When planning a kitchen renovation, it is important not only to create a work plan, decide on materials, and choose appliances. It is also essential to determine the budget during the design stage. Artos specializes in professional renovations in Charlotte and the surrounding area. We help plan, optimize, and reduce expenses.
What Is the Average Cost of a Kitchen Remodel?
This year, the price ranges from $10,000 to $50,000–60,000. Sometimes the amount can reach $100,000–150,000. For example, if the room is large and requires a custom design project, the expenses will be significant. The cost depends on several factors:
- Type of work. Light cosmetic or partial remodeling will cost less than a complete reconstruction.
- Room size. The larger the space, the more expensive the renovation.
- Price category of finishing materials. Premium finishes can take up half of the total budget. With inexpensive finishes, the project will be more affordable.
- Necessary furniture. Primarily, this includes storage systems made of cabinets and drawers. A dining set — table and chairs — is also essential for the kitchen.
- Planned technical equipment. This includes appliances such as a stove or cooktop with an oven, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, air fryer, mixer, and other cooking devices.
What Is a Realistic Kitchen Renovation Budget?
Experts recommend: to get a return on investment, you should spend about 5–15% of your home’s value. If the house costs $400,000, then the budget for renovation and purchases should be between $20,000 and $60,000. This would be a solid investment. For a more exclusive, luxurious kitchen, you can spend more.
A realistic budget is the amount that allows you to reach your final goal while avoiding unnecessary expenses. When planning costs and imagining how the updated room will look, follow this algorithm:
- Identify the problem. What makes renovation necessary? Common reasons include an outdated design, old appliances, worn or inconvenient furniture, or preparing the home for sale.
- Choose the type of renovation. Refreshing finishes and cabinet fronts costs less than a full reconstruction. For example, repainting cabinets and replacing finishes can save 5–15% and cut the project timeline in half. However, the furniture structure and internal layout will remain the same. If that’s not acceptable, consider a complete kitchen remodel.
- Measure the space and calculate cabinet needs. Use a tape measure to find the room’s length, width, and height. Determine how many cabinets you need and whether the storage system should be expanded. If storage is insufficient, add more cabinets — but ensure the furniture fits comfortably without restricting movement.
What Are All the Expenses Involved in a Kitchen Remodel?
The total cost is usually divided into two categories: labor and materials.
Labor Costs
Labor costs depend on the type and scope of work, and on which kitchen elements will be changed. The more tasks and the more complex they are, the higher the contractor’s price.
| Service | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Installing kitchen cabinets | $1,800–9,500 |
| Installing countertops | $1,860–4,400 |
| Installing & connecting appliances (per unit) | $120–280 |
| Laying flooring | $1,500–4,700 |
| Installing a faucet | $160–370 |
| Installing a sink | $220–640 |
| Installing an interior door | $360–1,200 |
| Installing a backsplash | $580–1,350 |
| 1 hour of electrician work | $50–100 |
| Moving a gas line | $270–900 |
| Switching from electric to gas | $150–2,000 |
| Demolishing a non-load-bearing wall | $300–500 |
| Demolishing a load-bearing wall | $1,000–3,000 |
| Installing a window | $300–1,200 |
Material Costs
The cost of materials depends on specific needs. The price range is wide, so here are the average figures:
| Material/Item | Cost (USD) |
| Kitchen cabinet (per linear foot) | $100–1,200 |
| Hardware (per piece) | $1–500 |
| Countertop | $480–12,000 |
| Kitchen appliances | $4,500–10,000 |
| Flooring | $500–32,000 |
| Recessed light fixture | $300 |
| Plumbing | $900 |
| Window or door | $1,200–1,500 |
| Backsplash | $500–2,000 |
| Wall covering | $1,000–1,500 |
How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost Depending on Size?
One of the most important factors influencing the cost of labor and materials is the size of the room. The rule is simple: the larger the space, the more expensive the remodel. Examples:
- 10×10 Kitchen
Suitable layout: L-shaped with a central island. For this size, full renovation costs range from $10,000 to $25,000. A 10×10 kitchen fits 8 to 12–14 cabinets, costing at least $6,500–8,000. Refacing or painting cabinet fronts is cheaper. Other expenses include finishes. If plumbing and lighting also need replacement, costs may exceed $25,000. - 12×12 Kitchen
This size fits 14–18 cabinets. Optimal layout: L-shaped cabinets with a central island. Replacing the storage system costs $18,000–30,000. If full reconstruction is planned, costs can reach $35,000–40,000. - 10×20 Kitchen
A rectangular kitchen is often called a “galley.” The best layout is U-shaped, with cabinets along three walls. Possible number of cabinets: 16–24. Replacement costs $20,000–33,000. The exact cost depends on materials, configuration, and furniture size. If space reconstruction is required, expect to spend $25,000–45,000 or more, especially when installing new lights, backsplashes, and countertops.
How to Plan a Kitchen Renovation
You don’t need to be a builder, finishing expert, or economist to plan effectively. Knowing the scope, labor, and material costs allows you to turn renovation into an exciting project and find a solution for any budget and housing style. Follow this simple plan:
- Set goals. Create a list of planned changes and mark priorities to handle first. This helps define the approach and select the right contractor.
- Determine the budget. Start by researching similar project costs in your city or analyzing the prices of specific work and materials. This helps avoid surprises and gives you a clear idea of total spending.
- Find a contractor. Talk to several companies or private crews. Share your requests and expectations in detail so they can estimate costs. Ask for portfolios — reputable contractors always have them. Compare completed projects and prices to choose the best fit.
- Evaluate profitability. If the remodel is part of preparing a home for sale, it’s worth spending more to make the kitchen functional and attractive. This helps find a buyer faster and sell at a better price.
Tips to Make a Kitchen Renovation More Affordable
What Costs the Most
The most expensive part is cabinets, usually taking up about ¼ of the budget. Elite furniture will drastically raise costs. To save money, buy mid-range cabinets from large retail chains. For stylish design, add unique hardware, such as bright or unusually shaped handles. Experts also recommend using standard organizers inside cabinets instead of custom-made solutions.
Plumbing is another major cost. A faucet must be high-quality — cheap ones may fail after just 2–3 months. The sink, however, can be budget-friendly.
How to Save Money
To keep costs under control, follow these tips:
- Keep the existing layout. Avoid major changes to gas, electrical, or plumbing systems unless necessary. Relocating these is expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive.
- Choose simple options. Buy ready-to-assemble standard cabinets rather than custom-built models. Skip extras like drawer dividers, spice racks, and other trendy add-ons.
- Pick mass-market appliances. They are cheaper than professional ones but offer similar functionality and design. Avoid overpaying for unnecessary features.
- Do some work yourself. If you have skills and tools, you can save by handling tasks such as removing old furniture, dismantling the backsplash and countertops, transporting materials, or connecting appliances.
- Go for minimalist finishes. Minimalism is trendy, and avoiding excessive moldings, inserts, and decorations cuts costs significantly.
Stick to Your Budget
Stay within the amount you’re ready to spend. Don’t add extras or luxury finishes if unnecessary. Use affordable but durable materials:
- Countertops can be made from laminated panels.
- Floors can be covered with laminate.
- If cabinets are sturdy and convenient, keep them and just repaint or reface them.
Tip: Add 15–20% to your budget for unexpected costs, such as fixing leaks during plumbing removal or repairing accidentally damaged electrical wiring.
Final Thoughts
Planning a renovation? Artos specialists will help create a project, calculate costs without pushing unnecessary services, and take all client preferences into account.