What are the steps to start a home remodel?
Step 1: Define Your Remodeling Goals
Before calling a contractor or picking out paint colors, get clear on what you want to achieve:
Do you need more space or storage?
Is your kitchen layout frustrating?
Are you remodeling for resale or long-term living?
What styles or finishes do you love?
Lewiston homes come in all shapes and sizes—from ranch-style homes to new builds in the Orchards—so it's important to think through how your remodel will improve daily life in your home.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
Costs can vary widely depending on the scope of the project and materials used. For example:
Kitchen remodels in Lewiston can range from $25,000 to $60,000+
Bathroom remodels typically run $10,000–$25,000
Whole-home renovations may exceed $100,000 depending on layout and upgrades
Talk with local remodelers or cabinet makers (like us!) to get a ballpark estimate early.
Tip: Always set aside 10–15% of your budget for unexpected costs—especially in older homes around Lewiston.
Step 3: Find Local Professionals You Can Trust
Hiring the right team makes or breaks a remodel. Look for:
Licensed contractors familiar with Lewiston, Clarkston, Orofino, Moscow or Pullman building codes
Finish carpenters with local references
Designers who understand both function, style and budget
Ask for portfolios, read reviews, and don’t hesitate to request a site visit. Local pros know the area, the weather, and the unique quirks of homes in the LC Valley.
Step 4: Design Your Space
Once you've selected your remodel team, it's time to finalize your design. This is where you’ll choose:
Cabinet styles and layout
Countertops, flooring, and finishes
Lighting and plumbing fixtures
Paint colors, tile, and hardware
Cabinets are a smart investment in Lewiston remodels, especially if your home has irregular dimensions or you want to maximize storage in tight spaces.
Step 5: Prepare for Construction
Depending on the project, this may involve:
Pulling permits through the City of Lewiston, Clarkston, Moscow, Pullman, Orofino, Kamiah or Grangeville.
Ordering materials in advance
Creating a temporary kitchen or bathroom setup
Deciding whether to stay in the home during construction
Expect some noise, dust, and disruption—but with the right planning, you can stay comfortable and informed.
Step 6: Enjoy the Transformation
Once your remodel is complete, take time to walk through everything with your contractor. Make a list of any final touch-ups, and keep documentation for warranties or future improvements.
You’ll now have a home that better reflects your style, needs, and the charm of living in Lewiston, Idaho.
Start Your Remodel with a Local Team You Can Trust
At The Design Center, we specialize in cabinetry, kitchen design, bathroom design and home remodel support across Lewiston and the LC Valley. From planning to ordering, we’re here to make your renovation smooth, beautiful, and something you’ll love for a long time.
Sincerely~ The Design Center of Orofino Idaho
