How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Typically Take?
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs, one of your first questions is probably: “How long will I be without my kitchen?” The answer varies significantly based on the scope of your project, but understanding timeline factors helps you plan appropriately and set realistic expectations.
At Revive Studio, we’ve streamlined the kitchen remodeling process to complete many projects in just 2-3 weeks—significantly faster than industry standards. Let’s break down what influences kitchen remodel timelines and how you can minimize disruption to your daily life.
Average Kitchen Remodel Timelines
Timeline by Project Type
The scope of your remodel is the primary factor determining duration:
| Remodel Type | Typical Timeline | Revive Studio Timeline | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor/Cosmetic | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 weeks | Paint, hardware, countertops, backsplash, lighting updates |
| Moderate | 6-8 weeks | 3-4 weeks | New cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring, minor layout changes |
| Major/Complete | 8-16 weeks | 2-3 weeks | Full gut, new layout, all new finishes, structural changes |
| Luxury Custom | 12-20 weeks | 4-6 weeks | High-end finishes, custom everything, architectural changes |
Why Revive Studio Is Faster
Our accelerated timeline is possible through:
- Extensive in-stock inventory
- Streamlined design-to-installation process
- Coordinated project management
- Experienced installation teams
- Pre-fabricated components ready to install
“Most homeowners are shocked to learn they can have a completely new kitchen in 2-3 weeks. Our integrated approach—from design through installation—eliminates the delays that plague traditional remodels,” says Ohad Gibli, President and Lead Designer at Revive Studio.
The Kitchen Remodel Timeline Phases
Understanding each phase helps you see where time is spent:
Phase 1: Planning and Design (2-6 Weeks)
This phase happens before construction and varies based on your decision-making speed.
What Happens:
- Initial consultation and needs assessment
- Measurements and space evaluation
- Design development and revisions
- Material and finish selections
- 3D rendering review and approval
- Final quote and contract
Timeline Variables:
- How quickly you make decisions
- Complexity of design
- Number of design revisions needed
- Custom vs. stock selections
Revive Studio Advantage: Our complimentary 3D design service and extensive showroom help you visualize and decide quickly. Many clients finalize designs in a single visit.
Phase 2: Ordering and Permits (2-8 Weeks)
Once you’ve approved the design, materials are ordered and permits obtained.
What Happens:
- Cabinet orders placed
- Countertop fabrication started
- Appliances ordered
- Permits submitted and approved
- Contractor scheduling finalized
Timeline Variables:
- Custom vs. stock cabinetry (biggest factor)
- Countertop material and complexity
- Local permit office efficiency
- Appliance availability
- Time of year (spring/summer are busiest)
Stock vs. Custom Cabinetry Impact:
- Stock cabinets: Available in 1-2 weeks
- Semi-custom: 4-8 weeks
- Full custom: 8-12 weeks
Revive Studio Advantage: Our inventory of popular cabinet styles and in-house capabilities mean we often skip this waiting period entirely or reduce it to days, not weeks.
Phase 3: Demolition (1-3 Days)
Once everything is ready, demolition begins.
What Happens:
- Protective covering of adjacent areas
- Cabinet removal
- Countertop removal
- Appliance disconnection and removal
- Flooring removal (if applicable)
- Debris disposal
Timeline Variables:
- Size of kitchen
- Extent of demolition
- Disposal method
- Complications discovered (water damage, outdated wiring)
Phase 4: Rough-In Work (3-10 Days)
This is when structural, plumbing, and electrical work happens.
What Happens:
- Structural modifications (if any)
- New electrical wiring
- Plumbing updates or relocation
- HVAC modifications
- Wall repairs or drywall installation
- Permit inspections
Timeline Variables:
- Extent of layout changes
- Moving plumbing locations (adds significant time)
- Structural modifications
- Code compliance issues
- Inspector availability
No Layout Changes? If you’re keeping the same basic layout, this phase can be as short as 2-3 days for minor electrical and plumbing updates.
