Working with a contractor can be intimidating, especially if you're hiring one for the first time, simply because you don't know what to expect. We do our best to walk you through the design and remodel  process so that you know exactly what's happening each step of the way. In the video below, Christian  shares what to expect during your consultation with Pinnacle.

In this series, we'll be exploring different interior design styles and sharing some of the key components of each. In the first video of this series, we explore the Modern Farmhouse style.

Many of our  Wichita remodeling  clients in the area complain about their small, outdated kitchens. Today the trend is open concept—the kitchen and living area open to each other—so that you can enjoy your family or friends as you prepare things in the kitchen. Entertaining is very important for many people and small, cramped kitchens make that priority difficult, if not impossible. Our clients in Wichita’s neighboring Haysville, KS were frustrated  by the cramped space in their existing kitchen. They wanted a  kitchen remodeling  project to use an open concept design. The existing golden oak cabinetry and compartmentalized rooms were outdated and they wanted a new look. We worked with a local designer who designed the space and finalized the selections. The first thing we did was remove the cabinetry and demolish the wall that separated the dining room and kitchen. This immediately gave the space a much more open feel. The photo pictured below is an angle from the living room looking into the kitchen showing how much bigger the space looks! These next few pictures show a very large island in the center of the room. The client previously had a table just off the kitchen where they would eat less formal meals. We removed that table and made room for this island that serves many purposes – storage from both sides of the island, eating spot, food prep space, and location for the cooktop. The next two pictures show a wall oven with a microwave on top of the oven. It is a great idea to put the microwave in a cabinet to clear space on the countertop. We were also able to give them prep space on the right side of the oven and microwave. The picture below shows the huge amount of space on the sink side of the kitchen. As you can see, redesigning this kitchen created much more usable storage and work prep space than the previous kitchen. This picture shows another project we tackled while we remodeled the kitchen. We removed the “half wall” on the sides of the stairwell and installed new newel posts and wrought iron balusters. This continued to help with the open concept feel our client was trying to achieve. These pictures show the updated flooring as well. We removed the existing flooring, installed a new underlayment and installed a groutable Luxury Vinyl Tile. This tile looks just a ceramic or porcelain tile that we’re used to seeing in Wichita, KS, but the labor cost to install is less than traditional ceramic tile, it is softer and warmer on your feet. We applied a specialty grout in between the tiles to finish the authentic look. Click here to see some of the other kitchens we’ve completed!

✔ We've met at your home for the first time to discuss your project ✔ We've met with you at our office to review your design agreement and ballpark range for the construction of your remodel ✔ You've decided to move forward with Pinnacle for the design of your project and have signed your design agreement... Now what? In the video below, Pinnacle owner, Christian Raab , explains what to expect during the design process when working with Pinnacle.

Are You Ready For a Kitchen Remodel? Are you embarrassed of your kitchen ? Do you love to host friends and family but avoid doing so because you don’t want them to see your kitchen? Are you considering transforming your kitchen into a space that reflects your style and meets your needs? Renovating your kitchen can breathe new life into your home and enhance its functionality, but it's essential to understand what is involved in planning effectively. There are many questions that you may have; how long will it take? What should I do in my kitchen? How much will it cost? These are great questions, but unfortunately hard to answer. We will do our best to answer the question of how much it will cost to remodel your kitchen, but it will take some explaining before we get to the answers.  Setting the Stage Let me first outline some parameters for our project. The cost ranges that we're providing are for a kitchen that meets the following criteria:  This kitchen is in a single-family home in Wichita, KS or surrounding communities and is built around 1990. This is a medium sized kitchen.  Professional designers will design and develop the kitchen. Good quality, name brand materials will be used in this kitchen.  The project will be built according to local building codes.  The work will be performed by a professional firm that is licensed and insured.  Are you ready to go?  How Much Does it Cost to Remodel a Kitchen? These cost ranges are intended to provide a general idea of what you can expect to invest in your kitchen remodel, but keep in mind that every project is unique. Also, please note that these costs do not include the costs of new appliances. You can spend $5,000 on new appliances, or you can splurge and spend much more on a new appliance package. Let's Get Started! Developing a budget for a kitchen remodeling project can be tricky, and while this guide is helpful, the most effective way to determine the cost of a new kitchen is to arrange an initial consultation with an experienced design-remodeling company. If you are ready to start a successful project, our team is ready to help. We would be excited to collaborate with you in turning your Wichita Kitchen Remodel into the kitchen of your dreams. Reach out to us today!

