Complete Kitchen Renovation Cost: What You Need to Know Before Starting
When tackling a kitchen renovation, the complete kitchen renovation cost is one of the most important factors to consider (and the question we are most frequently asked). Budgeting wisely, understanding what drives costs, and planning ahead can save you from common mistakes. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can approach your project with confidence.
Before we get into it though,
Hi! I’m Michelle, CEO and Principal Designer at Room Service Interiors. Based in Cochrane and serving Bearspaw, Springbank, Calgary, and beyond, we specialize in creating homes that are more than beautiful—they’re a reflection of who you are and how you want to live. Our approach is deeply personal, blending artistry, intuition, and function to design homes that feel like they were meant for you.
Around here? We believe your home should celebrate the moments that matter most: the laughter of friends around your dining table, the serenity of an evening cocktail in a space that feels like a sanctuary, and the deep satisfaction of living in harmony with your values. Your life is already rich—we’re here to amplify it through design that brings joy and purpose to every corner.
At Room Service Interiors, we’ve helped countless homeowners through the renovation process, and we’ve seen what works—and what doesn’t. To make your kitchen transformation smoother, today I’m going to talk about one of the most pressing questions: What is the complete kitchen renovation cost, and how do you plan for it?
Want to skip the guesswork and work with us? Click here to learn more about our “no surprises” process!
What Does a Complete Kitchen Renovation Cost?
The cost of a kitchen renovation can vary widely depending on the scope, materials, and labor involved. Generally, a complete kitchen renovation cost ranges from $75,000 to $150,000, but larger, high-end projects can go beyond that.
Here’s a breakdown of typical budget percentages:
- Cabinetry and Millwork: ~30%
- High-End Appliances: ~20%
- Countertops and Backsplash: ~15%
- Labor and Contractor Fees: ~20%
- Other Costs (Lighting, Fixtures, Flooring): ~15%
Each of these categories is important, and their cost will naturally depend on the choices you make. For example, custom cabinetry is more expensive than stock options, and natural stone countertops like marble cost more than laminate or quartz.
The key to managing the complete kitchen renovation cost is understanding your priorities. Are you dreaming of top-of-the-line appliances or a show-stopping backsplash? Knowing what’s important to you will guide your budget decisions.
Why DIY Often Increases the Complete Kitchen Renovation Cost
If you got sticker shock, you’re not alone. But while DIY might seem like a good way to cut costs, the reality is often the opposite. Renovating a kitchen yourself can lead to unexpected expenses, mistakes, and delays.
Here’s why DIY often inflates the cost of a complete kitchen renovation :
Hidden Costs: Even basic projects require specialized tools, materials, and expertise. For example, installing cabinets might require equipment you don’t already own.
Costly Mistakes: Incorrect measurements, improper installations, and unforeseen complications often mean hiring a professional to fix the issue—which costs more than doing it right the first time.
Delays: Without experience, DIY projects take significantly longer, leaving you without a functional kitchen for months.
Take IKEA kitchens as an example. While they market affordable solutions, the true costs—like assembly, installation, and modifications—often exceed expectations. Plus, any errors during installation can turn into expensive repairs. On top of all that, they don’t hold their value the same way other brands and materials do.
What Drives Up the Kitchen Renovation Cost?
The total kitchen renovation cost depends on several key factors, and understanding them can help you budget more accurately.
Structural and Layout Changes
One of the biggest cost drivers is altering the layout of your kitchen. Moving plumbing, electrical outlets, or walls requires skilled labor and materials, which can add thousands to your budget. Structural changes might be necessary for functionality, but they should be planned carefully to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Custom Cabinetry
Next on the list is your cabinetry. Custom cabinetry is a significant upgrade, but ultimately it’s one of the things that adds the most value (and improved function) to your kitchen. While custom costs more than stock or semi-custom options, custom cabinets can often optimize storage and ensure a perfect fit. This is especially helpful for unique spaces or homeowners who need specific organizational solutions.
High-End Materials
From countertops to flooring, premium materials can dramatically increase the complete kitchen renovation cost. Natural stone countertops like quartz or marble are popular choices for their durability and beauty, but they come with a higher price tag. Similarly, hardwood or tile flooring is more expensive than vinyl or laminate options.
Poor Planning
I’ve touched on this a little bit already, but one of the most common ways to blow your budget is failing to plan. That’s why people hire us in the first place! Without a detailed design and specification list, unexpected costs can arise during construction. For example, contractors might quote low estimates to try and secure your business, but then don’t include your preferred finishes or fixtures, leaving you with a higher bill once those choices are made.
