Condo Kitchen Makeover Timeline Example: From Design to Completion in Toronto

Further reading

• Kitchen renovation in Toronto
• Condo kitchen upgrades
• Complete Mississauga kitchen renovation cost guide
• Quartz vs granite countertop comparison

Planning Phase (Hypothetical Scenario)

This 8-week timeline applies to a typical 100 sq ft Toronto condo kitchen with a $15k–$20k mid-range makeover. All timelines reflect 2025 GTA conditions. Imagine you own an 800 sq ft condo in downtown Toronto with a 100 sq ft kitchen. You want a mid-range makeover: new cabinets, countertop, sink, faucet, and backsplash. Your budget is CAD 15,000 to 20,000 including tax. This timeline is based on real GTA conditions in 2025.

Week 1: Measurement and Needs Assessment

Contact Josh Kitchen for an on-site measurement. Our designer will document your existing layout, plumbing, electrical, and any structural constraints. Meanwhile, submit a renovation application to your condo board — approval typically takes 5-10 business days. Cost at this stage: free measurement and consultation.

Week 2: Design Finalization and Material Selection

The designer provides 2-3 options including floor plans, 3D renderings, and material lists. You choose cabinet doors (MDF or real wood veneer), countertop (quartz or laminate), sink (stainless steel or granite composite), and backsplash (tile or glass). Design fee: CAD 500–1,000, deductible from the contract if you proceed.

Permitting & Condo Board Approval (Week 2–3)

While finalizing design, you must complete the condo board approval process. Most Toronto condos require a renovation application, engineering drawings, and proof of insurance. Approval typically takes 5–10 business days but can extend to 3 weeks if documents are incomplete. Below is a typical Toronto Condo Board Requirements table:

Design & Ordering (Week 3–4)

Week 3: Finalize Design and Place Order

After finalizing the design, Josh Kitchen's factory begins custom cabinet production. Production typically takes 2–3 weeks. Meanwhile, you order countertop, sink, faucet, and backsplash materials. Quartz countertop costs approximately CAD 80–120 per sq ft, plus installation. At this stage, you pay 50% of the total contract as a deposit.

Week 4: Wait for Materials and Permits

Cabinets are in production, and countertop stone is cut. The condo board may require engineering drawings or proof of insurance. Ensure all necessary permits are obtained, otherwise delays will occur. No additional costs at this stage, but time is critical.

Demolition & Prep (Week 4)

Demolition begins in Week 4. The crew removes old cabinets, countertop, sink, and backsplash, and protects floors and adjacent areas. Toronto condos typically restrict work hours to Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, with no noisy work on weekends. Demolition costs approximately CAD 1,000–2,000, included in the total budget. Note: you cannot live in the condo during demolition due to dust and noise restrictions.

Installation (Weeks 5–7)

Week 5: Cabinet Installation

Custom cabinets arrive and the installation team begins. Base cabinets are installed first, then wall cabinets, ensuring level and alignment. This takes 2–3 days. Meanwhile, plumbers and electricians adjust pipes and wiring, costing approximately CAD 500–1,000.

Week 6: Countertop and Sink Installation

Quartz countertop arrives and the team cuts, polishes, and secures it. Then the sink and faucet are installed. This takes 1–2 days. Note: countertop adhesive requires 24 hours to cure; do not use the sink during this time.

Week 7: Backsplash and Finishing

Finally, the backsplash (tile or glass) is installed and grouted. Then lights, outlet covers, and baseboards are fitted. This takes 2–3 days. Total installation costs approximately CAD 5,000–8,000, included in the total budget.

Final Walkthrough & Punch List (Week 8)

In Week 8, a final walkthrough is conducted. Josh Kitchen's project manager inspects with you: cabinet doors aligned, countertop level, sink leak-free, backsplash complete. Any issues are recorded on a punch list and repaired within 1–3 days. After approval, you pay the remaining contract balance (typically 50%). No additional costs at this stage, but repairs may involve material fees (e.g., replacing damaged tiles).

Post-Makeover Care & Warranty

After completion, Josh Kitchen offers a 1-year workmanship warranty covering cabinets, countertop, and installation issues. Quartz countertops require periodic sealing (annually), and cabinet doors should avoid abrasive cleaners. Toronto condos have higher humidity; use an exhaust fan to maintain ventilation. After warranty, contact Josh Kitchen for paid repairs at (647) 838-1083.

FAQ

How long does condo board approval take in Toronto?

Typically 5–10 business days, but can extend to 3 weeks if documents are incomplete. Prepare engineering drawings and proof of insurance in advance.

Can I live in the condo during renovation?

No, due to dust and noise restrictions. Most Toronto condos require the unit to be vacant during construction.

Does the budget include a contingency fund?

It is recommended to set aside 10%–15% of the budget for unexpected issues (e.g., old pipes or wiring problems).

How to choose cabinet door material?

MDF is budget-friendly, real wood veneer is more durable. For Toronto's humid environment, moisture-resistant MDF or real wood veneer is recommended.

How soon can I use the kitchen after renovation?

Immediately after walkthrough, but countertop adhesive requires 24 hours to cure; wait 48 hours before placing heavy items.

Ready to start your condo kitchen makeover? Book a free on-site measurement today. The Josh Kitchen team provides professional advice. Call (647) 838-1083.

Ready to start your condo kitchen makeover? Book a free on-site measurement today. The Josh Kitchen team provides professional advice. Call (647) 838-1083.