Online Kitchen Design Tools for Kitchen Remodels
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s the first place you come together in the mornings, where you talk about the day’s events as you prepare meals, and experiment with food.
It’s so important to have a kitchen that’s functional and a kitchen that serves as a place you want to spend a lot of time. Outdated furnishings, broken door hinges, and chipped worktops certainly don’t inspire that.
Fortunately, kitchen design tools make it easy to plan your kitchen’s much-needed revamp.
With today’s technology, you have an entire world of color schemes, architecture and building ideas at your fingertips. With kitchen design tools, you can choose every little detail about your kitchen, from cabinet sizes and the height of the ceiling, to the splashback tiles and the shade of each wall.
Today, we’ll explore some of the best tools and the benefits of using them.
What is a kitchen design tool?
A kitchen design tool is the perfect starting point for a kitchen renovation, especially if you’re planning on hiring a custom kitchen builder, architect, or cabinet maker. The process is often easier if you take your plans to your design and architecture team, so that they have something to work with.
If you are confident in your interior designing abilities and you’re planning to build your own kitchen, plans are still necessary.
With today’s kitchen remodel software, you can visualize your kitchen in 3D, adding pieces of furniture, editing cabinet sizes, and getting a general idea of what your kitchen can look like.
Can I design a kitchen online?
Yes – though if you’re looking for a web-based browser where you can enter your dimensions and drag-and-drop kitchen units into them, you’ll struggle to find anything really worth your time. The only thing that comes close is IKEA’s design software, which limits you to their designs, and if you want something other than an IKEA kitchen, you’re a bit out of luck.
Why use a kitchen design tool?
Not too long ago, the process of designing a kitchen from scratch required the help of architects and designers, who drew pencil sketches to figure out the layout.
Today, there are far more options and it’s so much easier to visualize what your kitchen will look like after a renovation is complete.
Some types of remodel software generate very basic ideas of what the layout or coloring would look like in your space, while others – like ours, at Skipp – will allow you to generate hundreds of options and figure out every last detail of your dream kitchen.
Is using a kitchen design tool easy?
That really depends on the tool you’re using. Some are easy to use, some are professional tools that require a steep learning curve to use accurately. Because every kitchen is so different, both in dimensions and in the needs of the user, there aren’t many simple drag-and-drop builders. It wouldn’t be worth your time doing that if you built a kitchen using their default units, only to realize that the cabinets you have your heart set on are bigger or smaller.
With Skipp, we come to take accurate measurements of your kitchen, so the examples we generate are exact.
Then, we generate 3 ideal kitchen layout options for you, and you can pick every last detail, whether it’s extending a countertop, or putting an island where a peninsula used to jut out. It takes the best of kitchen design tools and marries it with our expertise – the best of both worlds.
What are the benefits of using a kitchen design tool?
- You can get a birds-eye view of the kitchen layout. When we think about rearranging the living room, we’ll often move the couch “just to see what it looks like”. If it opens up the space, we keep it, and if it looks worse, we move it back. That’s simply not possible in a kitchen renovation, due to the specifics and technicalities of a kitchen, like electric, HVAC and plumbing already in place.
- It gives you something you can hand to the professionals you work with. Kitchens aren’t something we can typically do ourselves – we’re always going to need at least one expert to come in and do some element of the tiling, cabinetry, or another service. Using a kitchen design tool can give you something to hand to professionals, to show the look you’re aiming for.
- You can test color combinations. In some kitchen design tools, you can add color to your cabinets. Even just seeing two colors on a grander scale will let you see whether you really want to embrace the two-tone trend (or not!), and which colors to use.
- It often saves you time and money. By using a kitchen design tool, you can cut down time going back and forth with a designer. Or, if you want to work with a designer, it can give you something to take to them to show them your ideas. This can save you time and money as you make fewer mistakes and get to your final kitchen interior design faster.