Finding someone to remodel your kitchen or bathroom can be one of the hardest and most stressful things you will ever do. It’s very important to choose your contractor wisely… I’m sure you’ve heard the horror stories! Below we list four common blunders people make when choosing a contractor and some helpful tips for avoiding these mistakes. 1. Using price as a determining factor:  I’m sure you’ve heard not to go with the lowest price for your remodel. But does that mean you should go with the highest price? Or should you go with the middle guy? I believe it’s very important to spend a lot of time interviewing your potential contractor. You need to be able to work with them well. If they are a reputable remodeling business they won’t have anything to hide and will welcome the opportunity to explain their process, look at their past projects, etc. Try to determine what value the company will bring you. I just spoke with a client today who had hired a guy to remodel their small master bathroom and four months later, he still isn’t done. He gave them a great deal, but I bet they would’ve gladly spent a lot more money on the project to have it completed in a timely manner.  2. Neglecting to design the project:  This is a huge mistake! It is nice to save a few bucks and go and pick out the selections yourself, but in the long run, you will most likely regret it. You are going to see the space you are remodeling every single day. You want the space to be impressive and cohesive. Be sure to hire a remodeling company that has a design specialist to help you through the process!  3. Not paying attention to what’s behind the walls:  Just because a company has a lot of nice pictures and maybe the finished product looks nice, doesn’t mean that it’s a quality job. The quality behind the walls is crucial: plumbing, electrical, insulation, and waterproofing, to name a few, need to be done well in order to keep your home safe and protected from costly problems down the road. We have demoed so many bathrooms where the shower waterproofing failed – the outside looked great but the studs were molding and rotted! It’s important not to try to save a buck by going with a company that doesn’t pay attention to “behind the scenes” details.  4. Rushing into the job:  Remodeling a kitchen or a bathroom takes a lot of time . We wish we could start the Monday after you call and be in and out in a couple of days, but that simply is not the case. It can take months to plan, provide details and drawings, and purchase all items for the project. That’s even before we start demo! Details get missed when things are rushed. Make sure the company you hire is not rushing into the job!  If you're ready to start your project the right way—with a trusted, detail-oriented team— reach out to us today for a consultation. Let’s bring your dream space to life!

Pinnacle owners, Christian and Rachel Raab, explain the difference between two flooring options: engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank (LVP), and what to consider when deciding between them.

There are a seemingly endless amount of tile options on the market, which is nice, but can also be a bit overwhelming. In this video, Pinnacle owners Christian and Rachel Raab show us a few of their favorite options and what they love about them.

Selecting the right hardware for your cabinetry can make all the difference when it comes to achieving a particular look. Pinnacle owner, Rachel Raab, shares her advice when it comes to picking out cabinet pulls.

Why You Need a Designer for Your Space Why is having a designer so important? A designer helps clients narrow down their style preferences, refining what they like (and don’t like) to create a clear design plan. Through 3D modeling, clients can visualize different layout options, making it easier to transform their existing space with confidence. Choosing a design-build company means working with a team that handles both the design and construction in-house, ensuring a seamless process from concept to completion. This approach not only brings your vision to life but also ensures that the design is practical and buildable when it's time to construct. Design plays a crucial role in how we experience spaces. A designer connects your vision with practical solutions. They help in clarifying your ideas and preferences. Additionally, a designer takes into account functionality and aesthetics. This balance creates a space that is not only beautiful but also practical. Benefits of a Professional Designer Professional designers offer several benefits: Creative Expertise : Their experience in design trends can infuse new life into your project. Budget Management : A designer helps you stay within budget. They are skilled in sourcing materials and managing costs effectively. Time Efficiency : They streamline the process, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life. Project Coordination : A professional designer coordinates with contractors and suppliers. This reduces the stress of dealing with multiple parties. Visualization and Clarity One of the standout features of working with a designer is the use of technology. 3D modeling provides a clear visual representation of your project. This allows you to envision the final result before any changes are made. It also helps to avoid misunderstandings. A visual plan gives you confidence in the design choices made. Why Choose a Design-Build Company? Opting for a design-build company can be an advantage. These companies handle both the design and construction processes. This integration ensures a cohesive approach. It builds a strong foundation for your project. Having one team manage both aspects creates accountability and reduces risks. Clear communication leads to smoother project flow. Cost-Effective Solutions Designing a space can often seem costly. However, a designer helps in finding cost-effective solutions. They have access to bulk purchasing discounts and reputable suppliers. This advantage helps to bring down overall project costs significantly. Furthermore, professional designers prioritize quality. The investment in a designer pays off in the form of durability and longevity of materials. A Focus on Functionality A well-designed space is functional. Designers assess how you will use the space. Their insights aid in determining the best layout and design features. Whether it is for work or relaxation, the right design enhances your daily activities. Comfort and usability are priorities that should not be overlooked. Collaborative Process Working with a designer is a collaborative process. It requires your input and vision along with their expertise. This collaboration ensures that the final outcome reflects your style. The designer will listen to your needs and preferences. They will also provide guidance and suggestions based on their professional understanding. Conclusion In conclusion, hiring a designer is a crucial step when planning any project. They bring a wealth of expertise and a fresh perspective to your vision. A seamless integration of design and construction ensures that your final outcome is both beautiful and functional. If you’re considering a project, don’t underestimate the power of professional design. To learn more about how a designer can transform your space, click here .

