Kitchen remodeling continues to be one of the most popular home improvement projects, offering great potential for homeowners to transform their space, boost functionality, and increase their home’s value. However, not all kitchen remodels are created equal, and it’s important to choose the right project scope based on your goals, budget, and lifestyle needs. In this post, we'll explore the key differences between midrange kitchen remodels, major upscale remodels, and custom kitchen designs, using insights from Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report to guide your decisions. We'll also dive into the growing trend of expanding kitchens into living spaces, adding islands, pantries, and mudrooms.
Midrange Kitchen Remodel
A midrange kitchen remodel offers an excellent balance of cost and functionality, giving homeowners the ability to update key features without breaking the bank. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a typical midrange kitchen remodel involves updating 200-square-foot kitchens with semi-custom cabinetry, energy-efficient appliances, and quartz countertops.
Scope:
Cabinet refacing or replacement (semi-custom)
Installing a new island for extra workspace and seating
Energy-efficient appliance upgrades (e.g., Bosch or Whirlpool)
Adding a pantry or expanding storage options
Durable quartz countertops and resilient flooring (luxury vinyl or ceramic)
Modest kitchen expansion into the living or dining area (minor structural changes)
At DJ's Home Improvements, we recently completed a midrange kitchen remodel
where we expanded the footprint by knocking down a partial wall to connect the kitchen to the dining area. This allowed us to add a sleek island with seating and storage. The addition of a dedicated pantry in the kitchen corner helped maximize storage while maintaining the open flow of the new space.
Pros:
Affordability while still achieving a high-quality, updated kitchen
Increased home value and ROI (typically around 38.4% according to 2024 data)
Energy-efficient appliances help lower utility costs over time
Ideal for families looking for more functionality in smaller homes
Cons:
Limited customization compared to upscale remodels
Fewer luxury finishes (e.g., semi-custom cabinets versus fully custom)
Major Upscale Kitchen Remodel
For homeowners seeking a top-tier transformation, a major upscale kitchen remodel delivers a high-end look and feel with premium materials, custom cabinetry, and luxury appliances. According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, the average cost for an upscale remodel can be significantly higher than midrange projects, but the payoff in terms of aesthetics and functionality is equally significant.
Scope:
Expansive kitchen islands with luxury finishes like Cambria quartz
Professional-grade appliances (e.g., Sub-Zero, Wolf)
Custom cabinetry with soft-close features and integrated lighting
Expanded footprint with structural modifications to create a seamless flow between kitchen, dining, and living areas
Pantry additions with custom shelving for optimized storage
Addition of a mudroom or auxiliary entrance, often connected to the kitchen or garage for easy access
At DJ’s Home Improvements, we completed a stunning upscale remodel that included an expanded kitchen island featuring high-end Cambria quartz countertops, which became the focal point of the room. We also added a spacious walk-in pantry and a mudroom with custom cabinetry, seamlessly integrating these features into the overall design.
Pros:
High-end luxury appeal and increased functionality
Custom solutions tailored to your exact needs and preferences
Adds significant value to your home, with a higher ROI (averaging around 30% for upscale projects)
Incorporates premium finishes and appliances for a more sophisticated aesthetic
Cons:
Higher cost and longer project timelines
While the ROI is high, it can be lower in percentage compared to midrange projects
Custom Kitchen Design
For homeowners who want a kitchen that is uniquely theirs, a custom kitchen design offers complete creative freedom. Whether you’re designing around an open-concept layout, adding a second island, or integrating smart home technology, custom projects can turn your dream kitchen into reality.
Scope:
Complete layout redesign with bespoke elements like two kitchen islands (one for prep, one for seating)
Fully custom cabinetry built to your specifications
High-end materials, such as imported tile, exotic wood, or custom lighting
Seamless integration of living and dining spaces through open-concept design
Smart home appliances and technology integrations
Inclusion of specialty spaces like walk-in pantries, wine fridges, and mudrooms for enhanced functionality
At DJ's Home Improvements, we've seen the impact a custom kitchen design can make on both aesthetics and functionality. One of our recent projects involved opening up the entire first floor, combining the kitchen with the living and dining areas. We added a large custom island and a hidden pantry, creating a streamlined, luxurious space perfect for entertaining.
Pros:
Fully personalized design that reflects your style and needs
Maximized use of space through creative layouts and custom solutions
Higher perceived home value, especially in luxury markets
Ability to incorporate the latest in kitchen technology and design trends
Cons:
Highest cost among remodel types
Can take longer to complete due to the level of customization and materials involved
Making the Right Choice
When deciding between these project scopes, consider your budget, how you use your kitchen, and what you want the finished product to look and feel like. A midrange remodel might be perfect if you want to make smart updates without going overboard. On the other hand, an upscale or custom kitchen can offer the ultimate in luxury and convenience, particularly if you plan to entertain frequently or incorporate modern trends like expanding into adjacent living areas or adding a mudroom and pantry.
Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report underscores the importance of balancing investment with practicality, showing that even midrange projects can yield substantial returns. However, for those seeking to stay in their homes for years to come, the joy of a fully custom space may be well worth the extra cost.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy midrange update or a high-end custom kitchen, the team at DJ's Home Improvements is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life.
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