cabinets with a creamy plaster vent hood for a soft yet striking aesthetic.
Why it works: Natural materials never go out of style. They add authenticity and a touch of rustic sophistication, making your kitchen feel lived-in and luxurious.
2. Go Bold with Deep, Moody Colors
Think navy, forest green, charcoal, and even deep plum. These hues are increasingly popular in contemporary kitchen remodels, and for good reason—they bring drama and depth, especially when offset by lighter countertops and backsplashes.
Engineer’s tip: Use color strategically. Dark base cabinets grounded by light uppers or open shelving can give the illusion of space while still allowing you to indulge in moodier shades.
3. Integrated Appliances for a Seamless Look
Forget the old-school stainless-steel fridge sticking out like a sore thumb. Today’s remodels are all about panel-ready appliances that blend seamlessly into your cabinetry for a cleaner, more refined aesthetic.
Best for: Minimalist kitchens, open-concept homes, or anyone looking to eliminate visual clutter.
4. Mixed-Material Magic
Instead of matching everything, embrace contrast. A walnut island with painted maple perimeter cabinets, quartz countertops with a butcher block bar area, or even mixing metals—like brushed brass handles with matte black lighting—can create a dynamic, layered space.
Design-build insight: The key is balance. Keep some consistency in tones or finishes so the kitchen feels cohesive, not chaotic.
5. Statement Range Hoods as Art Pieces
Range hoods aren’t just functional—they can be the focal point of your kitchen. Whether it’s a custom plaster design, a reclaimed wood structure, or a modern steel-clad installation, the range hood is an opportunity to make a powerful design statement.
Pro tip: Coordinate your hood’s style with the island and hardware to create a visually anchored triangle.
6. Smart Storage You’ll Actually Use
Ditch dead corners and cluttered drawers. Today’s kitchen remodeling isn’t just about looking good—it’s about functionality and flow. Pull-out spice racks, hidden trash bins, vertical pan organizers, and appliance garages are all on the table.
Engineer-focused suggestion: Optimize cabinet interiors with CNC-milled inserts for cutlery, utensils, and even knife blocks. No more wasted space.
7. Slab Backsplashes for a Sleek Upgrade
Are you tired of subway tile? Slab backsplashes—where the same material as the countertop continues up the wall—offer a luxurious, continuous surface that’s easy to clean and visually stunning.
Popular materials: Quartz, marble, and soapstone. Each offers unique veining or subtle patterning that gives your kitchen personality without being overbearing.
8. Architectural Lighting That Steals the Show
Don’t just illuminate your kitchen—elevate it. Pendants aren’t the only answer anymore. Try a sculptural chandelier over the island, recessed linear LEDs under cabinets, or even custom wood-and-metal fixtures that double as conversation pieces.
Think like an engineer: Layered lighting—ambient, task, and accent—creates flexibility for cooking, dining, and entertaining.
9. Dedicated Beverage or Coffee Stations
If you love hosting or just enjoy a good cup of joe, this one’s for you. A beverage station with a built-in espresso machine, wine fridge, and custom storage for mugs or glassware adds both style and convenience.
Bonus idea: Incorporate open shelves, LED lighting, and a different backsplash material to subtly set this nook apart from the rest of the kitchen.
10. Open Shelving Done Right
Open shelving isn’t just a Pinterest trend—it’s a design-forward way to showcase your personality. Use it to display ceramics, cookbooks, vintage finds, or plants. Just remember: minimalism is key to avoiding the space looking cluttered.
Tips for success:
Use floating shelves with hidden brackets.
Stick to a cohesive palette or materials for displayed items.
Add accent lighting for nighttime ambiance.
Honorable Mentions Worth Considering
While the above ten ideas are excellent foundations for a unique remodel, here are a few more kitchen trends and upgrades that are gaining traction among both designers and homeowners:
Waterfall Islands
A continuous countertop surface that cascades down one or both sides of the island adds modern drama and a luxury hotel vibe. Use it with natural stone for stunning effect.
Matte and Textured Finishes
High-gloss is out. Matte cabinetry and textured materials (like leathered granite or brushed metal) bring depth and tactile interest into your design.
Hidden Pantries
Create a seamless, flush cabinet door that opens into a walk-in pantry. It keeps your design clean while adding serious utility.
Why the Evergreen Approach Makes a Difference
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, our design-build process ensures that your kitchen remodel is more than just an upgrade—it’s a transformation. We don’t just follow trends. We guide you through materials, engineering, and craftsmanship that stand the test of time.
Founded by Jon and Anne Marie over two decades ago, our company has been rooted in family-first values from day one. We know your kitchen isn’t just a room—it’s where birthdays are celebrated, meals are shared, and life happens. That’s why every project we take on is crafted with purpose and precision.
Ready to Build the Kitchen You’ve Been Dreaming Of?
No more cookie-cutter cabinets or one-size-fits-all solutions. If you’re ready to bring these fresh ideas into your kitchen remodel—or develop a custom concept with a team that truly listens—Evergreen Home Exteriors is here to help.
From the first blueprint to the final trim, our expert designers and builders are with you every step of the way. We specialize in full-scale renovations that don’t just beautify your space—they enhance how you live in it.
