Kitchen design within a budget

Almost every client I am working with in the last couple years has concern with creating their new kitchen within a definite budget.  It is such a struggle to give my clients the kitchen with the conveniences and design without going over the budget.  As a designer, I don't want to sacrifice the quality of the cabinets because they are the biggest investment and hardest to replace.  A laminate counter can be changed out and upgraded later, appliances can be upgraded later if they are standard sizes, flooring can be easily upgraded.  I have upgraded many kitchens with tile floors, counters, or back splashes.  The cabinets were still in great shape because they were of good quality.  It was a great savings to the homeowner wanting to change an outdated kitchen;  the cabinets proved to be a  good investment.  Investing the largest part of the budget into the cabinetry is a way to get the best return on your budget later.
One thing that really adds to the cost of a kitchen is the drawers.  The best way to store in a kitchen is to have lots of drawers in different depths.  It is so convenient to be able to see everything you have stored
easily by just pulling open a drawer.  The drawers are the first thing to break down in a lower quality  (lower price)  cabinet.  The base cabinet with the wood pull outs inside is the same price as a drawer bank, so no savings there.  When planning the base cabinets, use drawers for the things you use daily, like silverware, storage containers, and towels.  To save money on the cabinetry, use a regular base cabinet without drawers for large items that can be easily found and reached like large pots and pans.  Put a storage container inside for the lids.   Use a "flat roll out" shelf in a base cabinet for things like casserole dishes and mixing bowls.  They can sit nested, or flat with their lids, and be easily found and reached when pulled out.  The flat pull outs are less cost than the drawers, and are good for the things you don't use daily.  Another cost savings is to use a 12" deep pantry, rather than the 24" deep pantry with pull outs.  Almost any item from the grocery store can fit on a 12" deep shelf, and be easily found.
Add an extra shelf or 2 in order to make the most of the space.  Rather than using a lazy susan in the corner, check out an easy reach cabinet.  If the 2 doors are hinged together, you can pull it open and have full access to the corner.  The cost is much less, and the storage is not bad since you can see everything.