Phase 5: Installation (5-14 Days)
This is when your new kitchen starts taking shape.
What Happens:
- Flooring installation
- Cabinet installation
- Countertop template and fabrication
- Countertop installation
- Backsplash installation
- Plumbing and electrical finish work
- Appliance installation
- Hardware installation
- Trim and finish work
Timeline Variables:
- Cabinet complexity
- Custom tile work
- Countertop fabrication time
- Coordination between trades
- Detail level and finishing touches
Day-by-Day Breakdown:
- Day 1-2: Flooring installation
- Day 3-5: Cabinet installation
- Day 6: Countertop template
- Day 7-8: Countertop fabrication (happens off-site)
- Day 9: Countertop installation
- Day 10-11: Backsplash installation
- Day 12: Plumbing/electrical finish, appliance installation
- Day 13-14: Final touches, hardware, cleanup
Phase 6: Final Touches (1-3 Days)
The last details make your kitchen complete.
What Happens:
- Final paint touch-ups
- Hardware adjustments
- Appliance testing and setup
- Final cleaning
- Walkthrough and punch list
- Final inspection (if required)
Factors That Extend Timelines
Common Delay Causes
Material Delays:
- Custom cabinets taking longer than quoted
- Countertop fabrication delays
- Appliance backorders
- Tile or flooring out of stock
- Hardware availability
Scope Changes:
- Discovering hidden issues (rot, outdated wiring)
- Client changes to design mid-project
- Adding features not in original plan
- Permit requirement changes
Coordination Issues:
- Subcontractor scheduling conflicts
- Weather delays (for projects involving exterior work)
- Inspection delays
- Miscommunication between trades
Decision Delays:
- Client indecision on finishes
- Delayed material selections
- Late changes to plans
- Approval delays
How to Prevent Delays
Before Construction Starts:
- Make all material selections early
- Order long-lead items first
- Have backup selections ready
- Review and approve design completely
- Understand permit requirements
- Schedule inspections in advance
During Construction:
- Respond quickly to contractor questions
- Avoid scope changes
- Keep communication lines open
- Have someone available for decisions
- Plan for contingencies
Timeline by Kitchen Size
Small Kitchen (Under 100 sq ft)
Typical Timeline: 4-6 weeks Revive Studio: 2-3 weeks
Small kitchens move faster due to:
- Less material to remove and install
- Simpler layouts
- Fewer cabinets
- Smaller countertop areas
- Faster tile installation
Medium Kitchen (100-200 sq ft)
Typical Timeline: 6-10 weeks Revive Studio: 2-4 weeks
Medium kitchens are the most common and represent average timelines listed throughout this article.
Large Kitchen (200+ sq ft)
Typical Timeline: 10-16 weeks Revive Studio: 3-5 weeks
Large kitchens take longer due to:
- More extensive cabinet installation
- Larger countertop areas
- More complex layouts
- Often include islands
- More appliances to install
Chicago-Specific Timeline Factors
Seasonal Considerations
Best Times to Remodel:
- Spring (March-May): Popular but contractors are busy
- Fall (September-November): Good weather, moderate demand
- Winter (December-February): Less demand, faster scheduling, but holidays complicate things
- Summer (June-August): Peak season, longest waits
Permit Timelines in Chicago Area
City of Chicago:
- Simple permits: 2-4 weeks
- Complex permits: 4-8 weeks
- Inspections: Schedule 3-5 days in advance
Suburban Municipalities:
- Timelines vary by town
- Generally 1-4 weeks
- Some suburbs have faster processes than city
Living Through Your Remodel
Temporary Kitchen Setup
Most homeowners need 2-4 weeks without a full kitchen. Here’s how to cope:
Essential Temporary Setup:
- Microwave in another room
- Coffee maker in dining room
- Small refrigerator (or use garage)
- Paper plates and disposable utensils
- Easy-to-prepare meals planned
Temporary Kitchen Locations:
- Dining room
- Basement
- Garage (if climate-controlled)
- Guest room
Eating Strategies:
- Meal prep before remodel starts
