Redoing your kitchen can be incredibly daunting. Making a model in SketchUp is one way to test your ideas, see what you like, and make decisions without committing a huge investment of resources.

To start, you're going to need to take measurements of the layout of your kitchen. Sketch a quick floor plan, then take measurements. Recreating that floor plan in SketchUp is a simple matter of using the Line tool (L) and entering distances.

Building Shell:

To start adding dimension, first you'll need to get out of plan view. Use the orbit tool ("O") and look at your model from the side. I also like to change out of "Perspective" and into "Parallel" found under the "Camera" menu.

 Counter Tops and Cabinets

Start your counters with a Rectangle  (R) in the shape of the base. Typical counter depth is 24" and it's a good idea to keep to increments of 3" in length. Because anything drawn in SketchUp has a tendency to stick together I try creating a group of objects like the counter top (Ctrl + G) is a great way to keep it contained.

 Rendering and Details

After adding all the counter tops, it's time to start detailing and rendering a view. Switch back over to "Perspective" view under the "Camera" menu. Orient the camera to a good interior view by zooming (Z), orbiting (O), and panning (H) into position. Zooming can also be accomplished with a scroll of the mouse wheel and panning can be accessed by holding shift while using the Orbit tool.

The finished model can be used for any number of views and can help you visualize your kitchen design! Different size appliances, finish materials, and cabinet styles can all be substituted in to customize your kitchen the way you like!