# McKelvey Designs — Full Content Index > McKelvey Designs is a family-owned kitchen and bathroom remodeler serving Katy, Fulshear, Cinco Ranch, Richmond, Sugar Land and West Houston since 1991. Founded by Ron and Debbie McKelvey, the company designs and builds custom kitchens, primary bathrooms, custom cabinetry, tile, countertops, flooring and whole-home remodels. Typical projects in Katy-area communities such as Cinco Ranch, Cross Creek Ranch and Firethorne include opening up dated floor plans, kitchen redesigns and primary-bath upgrades. Debbie McKelvey studied interior design at the University of Houston. The team handles design, permits and HOA submittals and manages every project from start to finish. NARI member. Free in-home consultations. Also serving Cypress, The Woodlands and the greater Houston area. Contact: (281) 499-0581 · info@mckelveydesigns.com · https://mckelveydesigns.com --- # Services ## Kitchen Remodeling URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/kitchen-remodeling Your kitchen is where the Houston heat meets the rest of your life. We design kitchens that work for how your family actually lives — open sightlines to the family room, prep space that makes Thanksgiving tolerable, storage that doesn't waste an inch. We handle design, permits, cabinetry, countertops, tile, electrical, and plumbing as one coordinated project. One project manager, one schedule — you're not chasing six subcontractors. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Houston?** A: As of 2026, most Houston kitchen remodels land between $20,000 and $60,000 for a mid-range project. High-end remodels with custom cabinetry, premium appliances, and structural changes typically run $75,000 to $150,000+. Budget 30–40% for cabinetry alone. **Q: How long does a Houston kitchen remodel take?** A: A straightforward kitchen remodel takes 6–8 weeks once demo starts. Full gut remodels with layout changes, permits, and custom cabinetry typically take 10–14 weeks. Custom cabinet lead times drive the schedule more than anything else. **Q: Can you work around my family living in the home?** A: Yes. We set up temporary kitchens, contain the work area with dust barriers, and coordinate schedules so disruption is minimized. Most of our Houston clients stay in the home throughout the remodel. **Q: What's the biggest kitchen remodel mistake Houston homeowners make?** A: Under-budgeting cabinetry. Cabinets are 30–40% of the total kitchen budget, and cheap cabinets are the first thing to fail in Houston humidity. Spend right on cabinets and countertops; you can refresh backsplash and paint later. **Q: Do you handle design, or do I need a separate designer?** A: Debbie McKelvey has formal interior design training (University of Houston, Southwest Texas State). Design is included in every project — layouts, cabinet specifications, finish selection, lighting plan. **Q: What areas of Houston do you serve for kitchen remodels?** A: Greater Houston metro: Katy, Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial, Bellaire, West University, River Oaks, Spring, Tomball, Pearland, Richmond, Fulshear, Missouri City, and surrounding areas. --- ## Bathroom Remodeling URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/bathroom-remodeling A well-built Houston bathroom handles humidity, stands up to daily use, and still feels like a retreat. We handle full gut remodels, aging-in-place updates, and spa-style primary baths with walk-in showers and freestanding tubs. Proper waterproofing, real tile work, and lighting that flatters at 6am — all standard. Good tile work is the difference between a bathroom that lasts 20 years and one that fails at 5. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Houston?** A: Full gut bathroom remodels in Houston typically run $15,000–$40,000 depending on size and finish level. Spa-style primary baths with walk-in showers, freestanding tubs, and premium tile range $40,000–$75,000. Powder rooms start around $8,000. **Q: How long does a bathroom remodel take?** A: A standard bathroom remodel takes 3–5 weeks from demo to final inspection. Larger primary baths with custom showers and layout changes typically take 5–7 weeks. **Q: Should I choose a walk-in shower or keep the tub?** A: For primary baths, we usually recommend a walk-in shower in the primary bath plus a tub in another bathroom for resale. Houston buyers expect at least one tub in the home. **Q: How do you handle Houston humidity in bathrooms?** A: We use cement backer board (never green drywall), proper waterproofing systems like Schluter or RedGard on shower walls, ventilation fans sized to the room's cubic footage, and moisture-resistant cabinetry. Cutting corners on waterproofing is the #1 reason bathroom remodels fail early in Houston. **Q: Do you do aging-in-place bathroom remodels?** A: Yes — curbless showers, grab bars, comfort-height toilets, ADA-compliant vanities, and non-slip tile. We handle both full aging-in-place designs and lighter modifications for homeowners planning ahead. **Q: What's included in your bathroom remodel quote?** A: Demo, rough plumbing, rough electrical, framing, drywall, waterproofing, tile supply and install, vanity, countertop, fixtures, lighting, exhaust fan, paint, permits, and final cleanup. We itemize every line so you know exactly what you're paying for. --- ## Custom Cabinetry URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/custom-cabinetry Cabinets are the single biggest driver of how a kitchen looks and functions — and the line item that fails first when someone cuts the wrong corner. We design and build to your exact space in inset, frameless European, shaker, or traditional door styles, in painted hardwoods or stained Texas species. Real wood boxes, dovetailed drawers, soft-close everything. No stock-sized compromises. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How much do custom cabinets cost in Houston?** A: Custom kitchen cabinetry in Houston ranges from $15,000 for a small kitchen with painted shaker doors up to $60,000+ for a large kitchen with inset doors, specialty finishes, and custom built-ins. Expect 30–40% of a kitchen remodel budget to go to cabinets. **Q: Custom vs semi-custom vs stock cabinets — what's the difference?** A: Stock cabinets are pre-built in standard sizes. Semi-custom allows modifications in ½-inch increments and limited finishes. True custom cabinets are built to your exact dimensions, in any door style, finish, and interior configuration — fitted like furniture to your space. **Q: What door styles do you offer?** A: Shaker (most popular), inset (traditional, premium look), frameless European (modern), flat-panel, Shaker with beaded inset, and custom profiles. We match historic homes or modernize with clean lines. **Q: Painted vs stained — which holds up better in Houston?** A: Both last decades with proper prep. Painted finishes show wear sooner at pinch points (drawer edges) but are easy to touch up. Stained hardwoods hide wear better and age gracefully. For a family kitchen, we often recommend painted perimeter cabinets with a stained island for contrast. **Q: Do you refinish or just build new?** A: Both. If the cabinet boxes are solid wood and in good shape, refacing (new doors + drawer fronts + veneer on boxes) is often 50-70% the cost of new. We'll tell you honestly whether your existing cabinets are worth saving. **Q: What's the lead time for custom cabinets?