Renovating a kitchen is one of the most rewarding home improvements you can make. A well-designed kitchen not only boosts your home’s value but also makes daily life more enjoyable. However, many homeowners are surprised at how quickly costs can add up. From choosing the right kitchen sinks to installing stylish kitchen taps, knowing the potential expenses can help you plan your renovation effectively. This guide breaks down costs, highlights essential upgrades, and showcases high-quality products from Blue Leaf Bath to make your kitchen both functional and beautiful.

Understanding Kitchen Renovation Costs

The cost of renovating a kitchen varies widely depending on the size of your space, the quality of materials, and the scope of work. Whether you’re doing a minor refresh or a full-scale remodel, it’s helpful to have a clear idea of where your money will go. Here’s a rough guide for Australian kitchens:

Major Cost Areas to Consider

Cabinetry and Handles

Cabinetry is often the largest cost in a kitchen renovation, accounting for 30–40% of the total budget. Opting for new cabinetry can be a significant investment, but you can refresh your kitchen’s look without a full replacement.

• Custom cabinets: $10,000 – $30,000+

• Semi-custom cabinets: $5,000 – $15,000

• Cabinet handles and knobs: $3 – $20 each, depending on style. Options from Blue Leaf’s collection allow cost-effective yet stylish upgrades.

Upgrading handles and knobs is one of the most budget-friendly ways to modernise your kitchen without a full cabinet replacement. Browse cabinet pull handles and cabinet knobs for options.

Kitchen Sinks and Accessories

A high-quality sink is both functional and stylish. Choosing the right sink for your workflow can make cooking and cleaning much easier. Kitchen sinks come in various styles and materials, affecting cost. :

• Single bowl stainless steel: $200 – $600

• Double bowl stainless steel: $400 – $900

• Undermount stone sinks: $500 – $1,500

• White ceramic sinks: $350 – $1,200

Check out Blue Leaf kitchen sinks and white kitchen sinks for a range of durable and stylish options. Don’t forget sink accessories like mats, grids, and sink wastes to complete the setup.

Kitchen Taps

Upgrading your kitchen taps can instantly elevate the look of your space. From classic kitchen taps to specialised three-piece sink taps, there are plenty of options to suit your kitchen style. The right tap can enhance both functionality and design.

• Standard mixer tap: $150 – $500

• Three-piece sink tap set: $400 – $900

• Gooseneck sink mixer: $350 – $1,200

• Pull-out sink mixer: $400 – $1,500

• Filtered water taps / Zip HydroTap: $800 – $3,000

Blue Leaf offers a wide variety of kitchen taps, three-piece sink taps, gooseneck sink mixers, pull-out mixers, and filtered water taps to suit every budget.

Benchtops and Splashbacks

Benchtop materials can greatly impact your renovation budget. Laminate and timber offer a budget-friendly solution, while stone, quartz, or engineered surfaces provide a premium look. Splashbacks not only protect your walls but also add character to your kitchen. Tiles, glass, and even stainless steel are popular choices depending on the style you want to achieve.

Material choice is a key cost driver:

• Laminate benchtop: $100 – $300/m²

• Timber benchtop: $250 – $800/m²

• Engineered stone / quartz: $600 – $1,200/m²

• Stone / marble: $900 – $2,000/m²

Splashbacks also vary: tiles $50 – $200/m², glass $250 – $500/m², stainless steel $200 – $400/m².

Appliances and Lighting

Modern appliances can be a large part of your renovation costs but can also make daily life easier and more efficient. Energy-efficient ovens, dishwashers, and integrated fridges are excellent investments. Lighting is another area to focus on; under-cabinet LED lights and pendant lights over islands or dining areas can make your kitchen feel more open, bright, and inviting.

High-quality appliances increase costs but improve usability:

• Oven: $800 – $5,000

• Cooktop: $500 – $2,500

• Dishwasher: $500 – $2,000

• Integrated fridge: $1,500 – $6,000

Lighting costs vary depending on size and style:

• LED under-cabinet strip: $100 – $400

• Pendant lights: $150 – $600 each

• Recessed ceiling lights: $100 – $300 per fixture

Hidden Costs You Might Forget

Many homeowners underestimate smaller costs that add up quickly. Plumbing and electrical work for new taps or sinks, flooring upgrades, council permits, inspections, and waste removal are all items to factor into your budget. Planning ahead can prevent these hidden costs from surprising you mid-project.

• Plumbing and electrical work: $1,000 – $5,000

• Flooring: $50 – $250/m² depending on material

• Waste removal: $150 – $500

• Permits or inspections: $200 – $1,000

Including these costs in your budget prevents surprises during the renovation.

Tips to Save on Your Kitchen Renovation

1. Plan in detail – Finalise your layout and design before purchasing materials.

2. Mix high and low – Pair premium items like gooseneck sink mixers with budget-friendly cabinetry.

3. Reuse existing items – Keep cabinets or benchtops if in good condition, and upgrade handles or taps.

4. DIY smaller tasks – Painting cabinets or installing cabinet handles yourself can save on labour costs.

5. Shop smart – Browse Blue Leaf’s kitchen collection for affordable, high-quality products.

Products That Can Transform Your Kitchen

Investing in the right products ensures your kitchen remains functional and stylish for years. Some must-have upgrades include:

• Kitchen sinks – Available in single, double, or farmhouse styles.

• Kitchen taps – Including filtered water, gooseneck, and pull-out options.

• Cabinet handles – Modern, classic, and minimalist styles.

• Sink accessories – Grids, mats, and waste kits for added convenience.

How to Budget for Your Renovation

Start with essentials by focusing on areas that impact daily use, like sinks, taps, and storage. Set priorities by deciding which upgrades are must-haves versus nice-to-haves. Add a contingency of 10–15% of your budget for unexpected costs. Compare prices and use Blue Leaf to find a range of quality options that suit your budget.

Final Thoughts

A kitchen renovation is an investment that can increase your home’s value and make daily life more enjoyable. Costs vary depending on the scale of your project, the quality of products chosen, and whether you’re doing a full remodel or small upgrades. By planning carefully, prioritising functional upgrades, and selecting quality products from Blue Leaf, you can create a stylish, practical kitchen that lasts for years.

Ready to start your kitchen transformation? Explore our full kitchen collection to discover sinks, taps, handles, and accessories that suit your style and budget.