How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?​

In this guide

Kitchen Remodel Costs by Type of Remodel

No two kitchen remodels are ever quite the same as one another. They can have different styles and materials, but the scope of the remodel can also vary from one home to the next. You may choose a cosmetic update to refresh the room’s appearance without changing anything major. Or, you may leave the layout alone but replace many of the components like the cabinets, countertops, and appliances in a partial remodel. In a full remodel, everything comes out, allowing you to change the layout of the space. In a luxury remodel, you may do all that and move some walls to gain space, while using more and high-quality materials throughout the room. Because of all these various ways to remodel, even if the room size remains the same, you can still have different price ranges. The more invasive, the higher the total costs are. The below costs are ranges based on kitchen sizes from 100 sq.ft. to 200 sq.ft. A smaller or larger kitchen can have costs outside these ranges.

Cosmetic Kitchen Remodel Cost

A cosmetic remodel project costs between $7,000 and $10,000. This project is for updating your kitchen’s surfaces to improve how it looks but will not change the layout or the way the room functions. It may include updating the countertops and appliances, painting the walls, and refacing or painting the cabinets. This project does not involve major tear-out, structural, or layout changes. If it is a decent size and in good condition but looks tired or dated, a cosmetic remodel can make it look new. Cosmetic remodels do better at the time of resale when it comes to ROI than invasive remodels.

Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel Cost

A partial or mid-range kitchen remodel goes further and averages $11,000 to $30,000, depending on the size and project scale. The structure and layout are not altered in a mid-range remodel. However, most things are replaced, and there is some demo and removal of existing materials. Updates can include new cabinets, appliances, and flooring. Cabinets are usually stock but may be semi-custom, depending on the style. This is a good project if you enjoy your kitchen layout, but your cabinets and appliances are old and need to be replaced.

Full Kitchen Renovation Cost

The cost of a full kitchen renovation ranges from $26,000 to $70,000. This renovation removes everything in the kitchen down to the studs. This enables you to change the layout and structure. Full remodels can also address mold or leaking pipes that cannot be reached through partial or cosmetic remodels. It is common to add islands ¹, change the layout for more cabinets, and improve the kitchen’s looks and function during this remodel. This renovation takes up to 12 weeks to complete because of how invasive it is.

Luxury Kitchen Remodel Cost

Expect to pay an average cost of $50,000 to $150,000 for a luxury kitchen remodel. This is a full-scale remodel that starts by stripping everything down to the studs before replacing it with new, usually high-quality, materials and appliances. It is common to add additional square footage in this remodel to enlarge the space. Adding large custom islands, custom cabinetry, and high-end appliances is common. This design caters to your needs and desires and requires 12 weeks or longer to complete because everything is custom-made.

Average Kitchen Remodel Cost by Kitchen Size

Since most kitchen remodels are priced by the square foot, the size can give you a baseline for the costs. Most kitchen renovations fall between $150 and $250 a square foot, so the larger the kitchen, the higher the costs. The variation between costs is due to the amount of work you have done in the space. Partial updates fall at the lower end, while full-scale remodels can fall at the upper end. Depending on the materials used, a luxury renovation can cost as much as $450 a square foot, so it is possible to have much higher costs for some kitchens. However, smaller kitchens generally tend to have costs on the lower end, simply because there is less space. You can include a large island in a 64 sq.ft. kitchen, so your overall costs and potential square foot costs will be lower than they would be in a 300 sq.ft. kitchen where you may need a peninsula ² or island to help improve the layout. It is also possible to do a full-scale renovation on a smaller kitchen and a cosmetic update on a larger kitchen and have different costs.

8’ x 8’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of remodeling an 8’ x 8’ kitchen is between $9,600 and $16,000. 8’ x 8’ kitchens have 64 sq.ft. This is considered small to very small. The most common layout for this size is a galley. This means either one wall of cabinets or two parallel walls of cabinets. Layout options for this size are limited. Because of this limitation, partial remodels are generally the most common at this size.

