Custom Kitchen Remodeling in Chicago: What You Should Know

If you’ve planned a Kitchen Remodeling in Chicago, you would notice the stakes are exceptionally high. From historic walk-ups in Lincoln Park to sleek high-rises in Streeterville, homes in Chicago come in all sizes and shapes with their own remodeling challenges. Given their peculiarities (old plumbing, permit restrictions, and space constraints), you should look for a remodeling partner who understands the local landscape.

Contact Assembly Squad, your licensed and insured remodeling experts in Chicago. Since their inception, they’ve completed over 500 home renovation projects in the city. Their ADHD-level attention to detail, visible pricing, and deep neighbourhood expertise make them stand out.

On this page, you need to know about the following:

  • What makes custom kitchen remodeling in Chicago unique
  • Why Assembly Squad is a great choice for a custom remodel in Chicago
  • What to expect in terms of timeline, budget, and process

What Makes Custom Kitchen Remodeling in Chicago Unique?

Different Home Types & Constraints

Chicago’s housing stock is as unpredictable as its weather. Remodelers usually juggle narrow gallery kitchens in Lakeview condos, load-bearing walls in Victorian homes, and condo board approvals in bustling high-rises. Assembly Squad knows better how to work with each home’s story and constraints.

Permit Savvy & HOA Navigation

A custom kitchen remodeling in Chicago is beyond cabinets and lighting. It’s also about navigating bureaucracy. If you get remodeling done in the Gold Coast or the West Loop, you may face permit delays and HOA protocols. The Assembly Squad handles it all and stays one step ahead of Chicago's often complex approval processes.

Chicago-Tough Materials

From humid summers to cold winters, your kitchen has to face extreme conditions. Due to this, Assembly Squad is aiming for smart and durable choices for cabinets, finishes, and details.


Why is Assembly Squad a Great Choice for a Custom Remodel in Chicago?


  • Over a Decade of Experience: With over 10 years of experience and hundreds of projects completed in Chicago, Assembly Squad offers local knowledge and reliable craftsmanship.
  • Clear Pricing & Real Packages: Are you tired of vague quotes? Assembly Squad provides clear line-item proposals and fixed price packages, like an all-inclusive $35,000 kitchen refresh, which is a good value for Chicago-based homeowners.
  • Warranty You Can Rely: Assembly Squad backs their Kitchen Remodeling in Chicago with a solid five-year workmanship warranty.
  • Local Recognition & Trust: Having an A+ BBB rating and accolades like "Best of Houzz in 2024,” Assembly Squad ensures both credibility and local trust.

What Most Chicago Kitchens are Missing and How to Fix It?


After working on many kitchen remodeling tasks, we've noticed that most older kitchens aren't designed for how people live today. Here are a few things that are often missing, and quick ways to fix them:

  1. More Open Space: Pre-built Chicago homes have enclosed kitchens. If your kitchen looks closed in, you could consider adding a small window or opening up part of a wall to let light in and create a more connected, spacious feel — without a complete remodel.
  2. Better Use of Corners and Layout: Awkward layouts are quite common in kitchens in Chicago. Rather than sticking to the “work triangle” rule, think about how you really use your space. To make every task easier, you could consider adding a preparation area and a coffee corner.
  3. Smarter Storage: Large pantries aren’t always an option in city homes. But custom drawers, pull-out shelves, and even storage under cabinets can offer more space to keep things organized.
  4. Sturdy Materials: You don't need a trendy finish, but a sturdy finish. We suggest materials like water-resistant cabinets, quartz countertops, and LED lighting to handle Chicago's weather and everyday use.

Tip: Take a few days and see what in your kitchen slows you down or frustrates you. The best improvements start with these little things.


What Will Your Custom Kitchen Remodeling Cost?

Basic Remodeling

$20,000–$30,000

This covers several things, including cabinet refacing, adding a new backsplash, and updating lighting. If you want a cleaner, more modern look without tearing everything down, go for it.

Full Remodeling

$35,000

In full remodeling, various things are included, like design, quartz countertops, cabinetry, backsplash, demolition, and overall project management.

Major Transformation

$50,000-$100,000 or more

Designed for large-scale upgrades, including top-class materials, structural changes, and personalized finishes.

