Thinking about a kitchen renovation? How exciting! A fresh kitchen can completely change the way you cook, gather, and live at home. But before you dive into picking tiles and paint swatches, it’s worth taking a step back and asking yourself a few key questions. A little planning goes a long way toward creating a kitchen that’s not just beautiful—but perfectly you.

At SWARC Studio, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Vero Beach and beyond turn their kitchen renovation dreams into something real, functional, and stunning. So, here are some things to keep in mind before you start swinging that sledgehammer.

1. How do you actually use your kitchen?

Are you a gourmet cook who needs lots of prep space and storage for specialty tools? Or do you mostly reheat leftovers and need more room for friends to gather around a big island?

Thinking about how you really use your kitchen will guide everything from layout to lighting. The best designs start with real life in mind—not just Pinterest boards (though those help too!).

2. What’s working right now—and what’s not?

Before you start fresh, take a look at your current kitchen. What drives you crazy every day? Maybe your dishwasher door blocks a cabinet when it’s open, or there’s never enough counter space by the stove.

Knowing your “pain points” helps you and your designer fix what doesn’t work while keeping what you love.

3. How much storage do you need (really)?

One of the biggest regrets homeowners have after a renovation? Not enough storage. It’s easy to underestimate how much space small appliances, cookware, and pantry items take up.

Think vertically with tall cabinets, consider drawer inserts for utensils, and don’t forget clever corner solutions. At SWARC Studio, we love designing kitchens that make storage not just efficient—but elegant.

Kitchen and Island Renovation by SWARC Studio

4. What’s your kitchen’s personality?

Your kitchen should fit your home’s overall style but also reflect you. Do you lean toward coastal light and airy, modern and minimal, or warm and transitional?

We often tell clients to start with the feeling they want when they walk in. Cozy and inviting? Sleek and clean? Once you know that, choosing finishes and fixtures becomes a lot easier (and more fun!).

5. What’s your budget—and your timeline?

Nobody loves talking about budgets, but it’s one of the most important parts of a renovation. A clear idea of what you want to invest in helps your design team prioritize what matters most.

And don’t forget: good design takes time. Quality craftsmanship, custom cabinetry, and specialty finishes are worth the wait.

6. Have you talked to a professional?

Even small kitchen updates can benefit from expert eyes. A professional designer or architect can help you maximize space, avoid costly mistakes, and think creatively about solutions you might not have considered.

At SWARC Studio, we combine design expertise with local insight to help Vero Beach homeowners create kitchens that are functional, timeless, and built to last.

Ready to start planning?

Your kitchen should be more than a place to cook—it should be a space you love to live in. Whether you’re dreaming of a total renovation or just a thoughtful refresh, SWARC Studio can help you design a kitchen that perfectly suits your lifestyle.

📞 Let’s talk about your next kitchen project! Visit SWARC Studio

Kitchen Renovations: What Questions to Ask Yourself and Things to Keep in Mind