Should You Renovate the Kitchen Alone or Combine Projects?
When planning a kitchen renovation, another question we are often asked as Cochrane interior designers is whether to focus solely on the kitchen or combine it with other home updates. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, each option has its pros and cons that can impact the overall success of your renovation.
For starters, renovating just the kitchen allows you to dedicate your full attention (and budget) to creating the ideal cooking and entertaining space. This can be a great option if your kitchen is the only area in the home that needs immediate attention. However, if I’m being very honest, there are downsides. Tackling renovations in phases often leads to higher long-term costs. Contractors and tradespeople may need to revisit your home multiple times for subsequent projects, which can add to labor costs, travel fees, and time spent coordinating. There’s also the risk of inconsistent design elements if different areas of your home are updated separately.
On the other hand, combining your kitchen renovation with updates to other parts of your home often proves to be more efficient and cost-effective. By addressing multiple areas at once, you can streamline the process, reduce duplication of effort, and save on materials and labor. For instance, tradespeople can complete all necessary work in one visit, and you can often negotiate better rates for bulk material orders. Additionally, combining projects ensures a cohesive look and feel throughout your home.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget, timeline, and goals. If your focus is solely on the kitchen, renovating it alone might make sense. However, if you’re considering other changes in the near future, combining projects could save time, money, and headaches down the road.
Set a Realistic Budget for the Complete Kitchen Renovation Cost
One of the most important steps in any kitchen renovation is creating a realistic budget. Without careful planning, costs can quickly spiral out of control, leaving homeowners overwhelmed and frustrated. To avoid this, it’s essential to approach your budget with a clear understanding of potential expenses and a willingness to prioritize.
Start by researching the average cost of a complete kitchen renovation (my guess is that you already have this covered, which is why you are reading this now!). As I said before, for most homeowners, this falls between $75,000 and $150,000, depending on the size of the project and the materials used. Once you have a general idea of costs, consider adding a contingency fund of 10-20% to cover unexpected expenses. Renovations often uncover surprises, such as outdated wiring, hidden structural issues, or changes to material availability. By setting aside extra funds, you’ll be better prepared to handle these challenges without derailing the project.
Next, think about your priorities. A kitchen renovation is an investment in your home’s value and your quality of life, so it’s worth spending on elements that will have the most impact. High-quality appliances, custom cabinetry, and durable countertops are often worth the splurge, while more affordable options for lighting, fixtures, and hardware can help balance the budget.
Finally, remember that a well-planned renovation isn’t just about spending money—it’s about spending it wisely. A professional designer can help you create a detailed plan that aligns with your budget while delivering the functionality and style you need. At Room Service Interiors, we specialize in guiding homeowners through this process, ensuring that every dollar is well spent.
Why Work With Professionals?
A professional designer brings experience, creativity, and problem-solving skills to your renovation. At Room Service Interiors, we take the time to understand your unique needs and lifestyle. For example, we consider:
How you cook and entertain.
Storage requirements for your kitchen essentials.
Ergonomics, such as counter heights and appliance placement.
The result? A kitchen that’s not just beautiful but also highly functional, seamlessly blending style and practicality to enhance your daily life and long-term enjoyment. We’ve been doing this for a long time (and not to brag, but we’ve gotten pretty good at it).
Designing Your Dream Kitchen Without Regrets
Avoiding common renovation mistakes can mean the difference between loving your new kitchen and wishing you could redo it all before you even finish. By understanding the complete kitchen renovation cost, planning your budget wisely, and working with a trusted team, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and rewarding renovation experience. Whether it’s choosing the right materials, avoiding surprise expenses, or ensuring a cohesive design, thoughtful decisions make all the difference.
At Room Service Interiors, we believe that renovating your kitchen—or any part of your home—should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience (and maybe even a little fun!). With careful planning and the right guidance, we help you avoid the “what was I thinking?” moments and create spaces that bring you joy every day.
If you’re considering a kitchen renovation in Cochrane, Bearspaw, Springbank, or Calgary, we’d love to chat about how we can help you bring your dream kitchen to life. Give us a call at (403) 860-5901, email us at hello@roomserviceinteriors.ca, or learn more about our team here. Let’s turn your vision into a space you’ll love—one thoughtful choice at a time!
Until next time,
Michelle xx