One of the most common questions we get asked about any type of renovation is, “How much will it cost?” Of course, the answer always depends on the condition of the existing property, how much is changing in the space, and what features and amenities the homeowner wants. When it comes to high-end kitchen remodels, there are a few categories to consider when estimating the costs.
Existing Conditions
The biggest wild card in a high-end kitchen remodel is the existing space. At the lowest end of the scale, making purely cosmetic changes to a kitchen that has good structural elements and no major problems will have the lowest expenses in this category. At the other end of the spectrum, if you have to update the wiring, install new plumbing, or move gas lines, these behind-the-scenes costs can add up. The best way to determine this cost for your specific situation is to work directly with a designer and contractor, but the cost of updating the underlying systems could range from $20,000 for minor upgrades to $100,000 for a major overhaul.
Features and Amenities
The price for your features and amenities can run the gamut depending on the design. Even modern kitchens with a seemingly simple design have costs that you might not have thought about. For example, one 2020 kitchen trend is to use a single slab for the backsplash to create a seamless look. Whether you choose marble, granite, or some other material will dictate how much this particular feature will cost.
Colorful kitchen tile, another 2020 trend, creates a completely different look, but it also comes with more labor. Although the material costs might be lower for glass or ceramic tile, the installation cost should also be considered.
When it comes to the various features and amenities you could include, the sky’s the limit, but plan on spending at least $20,000 for countertops, backsplashes, hardware, and other details.
Appliances
Determining the cost of appliances for your high-end kitchen remodel is pretty straightforward. When making an estimate, don’t forget to include all of the appliances you might want, such as:
- Refrigerator, including a wine refrigerator
- Stove and ventilation hood
- Oven or double oven
- Microwave
- Dishwasher
- Coffee/espresso maker
If you opt for appliances that have to be shipped from overseas or want custom colors, don’t forget to add these expenses into the overall estimate. Depending on your selections, appliances could cost $20,000-$35,000.
Custom Millwork
A high-end kitchen remodel deserves custom touches, and millwork is one way to make the special details truly stand out. Whether you want custom cabinets, a centerpiece island countertop, built-in shelves, or molding that matches your unique style, your contractor can estimate the related costs. Of course, it all depends on exactly what you want, but custom millwork ranges widely from $25,000-$200,000, with $45,000-$70,000 being the median range.
Flooring and Lighting
Kitchen floors need to be rugged and durable, but a high-end kitchen also calls for elegance. Selecting the right materials and investing in professional installation will ensure that your beautiful new floor stays in good shape no matter how much you use it. You can expect flooring to cost $5,000-$10,000, depending on the materials you use and the size of your kitchen.
The same is true for lighting—you want it to be both functional and stylish. Working with a kitchen or lighting designer is a sure way to ensure that you get the best of both worlds. These professionals also have access to high-end fixtures that you might not find by searching on your own. For luxury lighting, budget at least $3,000.
Get a Quote for Your High-End Kitchen Remodel
The bottom line is that there is no way to estimate the costs of a kitchen remodel without having a good understanding of the existing space and what you envision it becoming. Any good contractor will be able to have an open discussion about the potential costs of the project you have in mind. If you’re considering a high-end kitchen remodel, contact us today to get started.