** A: 6–10 weeks from order to delivery for most projects. This drives the overall kitchen remodel schedule — we order cabinets first so demo and rough-in can happen while they're being built. --- ## Tile Installation URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/tile-installation Good tile work is the difference between a remodel that looks finished and one that looks almost-finished. Our tilesetters are the same crew we've worked with for 15+ years — they bring the level of care that's invisible if it's right and obvious when it's wrong. Floor, wall, shower, and backsplash. Porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, handmade and imported. Proper waterproofing on every wet area — non-negotiable in Houston humidity. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How much does tile installation cost in Houston?** A: Installation typically runs $8–$15 per square foot for standard porcelain and ceramic, $15–$25 per square foot for natural stone or complex patterns, plus the tile itself. Large-format tile (24×48 and up) and herringbone/mosaic patterns take more labor. **Q: What's the best tile for a Houston shower floor?** A: Small-format tile (2×2 or mosaic) with rough texture — the grout lines provide slip resistance. Avoid polished natural stone on wet floors. Porcelain with a matte finish is the workhorse. **Q: Do you handle waterproofing before tile?** A: Always. We use Schluter Kerdi, RedGard, or Wedi systems depending on the application. In Houston humidity, skipping waterproofing guarantees tile failure within 5 years. **Q: Can you match tile that's been discontinued?** A: Usually yes — we carry samples of common Houston-market tile from the past decade and work with tile showrooms to source close matches. For perfect matches on out-of-production tile, we sometimes pull one tile from a closet or inconspicuous area. **Q: What's the most common tile mistake you see?** A: Wrong substrate. Tile installed directly on drywall or particleboard fails. Proper installation uses cement backer board in wet areas and uncoupling membranes like Schluter Ditra on floors that might flex. --- ## Flooring Installation URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/flooring-installation Flooring sets the tone of every room and takes more abuse than any other surface. Houston's humidity makes material choice critical — solid hardwood moves more than engineered products in our climate, so we often recommend engineered or premium LVP in bathrooms, kitchens, and slab-on-grade areas. We install and refinish hardwood, engineered wood, luxury vinyl plank, and tile across the Houston metro. We'll tell you honestly what holds up in your home and what doesn't. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: What's the best flooring for Houston humidity?** A: For slab-on-grade, we recommend luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or engineered hardwood (glue-down). For second floors or pier-and-beam homes, solid hardwood works fine. Avoid solid hardwood directly on concrete slabs — movement and moisture issues are inevitable in our climate. **Q: How much does flooring cost in Houston?** A: Installed pricing: LVP $4–$8/sf, engineered hardwood $7–$14/sf, solid hardwood $9–$18/sf, porcelain tile $8–$15/sf. Removal of old flooring adds $1–$3/sf depending on what's being removed. **Q: Can you refinish existing hardwood instead of replacing it?** A: Often yes, if the wood is ¾-inch solid or engineered with at least 3mm of wear layer. Refinishing runs $3–$6/sf and extends floor life by 15–20 years. We'll tell you honestly whether refinishing is worthwhile or if replacement is the better call. **Q: How long does flooring installation take?** A: Most single-room floors install in 1–2 days. Full-floor whole-home projects take 3–7 days depending on square footage. Hardwood refinishing adds 3–5 days for sanding, staining, and curing. --- ## Interior Painting URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/interior-painting A fresh paint job changes a room more dramatically than almost anything else you can do in a home — and prep is what separates a 2-year paint job from a 10-year one. We prep right (the part most painters skip), use quality paint (Sherwin-Williams Cashmere, Emerald, ProClassic), and hold our crews to a standard that lasts in Houston conditions. Full interior repaints, trim and millwork, cabinet painting, and color consultation across the metro. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How much does interior painting cost in Houston?** A: Whole-home interior repaint of a 2,500 sq ft home typically runs $4,500–$9,000 including walls, ceilings, trim, and doors. Single-room paint jobs start at $500–$1,200 depending on size and prep. **Q: What brand of paint do you use?** A: Sherwin-Williams Cashmere or Emerald for walls, Sherwin-Williams ProClassic or Benjamin Moore Advance for trim and cabinets. Quality paint costs more upfront and saves on touch-up labor long-term. **Q: Can you paint my cabinets instead of replacing them?** A: Yes. Cabinet painting costs a fraction of replacement ($2,500–$6,000 for an average kitchen) and gives you a significantly updated look. We sand, prime, and spray for a factory finish — not brush marks. **Q: How long does an interior paint job take?** A: Single rooms complete in 1–2 days. Full-home interior repaints take 5–10 working days depending on size and prep needs. Cabinet painting adds 4–7 days for proper drying between coats. --- ## Countertops URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/countertops Countertops are where function meets first impression — and where small mistakes become daily annoyances. We work with the best fabricators in Houston for quartz, granite, marble, soapstone, and specialty surfaces. Templated, fabricated, and installed by people who understand seam placement, edge profiles, undermount sink reveals, and what holds up to red wine, turmeric, and a busy family. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: Quartz vs granite vs marble — which should I pick?** A: Quartz is the most practical for kitchens — non-porous, never needs sealing, uniform look. Granite offers unique patterns and high heat resistance but needs sealing. Marble is stunning but soft and stains easily; better for bathrooms or low-use bars than primary kitchen prep. **Q: How much do quartz countertops cost in Houston?** A: Installed quartz typically runs $55–$110 per square foot in Houston. Premium brands (Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria) run higher. A standard 40 sq ft kitchen counter lands $3,500–$6,500. **Q: How long does countertop installation take?** A: From template to install: 10–14 days typical. Template day takes 2-3 hours, fabrication runs 5–10 business days, install day takes 3-6 hours. Sinks, faucets, and backsplash happen after install. **Q: Do I need to empty my cabinets before countertop install?** A: Yes, top drawers and upper cabinets. Lower cabinets can stay full — we only need access for sink hookups. Expect the kitchen to be out of commission for the install day plus 1 day for plumbing reconnection. --- ## Interior Design URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/interior-design Most Houston interior design firms only design — they hand the build to someone else. We do both. Debbie McKelvey trained in interior design at the University of Houston and Southwest Texas State, then spent 33+ years building what she designed. The result: a design that actually works once it's built, on a real schedule, with the contractor and the designer on the same team. Full design-build remodels, selections-only consulting, and per-room design packages — we'll match scope to what you actually need. