After owning a home in Sun Peaks for two decades, Sarah and Andrew Skinner were ready to tackle a kitchen upgrade, one that would better reflect their family’s current needs.
Like many long-term homeowners, the Skinners had made incremental changes over the years before a stair and office renovation completed in 2022 became the catalyst for addressing the kitchen.
“It motivated us to up-date the kitchen, as the spaces visually flow and integrate on this floor,” Sarah said.
Their experience highlights several key considerations for homeowners planning a kitchen renovation, particularly those managing a project remotely, as is quite common in Sun Peaks.
One of the first decisions was when to renovate.
“We timed the project so it could be done over the summer months when the house wasn’t fully occupied,” Sarah explained. Summer renovations can offer easier access for trades, fewer weather-related delays and less disruption — especially in resort communities where winter occupancy is high.
The Skinners worked with Living Kitchens, alongside Five Oaks as the main contractor, both companies based in Kamloops. As Sarah pointed out, selecting experienced professionals who regularly collaborate streamlined the process. For homeowners who aren’t on-site full time, clear communication can be essential.
“We decided to undertake our project with a company that was easy to communicate with from afar and who recorded absolutely everything during the project,” she said.
Perhaps the most important takeaway from the Skinners’ renovation is the value of detailed pre-planning.
“All finishes were selected prior to project commencement, budget set according to all selected finishes and agreed plans,” she explained.
Every element, from cabinetry and appliances to tile, was troubleshooted in advance.
“We were particularly detailed before project commencement and even picked the grout colour for the floor and wall tiles, so there were no nasty surprises.”
This level of preparation allowed the project to move forward smoothly, with a clear budget and timeline agreed upon by all parties.
To manage the renovation remotely, the team used a construction management platform called Coconstruct. “
“Photographs were taken regularly and sent to us as a record of the progress at every stage,” Sarah said. “Communication was easy and Five Oaks and Living Kitchens were very responsive at all times.”
Even the best-planned projects can encounter minor adjustments. In the Skinners’ case, careful documentation helped catch one issue early in the process.
“The wrong sized sink was detailed on a specification sheet, which was oversized, and we preferred to maximise counter top space,” she said. “This was all rectified quickly and easily.”
The completed renovation has transformed how the space functions, she said.
“The renovation has opened up our kitchen and dining/living room spaces, and the flow and aesthetic interface between the two and the rest of the floor in general has been greatly enhanced,” Skinner said. Extra island seating has made entertaining easier.
“Somehow it seems a lot less effort now. It’s a win win!”
Sarah’s advice to others planning a kitchen renovation is simple but practical:
“Try to make as many decisions as you can before project commencement and approve all layout plans, finishes, appliance models, time-line and budget.”
She also encourages homeowners to be realistic.
“Expect that there could be a few changes here and there as the project progresses, but a good contractor will have detailed measurements and will have done thorough investigations before the renovation begins.”
This story was featured in SPIN’s annual Home Issue. Read the whole issue below:
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