One of the first questions homeowners often ask when planning a kitchen remodel is: “How long will it take?”
While the answer depends on the size and scope of the project, most full kitchen remodels in Minneapolis take anywhere from 3 to 6 months from initial planning to final walk-through. By understanding each phase of the process—and what can potentially delay it—you’ll be better prepared to set realistic expectations and avoid surprises along the way.
From the first design consultation to the final punch list, a well-managed kitchen remodel generally spans several months. Here's a closer look at each phase:
This is the most important stage for shaping the vision and functionality of your kitchen. It includes:
Initial consultations and in-home site visits
Measurements and layout planning
Development of design concepts
Selection of appliances, cabinetry, materials, and finishes
Final plans, pricing approval, and contract signing
This phase takes longer if design decisions are delayed or require multiple rounds of revisions. Working with a well-organized team helps keep the process efficient. If you're planning around a specific date—like hosting for the holidays or a major summer event—start planning at least 4–6 months in advance. The earlier you begin, the more control you'll have over the process and schedule.
Once your design is finalized and approved, the project moves into pre-construction preparation:
Submitting permits to your local municipality
Finalizing construction schedule and production timelines
Ordering cabinetry, appliances, and specialty items (some can have lead times of 4–10+ weeks)
Cities across the Twin Cities metro area vary in terms of permitting speed. Minneapolis, for example, generally takes 4 weeks, but delays can happen in any city—especially during peak construction seasons.
The construction timeline depends on the size of your kitchen and the scope of the remodel. Here's a typical schedule for an average sized Twin Cities remodeling project:
Weeks 1–2: Site prep, demolition, and framing
Weeks 3–4: Mechanical rough-ins (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) and insulation
Week 12: Hardware finishes, appliance installation, final touches, clean up, and walk-through
More complex remodels—those that involve removing walls, relocating windows, or reinforcing structural elements—can extend this timeline further.
Plan for at least 8–10 weeks without a kitchen. While it’s not ideal, a few smart strategies can make the experience more manageable:
Set up a temporary kitchen with a microwave, toaster oven, air fryer, and mini fridge
Relocate essentials like coffee makers and dishware to a convenient alternate space
Plan for takeout or meal delivery on busier construction days
If possible, consider staying with family or renting a short-term home during the remodel
Even with a great team and plan, some delays are out of your control. Here are the most common culprits:
Long material lead times, especially for custom cabinetry, windows, or imported items
Permit delays, depending on your city’s current backlog
Unforeseen issues during demolition, like outdated wiring, water damage, or structural surprises
Design indecision—delays in selecting finishes, fixtures, or layouts can create a domino effect in the schedule
Every kitchen remodel is unique, and the timeline will vary based on your goals, your home’s existing conditions, and the level of transformation you’re aiming for. But with thoughtful preparation, a clear process, and realistic expectations, your project can move forward smoothly—delivering a kitchen that’s worth the wait.