Not every kitchen renovation goes exactly as planned. This one in Atlanta, Georgia is a good example of that.
The original plan was simple: new cabinets, updated countertops, and better lighting. The kitchen looked old but functional, so everyone assumed it would be straightforward.
That assumption didn’t last long.
Kitchen before renovation — older cabinets and lighting.
Once the old cabinets came down, uneven walls became obvious. Some sections weren’t straight, which made installing new cabinets harder than expected. Fixing that wasn’t part of the original estimate, but skipping it would’ve caused bigger problems later.
So the budget started creeping up.
Another challenge was lighting. The kitchen had only one overhead fixture before. Instead of keeping it that way, recessed lights were added, which made a huge difference but added extra cost and time.
By the end, the renovation cost around $18,500, which was higher than planned but still worth it.
**Finished kitchen with new cabinets and lighting.**
The final result was brighter, more functional, and honestly easier to cook in. The biggest lesson here is to expect surprises, especially in older Atlanta homes.
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, leave some room in your budget. You’ll probably need it.