- You can sit with your kitchen design for a while. If you’re planning a radical transformation for your kitchen, you may want to have your design in mind for a few days as you live with your kitchen to imagine what it would be like to use. Can you really live with less storage space? Would you like your appliances to be built in? Do you want to have smarter storage solutions when you were originally thinking of simply revamping your current layout? These are all things you can consider once you’ve got a design that works for your kitchen’s measurements.
What are the best apps to design a kitchen with?
- Houzz allows you to Browse more than 20 million high-resolution photos of home interiors and exteriors. You can choose by style, location or room, so if you want to branch out to other rooms, you have that option! Houzz has a Sketch feature that allows you to annotate and draw directly on the photos from the app. Houzz even has a feedback feature in which you can ask other app users for their advice and design ideas.
- Kitchen Planner 3D is currently in Early Access as we write, but it looks promising as a basic kitchen design app. It looks a little bit like you’ve designed a kitchen in The Sims circa 1999, but with future updates that are sure to become more up-to-date.
- 3D Kitchen Design for IKEA isn’t actually from IKEA themselves, but works similarly to IKEA’s kitchen design software (see below). It’s fairly basic, so it’s only going to be worth your time if you want to see what your color schemes and cabinet layouts may look like. We wouldn’t recommend this for robust layout ideas.
What is the best free kitchen design software?
- IKEA Kitchen Planner is another well-received app that allows you to drag-and-drop their units. While you can’t see the dimensions of the units easily, you can look them up and use them as inspiration for the fittings in your kitchen. Of course, if you’re planning to get a budget IKEA kitchen, then it will work well for you.
- Room Sketcher Kitchen Planner is perhaps one of the best ways to get the kind of mock-up you’re envisioning. You can start for free, work with very basic outlines, or build it out in more detail. Be aware, however, that you have to pay to upgrade very quickly. 2D floor plans aren’t included in the free version, and you’ve got to upgrade to Pro ($99 per year) to even use measurements.
- Kitchen Planner is another free software that’s relatively easy to get to grips with. The 3D mock-ups aren’t super high quality, but for a free software, they’re pretty good!
Of course, if the idea of using apps and software to design your kitchen yourself sounds like a huge headache, why not let us do the heavy lifting?
At Skipp, we can do a 3D scan of your kitchen for the perfect measurements, generate your dream layout options based on your preferences and ideasl, and we’re happy to work with DIYers, as well as those who want to continue using our approved General Contractor partners (and save on the overall cost of their kitchen!).
Find out more about our simple 4-step process here.
How can I design my own kitchen cabinets?
Some kitchen design apps, including some of those mentioned above, allow you to choose the color, style and materials used in your cabinets. If you want to design them from scratch, as in the measurements, bevels, and finishes, then you’ll need to talk to professional kitchen designers who can help you, or a carpenter if you want a natural wood effect.
How do you design a kitchen layout?
There are a number of points you should think about when you design a kitchen layout:
- Do you want to make any substantial changes to the kitchen layout? If not, then you’ll have a much easier time rearranging cabinets and putting in better storage solutions. If not, take accurate (!) measurements of your kitchen and draw a basic design on your app, software, or even a piece of graph paper.
- If you’re making substantial changes, then you can do the same as above, but you need to be thoughtful about foot traffic (width of walkways, how much room you need around the oven to be safe and practical, etc).
- Next, think about your storage solutions. Recently, there’s been an increase in the popularity in replacing overhead cabinets with modern shelving, but if you don’t have a separate pantry, this simply may not leave you with enough room to store your food safely. Remember: cabinets can help prolong the life of your food. Do you want simple cabinet space you can use as you wish, or do you want savvy storage solutions that break up the size and width of cabinet doors and drawers?
- Tweak the layout until it makes perfect sense. (This is usually the moment you realize you want to work with a designer instead!) If you’re hiring a kitchen contractor or kitchen carpenter, run it by them to ensure they can work with it.
Whether you’re planning to hire a team for your kitchen renovation or remodel, or planning to do the work largely yourself, it’s important not to underestimate the importance of getting it right the first time. Even basic kitchen renovations run into the thousands of dollars, and the result of your work will affect the longevity of the kitchen, and even your home’s resale value.
