How Much Does a Kitchen Makeover Cost?

How much is it likely to cost? This comes up through an initial consultation for a remodeling job, and is essential to tackle. As an architect, I usually provide ballpark ranges early in the process to make certain everyone is on precisely the exact same page and the scope of job we are speaking about is realistic for the budget that the homeowner has in mind. A more comprehensive construction estimate comes later, after a design has been completed.

Let’s consider remodeling a kitchen for instance. The ranges below are based on my experience as an architect and a builder in the Louisville, Kentucky, area. Obviously, these costs will vary based on locale; a kitchen remodel tends to be more expensive in large metropolitan areas, less costly in smaller towns and rural areas, and similar in other midsize towns.

Have a look at the Real Cost Finder for info from over 100,000 homeowners in the U.S. — and make sure you consult with local architects, designers and builders to get estimates based on building costs in your region and the type of kitchen project you’re doing.

Amoroso Design

1. Standard upgrade: $5,000 to $15,000. This may include upgrades as straightforward as new cabinet knobs, lighting fixtures, plumbing fixtures and paint — frequently DIY jobs. Maybe it includes replacing the appliances, painting the cupboards or putting new doors placed on them, installing new countertops or including a tiled backsplash. But the general rule in this price range is that everything will more or less remain in precisely the exact same place, and the casing of the kitchen (floors, walls and ceiling) will remain intact.

Kitchen Cabinet Kings

2. Renovation: $15,000 to $35,000. This extent would allow for each of the above and new cabinets and maybe some changes to the room’s shell, such as eliminating soffits, relocating lighting or including a skylight. It may include new flooring or replacing a window within an existing opening. However, as with the first class, this budget assumes the significant features will remain in place and the floor plan will not be dramatically changed.

Inc, Jan Gleysteen Architects

3. Remodel/addition: $35,000 to $75,000 and up. A larger-scale remodel may include any or all of the aforementioned, in addition to a new design of the kitchen space and maybe neighboring rooms. It might involve an opening or addition walls up to adjoining spaces. With a project of this scope, it is wise to request an architect or other design professional to ensure you’re making the best use of the space and exploring all options. Occasionally you will find relatively simple things, such as relocating that bulky refrigerator or making any minor adjustments to the floor plan, that you may have never thought of and that may have amazing results.

Erdreich Architecture, P.C.

While the third solution is indeed the priciest, it is usually worth it for the improvement of distance and functionality that could result. Matters such as natural lighting and space leak may be less tangible than granite countertops, but they are infinitely more significant in creating a space that feels good. I believe in getting the distance itself right even if it means having to pick less-expensive finishes and fixtures.

What’s great about this kitchen? Foremost, the window along with the tree. How different could this distance feel if there were a strong wall at the end?

Prices will vary broadly

Clearly the classes above are broad, and the job cost will vary widely based on location, extent, how much aid you want and the finishes you choose, but they are sometimes helpful as you start weighing what’s significant to you.

Having realistic expectations of how much your dream kitchen will cost, and adjusting your scope accordingly, will result in a more pleasurable and successful project irrespective of your financial plan.

More: How to Remodel Your Kitchen | Locate a Kitchen Designer

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