1. Single Point of Accountability

In the traditional model, if a design flaw causes a construction problem, the designer blames the builder and the builder blames the designer. The homeowner is caught in the middle, usually paying for the mistake. With a design-build firm, Nick (the builder) and April (the designer) are on the same team. If a problem arises, we fix it together. You only ever have to make one phone call.

2. Accurate Budgeting from Day One

One of the most heartbreaking scenarios in remodeling is when a homeowner pays an independent architect for beautiful plans, only to find out the design costs twice their actual construction budget to build. Because our designer and builder work together from the very first meeting, we design to your budget. We provide real-time cost feedback during the design phase, so the final plan is something you can actually afford to build.

3. Faster Timelines

Bidding a project out to multiple contractors takes weeks or months. With design-build, the transition from design to construction is seamless. While the final design details are being wrapped up, we can already be pulling city permits and ordering long-lead-time materials like custom cabinets and windows.

4. Better Communication and Quality Control

Because the person who designed your kitchen is in the same office as the person building it, the original vision is never lost in translation. April’s design intent is executed by Nick’s construction management. If you want a stress-free remodeling experience with transparent pricing and careful execution, contact Upgraded Remodeling today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a design-build firm?

A design-build firm is a single company that provides both interior design services and general contracting under one roof. Instead of hiring a separate designer and contractor who must coordinate with each other, you work with one integrated team from concept to completion.

Is design-build more expensive than hiring separately?

Not necessarily. While design-build firms charge for both design and construction, the integrated process eliminates costly change orders that arise from miscommunication between separate designers and contractors. Most homeowners find the total cost is comparable or lower than the traditional approach.

How do I choose the best remodeling contractor in Austin?

Look for an experienced remodeling contractor with verifiable references, local project history, clear contracts, appropriate insurance, and a documented process. Confirm that required permits will be obtained and that regulated specialty work is performed by properly licensed trades.

What areas does Upgraded Remodeling serve?

Upgraded Remodeling serves Austin, Bee Cave, Westlake Hills, West Lake Hills, Lakeway, Rollingwood, and surrounding communities in the greater Austin area.

1. The Tub-to-Shower Conversion

The massive, jetted corner tubs of the early 2000s are out. Most homeowners realize they rarely use them, and they take up valuable square footage. The biggest trend is tearing out these unused tubs and replacing them with massive, luxurious walk-in showers featuring frameless glass enclosures, custom bench seating, built-in wall niches, and multiple showerheads including rainfall fixtures.

2. Freestanding Soaking Tubs

For those who still love a good soak, the built-in deck tub has been replaced by the elegant freestanding tub. Placed as a sculptural focal point — often positioned near a window or under a beautiful chandelier — freestanding tubs offer a modern, clean aesthetic while saving floor space.

3. Organic, Warm Materials

The all-white, sterile bathroom is warming up. We are designing bathrooms with organic textures, including custom white oak or walnut vanities, zellige-style handmade wall tiles, and brushed brass or champagne bronze plumbing fixtures. The goal is to create a space that feels earthy, calming, and grounded.

4. Large-Format Tile

Homeowners are opting for large-format porcelain or stone tiles (such as 24×48 inch slabs) for shower walls and bathroom floors. Fewer grout lines mean a cleaner look and significantly easier maintenance.

5. Smart Bathroom Technology

Luxury bathrooms in Austin are getting smarter. We are frequently installing heated flooring systems, heated towel racks, anti-fog LED mirrors, and smart toilets with built-in bidets and self-cleaning functions. Ready to build your dream bathroom? Learn more about our bathroom remodeling process here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Westlake or Bee Cave?

Bathroom remodels in Westlake Hills and Bee Cave typically range from $25,000–$80,000 for a standard primary bath renovation. Luxury spa-like bathrooms with custom tile, freestanding tubs, and high-end fixtures can exceed $100,000.

Is a tub-to-shower conversion worth it?

For most Austin homeowners, yes. If you rarely use your bathtub, converting it to a large walk-in shower increases the usability of the space and can add significant value to your home. Most buyers in the Austin market prefer a large shower over a jetted tub in the primary bathroom.

What is the most popular bathroom tile in 2026?