Fortunately, there is a much easier solution to doing it all alone!
At Skipp, our easy 4-step system can help you realize the kitchen of your dreams without all the hassle of downloading software or apps, figuring out how they work, and trying to get the measurements just right.
We’ll come to your home and take accurate 3D measurements and use them to offer you personalized layout options faster than any other service on the market right now. You can use these layouts to narrow down to the best one, based on your personal needs and preferences.
Then, you can work with our designers to tailor your design even further, so it’s unique and custom for your ideals, habits, preferences and goals. Finally, you can use that layout to DIY or work with our partners and save on the typical costs of a kitchen renovation. It’s a no-brainer to work with Skipp – click here to get started.
What software do kitchen designers use?
Kitchen designers have access to and may use a wide variety of kitchen layout design tools. While there are a number of free software tools available for kitchen design, your designer may opt to utilize one that has been upgraded or paid for more features. Some that are paid and highly-rated are Chief Architect, 2020 Design, Sketchup by Timble, Smartdraw’s kitchen design software, Autocad or Prokitchen software. The paid versions may come with a lot of great features like user support and the ability to give the customer a final price.
Designers who want an online kitchen design tool that’s free might use Lowes VIrtual Room Designer, IKEA Kitchen Designer, Easyhome Homestyler, Sketchup for Web by Trimble and Planner 5D. The choice to use a free or paid version of design software will depend to some degree on the complexity of the project. Regardless of software utilized, your kitchen designer should be able to utilize it to produce a plan and make your design ideas come to life.
Which software does Home Depot use for kitchen design?
Companies like Home Depot are without question large suppliers for many parts of a remodel, inclusive of kitchen redesign. With that being said, they are likely to invest in a kitchen design tool that can be used with no charge. Home Depot offers a free kitchen design tool called Design Connect Kitchen Planner. Home Depot’s tool allows designers to choose the layout of the kitchen, countertops, cabinets and appliances. The results will be in 3D, to give the user an idea of what the finished room will look like. The design tool also has an estimator function that will give the person using the tool an estimate of what they can expect the job to cost. This tool may help with planning projects of varying complexities. This tool can also be used to connect with a NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) designer to help with a project.
How much does kitchen design cost?
With all professional services having variations in fees, kitchen design is no different. There are numerous factors that will determine your cost for a kitchen designer. While you may sometimes hire a designer for as little as $65 per hour, prices can range up to $250 per hour or more. Some of the determinants of this cost include the designers’ qualifications and reputations, and the scope of your project. Average fees tend to run somewhere between $125-$250 per hour, as a rough estimate. Aside from an hourly rate, some will charge a flat fee that can range anywhere from $500-$10,000, or more. An average range often falls somewhere between $2,500-$3,500. While determining how a kitchen designer will fit in your budget, keep in mind that kitchen designers can:
- Create a concept or design for the space you are working with
- Work within your budget and offer alternatives to help you get what you want without overspending
- Help choose the products like appliances, cabinets, fixtures and finishes that are best for you
- Make sure the job is done right by ordering products, ensuring delivery and following up with contractors
- Save money by avoiding costly mistakes in either the planning or selection of products
Working with a kitchen designer can ensure your best interest is kept in mind, making sure no steps in designing your space are overlooked or under prioritized. No matter what the scope of your kitchen design project is, a designer may be well worth the cost, potentially saving you money in the long run. The financial and aesthetic outcomes of your kitchen design are likely your top priorities if you are remodeling. A designer’s fee may be a small part of the total cost and may be well worth the professional input and partnership.
What should I look for in a new kitchen design layout?
When looking for a new kitchen design layout, it's best to start with envisioning what you’d like to use the space for. Think about the type of functional space you may need and which types of features and products your kitchen must have. Once you decide how you will be using your kitchen, the layout will become easier to plan. Will you and the whole family be baking in the kitchen over the holidays? Will you need more storage? Perhaps a wine bar?
