How to Plan for a Smooth Home Renovation in Oakland County

In Oakland County, Michigan, the kitchen is more than just a space to cook—it’s the heart of the home. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, entertaining guests, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee on a Sunday morning, your kitchen sets the tone for how you live, gather, and create memories. That’s why so many homeowners across Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, Troy, and beyond are turning to custom kitchen renovations to elevate their spaces.

At Renovation By Design, we understand that every home is different—and every homeowner’s vision is unique. From luxurious finishes to thoughtful layouts, these kitchen design ideas are perfect for anyone looking to transform their Oakland County kitchen into something truly special.

1. Open-Concept Layouts That Bring People Together

Gone are the days of closed-off kitchens. One of the most requested updates in Oakland County homes is opening up the kitchen to the living or dining area. This creates a more social, welcoming environment, ideal for both daily life and entertaining.

Removing either load-bearing or non-load-bearing walls as well as reconfiguring cabinetry can help achieve that open-concept feel. The result is a space that feels bigger, brighter, and more connected. Many of our clients in Birmingham and Royal Oak love how open layouts improve sightlines, increase natural light, and allow for better flow between rooms.

Pro Tip: Incorporate a large kitchen island with seating to serve as a casual dining area, prep space, and gathering point all in one.

2. Timeless Cabinets with a Modern Twist

Cabinetry is often the first thing people notice—and it plays a major role in both style and storage. Homeowners in Oakland Township and West Bloomfield are leaning toward clean-lined shaker cabinets in neutral tones like white, warm gray, or soft beige. But we’re also seeing a rise in bold choices like navy, forest green, or even matte black for a more dramatic look.

For a modern twist on traditional cabinetry, consider:

• Two-tone cabinets (light uppers, dark lowers)
• Slab-style doors with integrated pulls
• Open shelving to display glassware, cookbooks, or local pottery

Quality matters too. At RBD, we design and build custom cabinetry tailored to your space, ensuring seamless fit, durability, and function.

3. Quartz Countertops: Durable, Beautiful, and Low Maintenance

Quartz has become the go-to choice for countertops in Oakland County kitchens—and for good reason. It mimics the look of natural stone while offering superior durability and resistance to stains, scratches, and heat.

3. Choose the Right Renovation Partner

There’s no substitute for experience—especially when it comes to home renovations. A reputable design+build company in Oakland County will streamline the entire process and serve as your guide every step of the way.

Look for a partner that:

• Specializes in the type of project you’re planning (kitchen, bath, addition, whole-home, etc.)
• Has a strong portfolio and client testimonials
• Is licensed, insured, and familiar with Oakland County building codes
• Communicates clearly and sets expectations

At Renovation By Design, for example, our integrated approach means design, project management, and construction all happen under one roof—resulting in a more collaborative and efficient experience.

4. Understand the Design+Build Process

Unlike the traditional model where homeowners hire an architect separately from a contractor, the design+build process combines both services into one cohesive team.

This method offers several advantages:

• A single point of contact throughout the entire project
• Better cost control through early collaboration
• Streamlined communication between design and construction teams
• Faster timelines with fewer handoffs

You’ll begin with discovery and design phases, where layout options, material selections, and 3D renderings bring your vision to life. Once you approve the final plan and pricing, the build team steps in to bring the design off the page and into your home.

5. Get Familiar with Permits and Regulations in Oakland County

Every municipality in Oakland County—whether it’s Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, Rochester Hills, or Clarkston — has its own permitting process and local building codes. That means certain renovations (especially anything structural, electrical, or plumbing-related) may require permits, inspections, or zoning approval.

A professional renovation firm will handle all the logistics for you, but it helps to understand the basics:

• Permits are typically needed for home additions, layout changes, and mechanical upgrades
• Inspections may occur at multiple stages (framing, electrical, final walkthrough)
• HOA guidelines can also affect design and exterior modifications

Skipping permits can lead to costly fines and delays—not to mention problems down the road if you plan to sell your home.

6. Plan for the Disruption

Let’s face it—living through a renovation isn’t always easy. Kitchens may be out of commission, bathrooms torn apart, and dust more common than dinner parties. That’s why planning for the inconvenience is just as important as the design itself.

Here are a few tips:

• Set up a temporary kitchen if your main one is being remodeled
• Schedule major work when you’re away if possible (spring break, vacation, etc.)
• Be mindful of pets, kids, and routines that may be disrupted
• Clarify work hours, entry points, and cleanup expectations with your contractor

Your renovation team should work with you to minimize disruptions and keep the work site tidy and safe.

7. Prioritize Communication and Collaboration

The best renovations are built on trust—and trust is built on communication. Set expectations early about how often you’ll receive updates, who your main point of contact is, and how decisions will be made along the way.

At RBD, for example, we assign a Lead Carpenter and dedicated project manager who provides consistent updates, helps troubleshoot in real time, and ensures every step is coordinated between the design, trades, and client.

Be open, ask questions, and share feedback throughout the process. It’s your home, and your voice should always be part of the conversation.

8. Track Progress and Be Flexible

Even the most carefully planned renovations can encounter surprises. Materials may be delayed. Old framing might need replacing. A fixture may look different in person than it did online.

Stay involved, but also be flexible. Small tweaks can often lead to better outcomes—as long as you’ve built in enough contingency time and budget to accommodate changes.

Keeping an eye on milestones (demo, rough-ins, inspections, finishes) will help you feel more in control and avoid last-minute pressure.

9. Final Walkthrough and Beyond

Once your renovation is nearly complete, your contractor will conduct a final walkthrough with you. This is your chance to:

• Review the completed work
• Test appliances, fixtures, and lighting
• Identify any touch-ups or punch list items
• Ask about maintenance and care for your new finishes

A good renovation partner will stand behind their work and provide guidance even after the job is done.

At Renovation By Design, we believe in relationships that extend beyond the final walkthrough. We want you to love your space not just on day one—but for years to come.

Renovating With Confidence in Oakland County

Planning a home renovation can feel overwhelming—but with the right guidance, it can also be one of the most rewarding things you do for your home and lifestyle.

Whether you’re dreaming of a better kitchen layout, a more luxurious bathroom, or extra space to grow, success starts with smart planning, honest conversations, and a team that has your back.

At Renovation By Design, we help Oakland County homeowners navigate the renovation journey with clarity, craftsmanship, and care. If you’re ready to start planning your own renovation, let’s talk—we’re here to bring your vision to life.