Kitchens are the heart of most homes. They’re where families gather to eat, drink and hang out.

Regarding renovation, few projects can significantly impact a home more than a complete kitchen remodel. But before you start, take the time to understand the fundamentals of this primary remodeling task.

Layout

The layout of a kitchen is the most critical aspect of a successful renovation. A harmonious arrangement of countertops, appliances, and storage spaces ensures your kitchen meets all your functional needs.

One of the most popular kitchen design ideas is an island. An island offers extra workspace, storage, and seating for family members.

Ideally, an island should never block the main walking area of the kitchen and should allow traffic to flow from one work zone to another. It should also create an efficient working triangle for food prep.

Appliances

Appliances are one of the most critical aspects of your kitchen renovation. They can determine the function and style of your kitchen.

When shopping for new appliances, it’s best to consider how your family will use them. This can help you narrow down your choices at the showroom.

You’ll also want to think about where you plan on placing them. Keep in mind that putting appliances close together can make them work harder than they need to, so be sure to envision how they’ll flow through the space.

Choosing appliances that are energy efficient can also help you save money on your monthly utility bill. Look for models with the Energy Star label, which means they meet or exceed energy efficiency standards set by the EPA.

Countertops

Countertops are typically the primary focal point of your kitchen and need to be a priority during your home renovation. This is why choosing a countertop that will fit your lifestyle and complement your kitchen design is essential.

The materials you select for your countertops will impact your space’s functionality, durability, and aesthetics. There are many options to consider, but each material has its pros and cons.

Granite is the most popular choice for a natural stone countertop. This durable material is available in various colors, patterns, and textures. It’s also straightforward to maintain.

Cabinetry

Cabinetry is one of the fundamentals of any kitchen renovation. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to make a significant impact, and it also offers an opportunity to create a unique look and feel in your space.

There are several cabinet styles that you can choose from to suit your design needs. These include frameless, partial overlay, and inset cabinets.

For instance, a raised panel door has a grooved frame surrounding a higher center panel to add depth and visual interest. This cabinet door style looks great in rustic, contemporary, and traditional kitchens.

Lighting

Whether planning a full-scale renovation or just replacing your fixtures and finishes, a kitchen lighting plan is essential. It should include a mix of general/ambient lighting, task illumination, and accent light.

The right combination of light layers will help you achieve a functional, safe, and beautiful kitchen. To start, determine which areas need a bright, focused illumination source to complete tasks.

For example, if you have a large island in your kitchen, consider adding pendant lights above it. These fixtures offer direct task light for this critical prep area and can be set on dimmers for increased functionality.