By Christian Raab We recently completed a home remodeling project for a client in East Wichita. Do you know why they chose to remodel? You guessed it! A few of the cabinets were literally falling apart and coming off the wall. They weren’t that old, but with heavy plates and serving dishes, the particleboard construction of these cabinets just couldn’t hold up. Why You Should Invest in Quality Cabinets So why settle for cabinets that won’t last five years? I completely understand—it’s tempting to go with the big-box cabinet deals you see advertised everywhere. But here's the truth: Cheap cabinets are one of the fastest ways to ruin your remodel investment. They may look decent for a year or two, but behind those shiny doors, you’re dealing with: Flimsy particleboard that warps with humidity Weak joints that loosen over time Finishes that chip and peel faster than you can say “soft-close hinge” If you’re remodeling your Wichita home—especially your kitchen, bathroom, or mudroom—you deserve cabinetry that’s built to last. Let’s break down what that looks like. What High-Quality Cabinets Should Include (But Often Don’t) Plywood Cabinet Boxes Forget particleboard. Plywood boxes are stronger, more moisture-resistant, and won’t sag or crack with daily use. Dovetail Drawers If your drawer joints are stapled or glued, that’s a red flag. Dovetail construction means interlocking joints—stronger, more elegant, and made to last for decades. Durable, Professional Finishes Spray-painted particleboard isn’t a finish—it’s a shortcut. Many times, cabinetry is finished with cheap lacquer finishes overseas and won’t hold up over time. Soft-Close Hardware This isn’t just about luxury—it protects your investment. Soft-close hinges and glides reduce stress on the cabinet structure, keeping everything intact longer. Wichita Cabinetry, Built for Real Life At Pinnacle, we design and build custom cabinetry for Wichita homeowners who care about quality—not just appearances. Whether you're remodeling in College Hill, Andover, or Eastborough, your cabinets should: Match your style Maximize your space Stand up to everyday life We work with local and regional cabinetmakers who share our commitment to quality—using solid construction, premium materials, and timeless craftsmanship. The Hidden Cost of “Builder Grade” Cabinets That "deal" on cabinets might seem like a win—until: Doors start warping Drawers stick or fall off the track Finish starts peeling in your high-humidity Kansas summer Remodeling is an investment—cabinetry is one of its biggest line items. Why cut corners on the very thing you use every day? Our Design-Build Process = No Cabinet Regrets As a Wichita-based design-build company, we don’t just throw in whatever cabinets “fit the budget.” We help you make informed decisions—and we build around your priorities. From 3D cabinet renderings to curated finish samples, you'll see your cabinetry plan come together before a single board is cut. If you're planning a kitchen or bath remodel in Wichita, don’t gamble with low-quality cabinets! For more information, please visit our website at PinnacleRemodel.com . The Importance of Choosing the Right Materials Choosing the right materials is crucial for your cabinetry. High-quality materials ensure durability and longevity. When you invest in solid wood or high-grade plywood, you’re making a choice that will pay off in the long run. Why Solid Wood? Solid wood cabinets offer a timeless appeal. They can be refinished, painted, or stained to match your evolving style. Unlike particleboard, solid wood withstands wear and tear. It’s resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. The Role of Hardware The hardware you choose also matters. High-quality hinges and drawer slides can make a significant difference in functionality. Look for options that come with warranties, as they often indicate better craftsmanship. Customization Options Custom cabinetry allows you to tailor your storage solutions. Think about your specific needs. Do you need deep drawers for pots and pans? Or perhaps pull-out shelves for easy access? Custom options can maximize your space and enhance your kitchen's efficiency. Conclusion: Invest Wisely In conclusion, investing in high-quality cabinetry is essential for a successful remodel. Don’t let the allure of cheap cabinets lead to regret. Choose materials and craftsmanship that will stand the test of time. With the right choices, your kitchen or bathroom can be both beautiful and functional. Christian is the founder and owner of Pinnacle. He began the company here in Wichita in January of 2012. He grew up in Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania, working the summers with his neighbor, who was a contractor. He later went to school to earn his degree in business with a construction emphasis. Christian’s vision for the company has always been to provide homeowners with a great experience as they work with a professional team they can trust. When Christian isn’t at the office, you can find him spending time with his five kids, woodworking, and watching the Steelers.

The Bakers’ home underwent a stunning transformation! Their main goal was to open up their main living area—including the kitchen, dining nook, and living room—to create a brighter, more inviting space for their family. By reworking the kitchen cabinetry layout and updating the finishes, we transformed their home from dark and closed-off to open, airy, and full of life. Watch as we bring new energy into their space, turning it into a bright and welcoming place to gather and make memories!