Comprehensive Guide
Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Guide
Materials, costs, trends, timelines, and expert advice for the two highest-impact renovations you can make. Written by Georgia contractors who have completed 500+ projects.
Part 1: Kitchen Remodeling
The kitchen is the heart of the home and the #1 renovation for increasing property value. In Georgia, kitchen remodels return 75-80% of their cost at resale — but more importantly, they transform your daily experience of your home.
Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
Understanding where your money goes helps you make smart allocation decisions:
- Cabinets (30-35%): The single largest expense. Stock cabinets ($3,000-$8,000), semi-custom ($8,000-$15,000), full custom ($15,000-$30,000+)
- Countertops (10-15%): Laminate ($10-$40/sqft), quartz ($50-$100/sqft), granite ($40-$80/sqft), marble ($75-$150/sqft)
- Labor (20-25%): Demolition, installation, plumbing, electrical, painting
- Appliances (10-15%): Budget ($3,000-$5,000 package), mid-range ($5,000-$10,000), luxury ($10,000-$25,000+)
- Flooring (5-10%): LVP ($3-$7/sqft), hardwood ($8-$15/sqft), tile ($5-$12/sqft)
- Backsplash, lighting, fixtures (5-10%): Subway tile ($10-$25/sqft), designer tile ($25-$60/sqft)
See our full renovation cost guide for detailed pricing.
Countertop Materials Compared
| Material | Cost/sqft | Durability | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quartz | $50-$100 | Excellent | Zero | Families, busy kitchens |
| Granite | $40-$80 | Very Good | Annual sealing | Traditional style, unique patterns |
| Marble | $75-$150 | Good (soft) | Frequent sealing | Luxury, low-use kitchens |
| Butcher Block | $30-$60 | Moderate | Regular oiling | Farmhouse style, islands only |
| Laminate | $10-$40 | Moderate | Zero | Budget renovations, rentals |
2026 Kitchen Design Trends in Georgia
- Warm minimalism: Clean lines with warm wood tones replacing the all-white kitchen trend
- Waterfall islands: Countertop material wrapping down the sides of the island
- Integrated appliances: Panel-ready refrigerators and dishwashers that blend with cabinetry
- Open shelving (accent): Mixed with closed cabinets for display + storage balance
- Matte black hardware: Replacing brushed nickel as the dominant finish
- Under-cabinet LED lighting: Both functional task lighting and ambient accent
Read more: Kitchen Remodel Ideas for Georgia 2026
Part 2: Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom renovations are the second highest-ROI project and often the most satisfying. A well-designed bathroom transforms your daily routine and adds significant resale value.
Bathroom Remodel Cost Breakdown
- Tile & flooring (25-30%): Ceramic ($2-$8/sqft), porcelain ($5-$15/sqft), natural stone ($10-$30/sqft)
- Vanity & countertop (15-20%): Stock vanity ($300-$800), semi-custom ($800-$2,000), custom ($2,000-$5,000+)
- Shower/tub (15-20%): Tub replacement ($800-$3,000), walk-in shower ($3,000-$8,000), tub-to-shower conversion ($5,000-$12,000)
- Plumbing (10-15%): Fixture installation, rough-in changes, valve replacement
- Labor (20-25%): Demolition, waterproofing, tile installation, finishing
Georgia-Specific Bathroom Considerations
Georgia's humidity creates unique challenges for bathroom renovations:
- Ventilation is critical: Install a high-CFM exhaust fan (80-110 CFM). Humidity damage is the #1 cause of bathroom deterioration in Georgia
- Mold-resistant materials: Use moisture-resistant drywall (green board or Kerdi board), mold-resistant paint, and porcelain tile (not natural stone) in shower areas
- Heated floors: Electric radiant floor heating adds comfort for Georgia's cool mornings (October-March) at $8-$15/sqft
- Waterproofing: Full shower waterproofing membrane (Schluter Kerdi or similar) is non-negotiable in Georgia's climate
Tub vs Shower: The 2026 Verdict
The trend is clear: walk-in showers are overtaking bathtubs. However, real estate data shows that homes with at least one bathtub sell faster. Our recommendation:
- Master bathroom: Walk-in shower with frameless glass — the luxury standard
- Secondary bathroom: Keep one tub in the house for families with children and resale value
- Accessibility: Consider a walk-in tub or barrier-free roll-in shower for aging in place
Getting Started
Whether you are planning a kitchen renovation, bathroom remodel, or both, the process starts with a free consultation. We visit your home, discuss your vision, and provide a detailed written estimate within 48 hours.
Plan Your Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel
Free in-home consultation, 3D design concepts, and a written estimate within 48 hours.