Small Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost to remodel a small kitchen ranges from $9,600 to $20,250. They come in several sizes, from approximately 64 square feet to around 81 square feet or slightly larger. They are usually more limited in layout. The galley is the most common way to lay out a small kitchen. This gives one or two runs of cabinets, depending on how the kitchen is situated. It can be difficult to fit in eating areas, islands, and other amenities in small kitchens like these.

8’ x 10’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of an 8’ x 10’ kitchen averages $12,000 to $20,000. Kitchens with these measurements has 80 sq.ft. This is also considered a small kitchen. Kitchens with this square footage are more likely galley-style. This means one long wall of cabinets or two parallel shorter runs. Layouts are limited for this size. This size is also more likely to receive a partial remodel than a full because layout choices are so limited.

9’ x 9’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost to remodel 9’ x 9’ kitchens is $12,150 to $20,250. Kitchens with these dimensions have 81 sq.ft. This is still considered a small kitchen. Like kitchens of similar dimensions, the most common layout is the galley. At 81 sq.ft., it is common to have two parallel runs of cabinets. Some other layouts are possible but limited. Full renovations are only done in these kitchens if you want to add a second run of cabinets or remove one to use shelves instead. Otherwise, partial renovations are the most common.

10’ x 10’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost to remodel 10’ x 10’ kitchens ranges from $15,000 to $25,000. Kitchens with these dimensions is 100 sq.ft. This is considered a small-to-average kitchen. They can have a few layouts in this size. This includes the galley, but L-shaped and some U-shaped kitchens can work. You could make this an eat-in kitchen. Because of the options available, it is possible to have more full-scale renovations in a kitchen this size.

10’ x 12’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of a 10’ x 12’ kitchen remodel averages $18,000 to $30,000. A kitchen with these dimensions is 120 sq.ft. This size falls into the average range. At this size, it has more options for layouts. L-kitchens and U-kitchens are more common. Galley is an option, sometimes with an island separating the kitchen from other spaces in an open floor plan. Kitchens with this size have enough possibilities that you can change your layout if you desire, giving you the option of a full-scale remodel.

10’ x 20’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost to remodel 10’ x 20’ kitchens is between $30,000 and $90,000. Kitchens with these dimensions has 200 sq.ft. This is considered the upper end of average. Kitchens in this size range have multiple options for layouts. You can have L-layouts, U-layouts, islands, or peninsulas. They also have space for banquets, walk-in pantries, and other additions. At this size, not only are full-scale renovations possible with the changing of a layout, you also have the space for some luxury renovations. This can add many extra appliances and amenities to the space.

12’ x 12’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of a 12’ x 12’ kitchen remodel ranges from $21,600 to $64,800. Kitchens with these dimensions have 144 sq.ft. This size falls into the average range. Kitchens with these dimensions have several layout options. This includes the L-layout, U-layout, and galleys with an island as a divider to another room. Kitchens at this size may also have an eat-in area. While it is most common at this size for homeowners to opt for a full-scale renovation, it is also possible in some cases to invest in a more luxury remodel. This can also improve the room layout and design.

20’ x 20’ Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost to remodel 20’ x 20’ kitchens is between $60,000 and $180,000. Kitchens with these dimensions has 400 sq.ft. This is considered a very large or oversized kitchen. Kitchens at this size have unlimited options for layouts. It is common for them to have large islands, banquettes, or separate eating areas. Pantries, separate ovens and cooktops, and other amenities are also common. Luxury remodels are more common at this size because you have the space to add the extra appliances and amenities to make them fit seamlessly into the room.

Kitchen Remodel Cost per Square Foot

In general, remodeling a kitchen costs around $150 to $250 per square foot. Cosmetic remodels and some partial remodels cost closer to $100 a square foot, while luxury renovations can cost as much as $450 a square foot depending on the materials used. The total cost depends on numerous factors, including the cabinet quality and materials, new appliances, and flooring or countertop materials. The larger the area, the more choices you typically have with the space. This can often mean that larger kitchens can reach higher square foot amounts within this range than smaller kitchens. It is not always necessary to go for a big or full-scale remodel in a larger space, but because it is possible, it is more common. This table shows examples of common sizes and average full-scale remodel costs for each.

