Kitchen renovations are one of the most popular (and sometimes most confusing) home improvement projects out there. Between choosing layouts, comparing materials, and keeping an eye on your budget, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before the first tile is even laid.
The truth is, there’s no single price tag that fits every kitchen renovation. Costs can vary widely depending on your style choices, the size of the space, and the finishes you have your heart set on.
So, with that being said, we will break down what really drives the cost of a kitchen renovation so you know what to expect, and how to plan with confidence.
Key Factors That Influence Kitchen Renovation Costs
No two kitchen renovations cost the same. Even with similar spaces, the final price can look very different depending on the choices you make and the challenges of your home. It’s these key factors that shape how much you’ll spend on your project.
Room Size & Layout – Larger kitchens mean more materials and labour, while major layout changes, such as moving plumbing or appliances, can increase costs.
Structural & Building Works – Removing walls, upgrading plumbing, or reworking electricals all add complexity and expense.
Joinery & Benchtops – From simple laminate cabinets to polyurethane finishes, or stone benchtops versus timber, your selections can make a big impact on the budget.
Fixtures, Fittings & Appliances – Standard inclusions keep costs down, while integrated appliances, premium brands, and custom features drive them up.
Flooring – New flooring isn’t always required, but when included it can significantly affect overall costs.
Dwelling Type & Site Access – Apartments with tight access or older homes with hidden issues often involve more time and resources than newer, standalone houses.
Average Kitchen Renovation Costs In Australia
When planning your kitchen renovation, understanding the different cost levels can make a big difference in setting realistic expectations. At Novalé, we’ve refined our approach into four clear cost tiers to give you an idea of what to expect, whether you’re after a simple upgrade or a showstanding bespoke kitchen.
Standard Kitchen Renovation
Cost: $37,400 – $55,900 (excl. GST)
If your main goal is a fresh, functional kitchen without overhauling the entire space, this tier is a great fit for you. Standard renovations typically include basic joinery, laminate or entry-level benchtops, standard appliances, and only minor alterations to your existing layout. It’s an ideal option for homeowners who want a clean, modern look and improved functionality without stretching their budget too far.
Upgraded Kitchen Renovation
Cost: $55,900 – $79,200 (excl. GST)
An upgraded kitchen is all about balancing style and value. This tier steps things up with polyurethane joinery, engineered stone benchtops, upgraded fixtures and fittings, and the flexibility for minor layout changes. A great example is our Balmain Project, which showcased how an upgraded kitchen can completely lift the feel of a home, offering a modern finish that feels premium, without moving into full luxury pricing.
Premium Kitchen Renovation
Cost: $79,200 – $117,800 (excl. GST)
For those who want their kitchen to feel like the heart of their home, a premium kitchen renovation delivers higher-end finishes and a polished, luxurious look. You can expect features like shaker profile joinery, premium appliances, and custom storage solutions that maximise both style and functionality. This option is perfect if you’re after a kitchen that makes a statement and provides a touch of luxury, but without going all the way to bespoke.
Bespoke Kitchen Renovation
Cost: $117,800+ (excl. GST)
If you want a kitchen that is truly one-of-a-king, a bespoke renovation is the ultimate choice. This tier offers full customisation with designer finishes, integrated appliances, unique layouts, and luxury flooring to create a completely tailored space. It’s designed for homeowners who see their kitchen as more than just a functional area—it’s a personalised statement piece, crafted to match their lifestyle and taste.
Example Breakdown – ‘Upgraded’ Kitchen Renovation
Every home, and every kitchen, is different, which is why we believe in being upfront about what goes into your renovation budget. To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of an ‘Upgraded’ Kitchen Renovation based on our Balmain project. This example shows not just the final figure, but also how each element contributes to the overall cost, so you can see exactly where your investment goes.
Labour & Building Materials
Cost: $13,000 – $16,000 + GST approx.
This covers removals, alterations, and appliance installation. Costs can shift depending on how much demolition is required, whether layout changes are involved, and the type of appliances chosen (standard vs. integrated). An ‘Upgraded’ kitchen typically involves minimal layout changes, removal of the existing kitchen only, and standard appliance installation.
Fixtures, Fittings, Tiles & Appliances
Cost: $7,400 – $10,700 + GST approx.
From tiles to tapware, these choices can quickly influence your budget. Pricing depends on the type of finishes, level of customisation, and whether you choose to upgrade items. Our ranges include Standard, Upgraded, Premium, and Bespoke, with the ‘Upgraded’ tier striking a balance between style and value.
Joinery & Benchtops
Cost: $34,000 – $50,500 + GST approx.
This is often the largest investment, covering cabinetry and benchtop supply and installation. Costs vary based on finishes (flat vs. shaker doors), benchtop profiles (square vs. mitred edge), and accessories like pull-out bins or drawer systems. An ’Upgraded’ kitchen usually features polyurethane flat-profile joinery with minimal extras and a zero-silica engineered stone benchtop with square edges.
Optional Floor Coverings
Cost: $1,500 – $2,000 + GST approx.
Choices range from tiles and hybrids to timber or bespoke finishes. Most ‘Upgraded’ projects include new flooring, with costs varying by material and finish.
Total Project Cost Estimate
$55,900 – $79,200 + GST approx.
Note: Estimates are shown as ranges as there are factors that affect costs: dwelling type & age, street access etc. For example, a 30 year old standalone timber framed single storey house in a quiet street with good access will be lower in the cost range compared to a 75 year old 3rd storey brick apartment in a busy street.
Get A Personalised Estimate In Minutes
Want to see what your dream kitchen could cost? Novalé’s Free Online Estimate Tool now makes it simple—whether you’re planning a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry renovation. All you need to do is enter a few details, like your kitchen size and the level of renovation you’re after, and you’ll receive a tailored cost range in just minutes.
It’s quick, transparent, and designed to give you clarity before you even book a consultation. No guesswork, no hidden surprises, just a personalised estimate to help you plan your renovation with confidence.
Ready To Renovate Your Kitchen?
A kitchen renovation is more than just updating cabinets and benchtops—it’s about creating a space that feels functional, stylish, and truly yours. With the right planning and expert support, your new kitchen can become the heart of your home for years to come.
For expert guidance on designing your dream kitchen, turn to Novalé for bespoke renovation solutions that fit your needs perfectly. Ready to start planning? Get in touch with our team today! Call us at 1800 NOVALÉ today!
