Compare the highest-rated kitchen remodeling professionals in Millbrae, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, family-owned and operated kitchen and bath remodeling company with a showroom in nearby San Mateo. They are known for their comprehensive, start-to-finish service, handling everything from initial design and layout to custom cabinet fabrication, countertop installation, and final plumbing/electrical tie-ins. Their strength lies in personalized service and high-quality craftsmanship.
Formerly known as Forward Builders, this award-winning firm is a premier design-build contractor serving the Bay Area. They are recognized for their sophisticated design capabilities and project management. They excel at complex projects involving structural changes, space optimization, and integrating high-end appliances and finishes. Their process is highly collaborative and client-focused.
While widely known for lighting and bath fixtures, Zothex has a robust kitchen division that provides full remodeling services. They offer a one-stop-shop experience with an extensive showroom for clients to select materials, fixtures, and appliances. They are particularly strong in coordinating tile and backsplash work with countertop and cabinet selections, offering a cohesive design vision.
** The kitchen remodeling market in Millbrae and the surrounding San Mateo County area is characterized by high demand, strong competition, and a premium on quality. Homeowners in this affluent region typically have high expectations for materials, craftsmanship, and project management. The market is served by a mix of long-standing, local design-build firms and specialized kitchen & bath showrooms. Due to the high cost of living and construction, pricing for a full kitchen remodel in Millbrae is typically at the upper end of the national scale. A moderate, semi-custom remodel can range from $50,000 to $100,000, while high-end, full-gut renovations with custom cabinetry and premium appliances often start at $125,000 and can exceed $250,000. The most successful contractors distinguish themselves through excellent communication, transparent pricing, and the ability to manage complex projects involving the coordination of various skilled trades.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Millbrae regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about kitchen remodeling services in Millbrae, California.
For a full, mid-range kitchen remodel in Millbrae, homeowners should budget between $45,000 and $85,000, with high-end projects exceeding $100,000. Key local cost factors include Millbrae's higher-than-average labor rates, the cost of complying with strict California Title 24 energy efficiency codes for appliances and lighting, and potential seismic retrofitting requirements for older homes. Material choices, from cabinetry to countertops, also significantly impact the final price.
A typical full kitchen remodel in Millbrae takes 8 to 14 weeks from planning to completion. While the mild Bay Area climate allows for year-round work, scheduling is highly competitive. The best time to secure a reputable contractor is during the late fall or winter (outside of holidays), as spring and summer are peak seasons. Be mindful that obtaining permits from the City of Millbrae's Community Development Department can add several weeks to the initial timeline.
Key regulations include securing a building permit from the City of Millbrae for structural, electrical, and plumbing changes, and ensuring all work complies with California's strict codes. This includes Title 24 energy standards requiring LED lighting and high-efficiency appliances, water conservation rules affecting faucet flow rates, and proper disposal of construction debris per San Mateo County regulations. For homes built before 1979, lead-safe work practices are also legally required.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed (check their CSLB license online), insured, and have extensive local experience in Millbrae and San Mateo County. Ask for references from recent projects in the area and verify they are familiar with the City of Millbrae's specific permit process and inspection requirements. A reputable local contractor will understand the common structural layouts of Millbrae homes and can navigate local supply chains efficiently.
Many Millbrae homes, especially those from the mid-20th century, may have outdated electrical wiring, galvanized plumbing, and asbestos-containing materials that require professional abatement. Layouts are often smaller, so creative space planning is key. Furthermore, opening up walls may require seismic retrofitting to meet current code, and older foundations may need reinforcement to support heavy stone countertops or islands, which are common considerations for local contractors.