Key Takeaways
- Kitchen renovations in Sydney typically range from $25,000 to $45,000 for standard renovations, while premium custom kitchens with high-end materials and appliances can exceed $80,000
- Cabinetry represents the largest portion of kitchen costs (30-40%), with custom joinery starting at $15,000 for an average kitchen and exceeding $30,000 for premium finishes and hardware
- Benchtop materials vary dramatically in price, from laminate ($200-$500 per linear metre) to engineered stone ($800-$1,500 per linear metre) and natural materials like marble ($1,200-$3,000 per linear metre)
- Appliance packages constitute 10-20% of renovation budgets, with standard packages starting around $5,000, while premium European appliance suites can exceed $20,000
- Labour costs typically account for 20-35% of the total budget, with specialised trades charging premium rates in the Sydney market, especially for custom installations
- Hidden costs including structural modifications, electrical upgrades, and plumbing relocations can add 15-25% to kitchen renovation budgets when not properly anticipated
- Project timeline significantly impacts costs, with the average Sydney kitchen renovation requiring 4-6 weeks for completion when properly scheduled and managed
Kitchen Renovation Costs: The Complete Picture
A kitchen renovation is typically the largest investment you'll make in your home after the initial purchase. In Sydney, kitchen renovations can range from modest updates under $25,000 to complete luxury transformations exceeding $100,000. Understanding where your money goes helps you make informed decisions and set realistic expectations.
| Renovation Level | Kitchen Size | Price Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Refresh | Small-Medium | $15,000 - $25,000 | New doors/panels, benchtops, splashback, paint |
| Standard Renovation | Medium | $25,000 - $45,000 | New cabinetry, benchtops, appliances, flooring |
| Premium Renovation | Medium-Large | $45,000 - $70,000 | Custom joinery, stone benchtops, premium appliances |
| Luxury Transformation | Any | $70,000 - $120,000+ | Bespoke design, high-end everything, layout changes |
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Category
Cabinetry: 30-40% of Budget
Cabinetry is typically the largest single expense in a kitchen renovation, and quality varies enormously.
| Cabinet Type | Price Range | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Flat-Pack (DIY) | $3,000 - $8,000 | Basic materials, self-assembly, limited customisation |
| Semi-Custom | $8,000 - $15,000 | Standard sizes, choice of finishes, factory made |
| Custom Local | $15,000 - $30,000 | Made to measure, quality materials, local manufacture |
| Bespoke/Designer | $30,000 - $60,000+ | Premium materials, unique design, highest quality hardware |
Key cabinet cost factors:
- Door style: Shaker-style doors cost more than flat slab doors
- Material: Solid timber costs 2-3x more than laminate
- Hardware: Soft-close hinges and quality drawer runners add $500-$2,000
- Internal fittings: Pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and organisers add $1,000-$5,000
Benchtops: 10-15% of Budget
Your benchtop choice significantly impacts both aesthetics and budget.
| Material | Cost per Linear Metre | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $200 - $500 | Affordable, many colours, easy to replace | Less durable, can chip, limited prestige |
| Timber | $400 - $800 | Warm, natural, can be refinished | Requires maintenance, not for wet areas |
| Engineered Stone | $500 - $1,200 | Durable, consistent, low maintenance | Seams visible, can't handle extreme heat |
| Natural Granite | $600 - $1,500 | Unique patterns, heat resistant, durable | Requires sealing, heavy |
| Marble | $800 - $2,000 | Luxurious, timeless beauty | Porous, stains easily, high maintenance |
| Porcelain/Dekton | $900 - $2,500 | Ultra-durable, UV stable, heat resistant | Expensive, limited edge profiles |
Appliances: 10-20% of Budget
Appliance packages can range from basic functional to professional-grade.
| Package Level | Total Cost | Typical Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $3,000 - $6,000 | Westinghouse, Chef, Euromaid |
| Mid-Range | $6,000 - $12,000 | Bosch, Fisher & Paykel, Smeg |
| Premium | $12,000 - $25,000 | Miele, AEG, Neff |
| Luxury/Commercial | $25,000 - $50,000+ | Gaggenau, Sub-Zero, Wolf, La Cornue |
Typical appliance breakdown:
- Oven (single or double): $800 - $8,000
- Cooktop: $500 - $5,000 (induction costs more)
- Rangehood: $400 - $4,000
- Dishwasher: $600 - $3,500
- Refrigerator: $1,200 - $15,000 (integrated costs more)
- Microwave (built-in): $400 - $2,500
Labour Costs: 20-35% of Budget
Sydney trades command premium rates, and a kitchen renovation involves multiple specialists.
