Now that the dust has quite literally settled, I wanted to wrap up this remodel series with a look back at what we learned. In the future….when the dust LITERALLY settles, I’ll take some fancy photos and do a deep design dive into each space, but for now…Remodeling your kitchen and bathroom at the same time, while parenting three young kids, homeschooling, and trying to keep life running is… a lot. It stretched us. But we made it through, and I don’t regret a thing.
That said—here’s what I’d absolutely do again… and what I’d rethink.
What I’d Do Again
1. Hiring a contractor we already trusted
Working with Perryman Painting and Remodeling again was a no-brainer. We’d used them on the exterior of our house and knew they were communicative, organized, and totally unflappable with my constant design tweaks. Having that foundation of trust made everything smoother.
2. Designing it myself
I’m not a professional designer, but I am someone who cares deeply about how our spaces feel. Designing everything myself gave me freedom to make personal, functional choices—without anyone talking me into trends. Was it a lot of decisions? Yes. Was it worth it? 100%. Do I wish I went into design, always.
3. Choosing durable, natural-feeling finishes
Montauk Black Slate floors, Rosemary Green cabinets, leathered quartz counters—every surface feels timeless and tough enough for real life. These weren’t trendy picks. They were grounded, lasting, and I love them more every day. I already accidentally scratched the counter top, not just a cosmetic oops, but a three line DEEP ugly scratch from one side to the other. BUT I was able to get the scratch out…magic. I’ll have to share those secrets too, but in short, bartenders friend was truly my friend.
4. Splitting the bathroom into two
This might be the smartest decision of the entire remodel. Creating a separate master bathroom and guest half bath completely changed the way we live in and move through our home. It was a space-planning win.
5. Keeping it cohesive, not matchy
Our kitchen and bathrooms feel related but not identical. The slate tile ties things together, while variations in cabinet color, wall paint, and lighting let each space breathe on its own.
What I’d Rethink or Do Differently
1. Finalize every detail before demo
There were a few moments mid-construction where I was still choosing tile placement or light fixtures. If I could go back, I’d have every selection done before demo day. It would have made things faster and less mentally exhausting. But they were some things I just wasn’t truly aware of, what time of light switches, which ones needed dimmers, how I wanted the corners to look…you know, those things.
2. Budget for the little stuff
We did great staying within our main budget—appliances, materials, labor—but the “small things” add up fast: outlet covers, plumbing pieces, drawer organizers, towel hooks. I’d give myself a 10–15% “real life” margin next time.
3. Be patient with the styling
Once construction ends, the urge to finish everything is strong. But I’m learning to slow down and let each room evolve. Shelves get styled, then restyled. Walls don’t all need art on Day 1. A home is a living thing.
4. Build in a break
Remodeling with little kids is a full-body experience. If I could do it again, I’d give ourselves at least a weekend away mid-project—something simple like a cabin rental or sleepover at grandma’s. It’s easy to burn out when your whole house is under construction and your “escape” is a folding chair in the yard.
A Note to Anyone Planning a Remodel
You don’t need a perfect plan. You need a clear vision, a few honest priorities, and the ability to adapt. Things will change. Delays will happen. Dust will settle where you didn’t know dust could go.
But you’ll get through it. And if you stay true to what you want—not what Pinterest says, not what’s trending, not what your neighbor did—you’ll love what you end up with.
What’s Next for Us
We’re back in our space, using it daily, and finally exhaling. I’ll share the deep dives later, we are back into our homeschool routine and adjusting accordingly…amazing how quickly things have to change with a toddler.
If you’ve been following this remodel journey—thank you. Sharing it here has helped me slow down, reflect, and celebrate the beauty of making a house a home.
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