Your Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Renovation Costs and What to Expect
Renovating your kitchen is one of the most exciting and impactful changes you can make to your home. It’s not just about style — a kitchen renovation can dramatically increase the functionality of one of the most important spaces in your house. But one of the most common questions homeowners have is: “How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Brisbane?” In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, factors that influence pricing, and what you can expect at every step.
Understanding Kitchen Renovation Costs in Brisbane
The cost of a kitchen renovation varies significantly depending on factors like size, layout, design complexity, and material choices. On average, a kitchen renovation in Brisbane can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $60,000, but high-end projects can go well beyond that. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your renovation budget:
Cost Breakdown by renovation Type
1. Budget Kitchen Renovation ($25,000 - $35,000):
A budget-friendly renovation focuses on updating essential elements without structural changes. This might include new cabinetry, lower-cost materials like base range engineered stone and laminate benchtops, and updated appliances. If you’re sticking to a tighter budget, this is a good option to refresh the space while keeping costs down. Additional costs such as plumbing, electrical work, and appliances would be extra.
2. Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation ($35,000 - $60,000):
A mid-range renovation often involves better-quality materials, such as mid-high end engineered stone or porcelain benchtops, and upgraded fixtures. At this price point, you may also consider a new layout or adding a kitchen island. For a more customised kitchen with high-end cabinetry and appliances, you can expect to spend between $35,000 to $60,000, plus the cost of any electrical or plumbing work required.
3. High-End Kitchen Renovation ($60,000+):
For a high-end renovation, the cost typically exceeds $60,000. These renovations often include premium materials like marble or granite countertops, custom cabinetry, designer fixtures, and high-end appliances. You may also make structural changes, such as removing walls or creating an open-plan space. These kitchens are designed to offer luxury, space, and functionality.
Factors That Affect Kitchen Renovation Costs
1. Keeping the Kitchen in the Same Place vs. Relocating It
The first major factor affecting cost is whether you’re updating the kitchen in its existing space or moving it to a different part of the home.
- Renovating in the same location – This is the more budget-friendly option, as plumbing and electrical services don’t require major changes.
- Relocating the kitchen – If you’re moving the kitchen to a new area (e.g., as part of an extension), additional costs apply for plumbing and electrical work.
Estimated Costs for Relocating:
- Plumbing: ~$4,000 (costs may increase if flooring needs to be redone)
- Electrical: ~$5,000 (depends on the number of power points and lighting fixtures required)
2. Demolition & Flooring Considerations
Removing the existing kitchen typically costs about $1,000. If you choose to undertake this yourself, ensure all services are properly disconnected by licensed professionals. Post-demolition, flooring considerations arise, especially if the new kitchen layout differs from the previous one. Flooring costs vary based on material choice:
- Engineered Timber: Prices range from $80 to $150 per square meter for materials, with additional installation costs.
- Hardwood: Material costs between $100 and $180 per square meter, plus installation.
3. Kitchen Cabinetry & Joinery Costs
Your cabinetry is one of the most significant expenses in a kitchen renovation. The more storage and detailed finishes, the higher the cost.
Example Kitchen Renovation Cost:
A small kitchen with a 3.5m wall of cabinetry, including overhead cabinets, and an island with drawers on one side, using Polytec matte white cabinetry and a mid-range YDL or Caesar stone benchtop, costs around $25,000 for supply and installation. This price covers joinery and benchtop only.
Cabinetry Finishes:
RAVINE (Deeply textured woodgrain finish) – Mid to High
Natural, tactile woodgrain texture for a warm look.VENETTE (Super matte, anti-fingerprint finish) – Mid to High
Sleek, modern, and low-maintenance with fingerprint resistance.WOODMATT (Matte wood-look finish) – Mid
Authentic wood aesthetics with a modern matte finish.ULTRAGLAZE (Acrylic high-gloss finish) – Mid to High
Reflective, polished surface for a premium modern look.THERMOLAMINATED (Various textures & finishes) – Low to High
Durable and versatile, available in gloss, matte, and woodgrain styles.MATT (Standard finish) – Low
Most affordable option with a variety of colors & textures.2-Pac (Polyurethane painted finish) – High
Premium painted option with unlimited color choices, but higher cost.
Storage & Custom Features:
- More drawers and overhead cabinets increase costs
- Soft-close hinges, integrated handles and pocket door add to pricing
- A pair of pocket doors cost around $7000
4. Stone Benchtops
Your choice of benchtop material plays a major role in cost. Here’s a breakdown of different options:
- YDL Stone (Affordable Engineered Stone – Quartz)
YDL Stone is one of the most affordable engineered stone options, making it ideal for budget-conscious kitchen renovations. It offers a quartz-based surface that mimics the look of natural stone but at a significantly lower cost. - Caesarstone (Mid-to-High Range Engineered Quartz)
Caesarstone is one of the most popular quartz surfaces, offering a balance of luxury, durability, and design variety. It’s often used in mid-to-high-end kitchen renovations because of its premium look and long-lasting quality. - Dekton (Premium Ultra-Compact Surface)
Dekton is a premium ultra-compact surface made from a blend of porcelain, quartz, and glass. Unlike engineered quartz, Dekton is completely heatproof and UV-resistant, making it one of the most durable benchtop materials on the market.
5. Appliances
Builders typically install essential appliances such as the cooktop, rangehood, and oven, as these require licensed electricians. The cost of these appliances is subject to a builder’s margin, usually around 20%, covering procurement and coordination.
6. Tapware, Sink & Handles
The selection of sinks, tapware, and handles significantly influences both the aesthetics and budget of your kitchen.