| Trade | Hourly Rate | Typical Kitchen Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition | $50-$70/hr | $500 - $1,500 |
| Plumber | $80-$120/hr | $1,500 - $5,000 |
| Electrician | $80-$110/hr | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Cabinet Installation | $60-$90/hr | $2,000 - $5,000 |
| Benchtop Installation | Quoted per job | $800 - $2,500 |
| Tiling (splashback) | $50-$80/m² | $800 - $2,000 |
| Painting | $40-$60/hr | $500 - $1,500 |
Hidden Costs to Anticipate
These often-forgotten expenses can add 15-25% to your renovation budget:
Structural Changes
- Removing walls: $2,000 - $15,000 (load-bearing walls cost more)
- Moving plumbing: $500 - $3,000 per relocation point
- New electrical circuits: $200 - $500 per circuit
- Switchboard upgrade: $1,000 - $2,500
Regulatory and Compliance Costs
- Building permits: $200 - $1,000 (if structural changes)
- Strata approval: $200 - $500 application fee
- Asbestos testing: $100 - $300
- Asbestos removal: $1,500 - $5,000+ if present
Finishing Touches
- Splashback: $800 - $4,000 (tiled to glass)
- Sink and tapware: $400 - $3,000
- Lighting: $500 - $3,000
- Flooring: $50 - $150 per m² installed
- Handles and knobs: $200 - $1,500
The 15% Contingency Rule
Always keep 15% of your total budget in reserve for unexpected issues. In Sydney's older homes especially, opening up kitchens often reveals outdated wiring, old plumbing, or structural surprises that need addressing.
Smart Ways to Manage Your Budget
Where to Invest
- Quality cabinetry: You'll interact with cabinets daily; cheap ones show wear quickly
- Durable benchtops: The workhorse of your kitchen; choose wisely
- Good lighting: Makes everything look better and improves functionality
- Soft-close hardware: Small investment, big daily impact
Where to Save
- Keep existing layout: Avoid moving plumbing and electrical when possible
- Standard cabinet sizes: Custom odd sizes cost significantly more
- Quality laminate vs stone: Premium laminate can look great at half the price
- Mid-range appliances: Often 80% of premium performance at 50% of cost
- Handleless design: Saves on handles while creating a sleek look
Typical Kitchen Renovation Timeline
Understanding the timeline helps you plan around the disruption:
- Design and planning: 2-4 weeks
- Material ordering: 4-8 weeks (cabinets, benchtops, appliances)
- Demolition: 1-2 days
- Structural work: 1-2 weeks (if required)
- Electrical and plumbing rough-in: 2-4 days
- Cabinet installation: 2-4 days
- Benchtop installation: 1-2 days
- Splashback and finishing: 2-3 days
- Appliance installation: 1 day
- Final touches: 1-2 days
Total: 4-6 weeks on-site work, not including design and ordering phases.
Return on Investment
Kitchen renovations typically offer strong returns:
- Value add: 50-80% of renovation cost added to property value
- Best ROI range: Renovations of $25,000-$50,000 typically offer the best percentage return
- Over-capitalisation risk: Luxury renovations in modest suburbs may not return full value
Plan Your Kitchen Renovation
A well-planned kitchen renovation is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Take time to understand costs, prioritise your spending, and work with professionals who can guide you through the process.
Get Your Detailed Kitchen Quote
Artistic Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations (NSW Contractor Licence #341562c) provides comprehensive kitchen renovations across Sydney. With 20+ years of experience since 2005 and $20M public liability insurance, our detailed fixed-price quotes break down every cost with no hidden fees—backed by our 7-year workmanship guarantee. Contact us for a free consultation, or call 0412 661 661.
Artistic Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations
Sydney's Premium Renovation Specialists
Artistic Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations is a trusted renovation company serving all areas of Sydney. With over two decades of experience in premium bathroom and kitchen transformations, our team delivers quality craftsmanship on every project. Our methodical approach and commitment to excellence have made us trusted advisors to homeowners, property investors, and strata managers throughout Sydney.
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