In Gresham, OR, we know that patience is a virtue—especially when you’re waiting in line at the farmers market on a Saturday morning or stuck behind a tractor on a scenic backroad. The same goes for kitchen remodeling. It doesn’t happen overnight, but knowing what to expect from start to finish can help you keep your cool (and your sense of humor) along the way. Here’s a realistic timeline of what goes into turning your kitchen into the hub it deserves to be.

1. The Planning Stage (2–4 Weeks)

Think of this phase as laying the foundation—like deciding if you’re more of a Mt. Hood hiker or a Columbia River kayaker. You’ll work with a design team to nail down the vision: cabinets, countertops, layout, and style. This is also when you set the budget and timeline. In Gresham, where homes range from cozy bungalows to more modern builds, customization is key. The better the planning, the smoother the ride.

2. Ordering Materials (4–8 Weeks)

Here’s the part where patience is tested. Cabinets, countertops, appliances, and fixtures don’t appear with Amazon Prime speed. Depending on the brands and finishes you choose, some items can take weeks to arrive. Think of it like waiting for blackberry season—it always feels like forever, but the payoff is worth it.

3. Demolition (1–2 Weeks)

This is where things get loud, messy, and oddly satisfying. Out with the old cabinets, countertops, and possibly flooring. Gresham homeowners often compare this stage to the “Portland Timbers log slab moment”—a dramatic but necessary step before celebration. Just remember: the kitchen will be out of commission, so plan those takeout menus accordingly (hello, Division Street food carts).

4. Construction & Installation (4–6 Weeks)

Now the magic starts. Electrical and plumbing updates come first, followed by framing, drywall, and flooring. After that, cabinets and countertops get installed, appliances are hooked up, and your space begins to look like an actual kitchen again. It’s a bit like the transformation of Main City Park in spring—suddenly everything comes together, and you wonder why you ever doubted the process.

5. The Finishing Touches (1–2 Weeks)

This is the detail stage: backsplash, trim, lighting, and paint. The little things make a big difference, turning your kitchen into a space you’ll love for years. By this time, you’re probably dreaming of cooking your first meal in the new space—or at least brewing coffee without navigating a microwave balanced on a folding table.

The Bottom Line

A full kitchen remodel in Gresham can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months, depending on complexity, materials, and the occasional hiccup. While that might feel like waiting for the sun to show up in February, the results are always worth it.

If you’re ready to bring your dream kitchen to life, Lazy Susan Design & Remodeling at 971 983 7207 can help guide you through the process from planning to finishing touches.