ROI (Return On Investment): A well-executed remodel in Chicago typically yields a 70% to 80% return on resale. Alongside, you get the joy of a better cooking experience now.


Smooth Kitchen Remodeling in Chicago by Assembly Squad (Step-by-Step Process)

  1. Free In-Home Consultation: They go through your kitchen in person, whether it is a compact condo or a vintage bungalow. Learn from your space and vision, and they provide a neighbourhood-specific quote.
  2. Smart Design: Custom plans that consider architecture, permissions, and HOA requirements, complete with 3D visuals in many cases.
  3. Clear Proposal, No Hidden Charges: You can expect deep, line-by-line pricing, realistic durations, and clear payment schedules with no surprises later.
  4. Professional Construction: Your kitchen transformation is handled by a friendly, professional team, as well as a dedicated local project manager to keep you in the loop and check in regularly. This ensures everything is on track.
  5. Demonstration & Warranty: Inspection at last ensures satisfaction. Then you benefit from the solid 5-year workmanship warranty.

Helpful Ideas for Remodeling in Chicago

  1. Prefer Smart Storage, not just Fancy Finishes: There isn't always a lot of space in a Chicago kitchen. Thankfully, smart storage helps in such cases. Built-in organizers, deep drawers, and pull-out shelves help keep things organized and find essentials when you cook.
  2. Have Two-Tone Cabinets: Beyond just trendy, Two-Tone Cabinets are practical. Darker lowers help hide dust and stains, whereas lighter uppers keep things airy. That's a simple way of balancing style and everyday durability.
  3. Think Modular and Moveable: Flexible structures can completely change how your kitchen looks. Consider a mobile island or modular storage for maximizing every inch. It’s quite helpful in smaller city homes or condos.
  4. Add Smart Touches: No need to have a high-tech overhaul. A few simple upgrades - motion-sensor lighting or a spot to charge your phone - can make your kitchen way more functional and future-proof.

Factors to Consider While Planning Custom Kitchen Remodeling in Chicago

  1. Check Before-and-After Photos: Doing so helps in visualizing what's possible in your own kitchen. Look for authentic project examples highlighting smart storage, layout improvements, and material upgrades.
  2. Design Should Match Your Home’s Style and Size: If something works in a West Loop loft, that doesn’t mean it will work for a Lincoln Park brownstone. Your kitchen renovation should show the structure, layout, and ambiance of your home.
  3. Start Small to Keep Focused: You don’t have to plan everything at once. Think about the specific thing that bothers you the most. It could be because of a lack of counter space, poor lighting, or old cabinets.
  4. Good Storage Beats Flashy Features: Storage is important in city homes, specifically condos and smaller houses. Pull-out shelves, deep drawers, and vertical cabinetry can make your everyday life easier.
  5. Tech Upgrades Add Real Value: Adding simple things, like under-cabinet lighting, USB outlets, or smart appliances, can make the kitchen more functional.
  6. A Well-Planned Layout Matters a Lot: Every premium material won’t shine if the flow doesn’t work. Be sure your remodel prioritizes function if your kitchen space is right.
  7. You Don’t Have to Figure It All Out Yourself: Hiring experienced professionals means you’ll get guidance on what works best for your space, plus what’s worth investing in.

Ready to Transform Your Chicago Kitchen?

Get a free consultation with Assembly Squad to start your custom kitchen remodel. From smart storage to durable materials, we’ll make your kitchen both beautiful and functional.

Get Your Free Quote

Bottom Line


  • Simple, Useful Information: You now know what to expect with kitchen remodeling in Chicago, such as timelines, budgets, and what goes into the process.
  • A Remodeling Team You Can Trust: Offering years of local experience, honest pricing, and a strong market reputation, Assembly Squad is your go-to remodeling partner.
  • Practical Ideas You Can Use: From smart storage to tech-friendly upgrades, these tips are best for real Chicago homes and everyday needs.
  • Built-in Ways to Connect: Neighborhood examples, before and after stories, and simple prompts invite readers to engage, comment, and share their own remodeling ideas.

Ready to start your kitchen remodeling journey? Contact Assembly Squad today to discuss your project and get a tailored plan for your Chicago home.