The Real Cost of a Kitchen Renovation in 2024

Renovating a kitchen is a major undertaking that involves detailed planning and significant investment. Understanding the costs associated with a kitchen renovation can help homeowners make informed decisions. Today, we’re filling you in on just how much you should expect to pay when you remodel your kitchen and exploring the various factors that contribute to the cost of kitchen renovations.

Average Costs

At Contact Renovations, the typical kitchen renovation costs between $60,000 and $80,000. However, the costs can vary widely depending on the choices you make regarding materials, appliances, and layout. If you are looking for a custom-grade kitchen renovation, you should expect to pay a minimum of $60,000.

Here’s a breakdown of how your budget will be allocated:

This image breaks down the costs of a kitchen renovation in Edmonton in 2024.

 

Premium Features and Considerations for Your Budget

Space Reconfiguration

Reconfiguring a kitchen’s layout to optimize function and flow can be the first step in creating your dream space. Whether it’s removing walls to create an open-concept space or rearranging appliances and fixtures for better workflow, each change can significantly impact the look and feel of a home. A strategic space reconfiguration can transform a cramped kitchen into a spacious, multi-functional area that enhances daily living and makes entertaining a breeze. These changes often require structural, plumbing, and electrical adjustments, which can add to the complexity and cost of the project.

Cabinetry

Cabinets are one of the most important aspects of any kitchen design, both functionally and aesthetically.

Opting for premium custom cabinets, especially those with special features, can significantly increase the cost of your renovation. Specialized storage solutions like custom drawer configurations and pull-out pantries not only enhance a kitchen’s usability and organization but also contribute to a more streamlined and tailored cooking experience, making the extra expense worthwhile for many homeowners.

Countertops

The choice between a high-end material like quartzite and a more common one like quartz can drastically affect the budget. Quartzite and marble, which are natural stones, are more expensive options than man-made materials like quartz and laminate. Natural stones offer unique beauty and distinct veining that enhance the aesthetics of a kitchen. Most pick exotic tops for their appearance, not their durability or heat resistance, but intricate quarrying and finishing processes give them a premium price tag.

Appliances

Integrated appliances such as double wall ovens, built-in coffee makers, or specialized refrigeration units like a double chest freezer or a wine and beer fridge add to the functionality and price of the kitchen.

Selecting these types of appliances can significantly impact the overall cost of your renovation, as they often require custom cabinetry work to accommodate their specific sizes and functions. High-end appliances come with advanced features that not only enhance cooking and storage capabilities but also tend to be more energy-efficient, adding value in the long run despite the higher initial investment. Installation of these appliances might necessitate new dedicated electrical circuits, upgraded ventilation systems, or additional water lines, further influencing the renovation costs. These requirements ensure that appliances operate efficiently and comply with safety standards, but they also mean a higher upfront cost and complexity in installation.

Backsplash and Tiles

The choice of materials and the complexity of the installation process both play a role in the final costs of tiles and backsplash.

A custom marble backsplash costs around $20-$40 per square foot (installed), significantly more than a standard porcelain tile, which might cost as little as $10 per square foot. Materials like marble require meticulous handling and cutting to ensure that the natural patterns match seamlessly across sections, which adds to the labour costs. Additionally, marble’s porous nature means it often requires sealing and periodic maintenance, further influencing the long-term cost considerations of your renovation.

Lighting

Updating the lighting grid as part of your kitchen renovation allows for optimal placement and integration of lights and ensures that they complement the kitchen’s layout and design.

This customization, while enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal, requires electrical planning and installation, which impacts the overall budget. Additional elements like under-cabinet lighting can enhance the overall aesthetic and provide essential task lighting. It improves visibility for cooking and preparing meals, making kitchen tasks safer and more efficient. These specialized lighting options are considered upgrades that enhance the functionality and visual appeal of your kitchen.

