Kitchen Renovation Guide: Planning a Remodel in Metro Vancouver

The kitchen is the hardest-working room in any home, and in Metro Vancouver it is also one of the highest-return renovations you can invest in. A well-planned kitchen remodel improves how your family lives day to day and adds real value when it comes time to sell. Here is how we approach kitchen renovations at LJH Construction.

1. Start with how you actually use the space

Before choosing finishes, think about workflow. The classic "work triangle" between sink, stove, and fridge still matters, but modern kitchens often add a second prep zone, a coffee station, or a large island for gathering. Map out how you cook, entertain, and store things so the layout serves your life rather than a showroom photo.

2. Know what triggers a permit

In most Metro Vancouver municipalities, cosmetic updates (cabinets, counters, paint) do not require a permit, but moving plumbing, altering electrical circuits, or removing a wall usually does. LJH Construction handles the permit process for you, so the work stays code-compliant and inspection-ready.

3. Budget in tiers

• Refresh ($25k–$50k): new cabinets or refacing, counters, backsplash, fixtures.
• Full renovation ($50k–$100k): new layout, flooring, lighting, and appliances.
• Premium ($100k+): structural changes, custom millwork, high-end appliances.

4. Plan for the timeline

A typical kitchen renovation runs 4–8 weeks of on-site work, plus design and ordering lead time beforehand. Cabinet and stone lead times are the most common cause of delays, so we order early and build the schedule around them.

Thinking about a kitchen project? Request a free quote and we will walk you through the options for your home.