Kitchen Remodel in Sacramento, CA | Before & After: Open Layout, New Windows & Door | Tenax Construction

Kitchen remodel in Sacramento, CA: Tenax Construction turned a closed-off, dated kitchen into a bright, open, modern space. We removed the bulky soffits and decorative beams, opened a new walk-through to the living room, added new windows and an exterior door, and installed new cabinets, countertops, tile, and recessed lighting. We managed the whole project, from design and permits to the final walkthrough.

Project at a Glance

Location: Sacramento, CA
Project type: Full kitchen remodel with layout changes
Services: Design, permit-ready plans, permitting, demolition, framing, plumbing, electrical, drywall, paint, flooring, tile, cabinetry, countertops, windows, door, stucco
Key upgrades: Open walk-through to the living room, soffits removed, new windows and exterior door, 8 recessed lights, LED bar lighting

The Starting Point: A Dated, Closed-Off Kitchen

Before the remodel, low soffits, decorative ceiling beams, and wall paneling made the kitchen feel heavy and closed in. The bar area had its own soffit and cabinet, which cluttered the space even more. The homeowners wanted a brighter kitchen with more natural light, a better connection to the living room, and direct access to the outdoors.

Design and Permits Done for You

Every project starts with planning. Our team met with the homeowners to understand how they use their kitchen, then developed and refined design concepts until every detail was final. We prepared a permit-ready set of plans, handled the paperwork with the building department, and scheduled and attended every inspection. The homeowners never had to deal with the permit process themselves.

Demolition: Clearing the Way for a New Layout

We protected the surrounding areas of the home and carefully removed:

Old cabinets, countertops, and backsplash
Kitchen soffit and decorative beams
Bar soffit and bar cabinet
Floor tile and wall paneling
Ceiling fan and existing plumbing fixtures
Old windows
A section of exterior wall for the new door opening

We hauled away all debris and kept the job site clean throughout the project.

Framing: Opening Up the Space

The biggest change in this remodel was structural. Our framing crew built:

A new walk-through opening to the living room for an open-concept flow
A new exterior door opening for easy access to the backyard
New window openings to bring in more natural light
New ceiling framing where the soffits were removed, for a clean, flat ceiling
A new wall section next to the exterior door

We installed every stud, header, joist, and piece of blocking according to the construction plans.

Plumbing and Electrical Upgrades

Rough Plumbing

We installed new water supply lines and drain, waste, and vent piping to code, and relocated existing lines where the new layout needed it.

Electrical and Lighting

Good lighting makes a kitchen. We ran new wiring and installed:

8 recessed can lights for even, bright light across the kitchen
LED lighting in the bar cabinets for a warm accent
New switches and outlet covers throughout the kitchen

Walls and Ceiling: A Seamless Finish

After demolition and framing, we hung new drywall on the walls and ceiling, including the areas where the soffits and paneling used to be. We taped and textured everything to match the home’s existing texture, so the new surfaces blend in with the rest of the house. We finished with full surface prep, primer, and fresh paint on the kitchen walls and ceiling.

Flooring and Tile

We prepared the subfloor and installed new vinyl tile flooring across the kitchen, with precise cuts and alignment. A new tile backsplash above the countertops adds texture and makes cleanup easy. We finished all tile work with professional grouting and clean Schluter edge trim.

New Cabinets and Hardware

The kitchen now has quality stock cabinetry built to last:

Solid wood doors with plywood cabinet boxes
Dovetailed drawer boxes
Soft-close doors and drawers
Polished nickel drawer pulls

We leveled and secured every cabinet, then adjusted the doors and drawers so they line up perfectly.

Countertops and Backsplash

We installed new prefabricated countertops with a clean, standard eased edge, giving the homeowners a durable, good-looking work surface. The tile backsplash ties the countertops and cabinets together into one cohesive design.

Sink, Faucet, and Disposal

We installed and connected a new kitchen sink, a faucet with a built-in soap dispenser, and a continuous-feed garbage disposal, then tested each one.

Appliance Installation

We installed and connected the homeowners’ appliances:

Refrigerator and mini fridge
Cooktop and double wall oven
Microwave and dishwasher
Range hood, with new ducting run to the exterior roof for proper ventilation

New Windows and Exterior Door

New windows fill the kitchen with daylight. Each one is set, shimmed, and sealed for weatherproofing. A new center-glass exterior entry door with new hardware connects the kitchen to the outdoors and brings in even more light.

Exterior Stucco Repairs

Because we changed the window and door openings, we patched the stucco around each one to match the existing exterior. We also repaired damaged stucco at the rear corner of the home while we were there.

The Result: A Bright, Open, Modern Kitchen

The finished kitchen feels completely different. Without the soffits and beams, the ceiling feels higher. The new opening connects the kitchen to the living room, and the new windows and door bring in natural light all day. With new cabinets, countertops, tile, flooring, and lighting, this Sacramento kitchen is now the center of the home.

Watch the Project Video

Why Sacramento Homeowners Choose Tenax Construction

One team for everything: design, permits, construction, and finishes
Permits and inspections handled: we do the paperwork and meet the inspectors
Licensed contractor: California License #1057033
Clear communication from the first meeting to the final walkthrough
Local experience across Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado counties

Learn more about our kitchen remodeling services or browse more kitchen remodeling projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen in Sacramento?