- Freezer meals
- Slow cooker or instant pot
- Grilling outside (weather permitting)
- Strategic takeout and dining out
- Help from family members
Managing Daily Life
Timeline Tips:
- Don’t schedule major events during remodel
- Plan extra time for morning routines
- Keep a cooler accessible
- Set up a dishwashing station in bathroom
- Communicate timeline to family members
- Build in buffer time for your sanity
Realistic Timeline Expectations
The Honest Truth About Construction Timelines
Even with the best planning, unexpected issues arise:
Common Surprises:
- Water damage behind old cabinets
- Outdated wiring that needs upgrading
- Plumbing that doesn’t meet current code
- Structural issues once walls are opened
- Asbestos or lead paint (in older homes)
- Uneven floors requiring leveling
How Surprises Affect Timelines:
- Minor issues: Add 2-5 days
- Moderate issues: Add 1-2 weeks
- Major issues: Add 3+ weeks
Setting Expectations with Family
Be Upfront About:
- Dust and noise
- Limited kitchen access
- Worker presence in home
- Possible timeline extensions
- Budget for eating out
- Patience needed for the process
Timeline Comparison: Different Approaches
DIY vs. Professional
DIY Timeline:
- Extends by 2-3X due to learning curve
- Weekend-only work further extends timeline
- Minor projects: 4-8 weeks
- Major projects: 4-6 months or more
Professional Timeline:
- Faster due to experience
- Coordinated trades
- Full-time focus on project
- Proper tools and equipment
General Contractor vs. Design-Build
General Contractor:
- Longer timeline due to coordination
- Design and build are separate phases
- More potential for delays
Design-Build (Like Revive Studio):
- Streamlined process
- Integrated team
- Better coordination
- Faster completion
- Single point of contact
Accelerating Your Timeline
How Revive Studio Completes Kitchens in 2-3 Weeks
Our process differs from traditional approaches:
Week 1:
- Demolition (Days 1-2)
- Rough-in electrical and plumbing (Days 2-4)
- Flooring installation (Days 4-5)
Week 2:
- Cabinet installation (Days 1-3)
- Countertop template and installation (Days 3-5)
Week 3:
- Backsplash installation (Days 1-2)
- Final plumbing, electrical, appliances (Days 3-4)
- Final touches and cleanup (Day 5)
Success Factors:
- Pre-made design decisions
- Materials ready before demo
- Coordinated scheduling
- Experienced crews
- In-stock inventory
- Efficient project management
Making Any Remodel Faster
Even with traditional contractors:
Pre-Construction:
- Make all selections before demo
- Order long-lead items early
- Get permits in advance
- Clear out kitchen completely
- Set up temporary kitchen
During Construction:
- Quick decision-making
- Maintain open communication
- Be available for questions
- Avoid changes to plan
- Trust contractor expertise
The Bottom Line on Kitchen Remodel Timelines
Industry Standard: 8-12 weeks for complete remodel Revive Studio: 2-3 weeks for most complete remodels
The difference comes from:
- Integrated design-build process
- Extensive ready-to-install inventory
- Experienced project management
- Coordinated team approach
- Commitment to client timelines
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?
At Revive Studio, we understand that being without your kitchen is disruptive. That’s why we’ve developed systems to complete beautiful, high-quality kitchen remodels in a fraction of traditional timeframes.
Visit our showroom at 2837 N Halsted St, Chicago, to see our work and discuss your timeline needs. Call us at (773) 207-8558 for a complimentary consultation and 3D design service.
With Revive Studio, you could be cooking in your dream kitchen in as little as 2-3 weeks. Our sister company, Revive 360 Renovations, handles all installation work with the same commitment to speed and quality.
Don’t let timeline concerns delay your kitchen dreams. Let us show you how fast a professional remodel can be.
Revive Studio – Where Design & Functionality Meet Beautiful Kitchens, Faster Than You Think