Kitchen Remodel Cost by Layout

Kitchens can be laid out in many ways. In some cases, the layout is dictated by the space size. The smaller it is, the fewer choices you have for layouts, while larger kitchens have many choices.

Regardless of which layout you choose, keep in mind how the kitchen will function. Your sink, refrigerator, and stove should be fairly close. This is the working triangle, where the three appliances make a triangle when positioned correctly.

You also must keep building codes in mind when planning the layout. Stoves need landing areas of 12 inches on one side and 15 inches on the other at a minimum, while refrigerators need at least 12 inches. Dishwashers are usually installed beside the sink to give the sink adequate counter landing space above the dishwasher. If you place an island in your kitchen, there needs to be at least 42 inches between the edge and other cabinets or walls. These factors must be included in your design to ensure it functions and meets code.

Galley Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of a galley kitchen remodel is between $7,500 and $25,000. They are usually between 7 and 12-feet long, and they can range in width from 3 to 6-feet wide. This can be a one-wall remodel or a two-wall. If you have two walls, meaning two walls of cabinets running parallel, there must be a minimum of 3 feet between the two walls after the cabinets are installed. They can sometimes be used in open layouts with a half wall separating the kitchen from other rooms. This is a common layout for older homes, small homes, condos, and apartments.

L-Shaped Kitchen Remodel

The average cost of an L-shaped kitchen remodel is between $15,000 and $50,000. L-shaped remodels are usually at least 100 sq.ft. They can be much larger, however. Two adjacent rows of cabinets form an L in this layout. The other areas can be open, including seating areas or banquettes or a simple wall. L-shaped kitchens, which are open on most sides, can also include a peninsula in the design. This is particularly common if you have an eat-in area to one side, with the peninsula helping separate the two sections. Very large L-shaped kitchens may include an island in the design, but it is uncommon.

Kitchen Remodel With a Peninsula

The cost of a kitchen remodel with a peninsula ranges from $15,000 to $75,000. Peninsulas are a stretch of lower cabinets without uppers. They extend off a wall of cabinets at 90º. They can be included in L or U-shaped kitchens, with the peninsula making up one of the short ends of cabinet runs. Peninsulas can be used in kitchen/dining room combinations to separate the spaces. They can also be a good way of adding extra cabinets in open floor plans. Peninsulas can also have seating on one side, provided you extend the countertop far enough.

Horseshoe Kitchen Remodel

The cost of a U-shaped or horseshoe kitchen remodel averages $26,250 to $75,000. This layout contains three adjacent runs of cabinets. The three runs can be on three walls, or one or more runs may be only the lower cabinets without uppers. Peninsula-style cabinets can be used in open floor plans to define the area and potentially provide countertop seating in the kitchen. The U-shape layout is typically installed in kitchens with at least 175 sq.ft. or larger. You can also add an island.

Kitchen Remodel With an Island

The cost of a kitchen remodel with an island is between $30,000 and $150,000. Many styles have an island added. It is one of the most popular layouts. Having an island gives you a landing area for refrigerators and a place to move a sink or cooktop. In long kitchens, you can bring your working triangle into better alignment. Islands can also be used for seating, extra cabinet storage, or a baking work surface. For kitchens without a lot of space, you can also use an island on wheels, pushing it out of the way when not in use.

Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown

Full kitchen remodels involve every part of the kitchen, including the flooring, plumbing, cabinets, and appliances. And therefore, every remodel will need multiple professionals to complete the project.

While you can have partial or cosmetic remodels that only change the surface, a full remodel is the easiest to get a cost breakdown of because all areas are involved. In partial and cosmetic updates, many parts of the space may be left alone, so they will not factor into your project or final costs.

The following cost breakdown of a full remodel shows the approximate percentage your total goes toward within each area. The associated costs are for a remodel based on a 200 sq.ft. kitchen, but your costs can vary depending on the size and level of the remodel.

