How Much Does It Actually Cost to Renovate a Luxury Kitchen? (Spoiler: It’s complicated)
Curious about what goes into the cost of a luxury kitchen renovation? From cabinetry and lighting to plumbing changes and material choices, every detail plays a role. In this post, we break down the key factors that shape your investment and explain how our team helps clients prioritize what matters most—so every dollar works harder for your home. Whether you’re just starting to dream or already planning your remodel, this is your guide to making smart, intentional design decisions.
How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Kitchen?
At Design House, one of the most common questions we hear about kitchen remodels is:
“How much is this actually going to cost?”
It’s a valid question—whether you’re just dreaming or ready to begin a full kitchen renovation. The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why online searches can feel so contradictory.
Why Is It So Hard to Pin Down a Number?
The cost of a renovation depends on key factors:
The size of your kitchen
The scope of the redesign
The finishes and materials you select
Whether you invest in custom cabinetry or go with semi-custom options
Planning a remodel with bespoke touches and intentional details puts you squarely into what we call high‑end kitchen design. Our job? To help you make sense of the numbers so your investment aligns with your lifestyle and goals.
What to Expect: A Breakdown of Costs
Kitchen Size & Cabinetry Costs
The first step is estimating your cabinetry needs based on kitchen size—cabinetry is often the largest investment after labor in a remodel, and a great place to begin.
Cabinetry is typically quoted by the linear foot, but this price can vary widely depending on customization—both inside and out. With custom cabinets, every detail impacts your investment:
Interior vs. Exterior
A simple shelf-and-door combo costs less than units with soft‑close drawers, spice pull‑outs, or integrated waste systems. These functional inserts add cost—and value—to each linear foot.Drawers vs. Doors
Drawers generally cost more than doors, due to additional hardware and labor. If you’re considering an all-drawer lower cabinet layout, we’ll evaluate its usability benefits versus its investment.Glass vs. Solid Fronts
Glass-front cabinets add visual interest but come at a higher fabrication and finish cost. The same goes for specialty paints, hand-applied finishes, or premium stains.Hardware Matters
Decorative hardware ranges in price from polished nickel to unlacquered brass. Multiplied across your project, these choices quickly add up—and beautifully.
So, How Do You Know What’s Worth It?
That’s where our design process comes in. At Design House, we guide you to prioritize areas for customization, identify where you can simplify, and balance form with function. We believe in spending wisely—not frivolously.
After all, cabinetry sets the tone for your kitchen and transforms how the space functions daily.
Why Custom Cabinetry Is Worth the Investment
Fully custom cabinetry offers undeniable advantages:
Tailored functionality: Every drawer and cabinet is customized to fit your space and lifestyle.
Exceptional quality: Premium materials and craftsmanship ensure both durability and timeless elegance.
Attention to detail: Custom solutions eliminate wasted space and create a clean, seamless finish.
What Else Might Impact Your Budget?
Several additional factors can influence the final cost of a luxury kitchen renovation:
Material Costs
Countertops, tile, and finishes vary significantly in price depending on type, quality, and level of customization—natural stone, handmade tile, and premium finishes often carry a higher price point.Lighting
A thoughtfully layered lighting plan can completely transform your kitchen’s function and ambiance. But every new fixture or reconfigured setup may require electrical adjustments and code upgrades—each contributing to the overall cost.Plumbing Changes
Moving sinks, dishwashers, or fixtures often involves rerouting plumbing, structural adjustments, and permits. Depending on complexity, this work can add significant labor costs and sometimes exceed $10,000.Permits
Any major electrical or plumbing changes generally require permits—an important component of the project’s timeline and budget.Location
Finding the right labor is critical. Depending on where you live, contractor availability and experience affect pricing—some markets may include travel fees or higher labor rates. Renovations in major metro areas typically cost more than in smaller or rural markets, but hiring the right team is always worth it.
The Bottom Line
Renovating a luxury kitchen is a meaningful investment—and one of the most transformative improvements you can make. It elevates your lifestyle, enhances daily function, and adds long-term value.
At Design House, we specialize in crafting custom kitchens that are considered, beautiful, and entirely yours.
Ready to explore possibilities?
Let’s talk about designing your dream kitchen today.