Large-format porcelain tiles (24×24 or 24×48 inches) are extremely popular for both floors and shower walls because they minimize grout lines and create a clean, modern look. Zellige-style handmade tiles in warm neutrals are also trending for accent walls.

How long does a bathroom remodel take?

A standard primary bathroom remodel typically takes 3–6 weeks of active construction. The design and planning phase adds another 2–4 weeks before demolition begins. Complex projects involving layout changes or custom tile work may take longer.

The Benefits of an Open Floor Plan

Opening up your main living space completely transforms how your home feels. It allows natural light to flow from the front of the house to the back, making the entire home feel larger. It also fundamentally changes how you entertain and interact with your family, allowing whoever is cooking in the kitchen to be part of the conversation in the living room.

The Challenge: Load-Bearing Walls

The biggest hurdle in an open-concept remodel is determining whether the wall you want to remove is load-bearing. A load-bearing wall supports the weight of the roof or the second story — you cannot simply knock it down. Removing a load-bearing wall requires a structural engineer to calculate the weight load and specify the size of the beam required to replace the wall. A massive LVL or steel beam must then be installed across the ceiling. The City of Austin strictly regulates structural changes, requiring permits and framing inspections.

Rerouting Utilities Hidden in Walls

Walls don’t just hold up the house — they hide the house’s vital systems. When you remove a wall between a kitchen and a living room, you often uncover electrical wiring, plumbing vents, and HVAC ducts. All of these utilities must be carefully rerouted through the floor, the ceiling, or remaining adjacent walls by licensed tradespeople.

Why You Need an Experienced Remodeling Team

An open-concept remodel is not a DIY project. It requires experienced project leadership and coordination with structural engineers, permitted trades, and city inspectors to protect your home and keep the work code-compliant. At Upgraded Remodeling, Nick oversees the construction process while April leads the interior design so the newly opened space has cohesive flooring, lighting, and flow. Learn more about our whole-home remodeling services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to open up a floor plan in Austin?

Removing a non-load-bearing wall typically costs $1,000–$3,000. Removing a load-bearing wall is significantly more expensive, ranging from $5,000–$20,000 or more depending on the beam size required, structural engineering fees, and the cost of rerouting utilities hidden in the wall.

How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?

An experienced remodeling contractor or structural engineer can help determine whether a wall is load-bearing by examining the framing in the attic or crawl space and reviewing available plans. Walls that run perpendicular to floor joists and sit above a beam or foundation wall are commonly load-bearing, but the final determination should be made by a qualified professional.

Do I need a permit to remove a wall in Austin?

Yes. The City of Austin requires a permit for any structural modification, including wall removal. Your general contractor will pull the necessary permits and schedule the required framing inspection before closing up the walls.

What are the downsides of an open floor plan?

Open floor plans can make it harder to contain cooking smells, noise travels more freely between spaces, and heating/cooling a single large open space can be less efficient. However, most Austin homeowners find the lifestyle benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks.

The Average Timeline: 6 to 12 Weeks of Construction

For a standard full-gut kitchen remodel where the layout remains mostly the same, the actual construction phase typically takes 6 to 10 weeks. If you are doing a luxury remodel that involves removing load-bearing walls, vaulting ceilings, or moving plumbing across the room, expect the construction phase to take 10 to 16 weeks.

Don’t Forget the Planning Phase (4 to 8 Weeks)

Many homeowners forget that the remodeling process starts long before the first sledgehammer swings. The design and planning phase is crucial. During this time, our interior designer, April, works with you to select cabinetry, countertops, tile, and fixtures. We never start demolition until all materials are ordered and delivered to our warehouse. In the post-pandemic world, custom cabinets can take 6 to 8 weeks to arrive. Waiting to start demolition until materials are ready is the #1 way we prevent your kitchen from sitting empty for months.

A Typical Kitchen Remodel Week-by-Week Schedule

• Week 1: Demolition and debris removal.
• Weeks 2–3: Framing, rough plumbing, and rough electrical.
• Week 4: Drywall installation, taping, and texturing.
• Weeks 5–6: Cabinet installation.
• Week 7: Countertop templating, fabrication, and installation.
• Week 8: Tile backsplash, flooring, and painting.
• Week 9: Finish plumbing, finish electrical, and appliance installation.
• Week 10: Final walkthrough and touch-ups.