There is a category included in most renovation budgets labeled “other.” While it only makes up 1% of the budget, it is important to keep this category in your total. This can be for small and unforeseen expenses, such as patching small holes in walls, changing outdoor hardware to match the new finishes, a food budget for when your kitchen is inaccessible, or other small things. This is not the same as a contingency fee but more of a catch-all for minor things.

Kitchen Makeover Design Costs

Your kitchen makeover design costs will average 4% of your total budget. For a 200 sq.ft. kitchen, this typically averages $1,200 to $3,600. While you do not need a kitchen designer to oversee the project, many people pay for designs and 3D renderings ³. You can hire a kitchen designer or interior designer to assist with the project. Expect costs in addition to your total renovation budget. Most designers charge an additional 10% to 17% of your total budget. If you have a budget of $35,000, you pay an additional $3,500 to $5,950 for design services.

Plumbing Cost for a Kitchen Remodel

Typical plumbing costs for a kitchen remodel make up 4% of the total for the materials. This averages $1,200 to $3,600 for 200 sq.ft. kitchens. Plumbing costs for these remodels fall into multiple categories. Plumbers charge between $45 and $200 an hour. The cost of the plumber along with the associated sink, faucets, and plumbing appliance hookups typically cost between $4,000 and $8,000. Your costs can be under $1,000 for partial remodels, including materials and labor. These figures are difficult to understand because they are often not charged like this. Instead, appliances, the faucet, sink, and materials are usually broken out separately from the labor, which is included in the 17% of your total costs.

Kitchen Sink Remodel Cost

The sink is a very important part of your design. Sinks come in several shapes and sizes. You can find single, double, and triple-bowl sinks that can fit in a variety of cabinets. These sinks can also be dropped in, undermounted, or installed as an apron front sink with a special cabinet below. The sink size is dictated by your cabinet base. Inside your sink base cabinet is a set of stiles, and your sink must fit between those. Subtract an inch from the measurement from stile to stile for drop-in sinks to get the widest sink. For undermount sinks, subtract 3 inches from the measurement to find the largest sink you can fit. Below are the average costs for sinks of different configurations fully installed.

Kitchen Faucet Replacement Cost

Faucets come in many styles, materials, and finishes. You can coordinate your sink and faucet to have the same finish and matching features. If your sink bowl is a drop-in, it will come pre-drilled for faucet holes. You need to ensure that the faucet you choose matches that drilling. Otherwise, your countertop installer will make the drillings for you based on the faucet you choose. Faucets come in a range of different sizes and configurations, from single-hole faucets with a single handle to widespread faucets that also have a side sprayer. In general, the larger the sink, the larger the faucet so that you can easily reach all areas for cleaning and general use.

Electrician Cost for a Kitchen Remodel

Electricians charge between $40 and $120 an hour, depending on their experience level. The amount of work they do depends on many factors. In most cases, the majority of the work is in full-scale remodels. This means remodels where everything is updated, and things are taken down to the studs. It is easier to move and rewire appliances and install new lighting and outlets when the room is open. You may find electrician costs vary from $300 to $900 for average kitchens. Luxury remodels have higher costs because of the additional appliances.

Kitchen Lighting Remodel Cost

Your kitchen lighting will generally work out to roughly 5% of your total costs. Every home and kitchen has three lighting concepts - ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ambient lighting produces general atmosphere lighting, task lighting is brighter and focused on a workspace, and accent lighting highlights objects or architectural features.

It is common in most remodels to layer these different lighting types. This gives you the most dynamic lighting for the space and makes sure that it is fully usable at all times of the day. Generally, most of these rooms include either recessed lighting ⁴ or another type of overhead lighting for the ambient light. Cabinet lighting and some pendant lights over peninsulas and islands are used as task lighting. Wall sconces, toe-kick lighting, and other features are examples of accent lighting.