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: What does interior design cost in Houston?** A: Houston interior design typically runs $150–$300 per hour for consultation-only work, or $5,000–$25,000+ for full-room design packages including selections, sourcing, and project management. When interior design is bundled with a kitchen, bath, or whole-home remodel from McKelvey Designs, design is included in the quote — no separate fee. **Q: Do you do interior design without remodeling?** A: Yes. We offer selections-only consulting (paint colors, finishes, furniture, art placement) and per-room design packages for clients who don't need construction work. Hourly or flat-fee depending on scope. **Q: What's the difference between an interior designer and a decorator?** A: Interior designers (like Debbie) have formal training in space planning, building codes, and construction — they work on permanent changes to the home. Decorators focus on furniture, fabric, and styling within an existing space. McKelvey Designs is a design-build firm: we handle both the permanent structural work and the styling that finishes the room. **Q: What design styles do you work in?** A: Traditional, transitional, modern, farmhouse, coastal, and Texas hill-country styles. We're known for warm, livable spaces that work for Houston families — not Pinterest sets that fall apart at the first sticky-handprint. **Q: Can you work with our existing furniture and finishes?** A: Absolutely. Most of our design work blends new selections with pieces clients already own. We'll tell you honestly what works, what should be retired, and what's worth investing in. **Q: How does design fit into a remodel project?** A: Design is the first phase. Before any demo or construction, Debbie walks the space, listens to how you live, and develops a design that solves what you actually need (not just what looks good in a magazine). Selections, layouts, and lighting plans are locked in before we order materials. --- ## Whole-Home Remodels URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/services/whole-home-remodels Some homes need more than a room-by-room refresh. Whole-home remodels let us coordinate kitchens, baths, flooring, cabinetry, and paint as one project — faster and more efficient than doing each separately. One project manager, one schedule, one point of contact for every trade. We've handled everything from full historic gut renovations in Memorial Villages to top-to-bottom updates in Sugar Land master-planned communities. ### Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How much does a whole-home remodel cost in Houston?** A: Mid-range whole-home remodels in Houston typically run $75–$150 per square foot. Luxury remodels with kitchen, primary bath, flooring, and significant electrical/plumbing updates run $150–$300+ per sq ft. A 2,500 sq ft mid-range remodel lands $200,000–$350,000. **Q: How long does a whole-home remodel take?** A: Typical timeline: 4–8 months from demo to final walkthrough. Larger projects with additions and structural changes take 8–14 months. Plan to move out for the duration — kitchens and baths are down simultaneously. **Q: Is it cheaper to remodel or buy a different house?** A: In today's Houston market, remodeling the house you own and love is often cheaper than selling and buying equivalent updates. Moving costs (6% realtor fees + moving + new purchase costs) often exceed $50,000 on a $500,000 home — that's a lot of remodel budget. **Q: Do you do additions and structural work?** A: Yes, including adding primary suites, expanding kitchens, opening up walls, and building out second stories. Structural work requires an engineer's stamp and city approval, which we coordinate. --- # Articles ## How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take? Houston Timeline (2026) URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/blog/how-long-does-a-kitchen-remodel-take Published: 2026-10-13 Most Houston kitchen remodels take 6–12 weeks once demo starts. Full gut remodels with layout changes and custom cabinetry run 12–16 weeks. Cabinet lead time (6–10 weeks) sets the schedule more than anything else. Most Houston kitchen remodels take 6–12 weeks once demo starts, as of 2026. A straightforward remodel that keeps the existing layout takes about 6–8 weeks. Full gut remodels with layout changes and custom cabinetry run 12–16 weeks. The biggest factor isn't the crew. It's cabinet lead time: custom cabinets take 6–10 weeks from order to delivery, so we order them first and do demo and rough-in while they're being built. Here is what a typical kitchen remodel looks like week by week, what sets the schedule, and what makes one run long. How long does a kitchen remodel take?Typical Houston timelines as of October 2026, counted from the day demo starts: ScopeTypical timelineWhat drives it Straightforward remodel, same layout6–8 weeksNew cabinets, countertops, backsplash, lighting and fixtures in the existing footprint. Most Houston kitchen remodels6–12 weeksCustom cabinet lead time and how much of the layout changes. Full gut remodel with layout changes12–16 weeksWall removal, relocated plumbing and custom cabinetry. Historic home (1920s–1940s)14–20 weeksLonger custom cabinet lead times and structural, plumbing or electrical updates found during demo. For what each scope costs, see our Houston kitchen remodel cost guide. What happens each week of a kitchen remodel?A typical 10-week Houston kitchen remodel, once demo starts: 2. Weeks 1–2: Demo, rough plumbing and electrical, framing for any layout changes. 4. Weeks 3–4: Drywall, paint prep and flooring prep. Cabinets arrive. 6. Weeks 5–6: Cabinet install. Countertops are templated. Backsplash prep. 8. Weeks 7–8: Countertop install, backsplash tile, lighting, plumbing fixtures, appliances in. 10. Weeks 9–10: Punch list, final trim, touch-up and final cleaning. Simpler remodels compress the middle weeks. Bigger ones stretch the first two, because framing and relocated plumbing take longer than a straight tear-out. Why do cabinets set the kitchen remodel schedule?Custom cabinets typically take 6–10 weeks from order to delivery, which is longer than most of the construction itself. A typical cabinet schedule: • Week 1: We submit shop drawings for your approval. • Weeks 2–7: Cabinets are in production. • Weeks 7–8: Cabinets are delivered to the job site. That's why we order cabinets first. Demo, plumbing, electrical and drywall happen during the build period, so the cabinets arrive when the room is ready for them, and your kitchen isn't torn out while you wait. Once they're delivered, installation takes about 1–2 days. Learn more about custom cabinet costs and lead times. What makes a kitchen remodel take longer? • Layout changes. Removing a wall or moving the sink to an island adds framing, plumbing and electrical work in the first weeks. Keeping a workable layout is the easiest way to save time and money. • Surprises behind the walls. Structural, plumbing or electrical problems uncovered during demo are the most common reason a schedule moves. • Older homes. A full kitchen remodel in a historic 1920s–1940s River Oaks home typically takes 14–20 weeks, because those homes often need updates behind the original walls and matching custom cabinetry takes longer to build. • Custom cabinetry. Custom cabinets take longer than stock or semi-custom. The extra time buys cabinets built to your exact space instead of stock sizes. What happens before demo starts?The timelines above start at demo. Before that, every project goes through the same three steps: 2. Free in-home consultation. We walk the space with you, learn how you use the kitchen, and talk through budget and priorities. 