Usually, yes, if the remodel involves structural changes, new openings, or new plumbing or electrical work. Tenax Construction prepares permit-ready plans, works with the building department, and attends all inspections for you.

Can kitchen soffits be removed?

Often, yes. Soffits sometimes hide ducts, pipes, or wiring, so they need to be checked before removal. In this project, we removed the kitchen and bar soffits and reframed the ceiling for a clean, open look.

Can you open a kitchen to the living room?

Yes. We framed a new walk-through opening in this home to create an open-concept layout. Every wall is different, so we review the structure during design.

How many recessed lights does a kitchen need?

It depends on the size and layout of the kitchen. For this project, we installed 8 recessed can lights for even coverage, plus LED accent lighting in the bar cabinets.

Do you install homeowner-supplied appliances?

Yes. We install and connect appliances such as cooktops, wall ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and range hoods, including running new hood ducting when needed.

Ready to Remodel Your Kitchen?

Tenax Construction can help you plan and build the kitchen you want in Sacramento or the surrounding area.

Call: (916) 586-8845
Email: sales@tenaxconstruction.com
Request a Free Estimate

Tenax Construction Inc. | 4205 Cincinnati Ave, Suite 300, Rocklin, CA 95765 | License #1057033

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 127 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Ольга Шпирна 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a large renovation project at our home, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. The team replaced almost all of our windows, painted the entire house and garage, completely remodeled two bathrooms, removed a wall to combine two rooms into one, and created beautiful smooth walls with molding in the new space. They also installed new carpeting throughout the house, added ceiling lighting to almost every room, replaced all of the outlets and switches, and took care of many other smaller projects along the way.

There was a lot of work involved, but the team was hardworking, responsive, and always willing to help. Communication was great throughout the entire process. We especially appreciated Nikolai, the project manager, who was very attentive and easy to work with.

We are very happy with the quality of the work and would definitely recommend this company. If we have any future renovation projects, we will absolutely reach out to them again!
  
 
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   Erin Alders 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Tenax Construction on multiple projects as the engineer of record, and my experience with their team has been excellent.

They consistently provide thorough and detailed information regarding each project’s specific requirements and are highly responsive throughout the design and coordination process.
Their team goes above and beyond to support well coordinated solutions and successful project outcomes.

Their approach to design and construction is practical and focused on efficient execution in the field, with a consistent standard of quality across conventional residential and high performance, high end construction.

Tenax Construction has consistently exceeded my expectations throughout our work together, and I highly recommend their team.
  
 
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   Constantin Burlacu 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is an amazing company to work with.
Thank you for your Business.
  
 
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   Sasha Hazelton 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic company - responsive, organized and  works with your budget. We absolutely love our remodeled bathrooms. Huge shout out to our amazing designer Elizabeth, our hard working and accommodating project coordinator Nikita, and Alex who did the incredible tile work for our master shower and archway!
  
 
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   Scott Titensor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have used Tenax Construction twice to install windows in our house. Denise was our representative and contact, appreciated his quick response to questions and concerns. Denise was with us from start to finish. Highly recommend this company. They have hard working and knowledgeable employees. Look forward to using them again in the future for additional projects. Thank you
  
 
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   Gina Rallo-Williams 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently completed a bathroom remodel with Tenax Construction and the entire experience exceeded our expectations from start to finish. Daniel, our sales consultant, was knowledgeable, professional, and took the time to understand exactly what we wanted. He provided clear information, answered all of our questions, and made us feel confident in moving forward with the project.

Elizabeth , the designer, was absolutely fantastic. She listened carefully to our ideas and transformed them into a beautiful, functional design that perfectly matched our style. Her attention to detail and creative vision made all the difference, and we couldn't be happier with the final look of our new bathroom.

Nikita, our project manager, kept everything running smoothly throughout the remodel. He maintained excellent communication, ensured the work stayed on schedule, and addressed any concerns promptly. His professionalism and commitment to quality gave us peace of mind throughout the entire process.

The craftsmanship was outstanding, the team was respectful and professional, and the project was completed with great attention to detail. Our new bathroom is beautiful, functional, and built to a very high standard. We highly recommend this company to anyone considering a remodel. Thank you to Daniel, Elizabeth, Nikita and the entire team for delivering such an exceptional experience and a stunning finished product!
  
 
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   Lorita Veal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tenax is a very good construction company to work with. Dennis was great thru the entire process. He’s hands on with his workers and also the homeowners making sure everything is going as it shud. He’s always available when u reach out to him and personally handles any issue that may arise. I had stucco wrk, whole house paint, doors removed and replaced. Everyone who came out was awesome. I am so pleased with the work and the customer service I am booking another appointment to have more work done on my foundation and insulation. I most definitely recommend Tenax Construction. Dennis will make sure u are provided with excellent work and the best customer service. He makes sure the customers are happy and pleased with their work & that’s important! Thank you Dennis and all the crew!!
  
 
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   Karthikeyan Selvaraj 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with Tenax Construction. They did an excellent job repainting the entire space and replacing the carpet, all within just a week—which is honestly impressive.

A special thanks to Vitalii, Philip, and the entire crew. They were extremely responsive, paid attention to every detail, and made sure all my requests were handled properly. The coordination and customer service throughout the process were top-notch.

If you’re looking for a team that delivers quality work quickly without cutting corners, I’d definitely recommend them.