Based on the provided guide, the distinction between a kitchen remodel and a kitchen renovation depends on the level of changes being made to the space:

• Kitchen Remodeling: This typically involves functional and structural changes. It often includes expanding the layout, removing walls for open-concept designs, or changing the floor plan entirely. Remodeling focuses on improving how you move and work in the space by altering the "work-triangle" (sink, stove, and refrigerator) and may require significant engineering, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins.
• Kitchen Renovation: This is generally described as a process of updating or refreshing the existing space. It focuses on aesthetics and modernizing the style through material selections such as:
• Updating with fresh paint and modern fixtures.
• Installing new kitchen cabinets or countertops (like quartz or granite).
• Upgrading appliances.
• Refreshing finishes like hardware and backsplashes.

While the terms are often used interchangeably in the guide, remodeling is associated with structural transformations, whereas renovation centers on restoring or upgrading materials and finishes within the current footprint.