Cost to Replace a Kitchen Backsplash

The national average cost for a new backsplash ⁵ is $900 to $2,500. Backsplashes fall into the category of walls and ceilings, which make up roughly 5% of your total costs. A backsplash is one of the most fun and useful elements of a kitchen. It is an opportunity to create a decorative area as an accent point behind the stovetop and counter. It is also a way to save your walls from stains due to splashes from food preparation. Backsplashes are also easier to update when you do not want to spend money on a full remodel.

There are many material choices for backsplashes, some of which are easier to clean and lower maintenance than others. Porcelain, ceramic, glass, quartz, and stainless steel are great options for easy-to-maintain backsplashes. Natural stone and painted surfaces are harder to maintain long term.

If choosing wallpaper, it should be taken into account that wallpaper for use on a backsplash is made of thicker material than regular wallpaper. This thicker material can be wiped down, which makes it easier to clean. Wallpaper meant for other parts of the home should not be used on backsplashes because it could be easily damaged.

Cost to Paint a Kitchen

The average cost to paint a kitchen is between $600 and $1,320. Painting generally falls into the part of your budget for walls and ceilings, which makes up 5% of your total costs. Most remodels do not add new walls, so the bulk of this budget goes toward the finish work rather than drywall ⁶. Luxury remodels that are expanding space or kitchen additions may have a larger budget for the ceiling and walls, of which paint would make up a small part.

Painting your kitchen involves at least two coats of paint and can take place at multiple points in the remodel, depending on scheduling.

Kitchen Floor Remodel Cost

Flooring is an understated component, but it is a big decision. There is a lot of foot traffic in a kitchen, so the floor must be durable and long-lasting. You may want to run the same material from your kitchen into the rest of your home or separate the two areas from one another, with a threshold dividing them. Flooring should make up roughly 7% of your budget for a total renovation, but the flooring you choose could have a different set of costs. The costs below are for a kitchen with roughly 200 sq.ft. of flooring.

Kitchen Counter Replacement Cost

Your countertop is one of the most important parts of the kitchen. Countertops make up roughly 10% of your total budget, with an average cost range of $3,000 to $9,000 in a 200 sq.ft. kitchen. This surface is prominently displayed in the kitchen, so it must work with the rest of your design and set the tone. It is also going to be in daily use, so it must be highly functional and durable.

You can use many different materials for a countertop. Quartz is one of the most popular options, but natural stones like quartzite, granite, and marble are popular as well. Recycled glass, quartz, and porcelain are the lowest-maintenance options, while metal countertops are also fairly stain-resistant. However, other materials can also be used in the space, including laminates and solid surface materials.

All countertops are generally sold and installed by the square foot. If you choose to have a custom edge or want multiple sink cutouts or an integral backsplash, your costs are higher. Below are the costs of the most common countertop materials installed. These are not the only materials available, however. See more in the full countertop guide.

New Kitchen Appliances Cost

Appliances and ventilation make up roughly 14% of your remodeling costs. Appliances are some of the final pieces installed in the kitchen. Some appliances are necessary, while others are nice to have. Most require professional installation like ovens and dishwashers, but the homeowner can plug in a few, such as a countertop coffee maker. Not every kitchen needs all appliances - some can take the place of others, such as a range being used in place of a separate cooktop and oven. The room’s layout and how you use the space dictates the appliances you select.

Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Cost

Your kitchen cabinets are one of the biggest and most important parts of the design and are usually one of the first things chosen in a remodel. They make up 29% of the costs. For a 200 sq.ft. kitchen, this can range from $8,700 to $26,100 for all the cabinets, hardware, and installation. Cabinets come in many styles, colors, and sizes. They can be stock, semi-custom, or fully custom, with the latter being the most expensive and having the longest lead time.

You need several types - base cabinets installed on the floor, wall cabinets, which hang roughly 18 inches above the counter, corner cabinets for L and U-shaped kitchens, and specialty cabinets like pantries or utility cabinets. Each has varying costs.

Kitchen Remodel Labor Costs

Many professionals are needed for a kitchen remodel, including designers, cabinet and countertop installers, plumbers, and electricians. The labor cost makes up an average of 17% of your budget. This means labor has an average cost range of $5,100 to $15,300 for a 200 sq.ft. kitchen in a full remodel. 17% is an only estimate, however. If you have a larger-than-average tear out, need custom installation of certain items, or require a major plumbing or electrical overhaul, this percentage could rise.