4. Design and quote. Layout, cabinet specifications, finish selections and a line-item quote. 6. Cabinet order. Shop drawings are approved and the cabinets go into production, which starts the 6–10 week clock. Making your selections early, especially cabinets, countertops and appliances, is the most useful thing you can do to keep the schedule on track. See how we run kitchen remodeling projects. Can you live at home during a kitchen remodel?Yes. Most of our Houston clients stay in the home throughout the remodel. We set up a temporary kitchen, contain the work area with dust barriers and coordinate the schedule to keep disruption down. Does a kitchen remodel take longer than a bathroom remodel? ProjectTypical timeline once demo starts Guest bath3–4 weeks Primary bath with custom tile and glass5–7 weeks Luxury spa primary bath7–10 weeks Kitchen remodel6–12 weeks Kitchens take longer mainly because of cabinetry, countertops and appliances. Planning both at once? See our Houston bathroom remodel cost guide, or check kitchen remodeling in Katy if you're on the west side. McKelvey Designs is a family-owned remodeling company serving Katy and the Greater Houston area since 1991. NARI member. Get a free in-home consultation or call (281) 499-0581. ### FAQs **Q: How long does a kitchen remodel take?** A: As of 2026, most Houston kitchen remodels take 6–12 weeks once demo starts. A straightforward remodel that keeps the existing layout takes about 6–8 weeks. Full gut remodels with layout changes and custom cabinetry run 12–16 weeks. **Q: What takes the longest in a kitchen remodel?** A: Cabinets. Custom cabinetry takes 6–10 weeks from order to delivery, which is almost always the longest item on the schedule. We order cabinets first so demo, plumbing, electrical and prep work happen while they're being built. **Q: How long does it take to install kitchen cabinets?** A: Once custom cabinets are delivered, installation itself takes about 1–2 days. Countertops are templated after the cabinets are in, then installed along with the backsplash, lighting, plumbing fixtures and appliances. **Q: Can I live in my house during a kitchen remodel?** A: Yes. Most of our Houston clients stay in the home throughout the remodel. We set up a temporary kitchen, contain the work area with dust barriers and coordinate the schedule to keep disruption down. **Q: Why do some kitchen remodels take longer than quoted?** A: The most common reasons are cabinet lead times and structural, plumbing or electrical problems uncovered during demo. Older homes are the biggest risk: a full kitchen remodel in a historic 1920s–1940s River Oaks home typically takes 14–20 weeks. **Q: Does a kitchen remodel take longer than a bathroom remodel?** A: Usually. A Houston guest bath takes 3–4 weeks and a primary bath with custom tile and glass takes 5–7 weeks, compared with 6–12 weeks for most kitchens. The difference is mostly cabinetry, countertops and appliances. --- ## Garden Tub to Walk-In Shower Conversion Cost in Katy (2026) URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/blog/tub-to-shower-conversion-cost-katy Published: 2026-10-12 Replacing a garden tub with a tiled walk-in shower in Katy usually happens inside a primary bath remodel that runs $25,000–$45,000 in 2026. The tub removal itself adds about $3,000–$6,000 over a like-for-like tub swap. Replacing a garden tub with a tiled walk-in shower in Katy usually happens as part of a primary bath remodel that runs $25,000–$45,000 in 2026. That range covers taking out the garden tub, building a tiled walk-in shower with frameless glass, and adding a double vanity with quartz tops. The tub removal itself adds roughly $3,000–$6,000 compared with dropping in a new tub, because the drain, framing and waterproofing all change. High-end versions with custom tile, a freestanding tub or a new layout run $45,000–$75,000+. Swapping the garden tub for a walk-in shower is the Katy bathroom project we do most often. Here is what it costs, what moves the price, and how to decide whether to keep a tub. How much does a garden tub to walk-in shower conversion cost in Katy?Katy pricing as of October 2026, by scope: ScopeTypical 2026 costWhat's included Primary bath with a new walk-in shower$25,000–$45,000Garden tub out, tiled walk-in shower with frameless glass, double vanity, quartz tops, tile floor, updated fixtures. High-end primary bath$45,000–$75,000+Custom tile, freestanding tub, heated floors, layout changes, premium fixtures. Hall or guest bath with a new shower or tub surround$12,000–$25,000Full guest bath remodel: new tile floor, tub or shower surround, vanity, lighting and exhaust fan. For the full bathroom price picture, including powder rooms and luxury spa baths, see our Houston bathroom remodel cost guide. What did a recent Katy conversion cost?In 2025 we remodeled a primary bath in Cinco Ranch that started with an unused garden tub. We took the tub out and built a large walk-in shower with frameless glass, then added a freestanding soaker tub, a double quartz vanity, heated floors and Calacatta-look porcelain tile throughout. The project came in at about $58,000 and took 6 weeks. Because it included a freestanding tub and heated floors, it sits in the high-end tier above. Skip those two and keep the layout, and the same conversion usually lands in the $25,000–$45,000 range. What drives the cost of a tub to shower conversion? Cost driverTypical costNotes Removing the tub for a walk-in shower+$3,000–$6,000 over a tub swapFloor drain relocation, framing changes and a new waterproofing system. Walk-in shower with frameless glass$3,500–$8,000The shower and glass line item within the overall bath budget. Moving other plumbing$1,500–$5,000 per fixtureRelocating the toilet or vanity to rebalance the room. Adding a freestanding tub$1,500–$6,000+If you want to keep a tub in the primary bath. Expanding the footprint$5,000–$15,000Claiming closet or hallway space for a larger shower. Heated floors$6–$12 per sq ftWorth it in a primary bath used every day. Steam shower$4,000–$8,000Generator, controls and a sealed enclosure. Two things don't change the price much but decide whether the shower lasts. The first is waterproofing: we use cement backer board and a membrane system such as Schluter Kerdi or RedGard behind every tiled shower, because Houston humidity finds every shortcut within 3–5 years. The second is the shower floor: we keep it in 2×2 or smaller tile so the grout lines give you grip when it's wet. Why are so many Katy homes replacing the garden tub?Many Katy homes built in the 1990s and 2000s, in communities like Cinco Ranch, Cross Creek Ranch and Firethorne, still have the original builder-grade primary bath: a drop-in garden tub, a small fiberglass shower and a cultured-marble vanity. Most homeowners tell us they use the garden tub a few times a year at most. That footprint does more as one large walk-in shower with frameless glass. Hard water is the other Katy-specific factor. Much of the area has it, so we steer clients toward coated shower glass and fixtures that resist mineral spotting. Glass shape matters for budget too: standard rectangular panels cost about half as much as custom shapes. See more about bathroom remodeling in Katy or everything we do in Katy. Should you keep a tub somewhere in the house?Yes. Houston-area buyers expect at least one tub in the home, so the usual answer is: • Primary bath: a large walk-in shower. It gets used every day. • Secondary or kids' bath: keep the tub-shower combo for resale and for families with young children. • If you want a tub in the primary bath: a compact freestanding soaker tub keeps the "has a tub" box checked without the footprint of a garden tub. Planning ahead for aging in place? A curbless walk-in shower, grab bars and non-slip tile can go into the same project while the walls and floor are already open. See our bathroom remodeling services. How long does a garden tub to shower conversion take?A primary bath remodel with custom tile and frameless glass typically takes 5–7 weeks from demo to final walkthrough: 2. Week 1: Demo of the tub and old shower, rough plumbing and electrical changes, framing for the new shower. 