Planning a kitchen remodel for your Atlanta home? With careful planning, you can get optimal results without going over budget. The key is to identify the changes that can have the most impact in the project, then work out the details around these. Knowing what to prioritize can serve as a kind of compass that will guide your decisions and inform your choices as you plan your remodel and execute your ideas.

While every kitchen renovation project is unique, these key elements are typically the most important ones to consider.

1. The layout

Improving your kitchen’s layout offers an opportunity to create a space that better meets your needs, enhances functionality, and reflects your personal style, resulting in a more enjoyable and efficient kitchen space. This can also take up a large part of your budget, particularly when you have to move the plumbing around. This is why it’s important to put priority on planning the layout before any other remodeling details.

When planning your kitchen’s layout, several factors should be considered. These include the flow of work and movement in the zone. Adopt the concept of the work triangle, which refers to an imaginary triangle formed by the three primary work areas: the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator. The total distance between these three points should be neither too small nor too large, allowing for easy movement between them.

Consider adding specific zones for food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and storage. Allow sufficient clearance space around the major kitchen appliances and work areas so you can move freely without any obstructions.

2. Storage solutions

Having ample storage is essential to a functional and attractive, clutter-free kitchen. It’s important to carefully consider your needs and how to optimize space to keep the kitchen organized and efficient.

Take stock of your kitchen items and equipment to determine your storage requirements. Choose cabinets that offer maximum storage capacity, such as deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and adjustable racks. Consider tall cabinets that reach the ceiling to maximize vertical storage, especially for items you don’t use frequently. Incorporate specialty storage solutions such as a pull-out spice rack or a built-in wine rack to accommodate specific items.

3. Aesthetics

Your new kitchen’s aesthetics will factor greatly into your satisfaction with the finished result. Plan how you want your kitchen to look and choose appliances, accessories, backsplashes, lighting and other details around your desired aesthetic.

Start with a color palette that reflects your personal style and complements the overall design of your home. Consider the colors of cabinets, countertops, walls, backsplash, and flooring. Opt for a balanced combination of colors to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

The style and finish of your cabinets play a significant role in the overall aesthetics of your kitchen. Choose a cabinet design that aligns with the desired theme, whether it’s modern, traditional, farmhouse, or transitional.

The countertops are a prominent feature in the kitchen, so select a material that not only looks great but also suits your lifestyle. Granite, quartz, and marble offer a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from.

Work with your kitchen remodeling expert in putting these essential elements together into a cohesive whole—all while staying within your budget