Kitchen Renovation Costs

The magic question… "What is the real cost of a kitchen renovation?"

Budgets are important and everyone wants to know before they start their kitchen renovation in Sunshine Coast. However, every project is different so there really is no straight answer. The major cost factors are determined by the size of the project, the schedule of finishes, and the tradespeople needed for the project. Using new benchtops as an example. Depending on whether you choose from laminate, a natural stone or engineered stone, the price difference can be thousands of dollars.

Generally speaking, they split into the following cost brackets:

• $15,000 - $25,000 for an entry level renovation

• $25,000 - $45,000 for a mid-range renovation

• $45,000 - $90,000 for a higher end renovation

It’s important to concentrate on achieving the best value for money with your budget and G&M can help you do this.

Entry Level Range: $15,000 – $25,000

In this range many people will update their existing kitchen rather than go for a full renovation. That might include cosmetic additions like new benchtops, a splashback, or appliances, which can bring new life to a dated space. If you still want to go for a completely new kitchen in this price range, you will need to make some compromises. The finished product may have less drawers and more cupboards, which are not as functional or storage friendly. Unfortunately, you will miss on some of the creature comforts.

Other things that would not be included are:

• Changes in walls that could improve the area

• Custom made elements that is often needed to ensure you really make the most of the investment

• Extra trades and specialists needed will need to be arranged and project managed by you

These extras can make a difference between being in love with your new space or still being annoyed that you didn’t change that "one thing"! It is still possible to achieve a nice new kitchen in this range if you are willing to do the extra work and design changes. Our advice would be to invest in quality like Australian-made cabinets, drawers, and components such as hinges, and drawer runners made by Hettich with lifetime warranties. You can achieve nice finishes using melamine doors or 20mm engineered stone in the standard colour range. You can find more cost-effective kitchens from large suppliers like Bunnings, Ikea or cabinet makers that put little attention to custom design and fitting but please be prepared to do much of the work yourself. 

Mid-Range Kitchen: $25,000 – $45,000

*G&M generally fit into this budget range

This is the range in which most clients can achieve their goal of owning a "dream kitchen". With more budget to invest, they can custom design a kitchen for their lifestyle and requirements with making practical use of the entire space. You may want to make some structural changes, like a new tiled floor or relocating lights with the accompanying electrical work. You will also have more budget for higher quality materials and components that look great and will stand the test of time.

Some examples in this range may include:

• Acrylic, timber-look or 2 pack doors

• Deluxe Range Benchtops from suppliers like Caesarstone, Quantum Quartz, Silestone etc

• Tiled or glass splashbacks

With the extra budget it gives you flexibility and peace of mind with using companies who will manufacture and install stone benchtops precisely, or the complete project management by G&M that knows how to avoid delays and mistakes.

If you plan your renovation right in this range, you will achieve your "dream kitchen" that will excite you and everyone else who sets foot in it.

Higher End or Luxury Kitchens: $45,000 – $90,000

*G&M specialise in this budget range

Just like most things in life, there is always the more premium option with no exceptions with kitchens. Major changes to the layout to combine your main living and kitchen spaces. Walls can be removed or moved when you have the right budget. Perhaps you want to create a contemporary space worthy of a kitchen magazine spread? Whatever your wish list is, at this level the quality finishes are endless. You will be able to achieve a custom-design along with the functionality, durability, and longevity of top-of-the-line materials and finishes.

Some examples in this range may include:

• High-end finishes like timber veneers and 2 pack shaker doors

• Top shelf engineered stone benchtops, natural granites, or marble

• The complete range of storage accessories that make life so much easier

Popular styles like Hamptons or French Provincial often fall into this bracket. The intricate designs with pricier elements like corbels, mantels and feature glass will require more time to design, measure and project manage.

Integrated appliances like the fridge and dishwasher will be blended "seamlessly" into their surroundings as part of the overall cabinetry. Which is another exclusive and more expensive option. Naturally, the result of these projects is nothing short of sensational.

In Summary

As you can see, the cost of a kitchen is dictated by several variations. The main ones are the size of your space, the materials, finishes, hardware and components you choose and the specialists you hire for the build and installation. Whether your budget is $10,000 or $100,000, it is just as important to plan properly and make the most of your budget for the best result.

The best way to do this is to seek the advice of specialists who have completed many similar projects and have the experience to know what works and does not work well. By planning and understanding all the costs of each factor of your renovation, you will achieve the goal of your perfect dream kitchen.

Check out some of our recently completed projects here.