What not to do when renovating a kitchen?

When embarking on a kitchen renovation project, there are several critical pitfalls to avoid to ensure the space remains functional, safe, and financially viable. First, never ignore the work triangle—the spatial relationship between the sink, refrigerator, and stove—as disrupting this efficient flow makes cooking cumbersome. Second, do not skimp on proper lighting; relying solely on a single overhead fixture creates shadows on countertops where precision work is required. Third, avoid sacrificing ample storage space purely for trendy open shelving that exposes clutter. Fourth, never neglect adequate ventilation, which prevents lingering cooking odors and moisture buildup. Finally, always establish a realistic financial contingency fund of at least ten to twenty percent to absorb unforeseen structural issues, plumbing surprises, or electrical upgrades without stalling the entire project halfway through.