Kitchen remodeling gets complicated quickly, and there probably is not one person who can do it all. Several people are involved in the process, although exactly who you hire and how much work they do depends on multiple things, including the project scope.

Kitchen Renovation Price by Type of Housing

The overall cost does not change much based on the home type you have. You can install luxury kitchens in condos or complete a cosmetic update in a single-family home. The size drives the cost the most, with most homes having average kitchen sizes for each space. This can give you a general idea of the costs for a full remodel in various types of residences. Below are the average costs of kitchen remodels for different housing types, based on the average size. Keep in mind that if you have one that is larger or smaller than the average size, your costs could be different.

Condo Kitchen Remodel Cost

The average cost to remodel a condo kitchen averages $10,500 and $17,500. Most condos have kitchens that average 70 sq.ft., but you can have condos with smaller kitchens. You can also have a luxury condo with a much larger space. Costs for either of these scenarios are different. Condos are single-owner units that are usually owner-occupied. If you make changes that affect the building, you often need to get permission from the condo association. This may change who you are allowed to hire or what work you can complete.

Apartment Kitchen Renovation Cost

The average cost to remodel an apartment kitchen is between $10,500 and $17,500 for a single apartment. Most apartment complexes have multiple units. In these cases, you can often get discounts on materials and labor for undertaking multiple kitchen remodels. When doing a single apartment at a time, your costs can be higher on a per-unit basis. The average apartment kitchen is around 70 sq.ft. However, studio apartments may have much smaller kitchens, while oversized loft apartments could have larger ones. The costs are different in each scenario.

Townhouse Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of a townhouse kitchen remodel ranges from $10,500 to $17,500. Townhouse kitchens are usually around 70 sq.ft. However, some townhouses have larger or smaller kitchens. In these cases, costs could be different. Townhouses may be governed like condominiums with an association. They can sometimes also be owned in blocks by a single person. If you update more than one kitchen simultaneously, your costs could be lower. Your costs could also differ because you may be prevented from making specific changes if you are subject to bylaws.

Mobile Home Kitchen Remodel

The cost of a mobile home kitchen remodel is between $10,500 and $17,500. Mobile homes typically have kitchens around 70 sq.ft. However, mobile homes come in many sizes. You could find one with a smaller galley layout. You could also find a double-wide with room for a much larger kitchen. Your costs could be different in either case. Mobile homes are often treated like single-family homes in remodels. Your costs or the way the project is carried out is not dramatically different from larger, stationary homes.

Single-Family Home Kitchen Remodel

The average cost range of a single-family home full kitchen remodel averages $15,000 to $50,000. Single-family homes have a much wider range of sizes for kitchens, resulting in a large cost range. There is also less variation in how the project proceeds because these homes are usually owner-occupied and owned singly. While condos and apartments can have kitchens done in bulk, these projects are treated singularly with the occupant making the choices. This leads to greater personalization but also a wider range of choices and costs.

How to Budget a Kitchen Remodel

These remodels can be costly, which makes budgeting a difficult prospect. There are several ways you can budget for this expense. The first is to look at the project breakdown, which provides a general idea of how much of your budget you will need to reserve for each design component.

Next, you want to meet with a designer or contractor to get a sense of the project scope. These remodels have a very broad cost range from $11,000 to $42,000. This depends on the project scope and size. A cosmetic update costs considerably less than a full-scale remodel, so you need to understand how involved your project will be.

However, the cost of the remodel is not necessarily the cost of the entire project. For example, if you hire an architect, kitchen designer, interior designer, or general contractor, their fee will be a percentage of the total, which is paid in addition to the other costs. So, your total budget needs to include this cost as well.

You also need to add in a contingency fund. This is often required if you get a loan for the remodel. It is about 20% of the remodel cost and is in addition to the rest of your budget. This fund is to help with unforeseen costs, such as mold, asbestos ⁷, water damage, or even the costs of having to eat out while your kitchen is not accessible.