4. Week 2: Waterproofing system installed. This step decides whether the shower lasts 5 years or 20. 6. Weeks 2–3: Tile installation. Large-format and patterned tile take longer than simple layouts. 8. Week 4: Grout, shower glass measured, vanity and lighting installed. 10. Weeks 5–7: Shower glass installed (about a two-week lead time after measuring), plumbing fixtures, trim and paint touch-up. McKelvey Designs is a family-owned remodeling company serving Katy and the Greater Houston area since 1991. NARI member. Get a free in-home consultation or call (281) 499-0581. ### FAQs **Q: How much does it cost to convert a garden tub to a walk-in shower in Katy?** A: In 2026, most Katy garden tub to walk-in shower conversions are done as part of a primary bath remodel that runs $25,000–$45,000, including a tiled walk-in shower with frameless glass, a double vanity and quartz tops. Removing the tub for a shower adds roughly $3,000–$6,000 compared with swapping in a new tub. High-end primary baths with custom tile, a freestanding tub or layout changes run $45,000–$75,000+. **Q: Why does removing a tub for a walk-in shower cost more than replacing the tub?** A: A walk-in shower usually needs a new floor drain location, framing changes and a complete waterproofing system on the walls and floor. That structural and waterproofing work adds about $3,000–$6,000 over a tub-to-tub swap. **Q: Will removing my tub hurt resale value in Katy?** A: Not if there is still a tub somewhere in the house. Houston-area buyers expect at least one tub, so we usually recommend a walk-in shower in the primary bath and keeping a tub in a secondary bath. If you want a tub in the primary bath, a compact freestanding tub keeps that box checked without the footprint of a garden tub. **Q: How long does a garden tub to shower conversion take?** A: A primary bath remodel with custom tile and frameless glass typically takes 5–7 weeks from demo to final walkthrough. Shower glass is measured after the tile is done and usually has about a two-week lead time, which is often the last item on the schedule. **Q: What shower glass is best for Katy's hard water?** A: Much of the Katy area has hard water, so we steer clients toward coated shower glass and fixtures that resist mineral spotting. Standard rectangular glass panels also cost about half as much as custom shapes. --- ## Custom Cabinets Cost in Houston (2026 Guide) URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/blog/custom-cabinets-cost-houston-2026 Published: 2026-04-21 What custom cabinets actually cost in Houston in 2026: $15K–$60K typical, $60K–$120K+ luxury. Real cost breakdowns by door style, finish, and suburb. Custom kitchen cabinets in Houston typically cost $15,000 to $60,000+ in 2026. Stock cabinetry starts around $4,000; semi-custom runs $8,000-$25,000; true custom built to your exact space lands $25,000-$60,000+ depending on door style and finish. Cabinetry is 30-40% of a kitchen remodel budget — and the single biggest driver of how the kitchen looks, functions, and lasts. How much do custom cabinets cost in Houston?Pricing across the Houston metro as of April 2026: • Stock cabinets — $4,000-$10,000 for a 10-cabinet kitchen. Pre-built in standard sizes from big-box stores. Limited finishes, no fitment to your space. • Semi-custom cabinets — $8,000-$25,000. Built-to-order in ½-inch increments, broader finish options, modest interior configurations. • True custom cabinets — $25,000-$60,000. Built to your exact dimensions, any door style, any finish, custom interior fittings designed around what you actually store. • Luxury custom cabinets — $60,000-$120,000+. Inset construction, painted hardwood or rift-cut white oak, hand-finished, specialty hardware, integrated appliance panels, full-suite coordination (kitchen + butler's pantry + island). What drives custom cabinet cost? FactorCost impactNotes Door style±20-40%Inset is most expensive (precision build), then beaded inset, shaker, flat-panel. Frameless European is mid-tier. Finish±15-30%Painted hardwood is the most popular (and pricey — multiple coats, sanding between). Stained hardwood mid-tier. Thermofoil cheapest. Wood species±10-25%Maple painted is the workhorse. Rift-cut white oak premium. Walnut and cherry top-tier. Interior fittings+$1,500-$5,000Pull-outs, dividers, soft-close drawer slides, recycling pull-outs, spice racks, deep drawer organizers. Hardware$300-$3,000Average kitchen has 30-40 cabinet pulls/knobs. Premium brass or unlacquered finishes drive up cost. Installation$2,500-$8,000Custom cabinets require precise install — 1-2 days for kitchen, 2-3 days for kitchen + butler's pantry. Custom vs semi-custom vs stock — which should you choose? • Stock cabinets work for: tight budgets, rental properties, and standard layouts. They're the least flexible — you accept whatever fits the standard-size boxes. • Semi-custom cabinets work for: most Houston-area kitchens with relatively standard layouts where you want better finish quality than stock but don't need custom dimensions. • True custom cabinets work for: kitchens where the existing layout has awkward gaps, where you want a specific door style not offered by stock or semi-custom, where storage configurations need to be tailored, or where the home has historic character that off-the-shelf cabinets won't match. For most Houston families remodeling their primary kitchen, custom cabinets pay back over decades — the durability, fit, and flexibility justify the premium. For investment properties or non-primary kitchens, semi-custom is usually the smarter call. Door styles popular in Houston • Shaker — Most-requested style across the Houston metro. Clean, recessed-panel design that works in transitional, traditional, and even modern kitchens. Painted shaker (white, off-white, soft greige) is the workhorse. Learn more about custom cabinetry. • Inset — Premium look. The door sits flush within the cabinet frame instead of overlaying it. Requires precise construction, costs 20-40% more than overlay shaker. Common in Memorial, River Oaks, and West University remodels. • Frameless European — Modern, full-overlay doors with no visible frame. Maximum interior storage. Common in contemporary kitchens. • Beaded inset — Traditional inset with a small bead detail around each opening. Highest level of detail; commonly used in luxury historic-home remodels. • Flat panel / slab — Clean, modern, no detail. Often in walnut, rift-cut white oak, or high-gloss painted finishes. Great for contemporary Houston builds. Cabinet costs by Houston suburb • Katy / Cinco Ranch — Custom shaker kitchens typically $20,000-$50,000. Custom Cabinetry in Katy. • The Woodlands — Higher-end custom (inset or premium shaker) $35,000-$80,000+. Custom Cabinetry in The Woodlands. • Sugar Land — Mid-range custom $25,000-$55,000. • Memorial / Bellaire / West U — High-end inset cabinetry $50,000-$120,000+ for