Flooring

Selecting the right kitchen flooring involves balancing visual appeal with durability and ease of maintenance. High-quality porcelain tiles or luxury vinyl are top choices for their resistance to heavy foot traffic, spills, and stains. Although these materials may come with a higher price tag than basic laminate, their durability and low maintenance needs make them worth the investment. Flooring can significantly influence both the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen, integrating smoothly with the overall design and ensuring resilience in a high-usage area. Additionally, If you are renovating a condo, be sure you understand the rules and regulations around flooring and select an option that meets soundproofing regulations. 

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is a critical component of a kitchen renovation. Whether it’s a sleek, integrated range hood or a more robust external venting system, choosing the right ventilation solution can significantly impact a kitchen’s functionality and the look of a home. High-powered cooking appliances might require stronger ventilation options, which could influence your budget. Ensuring your kitchen has adequate ventilation will enhance your cooking experience and help preserve the longevity of your kitchen’s finishes by minimizing grease and moisture buildup.

Island Functionality

A versatile kitchen island can significantly enhance the functionality and style of your kitchen.

However, integrating features such as built-in sinks, induction cooktops, or additional storage solutions like wine coolers and dishwashers comes with added costs. These enhancements often require complex installations, including electrical and plumbing modifications, which can impact your overall budget. An island can serve as a valuable investment, boosting both the utility of your kitchen and your home’s resale value, but thoughtful planning is essential to manage expenses and achieve the desired outcome.

Power Sources

Power source planning is an important element to consider, especially in older homes that don’t have as many outlets. As you customize your space with high-tech appliances and modern conveniences, it’s important to map out electrical outlets strategically. This includes considering the placement of outlets for built-in appliances, countertop appliances, and charging stations to maintain functionality and safety. Upgrading your electrical system will increase your initial investment but is critical for a safe, functional, and future-proof kitchen. 

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

RENOVATING A HIGHRISE CONDO

When renovating a kitchen in locations with limited access, such as a highrise condo, logistical challenges can significantly impact costs. For instance, installing a large island in such a setting might require using a crane to lift materials. This kind of specialized handling can dramatically increase the overall expense of the project. It’s essential to consider these logistical factors during the planning phase of a renovation, especially in hard-to-reach or restricted areas. Additionally, unexpected costs related to such logistics can quickly escalate, so it’s crucial to allocate a portion of the budget for potential overruns in these scenarios.

DESIGN AND CUSTOMIZATION

Every choice made during the design phase impacts the budget. Incorporating specialty sinks, smart kitchen technology, and eco-friendly materials can significantly impact your cost. Other options like built-in seating areas not only enhance functionality and aesthetics but will also increase the overall expense. 

These customization options create a personalized and efficient kitchen environment, but they require careful budgeting due to their higher costs. The cost of everything, from the cabinetry to the type of sink installed, can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the level of customization and the quality of materials.

Final Thoughts

A kitchen renovation is a substantial investment, and the costs can vary greatly depending on personal choices and specific requirements. It’s essential to work with professionals who can provide a realistic estimate based on your vision and budget. Read our blog Kitchen Renovation Tips: 7 Things you Must Consider for everything you should plan before renovating your kitchen.

For those considering a kitchen remodel, understanding these factors and planning accordingly will ensure that the renovation meets both your aesthetic and functional needs without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to take the next step in transforming your kitchen, read our blog: The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Renovation and reach out to us here at Contact Renovations at (780)455-4446 or info@contactrenovations.ca and we will help you bring your dream kitchen to life.

Don’t miss out on more advice from Paul and his fellow industry experts. Subscribe to our YouTube channel where you’ll find videos and live shows that have the answers you’re searching for. 

About Contact Renovations & Custom Homes

At Contact Renovations and Custom Homes, our client-first philosophy has made us a top Edmonton Design Build Contractor for over ten years. We pride ourselves on high quality renovations that speaks for itself. 

Click here to learn more about how we can help you bring your vision to life. 

We are thrilled to win a 2024 CHBA Edmonton Excellence in Housing award!