When a homeowner reaches out for a kitchen remodel Sacramento, the goal often sounds simple: new cabinets, better counters, maybe an island. But for contractors who believe in doing things right—as Mike Holmes would say—it’s never just about what you see on the surface.
This story begins in East Sacramento with a charming bungalow built in the 1940s. The kitchen had character, but also issues that had quietly built up over decades. Functionality was limited. Electrical work was outdated. And beneath the surface? Bigger problems waiting to be uncovered.
🧱 The Surface Vision
The clients’ vision was straightforward:
- Remove two walls to open up the space
- Add a central island
- Install new cabinetry, appliances, and lighting
The aesthetic direction was clean, classic, and timeless. But as every experienced builder knows, removing walls—especially in older homes—isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about structure.
🔍 What We Found
During the demolition phase, the team uncovered several significant issues:
- Knob-and-tube wiring, unsafe and well past its lifespan
- Unsupported joists, likely modified in an earlier renovation
- Plumbing lines routed incorrectly through exterior walls, risking freeze damage
Each issue required immediate correction—not just to pass inspection, but to ensure the safety and longevity of the home.
⚙️ Doing It Right, Not Fast
Rather than patch over the problems or take shortcuts, the crew followed Holmes’ first principle: Make It Right.
- The electrical system was completely rewired and brought up to code, including GFCI protection and arc-fault breakers in all kitchen circuits
- Joists were reinforced with engineered solutions and load calculations verified by a structural engineer
- Plumbing was rerouted inside insulated walls, with upgraded PEX and shutoff valves installed for every fixture
This stage added both cost and time—but prevented future disasters and brought the house into full modern compliance.
💡 The Result: Function That Lasts
Once the structural corrections were complete, the team focused on finishes that matched the home’s architectural integrity:
- Custom maple cabinetry with soft-close features and concealed hinges
- Quartz countertops with full slab backsplash for minimal maintenance
- LED recessed and under-cabinet lighting for task efficiency and ambience
- Luxury vinyl plank flooring, offering durability without compromising warmth
A new energy-efficient range, ventilation hood, and smart refrigerator rounded out the appliance package—adding performance and long-term savings.
🏁 Beyond Design: Peace of Mind
The remodeled kitchen was elegant and open, yes. But more importantly, it was safe, efficient, and built to last. For the homeowners, the real transformation wasn’t just visual—it was structural.
They now enjoy:
- A kitchen that meets modern building code
- Confidence that what’s behind the walls is just as solid as what’s in front
- A space that adds genuine, long-term value to their home
✅ Final Thought
A kitchen remodel Sacramento should always go deeper than surface upgrades. As Mike Holmes advocates, good renovations aren’t just about finishes—they’re about doing it right from the inside out.
Because true quality isn’t just seen. It’s built.
🧰 CALL TO ACTION
Planning your kitchen remodel?
Work with a Sacramento team that values integrity, precision, and craftsmanship. Don’t just make it new—make it right.