older-home remodels where character matters. • Cypress / Spring / Pearland — Mid-range custom $20,000-$45,000. Lead time and how it affects your projectCustom cabinets typically take 6-10 weeks from order to delivery. This is almost always the long-pole scheduling item in a kitchen remodel: 2. Sign contract, finalize measurements + door style + finish 4. We submit shop drawings for client approval (week 1) 6. Cabinets enter production (weeks 2-7) 8. Cabinets delivered to job site (week 7-8) 10. Installation: 1-2 days for a typical kitchen We schedule cabinet ordering FIRST so demo, plumbing, electrical, and prep work happen during the 6-10 week build period — minimizing total kitchen downtime. Refacing vs replacing — when refacing makes senseIf your existing cabinet boxes are solid wood and structurally sound (most 1990s+ Houston homes qualify), refacing — new doors, drawer fronts, and veneer on visible boxes — runs 50-70% the cost of new cabinets while giving a nearly-new look. Good candidates for refacing: • Existing layout works for your family's needs • Cabinet boxes are structurally sound (no swelling, water damage, or sag) • You want a visual refresh without the cost or downtime of full replacement Bad candidates for refacing: damaged boxes, layout that doesn't work, particleboard construction (common in 1980s and earlier homes — often falls apart during refacing). How to save money on custom cabinets without regretting it • Mix custom with stock. Custom on the visible main run + island; stock or semi-custom in the butler's pantry or laundry. 80% of the visual impact at 60% of the cost. • Painted shaker over inset. Inset is the premium door style and 30-40% more expensive. Shaker still looks beautiful and lasts equally long. • Standard interior fittings. Premium pull-outs and organizers add $3,000-$8,000. Most can be added later as add-ons if budget allows. • Mid-tier hardware. $400-$800 for nice hardware vs $2,000-$3,000 for designer brass. Hardware is easy to swap later. • Don't reface AND change layout. If you need layout changes, just replace. Refacing only saves money when keeping the existing layout. What NEVER to skimp on: cabinet box construction (3/4-inch plywood, dovetailed drawer joinery, all-wood drawer boxes — not particleboard), soft-close drawer slides, hinges (Blum or Hettich are industry standard). What our Houston clients ask mostSee the FAQ section below for detailed answers to the most-common custom cabinet questions we get from Houston-area homeowners. McKelvey Designs has been building custom cabinetry across Houston, Katy, Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial, Bellaire, West University, River Oaks, and surrounding areas since 1991. NARI member. Learn more about our custom cabinetry service or get a free in-home consultation — call (281) 499-0581. ### FAQs **Q: How much do custom cabinets cost in Houston?** A: Houston custom cabinets typically cost $15,000–$60,000 for a kitchen depending on size, door style, and finish. Stock cabinets start around $4,000; semi-custom runs $8,000–$25,000; true custom built to your exact dimensions runs $25,000–$60,000; luxury inset cabinetry in painted hardwood reaches $60,000–$120,000+. **Q: What's the difference between custom and semi-custom cabinets?** A: Semi-custom cabinets are built to order in ½-inch increments with limited finish options. True custom cabinets are built to your exact dimensions in any door style, finish, and interior configuration — designed around what you actually store. Custom costs 30–60% more than semi-custom but eliminates wasted space, awkward gaps, and storage compromises. **Q: What door style is most popular in Houston?** A: Shaker is the most-requested style across the Houston metro by a wide margin. Painted shaker in white, off-white, or soft greige is the workhorse — works in transitional, traditional, and modern kitchens. Inset cabinetry is the premium upgrade (20–40% more) and most common in Memorial, River Oaks, and West U remodels. **Q: How long do custom cabinets take to make?** A: 6–10 weeks from order to delivery is typical. This is almost always the long-pole scheduling item in a kitchen remodel — we order cabinets first so demo, plumbing, and prep work happen during the build period to minimize total kitchen downtime. **Q: Can I reface my existing cabinets instead of replacing?** A: Often yes. If existing cabinet boxes are solid wood and structurally sound (most 1990s+ Houston homes qualify), refacing — new doors, drawer fronts, and veneer on visible boxes — runs 50–70% the cost of new cabinets. Bad candidates: damaged or particleboard boxes, or when you need layout changes. **Q: What's the most cost-effective way to get a custom cabinet look?** A: Mix custom on the visible main run + island with semi-custom or stock in less-visible areas (butler's pantry, laundry). Choose painted shaker over inset (saves 30–40%). Use standard interior fittings (add premium pull-outs later if budget allows). Mid-tier hardware (easy to swap later). **Q: What should I never skimp on with custom cabinets?** A: Cabinet box construction — insist on ¾-inch plywood (not particleboard), dovetailed drawer joinery, all-wood drawer boxes. Soft-close drawer slides and Blum or Hettich hinges. These are non-negotiable for cabinets that last 20+ years in Houston humidity. **Q: Does McKelvey Designs build cabinets across the entire Houston metro?** A: Yes. We design and install custom cabinetry in Houston, Katy, Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial, Bellaire, West University, River Oaks, Spring, Tomball, Pearland, Richmond, Fulshear, and Missouri City. NARI member, family-owned since 1991. --- ## Bathroom Remodel Cost in Houston (2026 Guide) URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/blog/bathroom-remodel-cost-houston-2026 Published: 2026-04-21 What a Houston bathroom remodel actually costs in 2026: $15K–$40K standard, $40K–$75K for spa-style primary baths. Real breakdowns by budget tier and suburb. A Houston bathroom remodel typically costs between $15,000 and $40,000 in 2026. Primary bath remodels with walk-in showers and freestanding tubs run $40,000–$75,000. Luxury spa-style primary baths reach $75,000–$100,000+. Guest baths start around $12,000. This guide breaks down real Houston bathroom remodel costs by tier, by suburb, and by what actually drives the price. How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Houston?Pricing in Greater Houston as of April 2026: • Powder room / hall bath refresh — $5,000–$15,000. New vanity, toilet, paint, fixtures; tile only if needed. No layout changes. • Standard guest bath — $12,000–$25,000. New tile floor, tub or shower surround, vanity, lighting, exhaust fan. • Mid-range primary bath — $25,000–$45,000. Walk-in shower with frameless glass, double vanity, quartz countertops, tile floor, updated fixtures. • High-end primary bath — $45,000–$75,000. Custom tile, freestanding tub, heated floors, steam shower, premium fixtures (Brizo, Kohler Artist Editions, Hansgrohe). • Luxury spa primary bath — $75,000–$125,000+. Custom cabinetry, marble or quartzite, steam + rainfall showers, smart mirrors, towel warmers, full humidity control. What drives bathroom remodel cost in Houston? Line item% of budgetNotes Tile & waterproofing15–25%Proper waterproofing (Schluter Kerdi, RedGard) is non-negotiable in Houston humidity. Cut corners here and tile fails in 3-5 years. Labor25–35%Demo, plumbing, tile install, fixture install. Skilled tilesetters drive quality. Vanity & countertop10–20%Custom vanity: $2,500–$8,000. Quartz top: $400–$1,200 