Let me tell you something: remodeling a kitchen isn’t just a project—it’s a wild ride. And when we took on our kitchen remodel Sacramento, we didn’t fully know what we were signing up for.

But somewhere between the demolition dust and the final cabinet knob, this old house of ours started to feel like home in a whole new way.

Here are 9 moments—some messy, some magical—that shaped our journey from chaos to clean lines.

1. The Moment We Said, “Let’s Just Do It”

It started with a leaky faucet. Then we noticed the tile cracking. Then the cabinet doors stopped closing. Next thing you know, I’m standing in the middle of our kitchen with a hammer in one hand and a “what have we done?” look on my face.

Lesson #1: You’re never really ready—but sometimes you just need to start.

2. Demo Day… AKA the Most Fun We’ve Ever Had

We ripped out cabinets like we were on HGTV. The kids helped (with tiny goggles and mini crowbars), and we found a 1994 Sears catalog behind the fridge. No lie.

There’s nothing quite like seeing a space stripped down to the studs. It’s equal parts terrifying and exciting.

3. When the Electrical Was ALL Wrong

Turns out, the “updated wiring” was code for “creative chaos.” We had outlets wired to nowhere and a light switch that controlled… nothing.

Cue the licensed electrician, the rewiring, and the unexpected invoice.

Pro Tip: Always budget for surprises—especially in older Sacramento homes.

4. Design Debates Over Subway Tile vs. Patterned Cement

Jo (ahem, my wife) had a vision. I had… strong opinions. She wanted zellige; I wanted classic white subway. We compromised with handmade ceramic that has just enough texture to feel rustic but polished.

Lesson: Marry someone with good taste. Then trust her.

5. The Cabinet Delay That Nearly Broke Us

We ordered the cabinets. Then we waited. And waited. And waited. Somewhere around week 8, we started eating dinner on plywood countertops and using a cooler as a fridge.

Remodeling teaches patience—or at least forces you into it.

6. The Day the Island Was Installed

When that massive oak island was lowered into place, we just stood there in silence. It was the first moment we could really see the kitchen taking shape.

Soft-close drawers, hidden charging stations, seating for four… it was a thing of beauty.

Sometimes, it’s one piece that makes the whole space feel real.

7. That First Meal Back in the Kitchen

It wasn’t fancy—just grilled cheese and tomato soup. But sitting around the new island, with warm lights overhead and actual cabinet doors that worked, it felt like a feast.

The heart of the home beats louder when the space feels right.

8. The Finishing Touches That Made It Ours

We added a vintage rug from the Midtown flea market, some floating shelves with clay mugs, and a framed photo of the old kitchen—just for fun. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come.

Design’s important, but personality makes it feel like you.

9. When We Realized It Wasn’t Just a Kitchen—It Was a Reset

More than new tile and updated appliances, this kitchen changed how we live. We cook more. We eat together. We laugh louder. And every now and then, we just stand there, soaking it all in.

Remodeling isn’t about perfection—it’s about building a place you want to come home to.

🧰 CALL TO ACTION

Thinking about your own kitchen remodel Sacramento?
 Let’s turn your “someday” into a plan—with a little grit, a lot of heart, and some seriously good design. We’ve been there—and we’d love to help.