A practical guide for planning a kitchen remodel in Des Moines (including Huxley, Ames, Clive, Johnston, Waukee, Ankeny and West Des Moines)—from scope and layout to selections and timelines.

Key Takeaways

  • Define your goals, scope, and budget before you begin a kitchen remodeling project in the Des Moines area.
  • Layout and storage decisions (zones, aisles, islands/peninsulas) come before finishes.
  • Lock selections early to protect timelines and avoid change-order creep.
  • Choose a builder who understands local homes and can blend kitchen renovation design with day-to-day function.

In the Des Moines area a successful kitchen remodeling project starts long before demo day. Whether you’re updating a compact ranch in Ankeny or opening a split-level in West Des Moines, the smartest remodels align your layout, storage, and selections with how you actually live. Here’s how to plan your upcoming kitchen remodel for a smoother build and a better daily experience.

1) Set your “why,” scope, and priorities

Are you remodeling for resale, growing needs, or long-term enjoyment? Clarify must-haves (layout changes, more storage, better lighting) vs. nice-to-haves (appliance upgrades, specialty finishes). This guides scope and helps your contractor price accurately.

2) Lead with layout and circulation

Form follows function. Before picking colors, decide how the room should work:

  • Respect aisle widths (ideally 36–42″) and work zones (prep, cook, clean, coffee).
  • Right-size the island—or choose a peninsula—to avoid bottlenecks in smaller kitchens.
  • Consider partial wall openings for light and sightlines without losing storage.

If your home is split-level or has staggered ceiling heights, a targeted structural change often beats full “open concept.”

3) Design storage you’ll actually use

In a strong kitchen renovation, storage is strategy:

  • Deep drawer bases for pots, pans, and dishes
  • Pull-out trays for sheets and boards near the oven
  • Built-in trash/recycle with sealed inserts
  • Appliance garages to keep counters clear
  • Slim pull-outs for spices/oils flanking the range
  • Vertical pantry solutions when a walk-in won’t fit

Need precision fit? Our custom carpentry team builds organizers and cabinetry to your exact footprint.

4) Choose durable, low-maintenance finishes

Busy kitchens demand surfaces that work hard:

  • Quartz or sintered stone counters for stain/scratch resistance
  • Tile backsplashes with minimal grout lines
  • Matte/satin cabinet finishes that hide fingerprints
  • Flooring that tolerates moisture and traffic

Pick finishes early; your selections drive ordering, lead times, and final trim details.

5) Light in layers

Every kitchen needs ambient + task + accent lighting:

  • Ambient: recessed or low-profile ceiling fixtures
  • Task: under-cabinet lighting and pendants at islands/peninsulas
  • Accent: toe-kick or shelf LEDs for evening use

Good lighting makes a modest footprint feel bigger and more inviting.

6) Confirm utilities and code items up front

If you’re moving a sink, range, or adding new circuits, confirm feasibility early. Your contractor should handle permits, mechanical planning, and code compliance so the build stays efficient and safe.

7) Finalize selections and schedule before demo

Locking your plan avoids change-order creep. Align on:

  • Cabinet specs and inserts
  • Counter material and edge profiles
  • Plumbing fixtures and appliance specs
  • Hardware, lighting, and backsplash layout
  • Paint and trim details

Your timeline will thank you.

8) Work with a builder who understands local homes

Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, and West Des Moines have a wide mix of mid-century, 1990s, and newer builds. Choose a team that can tie your kitchen remodeling work into the home’s character through fit-and-finish, casing, crown, and detail. That’s where a remodel feels “meant to be,” not bolted on.

Start planning with the Reese team: we’ll map your layout, storage, and selections, then build with care and clear communication from first measure to final walk-through.

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Summary

Planning a kitchen remodel project is equal parts vision and logistics. Define your goals, solve layout and storage first, lock selections early, and partner with a builder who can marry great design with clean execution. The result is a kitchen that’s easier to use, easier to maintain, and built to fit your life.

Ready to start your kitchen remodeling plan?
Contact Reese Builders to schedule a no-pressure consultation for Des Moines, Ankeny, and West Des Moines.

FAQs

How long does a typical kitchen renovation take?
Most kitchens run 5–8 weeks after design, selections, and ordering—scope and materials drive schedule.

Do I need custom cabinets?
Not always, but custom inserts and select custom pieces can dramatically improve function, especially in tight footprints.

Can you work within my existing layout?
Yes. We often combine modest structural updates with smarter storage and lighting for significant gains without a full gut.

Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes. We coordinate permits, inspections, and code compliance as part of our process.

Which areas do you serve?
We work across Central Iowa, including Des Moines, Ankeny, West Des Moines, Johnston, and Urbandale