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Kitchen Renovations for Layouts and Surfaces
At Kitchen Wise Closet Wise, we are home lovers just like you! We live and breathe organization and beautiful design. We know that a kitchen remodel is one of the most exciting—and nerve-wracking—projects you’ll ever take on. While we have our own tried-and-true methods for creating the perfect space, we’re the first to admit that we aren’t the only experts in the room!
Today, we’re diving into some fantastic advice from HGTV’s very own Mike Holmes. He’s known for his "Make It Right" motto, and we couldn't agree more with his take on where homeowners often accidentally "waste" their hard-earned cash. This month we will cover the negatives to some renovation ideas, with this article focusing on the big structural and surface decisions that can make or break your budget.
The Open Concept "Hidden" Costs
We all love that airy, open-concept feel, but Mike Holmes raises a great point: what’s hiding behind those walls? Before you grab a sledgehammer, you need a professional inspection.
- Structural Integrity: Removing a wall that turns out to be load-bearing can cause your house to literally crack under the pressure.
- Mechanical Mysteries: Walls often hide the "veins and arteries" of your home—ductwork and electrical runs. Moving these isn't impossible, but it is expensive!
- The "Broken" Plan: If you want some separation but love the light, consider a "broken floor plan." Using half-walls or bookshelves can give you the best of both worlds without the structural headache.
The Marble vs. Quartz Debate
There is no denying that marble is stunning, but is it right for a busy kitchen? Mike Holmes often steers homeowners toward Quartz, and honestly, we see why!
- The Softness Factor: Marble is a "soft" stone. It scratches, stains, and "etches" (dull spots from lemon juice or vinegar) very easily.
- Maintenance: Marble requires frequent sealing and a lot of "kid-glove" treatment.
- The Smart Alternative: Modern quartz can mimic those beautiful marble veins perfectly while being nearly indestructible and non-porous. It gives you the "sophistication" without the Sunday-morning stress of a spilled glass of orange juice.
Flooring: Beauty vs. Bravery
Putting 100% natural hardwood in a kitchen is a bold move that might not pay off. Between high traffic and the inevitable dropped pot of boiling water, wood is prone to warping and denting.
- The Water Problem: Kitchens are "wet zones." Traditional wood can swell when damp, leading to early failure.
- Stone & Porcelain: Mike suggests looking at porcelain tile. It has an incredibly low absorption rate (less than 0.5%!), making it waterproof and tough as nails. You can even find porcelain that looks exactly like weathered wood!
The Appliance "Garage" & Timing Trap
We love a hidden appliance here at Kitchen Wise, but you have to do it legally! Mike Holmes warns that installing an outlet inside a cabinet without a "kill switch" or relay device (that turns the power off when the door closes) is actually against the law in many places because it's a fire hazard.
Also, don't buy your appliances too early! It’s tempting to grab that sale price on a fridge, but if your custom cabinets haven't been measured and installed yet, you might find yourself with a beautiful appliance that doesn't actually fit the hole you’ve built for it.
We’ve only just scratched the surface of how to protect your investment! Renovation is a journey, and having voices like Mike Holmes to guide the way makes the path a lot clearer. Stay tuned for our next article that will further help you stay away from regret and journey towards great memories.
By Kitchen Wise Closet Wise Staff 1-1-2026