Here’s a comparison of different suppliers:
ABI (Premium – range) for high end finishes
Highgrove (Mid-range) good value
BlueSpace (Budget-friendly) range of options
Item | ABI Interiors | Highgrove | BlueSpace |
Sinks | $350 – $1,200 | $150 – $800 | $100 – $500 |
Tapware | $200 – $1,000 | $150 – $700 | $50 – $300 |
Handles | $10 – $80 each | $5 – $30 each | $3 – $15 each |
What’s Included in a Kitchen Renovation Cost?
A kitchen renovation cost typically includes:
Design fees (if applicable)
Demolition and removal of old kitchen units
New cabinetry and countertops
Plumbing and electrical work
Appliances (if included)
Flooring and tiling
Labour and construction fees
It’s essential to note that while some kitchen renovations include appliances, plumbing and electrical costs are usually separate. Additionally, high-end materials and custom cabinetry are often not included in the base renovation price.
Breakdown of all kitchen renovation costs
Basic Kitchen Renovation Cost:
$30,000 – $40,000
This budget allows for a functional update with standard materials and finishes, perfect for those looking to refresh their kitchen without excessive luxury. The kitchen renovation cost in this range typically focuses on the essentials, allowing for updated plumbing, flooring, and cabinetry while keeping the budget in check.
Cost Breakdown:
- Demolition (Existing Kitchen): ~$1,000
- Plumbing & Electrical Relocation: ~$8,000
- Plumbing: ~$4,000
- Electrical: ~$4,000
- Flooring (Laminate or Budget Engineered Timber): ~$80 – $150 per square meter
- Total for 20 sqm: ~$1,600 – $3,000 plus installation price
- Cabinetry & Benchtops: ~$10,000 – $15,000
- Cabinet Finish: Standard Polytec Melamine.
- Benchtop: Affordable YDL Stone.
- Joinery Installation – ~$3,000 – $4,000
- Appliances: ~$3,000 – $5,000
- Basic cooktop, rangehood, and oven. Builder’s margin (~20%): ~$600 – $1,000
- Sinks & Tapware: ~$500 – $1,000
- Sink: Stainless Steel.
- Tapware: Standard Mixer.
- Handles: ~$5 – $10 each, with 15 handles: ~$75 – $150.
Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation Cost:
$40,000 – $75,000
This range offers a balance of functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring better-quality materials and finishes. The kitchen renovation cost in this category includes higher-end cabinetry, premium benchtops, and more sophisticated appliances, resulting in a better overall design.
Cost Breakdown:
- Demolition (Existing Kitchen): ~$1,000
- Plumbing & Electrical Relocation: ~$9,000
- Plumbing: ~$4,000
- Electrical: ~$5,000
- Flooring (Engineered Timber or High-Quality Laminate): ~$80 – $150 per square meter
- Total for 30 sqm: ~$2,400 – $4,500 plus installation price
- Cabinetry & Benchtops: ~$15,000 – $45,000
- Cabinet Finish: Polytec Woodmatt, Ravine, or 2-Pac
- Benchtop: Mid-range Caesarstone.
- Joinery Installation – ~$4,000 – $5,000
- Appliances: ~$5,000 – $10,000
- Premium brands (Bosch, Fisher & Paykel) with a builder’s margin (~20%): ~$1,000 – $2,000
- Sinks & Tapware: ~$1,000 – $2,500
- Sink: Granite Composite.
- Tapware: Mid-range or premium from ABI, etc.
- Handles: ~$10 – $40 each, with 20 handles: ~$200 – $800.
High-End Kitchen Renovation Cost:
$75,000+
This premium budget is for high-end kitchens with luxury materials, custom cabinetry, and top-of-the-line appliances. The kitchen renovation cost for this category includes luxury finishes, custom design features, and premium materials that can transform any space into a statement kitchen.
Cost Breakdown:
- Demolition (Existing Kitchen): ~$1,000
- Plumbing & Electrical Relocation: ~$9,000
- Plumbing: ~$4,000
- Electrical: ~$5,000
- Flooring (Premium Hardwood or High-End Engineered Timber): ~$150 – $200 per square meter
- Total for 40 sqm: ~$6,000 – $8,000 plus installation price
- Cabinetry & Benchtops: ~$50,000+
- Cabinet Finish: 2-Pac (Polyurethane), VENETTE, Shaker style, or custom finishes.
- Benchtop: Premium Dekton or high-end Caesarstone.
- Appliances: ~$10,000 – $20,000
- Luxury brands (Miele, Gaggenau, AEG) with a builder’s margin (~20%): ~$2,000 – $4,000.
- Sinks & Tapware: ~$3,000 – $10,000
- Sink: High-end Granite Composite or Stainless Steel with custom features.
- Tapware: Designer brands (e.g. Sussex Taps, ABI, Astra Walker).
- Handles: ~$25 – $100 each, with 25 handles: ~$625 – $2,500
How to Save Money on Your Kitchen Renovation
Here are some strategies to keep your kitchen renovation on budget:
Retain the Existing Layout: Keeping the existing layout saves you money on plumbing and electrical work. A simple facelift with new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances can help you stay within budget.
Choose Affordable Materials: Opt for materials like laminate or engineered stone rather than natural stone or high-end finishes. Companies like Ikea or Bunnings can help you find cost-effective materials that still look great.
Reuse Existing Appliances: If your current appliances are still functional, consider keeping them instead of purchasing new ones. This can save you thousands of dollars.
DIY Certain Tasks: If you’re handy, you can take on tasks like painting or simple demolition to reduce labour costs. However, always hire professionals for electrical or plumbing work.
At Stark Builders we offer expert advice, top-quality materials, and excellent craftsmanship to ensure your kitchen renovation exceeds your expectations. Feel free to contact us for a more personalised consultation or a detailed quote for your home renovation project!
