10 Kitchen Upgrades Homeowners Regret — And What You Should Do Instead
Planning a kitchen renovation is very thrilling—new cabinets, more storage, high-tech appliances, and many more exciting things to decide. People usually take inspiration online, and are eager to do exactly what they envision. A design that looked beautiful online might feel awkward in real life, or a material chosen to save money might wear out faster than expected.
To help homeowners avoid these frustrating (and often expensive) mistakes, here are 10 kitchen upgrades people commonly regret—and what to do instead to ensure the space stays functional, beautiful, and enjoyable for years.
1. Skipping Proper Storage: The Most Common Kitchen Regret
One of the biggest regrets homeowners share is not planning for enough storage. It’s easy to get caught up in colors and finishes and overlook how the space will actually function day-to-day.
A common example is a kitchen with beautiful open shelves but nowhere to store bulky items like pots, baking sheets, or small appliances. Homeowners often end up cluttering countertops simply because there isn’t room for everything.
What to Do Instead:
Design storage around the items used every single day.
Add deep drawers for pots and pans.
Include pull-out trays for small appliances.
Use vertical dividers for baking sheets.
Add pantry pull-outs to maximize every inch.
Good storage makes even a small kitchen feel bigger and easier to use.
2. Choosing Trendy Finishes That Don’t Age Well
Trends move quickly in kitchen design. What looks stylish right now can feel outdated in just a few years.
For example, high-gloss cabinet finishes once became popular because they look sleek. But homeowners often regret them when fingerprints, smudges, and scratches start to show after only a few months of use. Similarly, bold cabinet colors look great online but can be harder to live with every day.
What to Do Instead:
Choose timeless finishes that complement multiple styles over time.
Soft whites, warm woods, and neutral tones rarely go out of style.
Matte finishes hide fingerprints better than glossy ones.
Trendy elements work best as décor or hardware, not permanent features.
A kitchen that ages gracefully will look newer for longer—without needing another renovation.
3. Installing Cheap Cabinets That Don’t Hold Up
Cabinets take more daily wear than almost any other part of the home. Doors get slammed, drawers get stuffed, and hardware gets pulled constantly. Low-quality cabinets may look fine at first, but homeowners often regret choosing them when the doors begin sagging or the finish starts peeling.
One of the most common examples is particleboard boxes with thin veneers. While they cost less upfront, moisture and weight can cause them to fail too soon.
What to Do Instead:
Choose cabinets built to last.
Look for plywood or high-quality MDF construction.
Choose soft-close hinges and drawer glides.
Consider full-extension drawers so nothing gets lost in the back.
Durable cabinets add long-term value and save money by avoiding early replacements.
4. Poor Kitchen Layouts That Disrupt Workflow
A beautiful kitchen can still feel frustrating if the layout doesn’t work. Homeowners often regret designs where appliances are placed too close together, the sink is too far from prep space, or traffic patterns interrupt cooking.
A common example is putting the fridge directly across from the island, creating a bottleneck every time someone needs a snack while another person is cooking.
What to Do Instead:
Plan a layout based on workflow, not just aesthetics.
Keep the “working triangle” (sink, stove, fridge) efficient.
Add wide walkways—at least 42 inches for comfortable movement.
Place the dishwasher near drawers used for utensils.
Consider how multiple people may use the space at once.
A well-planned layout makes cooking easier and reduces daily frustrations.
5. Neglecting Task Lighting and Relying Only on Overhead Fixtures
Lighting is one of the most overlooked kitchen elements. Many homeowners rely solely on ceiling lights and then realize later that shadows fall across their work areas when they’re chopping, prepping, or reading recipes.
Undercabinet lighting is often the upgrade homeowners wish they had included from the start.
What to Do Instead:
Include three types of lighting:
Ambient lighting: General overhead lights.
Task lighting: Under-cabinet strips, island pendants, and range lighting.
Accent lighting: Toe-kick lights or cabinet interior lights for added style.
Good lighting improves safety, mood, and the overall experience of being in the kitchen.
6. Overspending on High-End Appliances That Don’t Match Lifestyle
A lot of homeowners feel pressured to buy professional-grade appliances—like oversized ranges or high-tech refrigerators—only to realize later that they rarely use the advanced features.
One relatable example is a household that buys a massive, commercial-style stove because it looks impressive, but mostly reheats leftovers or cooks simple meals. The appliance becomes more of a design piece than a tool.