installed. Shower / tub10–20%Walk-in shower with frameless glass: $3,500–$8,000. Freestanding tub: $1,500–$6,000+. Fixtures8–15%Faucets, showerheads, toilet, towel bars. Quality matters — cheap fixtures leak. Flooring5–10%Tile $8–$15/sf installed. Heated floor adds $6–$12/sf. Lighting & electrical5–10%New circuits, vanity lighting, exhaust fan sized to the room's cubic footage. Permits & misc3–5%Permit fees, plan review, disposal. Bathroom remodel cost by Houston suburb • Katy — Guest baths: $5,000–$25,000 depending on scope. Primary baths: $25,000–$75,000+. See the Katy breakdown below. • The Woodlands — Guest baths: $18,000–$30,000. Luxury primary baths: $50,000–$100,000+. See Bathroom Remodeling in The Woodlands. • Sugar Land — Guest baths: $15,000–$25,000. Primary baths: $30,000–$60,000. • Memorial, Bellaire, West University — Inner-loop high-ticket market. Primary baths commonly $50,000–$100,000+ due to home values and homeowner expectations. • Cypress, Spring, Pearland — Guest baths: $12,000–$22,000. Primary baths: $25,000–$50,000. How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Katy, TX?A Katy bathroom remodel costs anywhere from about $5,000 for a simple hall bath refresh to $75,000+ for a high-end primary bath in 2026. Most of the range comes down to scope. Katy is one of our most active areas, and most of our Katy work is in master-planned communities like Cinco Ranch, Cross Creek Ranch and Firethorne. Katy bathroom projectTypical 2026 costWhat's included Hall or guest bath refresh$5,000–$15,000Vanity, fixtures, lighting and paint. No tile tear-out or layout changes. Full guest bath remodel$12,000–$25,000New tile floor, tub or shower surround, vanity and fixtures. Primary bath with a new walk-in shower$25,000–$45,000Garden tub out, tiled walk-in shower with frameless glass, double vanity, quartz tops. High-end primary bath$45,000–$75,000+Custom tile, freestanding tub, heated floors, layout changes. What's different about remodeling a bathroom in Katy: • Original builder-grade primary baths are wearing out. Many Katy homes built in the 1990s and 2000s still have the original drop-in garden tub, a small shower and a cultured-marble vanity. Replacing the garden tub with a large walk-in shower is the Katy project we do most often. • Hard water affects fixture and glass choices. Much of the Katy area has hard water, so we steer clients toward fixtures and coated shower glass that resist mineral spotting. See Bathroom Remodeling in Katy or everything we do in Katy. How long does a Houston bathroom remodel take?Standard timeline from demo to final walkthrough: 2. Weeks 1: Demo, rough plumbing/electrical changes, framing adjustments. 4. Week 2: Waterproofing systems installed. This is the step that determines whether your bathroom lasts 5 years or 20. 6. Weeks 2–3: Tile installation. Patterns and large-format tile take longer than subway or grid layouts. 8. Week 4: Grout, shower glass template. Vanity install. Lighting. 10. Week 5: Shower glass install (typically 2-week lead time after template). Plumbing fixtures, final trim, paint touch-up. Guest baths: 3–4 weeks. Primary baths with custom tile and glass: 5–7 weeks. Luxury spa primary baths with heated floors, steam, and custom glass: 7–10 weeks. What increases a Houston bathroom remodel cost the most? • Moving plumbing or gas. Relocating a toilet, shower, or gas line adds $1,500–$5,000 per fixture. • Removing a tub for a walk-in shower. Structural work, often a floor drain relocation, waterproofing overhaul. Adds $3,000–$6,000 over a tub-to-tub swap. • Expanding the footprint. Claiming a closet or hallway space adds $5,000–$15,000. • Heated floors. $6–$12/sf additional — worth it in a primary bath used daily. • Steam shower. $4,000–$8,000 for generator, controls, and sealed enclosure. • Natural stone tile. Marble or limestone runs 2–3x porcelain cost and needs ongoing sealing. How to save money on a Houston bathroom remodel (without regretting it) • Keep existing layout. The single biggest cost driver is moving plumbing. A refresh-in-place remodel can be half the cost of a gut remodel. • Pick porcelain tile that looks like stone. Modern porcelain mimics marble, travertine, and wood with 90% of the visual impact at 30% of the cost — and zero sealing maintenance. • Choose a freestanding tub with a regular tub-shower next door. Drop-in tubs cost more in plumbing and tile work. • Standardize shower glass. Custom glass shapes cost 2x more than rectangular. • Keep the shower floor tile 2×2 or smaller. Grout lines provide slip resistance. Polished large-format on a shower floor is a lawsuit waiting to happen. What's the ROI on a Houston bathroom remodel?Primary bath remodels typically return 60–70% of cost on resale in Houston — lower than kitchens, but real. More importantly, bath remodels deliver the highest daily quality-of-life improvement per dollar. A 10-year-old primary bath you use twice a day adds up to a lot of frustration that a $35,000 remodel solves forever. McKelvey Designs has been family-owned in the Greater Houston area since 1991. NARI member. We remodel bathrooms across Houston, Katy, Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial, Bellaire, West University, River Oaks, Spring, Tomball, Pearland, Richmond, Fulshear, and Missouri City. Get a free in-home consultation or call (281) 499-0581. ### FAQs **Q: How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Houston?** A: Houston bathroom remodels typically cost $15,000–$40,000 for standard remodels, $40,000–$75,000 for spa-style primary baths with walk-in showers and freestanding tubs, and $75,000–$125,000+ for luxury remodels with custom cabinetry and premium finishes. Guest bath remodels start around $12,000. **Q: What's the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?** A: Labor (25–35%) and tile + waterproofing (15–25%) are typically the largest line items. Skilled tilesetters and proper waterproofing systems are non-negotiable in Houston humidity — cutting corners here guarantees tile failure within 3–5 years. **Q: How long does a bathroom remodel take in Houston?** A: Guest baths take 3–4 weeks from demo to final walkthrough. Primary baths with custom tile and frameless glass take 5–7 weeks. Luxury spa primary baths with heated floors, steam showers, and custom details take 7–10 weeks. **Q: Should I remove the tub in my primary bath?** A: For primary baths, a walk-in shower is usually the better choice — it gets used daily while the tub collects dust. Keep a tub somewhere in the home for resale (Houston buyers expect at least one). A freestanding tub in the primary bath plus a walk-in shower is the luxury-tier solution. **Q: What's the best tile for Houston humidity?** A: Porcelain tile is the workhorse — it's dense, non-porous, and never needs sealing. Modern porcelain mimics marble, stone, and wood beautifully at a fraction of the cost. Avoid natural stone on shower floors (slippery when wet, requires sealing). Small-format tile (2×2 or mosaic) on shower floors provides grout-line slip resistance. **Q: How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Katy, TX?** A: In 2026, a Katy hall or guest bath refresh starts around $5,000–$15,000, a full guest bath remodel runs $12,000–$25,000, a primary bath with a new walk-in shower runs $25,000–$45,000, and high-end primary baths run $45,000–$75,000+. Replacing an original garden tub with a walk-in shower is the most common Katy bathroom project we do. **Q: What's the ROI on a Houston bathroom remodel?