These questions come down to deciding a few key things about the layout of your kitchen:
- How often and what do you cook?
- How much storage space is important to you?
- How much space are you working with currently?
A good layout will strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality. In design terms, you will want to think about your “workflow.” That is, considering things like the ability to move easily between the sink, fridge and stove without obstructions. Usually it is a work “V,” triangle or U-shaped design.
Find out where your electrical, plumbing and ventilation are located. If you are leaving them in place, you will need to work with the room as it is. The type of lighting, and where you will place it, is important, too. Some people want overhead recessed lights, while others want fixtures. Some people want to add additional lighting under the cabinets, like tape lights or LEDs. Once you know these things, you can get started designing your kitchen.
What is the first thing to do when remodeling a kitchen?
When remodeling a kitchen, the first thing to do is to determine what you are able to spend. With choices of upgrades and design features being endless, it is incredibly easy to go over budget. Setting a clear budget upfront will help guide your choices through the design and remodel process. Once you have your budget in mind, it is best to start to figure out which essentials you wish to have in your new kitchen. You will also need to know how much space you are working with, because that will undoubtedly play a large role in what type of kitchen you will have. Utilizing a virtual kitchen design tool for research or a kitchen designer to discuss your plans is a great place to begin. This will help you know if your budget is reasonable for the upgrades you want to invest in. If it is not, it may be time to consider what you’re willing to sacrifice, or how much more you may be able to invest in the project.
How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel?
Budgeting for your kitchen may involve an investment of your time up front. Researching average costs and getting estimates for pieces of your project will help you understand the financial investment you will need to make.
Thousands of homeowners remodel their kitchens every year. With the kitchen being one of the most used rooms in the house, it is no question that people are willing to invest in making it a functional and appealing space. The average range of kitchen remodelling is between $13,366-$37,806, with the average spend being $25,857. This translates to $150 per square foot. Costs always depend on what you are doing and how you are doing it. If you are just repainting, then with adding new fixtures and a backsplash, you will obviously not spend as much as if you gut the whole kitchen and replace electrical, plumbing and your HVAC system. Researching the costs of your remodel is an essential part in planning the investment you will be making to make your kitchen dreams come to life. With an idea of cost in mind, your finances may determine just how much of the changes you are envisioning will be able to happen. If your remodeling exceeds your budget, you may have to tweak your plan, borrow, delay the project, or potentially complete it in stages.
How long does it take to renovate a kitchen?
The time it takes will depend on the scope of your project: in other words, how much work you are having done and how much is changing.
A full renovation can take anywhere from 3 to 4 months. A full renovation may entail planning, construction, installation and inspection. Getting the planning done (planning, concept), can take about 2 weeks, and sometimes up to 4 weeks.
Any pre-construction needs, like having cabinets custom made, can take up to 6 weeks. After that, you will need the products delivered and installed, and you may possibly even need a final inspection. The construction phase can take a while, sometimes more than 10 weeks, depending on what you need to have done. When using a designer, they are able to help you better understand the timeline of your project. Your designers may work with various contractors to ensure the project remains as planned. Having a timeline will allow you to plan accordingly for the time you may be without your kitchen space.
When should I start planning a new kitchen?
There is no better time to start planning your new kitchen than the moment you start envisioning it. Whether you’re tired of your old kitchen or simply ready for a change, it never hurts to start planning and saving. Kitchen redesigns can be a big investment, which is why it is important to have help from those with your best interest in mind. While planning your new kitchen, think about things you like about your current kitchen, what you don’t like, and which types of things you are wishing for.
Using free kitchen design tools and researching costs of potential upgrades is a good starting point in understanding what the scope of your project will be like. This may be inclusive of both financial and time investment you can expect. When you are ready, bring your ideas to a kitchen designer and get peace of mind that your kitchen design will come to life from a team that ensures that no steps in designing your space are overlooked or under-prioritized.
