A • This is a great question that has many answers. I can outline the project for you, however, creating a timeline includes factors that will be tough to estimate. Designating a time frame in which you want the project completed is a good first step. Here are a few things to keep in mind when working with a deadline.

Designing a kitchen can be a fun and exciting experience. The process will often take several meetings with a designer, as well as a professional installer, to come out to your home and measure your kitchen. These meetings are crucial, so your designer can get to know you and your needs. The layout of your kitchen, the cabinet style and the color you choose will determine the number of design consultations you will need. In most cases, two or three meetings will be sufficient. For more complicated designs, it may take a few more consultations. When working with a kitchen designer, always communicate your timeline. He or she will be able to help you select the product that fits your style and functional needs, while also fitting them into your time frame.

Project material is a big part of what you will need to consider. The availability of the product you choose is often the largest factor in determining a project’s start and end time. When ordering kitchen cabinets, for example, lead times can vary significantly from ordering the product to receiving the product depending on the style, color and manufacturer you select. The good news is that there are many styles, colors and suppliers that you can choose from. Custom cabinets that are made to fit your specific design needs will take longer than ready-made cabinets that some suppliers have in stock. These are all part of the process that your designer can describe during the design process.

Installation is the last big time consumer of your project. In most cases, installation can often get started soon after the product arrives. The scheduling of product delivery and installation are all things that are coordinated throughout the process. How long the install process will last depends on how complicated your design and layout are. Assuming there are no unforeseen issues, you will often know about how long the installation will take well before it starts. Professional installers are very good at looking at designs and knowing how long it will take them to finish.

When doing a full remodel, I would recommend allowing one company to do the entire project for you. This way, it can coordinate the scheduling of the different installs like cabinets, flooring, countertops, and plumbing and electrical moves, if needed. This will be one less thing to worry about and give you more time to plan for a great holiday season in your brand new kitchen.

Taylor Reich is the manager of the Sunset Hills Home Depot store.