** A: Primary bath remodels typically return 60–70% of cost on resale in Houston. More importantly, they deliver the highest daily quality-of-life improvement per dollar — a bathroom you use twice a day for 10+ years is worth investing in. **Q: Does McKelvey Designs work across the whole Houston metro?** A: Yes. We remodel bathrooms in Houston, Katy, Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial, Bellaire, West University, River Oaks, Spring, Tomball, Pearland, Richmond, Fulshear, and Missouri City. Family-owned since 1991, NARI member. --- ## Kitchen Remodel Cost in Houston (2026 Guide) URL: https://mckelveydesigns.com/blog/kitchen-remodel-cost-houston-2026 Published: 2026-04-21 What a Houston kitchen remodel actually costs in 2026: $20K–$60K for mid-range, $75K+ for high-end. Real breakdowns by budget tier and by suburb — Katy, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial. Most Houston kitchen remodels cost between $20,000 and $60,000 as of 2026. Minor refreshes start around $12,000; high-end remodels with custom cabinetry and structural changes run $75,000–$150,000+. Cabinetry is the single biggest line item (30–40% of the budget), followed by countertops and labor. This guide breaks down real Houston kitchen remodel costs by tier, by suburb, and by what actually drives the price. How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Houston?Pricing in Greater Houston as of April 2026: • Minor refresh — $12,000–$20,000. Cabinet painting or refacing, new countertops, updated backsplash, new fixtures. No layout changes. • Mid-range remodel — $20,000–$60,000. Semi-custom cabinetry, quartz or granite countertops, tile or LVP flooring, new lighting, modern appliances. Possible minor layout changes. • High-end remodel — $60,000–$150,000. Custom cabinetry, premium countertops (quartzite, marble, leathered granite), layout changes including wall removal, high-end appliances, custom lighting design. • Luxury remodel — $150,000+. Inset or frameless European cabinetry, premium natural stone, Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances, structural additions, professional-grade range hoods, custom millwork. What drives kitchen remodel cost in Houston?A typical Houston kitchen remodel budget breaks down roughly like this: Line item% of budgetWhy Cabinetry30–40%Single biggest driver. Stock vs semi-custom vs custom triples the price. Labor20–30%Demo, framing, install, finish. Houston labor $50–$100/hour. Countertops10–15%$50–$150/sf installed for quartz/granite, $80–$250/sf for marble/premium. Appliances10–15%Wide range. $3K for a builder-grade package, $30K+ for Wolf/Sub-Zero. Tile & flooring5–10%Backsplash tile $8–$25/sf installed. Floor tile or LVP $5–$15/sf. Lighting & electrical5–10%New circuits, recessed cans, under-cabinet, pendants. Plumbing3–7%Relocating plumbing for island sinks adds ~$1,500–$4,000. Permits & design2–5%City of Houston permits, plan review, design fees. Kitchen remodel cost by Houston suburbCost varies meaningfully by neighborhood due to home size, finish expectations, and resale considerations: • Katy — Mid-range kitchen remodels: $30,000–$55,000. High-end (Cinco Ranch, Cross Creek Ranch): $65,000–$120,000+. See our Kitchen Remodeling in Katy page for details. • The Woodlands — Mid-range: $60,000–$100,000. Luxury (Sterling Ridge, Creekside Park): $100,000–$200,000+. Kitchen Remodeling in The Woodlands. • Sugar Land — Mid-range: $35,000–$70,000. Affluent energy/tech neighborhoods (Sweetwater, Riverstone): $70,000–$130,000. • Memorial — High-ticket inner-loop market. $80,000–$200,000 typical for Memorial Villages remodels. • Cypress, Spring, Pearland, Richmond — Mid-range: $25,000–$55,000. Less luxury over-improvement than Memorial/Woodlands. How long does a Houston kitchen remodel take?Once demo starts, most Houston kitchen remodels take 6–12 weeks. The long-pole scheduling item is almost always custom cabinetry lead time (6–10 weeks from order to delivery). A typical timeline: 2. Weeks 1–2: Demo, rough plumbing and electrical, framing for any layout changes. 4. Weeks 3–4: Drywall, paint prep, flooring prep. Cabinets arrive. 6. Weeks 5–6: Cabinet install. Countertop template. Backsplash prep. 8. Weeks 7–8: Countertop install, backsplash tile, lighting, plumbing fixtures, appliances in. 10. Weeks 9–10: Punch list, final trim, touch-up, final cleaning. How to save money on a Houston kitchen remodel (without regretting it)Real cost-savers that don't backfire: • Keep existing layout if it's workable. Moving plumbing and gas lines adds $3,000–$8,000. If the layout is tolerable, keep it. • Reface cabinets if boxes are solid. Refacing runs 50–70% the cost of new — and if your existing boxes are solid wood (most 1990s+ Houston homes qualify), refacing gives a nearly-new look. • Choose quartz over quartzite. Quartz gives 95% of the look at 60% of the cost, with better stain resistance. • Mix finishes. Painted perimeter cabinets with a stained island or a tile accent wall gives custom visual interest without custom prices. • Pick one wow element. A statement island, a dramatic range hood, or handmade tile backsplash — one wow item is worth three mid-tier upgrades. Cost-savers that backfire: cheap cabinets (they fail in Houston humidity), skipping waterproofing under tile, DIY electrical, and "we'll deal with it later" for plumbing relocations. Frequently asked questionsSee the structured FAQ below for detailed answers. McKelvey Designs is a family-owned Houston remodeling company. Debbie McKelvey studied interior design at the University of Houston and Southwest Texas State. We've transformed over 1,000 Houston-area homes since 1991 — NARI member. Get a free in-home consultation or call (281) 499-0581. ### FAQs **Q: How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Houston?** A: As of 2026, most Houston kitchen remodels cost between $20,000 and $60,000 for a mid-range project. Minor refreshes start around $12,000. High-end remodels with custom cabinetry and structural changes run $75,000–$150,000+. Luxury remodels can exceed $200,000. **Q: What's the biggest cost in a kitchen remodel?** A: Cabinetry typically accounts for 30–40% of a Houston kitchen remodel budget. Labor is 20–30%, countertops 10–15%, appliances 10–15%. Cheap cabinets are the #1 thing to fail early in Houston humidity — spend right on cabinets even if you cut elsewhere. **Q: How long does a Houston kitchen remodel take?** A: 6–12 weeks once demo starts. Custom cabinetry lead time (6–10 weeks) is almost always the long-pole schedule item. Full gut remodels with layout changes and permits run 12–16 weeks. **Q: How can I save money on a Houston kitchen remodel?** A: Keep the existing layout (moving plumbing adds $3K–$8K), reface cabinets if boxes are solid (50–70% the cost of new), choose quartz over quartzite, and pick one 'wow' element instead of three mid-tier upgrades. Avoid cheap cabinets, skipping waterproofing, and DIY electrical — those always backfire. **Q: What's the ROI on a kitchen remodel in Houston?** A: Mid-range Houston kitchen remodels typically return 70–85% of cost on resale, plus years of enjoyment while you live there. High-end over-improvements (upgrades above neighborhood comps) return less. Katy, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands all show strong kitchen-remodel ROI due to steady resale markets. **Q: Does McKelvey Designs do kitchen remodels across the whole Houston metro?** A: Yes. We work across Houston, Katy, Cypress, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Memorial, Bellaire, West University, River Oaks, Spring, Tomball, Pearland, Richmond, Fulshear, and Missouri City. Family-owned since 1991, NARI member. ---