What to Do Instead:
Buy appliances that suit actual cooking habits.
Choose mid-range appliances with reliable performance.
Focus on energy efficiency and durability.
Only upgrade to premium models if they match daily needs.
A well-balanced kitchen doesn’t require luxury appliances to function beautifully.
7. Choosing Surfaces That Scratch, Stain, or Wear Quickly
Countertops and flooring need to stand up to heavy use, spills, heat, and sharp tools. Some materials look great on day one but quickly disappoint homeowners.
For example, soft woods used for open shelving or butcher block countertops may dent or stain easily if not maintained properly. Similarly, glossy tile floors might show streaks or become slippery when wet.
What to Do Instead:
Select durable, low-maintenance surfaces.
Quartz countertops resist staining and don’t need sealing.
Porcelain tile flooring is tough and easy to clean.
Engineered hardwood holds up better than solid wood near moisture.
Choosing materials that match the reality of daily life prevents headaches later.
8. Forgetting About Ventilation and Proper Electrical Planning
Ventilation rarely gets attention during the design phase, but homeowners often regret ignoring it once they begin cooking in the new space. Smoke, steam, and smells can linger if the range hood isn’t powerful enough or properly vented.
Electrical planning is another hidden detail that becomes a regret. Kitchens filled with small appliances often need more outlets than expected—especially on islands and near prep areas.
What to Do Instead:
Plan for invisible upgrades that make daily life easier.
Choose a range hood with proper CFM for the size of the kitchen.
Vent air outdoors rather than using recirculating filters when possible.
Add outlets along the backsplash, in drawers, and on the island.
These small behind-the-scenes decisions make the kitchen more functional and comfortable.
9. Ignoring the Importance of Landing Zones and Prep Space
A landing zone is the open countertop area near appliances where items can be placed safely—hot pans, grocery bags, cutting boards, and more. Many homeowners overlook the need for these open spaces and end up with cluttered countertops or unsafe setups.
A common example is placing the microwave between two tall cabinets, leaving no room to set down a hot dish.
What to Do Instead:
Designate clear landing areas.
Keep at least 12–15 inches of countertop next to major appliances.
Add a large prep area near the sink where most work naturally happens.
Avoid filling every open wall with cabinetry—some space needs to stay open.
Work zones are what make a kitchen feel effortless to use.
10. DIY Projects That Should Have Been Left to a Professional
Some parts of a kitchen remodel can be great DIY projects—painting walls or updating hardware, for example. But homeowners often regret taking on tasks like installing cabinets, leveling countertops, or wiring new lighting themselves.
A small mistake in measurement or installation can lead to long-term issues like crooked cabinets, water damage, or electrical hazards.
What to Do Instead:
Save DIY for simple updates and bring in a professional for structural or technical work.
Cabinet installation
Plumbing changes
Electrical upgrades
Tile setting (especially backsplashes)
Professional work ensures safety and long-lasting results—especially in a high-use room like a kitchen.
What You Should Do Instead: Smart, Long-Lasting Kitchen Upgrades
The best kitchen investments focus on function, durability, and timeless design. Here’s what homeowners should prioritize instead of the regrettable upgrades listed above:
✔ Choose durable materials that fit the family’s lifestyle
Quartz instead of marble, porcelain tile instead of softwood, and high-quality cabinets instead of budget options.
✔ Focus on storage and layout before anything else
A beautiful finish means nothing if the kitchen feels cramped or cluttered.
✔ Invest in proper lighting and electrical planning
The right lighting transforms how the kitchen looks and feels. Smart electrical layout keeps appliances powered and convenient.
✔ Pick appliances based on how the kitchen is actually used
Practical choices often create the best long-term satisfaction.
✔ Work with professionals for complex tasks
Well-installed cabinets, plumbing, and electrical systems ensure the kitchen stays safe and functional for years.
Small, thoughtful decisions create a kitchen that homeowners enjoy every single day—not just on the day the remodel is completed.
Designing a Kitchen You’ll Love for Decades
A kitchen renovation is a big investment, and avoiding common regrets makes all the difference in how the space feels and functions long-term. By focusing on quality materials, smart layouts, practical storage, and timeless finishes, homeowners can create a kitchen that remains beautiful and functional for decades.
Remember that renovating the kitchen is not just about bringing a vision to life, but also about creating a better space where warm meals are served and where people gather to enjoy daily life. Having smart upgrades will provide satisfaction that is worth every penny and effort exerted.