By planning for these additional fees from the start, you can be sure to have enough money to complete the project comfortably, rather than needing to cut corners midway through.

Kitchen Design Ideas

One of the first factors to consider when planning your remodel is what style or design concept you are looking for. There are many different styles, and browsing designs online and in magazines helps give you a good idea of what styles are available. Depending on your budget, you may not be able to achieve the “showroom look,” but you may be able to find elements that achieve the style you want. Talk to a kitchen designer, architect, or contractor for help choosing the right elements for your style.

Minimalist Design

Minimalist kitchens may appeal to those who like a sleek, contemporary, space-saving look. The idea with this style is to make the most of every bit of space, producing a clean and clutter-free aesthetic with sleek finishes, solid colors, and few lines.

French Design

With a French kitchen design, much emphasis is placed on the cookware and utensils, turning these functional objects into decorative elements, with pots and pans hung on the walls or suspended from ceiling fixtures. They often feature tile floors, airy colors, and spotlight key features like the oven.

Modern Design

Modern kitchens are all about sleekness and style, often with metallic or other contemporary materials that produce a sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. They often hide pots, pans, food, and other items to produce a very stark and clean look, usually with bright and bold colors.

Traditional Design

Traditional kitchens are effectively the opposite of modern kitchens. It is seen as the “Classic American” style, with raised cabinets and perhaps even the inclusion of antique elements to produce a warm, homely, family-friendly feel with a lived-in look, rather than the stark cleanness of more contemporary designs.

Monochromatic Design

Monochromatic kitchens are usually made up of only black and white elements, sticking with just one or two neutral colors to provide a very clean and sleek look. They may also incorporate elements of modern and minimalistic design and can appeal to those who want a simple, sophisticated style, without lots of clutter or decorative elements.

Farmhouse Design

Inspired by country farmhouses with warm wooden cabinets and large statement ranges, farmhouse kitchens tend to focus on large features and appliances. They often feature wide sinks, plenty of windows for lots of natural light, big kitchen tables, and rich woods throughout.

Scandinavian Design

The Scandinavian style incorporates minimalistic and modern design elements, often made of simple, neutral colors like gray, white, and brown. They usually feature hand-painted tiles, simple geometric forms, and plenty of light, either natural or electric, depending on the layout.

Mediterranean Design

A Mediterranean kitchen design takes its inspiration from the warm, inviting family kitchens found in countries like Italy and Greece. You usually find wooden cabinets and colorful tiled floors in them, and they typically also feature range hoods.

Craftsman Design

Those who want a wooden kitchen should consider a craftsman design. Wood is the key material in any craftsman kitchen, often used for both the flooring and cabinets. They often involve decorative, handcrafted wooden elements and other pieces like colorful patterned tiles for the walls.

Vintage / Rustic Design

Those who like to get back to basics and enjoy the styles of the past will favor a rustic or vintage kitchen design. They usually make heavy use of natural materials, such as wood or stone, rather than shiny chrome-plated surfaces or modern aesthetics. They also usually incorporate vintage-style appliances like retro refrigerators.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Water Treatment System

If your water is less than ideal, you may want to consider adding a water treatment system at the same time you update your kitchen. Water treatment systems treat the water for the entire house at once or just target the kitchen, depending on your needs. Costs range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the scope and area you are treating.​

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Islands: A kitchen counter that is not attached to walls or other surfaces, and that can be accessed from all sides

² Peninsula: A metaphorical term for an extended kitchen counter space connected to the wall on only one side

³ Renderings: A type of durable plaster finish made of aggregates, a binder, and water (traditionally Portland cement, sand, and water) used on masonry, walls, ceilings, and decorative moldings

⁵ Backsplash: The upright surface, often made of tile, behind a kitchen counter, sink, or stove, that protects the wall from damage from splatter due to kitchen activities

⁶ Drywall: Type of plasterboard, commonly used to build walls and ceilings, composed of gypsum that is layered between sheets of heavy paper