Ashe, that is the problem. If a GC makes a mistake and there needs to be a do over they will find a way to add the cost somewhere else. I had total trust in my KD as this is our second project together. I could have saved myself a lot of grief by putting less trust in him and taken more responsibility myself. It is all turning out okay but it would have been way less stressful if I had insisted on weekly meetings and more communcation from him. I lost all my oak window trim above the sink because he didn't take that into consideration in his plans. He is going to split the cost on replacing the oak with maple that matches my cabinets. I loved the trim around the window but I do think the maple will look better. I will also lose a custom built oak shelf that is above the breakfast area doors because I can't get my cabinet open from that side unless I take the shelf down. I may just decide to not try to access the cabinet from that side. All in all I think it will look good but honestly I am disgusted that we ran into issues like this with a seasoned KD. I truly expected a flawless install. Unrealistic huh?

When you listed the things that you don't like, none of them would require you do do big structural changes. things I do not like include: old, run down cabinets that are chipped and very worn inside, not having efficient and useful storage/cabinets, including two corner cupboards that are black holes; chipped flooring; 1990s countertops... I'd like something new and clean, with ample storage and more counterspace. If you change the way you use your rooms so that you only have one living area and one dining area, each can be a good size. Moving walls can add unexpectedly to your expenses because you need to re-do all the flooring and the ceilings too. If you can find a way to meet your needs within your existing footprint, you can use more of your budget for, for example, these very efficient storage units to make good use of your 2 corners. With the right units you can get a lot into those corners and make them fully functional. I lengthened the wall of your kitchen beside the refrigerator, which is a very inexpensive renovation, to give you more wall space and more counter space. I switched the refrigerator and the "new" counter space, to give you a nice long counter between the refrigerator and stove. But you could leave the refrigerator where it is and put a pantry to the right of it, or a second counter, if you feel that meets your needs better. I think you have room for a storage pantry in the dining area too, especially if you switch the "swing" of the door which is not a big structural change. Your current nook area could have a movable island like this to avoid issues with the low window, or a peninsula of some kind if you like. You haven't given us exact measurements so these are just ideas. Renos can run away with you cost-wise, and it's easy to get carried away and over-improve your home relative to others in your area. I think you can get the kitchen you want without structural changes.

We had a hard time finding contractors as well. A few contractors told us their staff would rather take the government subsidy ($2k/month) and stay home. We’re DIYing the rest of our Ikea kitchen just to get it done instead of wait for contractors. I bought my stove last year. It was in stock in the warehouse at the time and they could hold it until I wanted it delivered. They called us weekly since they reopened in May to confirm if we still wanted it. Yes of course I want it if I paid for it. I think they were hoping we would change our minds and they could re-sell it to someone else. Maybe you can try this approach if there’s something you really want. Are you open to buying floor models or open boxed (scratch & dent) appliances? I popped into the Best Buy and a couple appliance store warehouses over the weekend and they had a good selection of appliances. Also, I would ask the flooring store what readily available means. Is it in their warehouse or with the supplier?

You've received some good advice from millworkman and mint. Here we go again with the GC who you put all your trust in (and understandably). Today, more than ever, you need to vet not just the GC, but his primary sub-contractors. There is a shortage of qualified labor in the trades and this compounds the problem. Your installation does not meet industry standards. That's on the GC as he hired the tile installer (who is not a professional). Unfortunately, the consumer needs to take a more educated approach to these projects. While a long read, this industry draft document (under review), might be helpful as you approach discussions with your GC: LOOKING FOR A QUALIFIED TILE INSTALLER? HERE’S HOW TO FIND A GOOD MATCH FOR YOUR PROJECT VERIFY THE TILE INSTALLER’S QUALIFICATIONS Do they have liability insurance and if they have employees, are they covered with Worker’s Compensation Insurance? · Make sure you can verify appropriate insurance coverage. Are they licensed (if required in your area)? · Verify. Some states do not require tile contractor’s to be licensed. How many years have they been working exclusively as tile installers? · It takes many years to become proficient as a dedicated, qualified tile professional. Five years or more would be an expected minimum. What kind of training did they receive? Do they participate in on-going professional industry training from organizations and or manufactures, and specifically what? · Installers who have completed an apprenticeship under a Qualified Tile Installer and participate in industry training are generally more likely to follow standards and recommendations and stay current with products, materials, and industry updates. Are they familiar with the TCNA Handbook and ANSI Standards and do they follow these industry recommendations? · The TCNA Handbook coupled with ANSI Standards are the industry recognized guidelines for the installation of ceramic, porcelain, stone and glass tile for a wide range of applications. A qualified tile professional will be familiar with and know how to specify and use these reference tools. If wet areas (showers/baths) are to be included in the work performed, what approved system/methods will they use to assure a long-lasting installation? · Tile installations in wet areas require some very important preparation to avoid leaks and unwanted moisture problems. Hybrid or unapproved methods, and the use of materials inappropriate for this application can contribute to a very costly and unwanted result that too often requires complete removal and replacement by a qualified professional. A quality installation should last decades or longer. What manufacturer’s products do they use and do they comply with manufacturer’s instructions? · There are many manufacturers of quality tile setting materials. Most perform well with use of approved methods and adherence to manufacturer specifications. Qualified tile installers will be well-versed on the materials and systems they prefer and should be able to answer your questions about the process and materials and their associated warranties. Do they have a company website or social media page with photos of their work? · Professionals will have a public presence that is available to consumers so you can review their work and customer reviews. Lack of a traceable, legitimate, and committed business should be a deterrent to hiring. Can you speak with recent customers and see photos of those projects? · Qualified, experienced tile contractors will have a loyal client base that is happy to recommend them and share their experience. Do they have experience working with the type of tile you plan to use? · There are different methods, materials and considerations when installing various tile products. Ceramic, porcelain, large format tile, handmade tile, natural stone, glass. Verify their experience and training with the tile product you have chosen. Talk to them about positives and challenges of past projects · Get to know the tile professional as part of your project team and takes pride in their work as a tile installer. If your General Contractor is hiring the tile installer, it may make sense to request meeting with the GC and tile installer in advance of the installation. What has been their greatest challenge as a tile installer? · Listen carefully to understand the installer’s limitations and ability to meet your expectations. Do they or their team belong to a professional organization like NTCA (National Tile Contractor’s Association)? · Industry involvement is one indication of a tile installation company’s commitment to their craft. It gives them access to education, technical information, and other resources to assist them in professionally serving you. Are they, or do they have Certified Tile Installer’s (Certified Tile Education Foundation, CTI) on their team? · The certification of tile installers is an important step forward for the consumer. The industry has established a process to certify tile installers. Certification identifies an installer as being a dedicated and knowledgeable professional whose competence in installing tile has been verified to meet specific tile industry standards.