How much does a kitchen renovation cost?

As the heart of the home, the kitchen is perhaps the most important room in the house. And given we spend so much time cooking and entertaining, it’s likely it will also become one of the first spaces in need of a little love. But what are the big costs? And where can you save a few dollars? Here’s everything you need to know about the costs associated with renovating your kitchen.  

BIG TICKET ITEMS  

Project manager ($$$$+) 

Having someone oversee your project can save you time and stress and mitigate problems you may not foresee. Project managers are experts in renovating and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to making sure all your ducks are in a row, especially pre-renovation. They can often also recommend trusted tradies for the task, too. 

Tradies ($$$$+) 

The labour (which accounts for demolition, disposal and installation) forms the framework for the project, so expect a chunk of your budget to be allocated to this part to ensure the job is done properly and professionally by certified builders, electricians, plumbers, tilers and cabinet makers. Each tradesperson will charge a different rate and for different things, so make sure you ask for a quote first, and compare it with others, so you have an idea of costs from the beginning. 

Permits ($$$+) 

Many projects will require permits before starting that those less seasoned in renovating may not know about. Check with your local council or a qualified building inspector to see if you need a permit for your works. 

Tip: It’s also important to leave a buffer for unexpected costs that may arise during the initial stages of the renovation, for example, if the wall tiles are removed you may discover that plasterboard needs to be repaired which will incur an additional cost.  

Fixtures, fittings and appliances ($$$-$$$$+) 

• The NEFF N90 Built-In Oven 60cm x 45cm with steam function is the perfect complimentary oven for those who have a NEFF oven but need more cooking space for entertaining friends and family. If you have the space, it makes the perfect second oven fully equipped with essential functions and FullSteam steamer for extra succulent and healthy meals. . And with inclusions like a Baking and Roasting Assistant with Automatic Programmes and an Eco Clean and Base Clean function for easy cleaning, you can’t go wrong. This oven comes in at a RRP of $4,599 
• The NEFF N70 full-integrated dishwasher is a premium appliance that integrates perfectly into your kitchen cabinetry for a barely-there look. And with functions like Door Open Assist – that lets you open the door with a gentle push or bump – wash-up time will be a breeze. 
• The NEFF N90 Flex Induction Cooktop 60cm Black, Surface Mount with Frame is a great starter appliance if you are new to the induction cooktop game, or alternatively, it’s also a good upgrade on your current induction cooktop due to its speed, precision and safety. And with features like FlexInduction, your cooktop will automatically detect the number, size and shape of your pots and pans and heat up accordingly. Also, the magnetic Twistpadfire® illuminates with a simple touch and lets you choose your desired cooking zone. It Is easily removable and turns your cooktop Into a creative hotspot that Is easy to clean.This induction cooktop comes in at a RRP of $2,099.   

If you are in the market for new kitchen appliances, save upto 15% on NEFF kitchen packages.  

MEDIUM TICKET ITEMS  

Materials ($$$+) 

Firstly, it’s important to note that renovating today compared to three years ago is very different, thanks to COVID-19. The domino effects the pandemic has caused are still being felt by pretty much every industry. With this in mind, here’s a few tips to help you decide where to focus your budget on this part of the project:  

• Cabinetry: Outlying money for good quality cabinetry will enable you to use space efficiently in the kitchen. You can get 50% more storage out of a drawer than a cupboard so this is an area where you shouldn’t cut corners (no pun intended!). That’s not to say you need 30 drawers in your new kitchen. The trick is to have fewer yet make them deeper.  
• Benchtops: They’re the most used surface in the kitchen, so investing in a quality benchtop now will save you in the future by not having to replace it. But again, be strategic. This might mean using a more forgiving, cost-effective composite stone for the heavy-duty cooking and sink areas, but then having higher maintenance feature stones or timber benchtops in areas where it’ll be appreciated without the risk of wear and tear.  
• Flooring: Although the kitchen is a high-traffic area, you can save on flooring without compromising on quality. Your flooring should be hard-wearing, easy to clean and maintenance-free. Some great cost-effective options include ground concrete, terrazzo flooring and even general tiles, which can often be a cost-friendly yet are hard-wearing and stain-resistant option.

SMALLER TICKET ITEMS 

Fixtures and fittings ($$+) 

Hardware is a great way to save as there are so many options out there so you can get some great-looking handles and knobs on a budget without compromising on your overall aesthetic. 

• Doorhandles: Hardware is a great way to save a few dollars, and with many options out there it’s easy to find great-looking handles or knobs online or at second-hand stores without compromising on your overall aesthetic. 
• Lighting: There’s no denying that kitchen lighting is a hugely functional consideration, however, you can still achieve good quality, high-impact lighting for relatively low cost. Look around and research little-known lighting places that more often than not will have a show-stopping piece/s at an affordable price.  
• Décor: Adding décor to your kitchen is a great way to give your space personality and character – and with so many homeware stores, websites and DIY options available, it’s easy to shop around to get the best price for what you want.   

At the end of the day, it’s important not to over-capitalise on your kitchen in a way that affects your resale value (should you choose to sell in the future). That’s why it’s important to think carefully about what you do and don’t prioritise in line with your budget when starting to plan your kitchen renovation.  

About NEFF   

NEFF is a German-engineered kitchen appliance brand, with a product range that includes ovens, cooktops, rangehoods, coffee machines and dishwashers designed to make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure. For people who love to cook, NEFF gives you the tools to create meaningful connections, express your creativity and make memories. Because real life happens in the kitchen.   

Learn more about NEFF here.