If you don’t have a big kitchen renovation budget, what is a realistic guide to kitchen prices and how much can you hope to achieve with your kitchen makeover?

How much you want to change in the kitchen will influence the overall cost. A simple facelift of the cabinetry and benchtops is the cheapest option, while moving or altering fittings requires a larger renovation budget. The quality of fittings and fixtures will also be a big factor in the final price tag, as will the sub-trades required for the kitchen renovation.

A kitchen makeover usually involves changing the face of things while keeping the structure – the ‘footprint’ remains the same. For example, keep most of the existing cupboards but give them new doors and panels or drawer banks. A simple kitchen renovation will save money in cabinetry, but not appliances or labour (you’ll still need to pay for a plumber, electrician and installation).

$5000

A renovation budget of $5000 can cover a makeover, but don’t expect your kitchen to look brand new. You may choose to keep your benchtops (so there’s no need to disconnect the sink and taps) and spend the money on paint and some slick storage solutions. However, most people update their benchtop for a new look, such as changing from laminate to stone.

$10,000-$20,000

Changing both the kitchen doors and benchtops will cost close to $10,000. This price bracket is quite realistic, offering flexibility plus some bells and whistles. A kitchen in this price range might see you spend $7000-$10,000 on cabinetry, $2000-$2500 on a stone benchtop, $1200-$1800 on appliances, $3500 on tradespeople and $1500 upwards for a glass splashback.

$20,000-$30,000

This means ‘out with the old, in with the new’. For this price, everything in your kitchen can be updated. You have more options for finishes and styles of kitchen doors and cupboards and can opt for superior brands of appliances. You can also incorporate some luxurious touches such as a slide-out bin or roll-out pantry.

$30,000+

The real difference in this renovation budget is in the details, with top-quality materials and finishes. Benchtops can vary from the standard 20 millimetre-thick designs to include edging details, and internal accessories are also an option. From fully extended drawers to stainless steel soft-closing internal drawers, for this budget your kitchen will scream ‘luxury’.

Once you’ve done some research into current kitchen prices and products, set a budget, find out how to choose a good kitchen renovator and browse kitchen remodeling experts in your area.