How We Keep Your Project on Schedule

Delays often happen when trade schedules are not coordinated or materials are ordered late. As a design-build firm, Upgraded Remodeling coordinates planning, design, ordering, and construction through one team. Nick oversees the daily construction schedule and trade partners so work stays organized and predictable. If you’re ready for a well-managed, stress-free kitchen remodel in Austin, reach out to our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a kitchen remodel take from start to finish?

From the first design consultation to the final walkthrough, a kitchen remodel in Austin typically takes 3–5 months total. This includes 4–8 weeks of design and planning, followed by 6–12 weeks of active construction.

Can I live in my home during a kitchen remodel?

Yes, most homeowners stay in their home during a kitchen remodel. We recommend setting up a temporary kitchen in another room with a microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge. We work to minimize disruption and maintain a clean, organized job site throughout the project.

What causes kitchen remodel delays?

The most common causes of delays are late material orders (especially custom cabinets, which take 6–8 weeks to arrive), poor subcontractor scheduling, and unexpected structural issues discovered during demolition. At Upgraded Remodeling, we order all materials before starting demolition to prevent these delays.

How do I prepare for a kitchen remodel?

Before demolition begins, clear out all cabinets and pantry items, set up a temporary kitchen space, and remove any valuables from adjacent rooms. Your contractor should walk you through a detailed schedule so you know exactly what to expect each week.

The Three Tiers of Kitchen Remodeling Costs

1. The Cosmetic Refresh ($30,000 – $60,000)

A cosmetic refresh keeps the existing footprint and cabinet boxes intact. This budget typically covers painting or refacing existing cabinets, installing new quartz countertops, updating the backsplash, and replacing plumbing fixtures and lighting. This is a great option if your kitchen layout already works well but the finishes feel dated.

2. The Mid-Range Full Remodel ($75,000 – $130,000)

This is the most common type of kitchen remodel we perform in neighborhoods like Lakeway and Westlake Hills. It involves a complete gut of the space — all-new custom or semi-custom cabinetry, upgraded appliances, luxury countertops, new flooring, and improved lighting design. The footprint generally stays the same, though minor layout tweaks are common.

3. The Luxury Custom Kitchen ($140,000 – $250,000+)

A luxury remodel involves major structural changes — tearing down walls to create an open-concept living space, moving plumbing and gas lines to accommodate a massive new island, installing professional-grade appliances (like Sub-Zero or Wolf), and incorporating high-end custom millwork. Projects in Westlake Hills and Bee Cave routinely fall in this category.

What Drives the Cost Up?

Several factors will quickly increase your kitchen remodeling budget: moving plumbing or gas lines (which requires trenching into the concrete slab), removing load-bearing walls (which requires structural engineering and steel beams), and specifying fully custom cabinetry. Material choices — from standard quartz to exotic stone — can also swing the budget significantly.

Why Choose a Design-Build Firm?

When you hire Upgraded Remodeling, construction management and interior design work together as one coordinated team. This helps prevent the costly miscommunication that can happen when a designer and a separate builder are not aligned. We provide fixed-price contracts so you know what your kitchen will cost before demolition begins.

Ready to get an accurate estimate for your Austin kitchen remodel? Contact us today to schedule a free design consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Austin, TX?

A kitchen remodel in Austin typically costs between $30,000 and $250,000 depending on scope. A cosmetic refresh runs $30,000–$60,000, a mid-range full remodel costs $75,000–$130,000, and a luxury open-concept transformation can reach $140,000–$250,000 or more.

What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?

Cabinetry is typically the single largest expense in a kitchen remodel, often accounting for 30–40% of the total budget. Moving plumbing or gas lines and removing load-bearing walls are also major cost drivers.

Does a kitchen remodel add value to a home in Austin?

Yes. Kitchen remodels consistently rank among the highest-ROI home improvements in the Austin market. A well-executed mid-range kitchen remodel typically returns 60–80% of its cost in added home value, while luxury remodels in Westlake and Bee Cave can return even more.

How long does a kitchen remodel take in Austin?

Most kitchen remodels in Austin take 6–12 weeks of active construction, plus 4–8 weeks of design and planning before demolition begins. Projects involving structural changes may take longer.