The cost of kitchen cupboards can range from a few hundred pounds to tens of thousands, depending on the size of your kitchen, the materials chosen, the complexity of the design, and whether you opt for off-the-shelf or custom-made units. This article will help you figure out the typical kitchen cabinet costs and provide guidance on how to get accurate cupboard prices.
A new kitchen is a significant investment, and the cabinets are often the most substantial part of that investment. Many homeowners grapple with the question: “What do kitchen cupboards cost?” It’s not a simple answer, as there are many factors that influence the final price. Let’s break down the elements that contribute to the cost of kitchen cabinets to help you budget effectively.
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Factors Affecting Kitchen Cupboard Prices
Several key elements play a role in determining how much you’ll spend on your new kitchen cupboards. It’s crucial to consider these when you start planning your renovation or new build.
Material Choices
The materials used for your kitchen cabinets significantly impact their price. From budget-friendly options to high-end selections, the choice of material dictates durability, appearance, and cost.
Wood Types
- MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard): A cost-effective option, MDF is stable and smooth, making it ideal for painted finishes. However, it’s not as durable or moisture-resistant as solid wood.
- Particleboard: Even more affordable than MDF, particleboard is made from wood chips and adhesive. It’s often used with laminate or veneer finishes but is prone to swelling if exposed to moisture.
- Plywood: Stronger and more durable than MDF or particleboard, plywood is a good mid-range option. It offers better resistance to moisture and warping.
- Solid Wood: This is the most expensive option. Woods like oak, maple, cherry, and birch offer superior durability, natural beauty, and a premium feel. Hardwoods are generally more expensive than softwoods.
Finishes
The finish applied to your cabinets also adds to the overall cost.
- Laminate: A durable and low-maintenance option, laminate can mimic the look of wood or other materials at a lower cost.
- Veneer: Thin layers of real wood applied over a core material like MDF or plywood. Veneer offers a natural wood look at a more accessible price point than solid wood.
- Painted Finishes: These can range from simple spray-painted finishes to hand-painted, distressed, or high-gloss lacquered looks, with more intricate finishes costing more.
- Stained Finishes: Stains enhance the natural grain of the wood. The type of stain and the application process can affect the price.
Cabinet Construction and Style
The way your cabinets are built and the style you choose have a direct impact on new kitchen cabinet prices.
Stock vs. Semi-Custom vs. Custom
- Stock Cabinets: These are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and styles. They are the most affordable and quickest to obtain. However, your design options are limited.
- Semi-Custom Cabinets: These offer more flexibility. You can choose from a wider range of sizes, styles, finishes, and configurations, allowing for a more tailored look. They fall in the middle for price and lead time.
- Custom Cabinets (or Bespoke Kitchen Cabinet Costs): These are built to your exact specifications, allowing for unique designs, dimensions, and features. They offer the ultimate in personalization but are the most expensive option. Bespoke kitchen cabinet costs reflect the detailed design and manufacturing process.
Door Styles
The design of your cabinet doors is a major visual component and affects cost.
- Shaker Doors: Simple, flat panels with a raised frame. A popular and relatively affordable choice.
- Flat-Panel (Slab) Doors: Modern and sleek, these are typically the most economical due to their simple construction.
- Raised-Panel Doors: Feature a central panel that is raised above the surrounding frame, adding depth and a more traditional look. These are usually more expensive.
- Inset Doors: These doors sit within the cabinet frame rather than overlaying it. This precise construction is more labor-intensive and therefore costs more.
- Framed vs. Frameless Construction: Framed cabinets have a solid wood frame on the front of the cabinet box, to which the doors and hinges are attached. Frameless cabinets (also known as European-style) have doors and drawers that attach directly to the sides of the cabinet box, offering slightly more interior space but often requiring more precise installation. The construction method can influence fitted kitchen cupboard prices.
Size and Quantity of Cabinets
Naturally, the more cabinets you need, the higher the overall cost. The average kitchen cupboard prices are often quoted per linear foot or per cabinet.
- Kitchen Layout: The complexity of your kitchen’s layout will dictate the number and types of cabinets required (base cabinets, wall cabinets, tall cabinets, specialty cabinets like pantries or corner units).
- Cabinet Dimensions: Larger cabinets will, of course, cost more than smaller ones.
Hardware and Accessories
The handles, knobs, hinges, and drawer slides add to the functionality and aesthetic of your cabinets.
- Handles and Knobs: These can range from simple, inexpensive plastic or metal options to elaborate, designer pieces made from materials like brass, crystal, or leather.
- Drawer Slides: Soft-close mechanisms, full-extension slides, and heavy-duty slides add convenience and durability but increase the cost.
- Internal Organizers: Pull-out shelves, spice racks, lazy Susans, and waste bin pull-outs are great for maximizing space and functionality but come with an additional price tag.
Installation Costs
Don’t forget the kitchen cupboard installation cost. This can be a significant portion of the total project budget.
- Professional Installation: Hiring experienced kitchen fitters ensures a high-quality finish and proper alignment. Costs vary based on location, the complexity of the installation, and the installer’s rates.
- DIY Installation: While you can save money by installing cabinets yourself, it requires skill, time, and the right tools. Mistakes can be costly to rectify.
Estimating Kitchen Cupboard Costs: Price Ranges
To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at some estimated price ranges for different types of kitchen cupboards. These figures are approximate and can vary widely.
Average Kitchen Cupboard Prices (Based on Cabinet Type)
| Cabinet Type | Estimated Cost Per Linear Foot (Materials Only) | Estimated Cost Per Linear Foot (Installed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Cabinets | $100 – $300 | $200 – $500 | Basic materials, limited styles, standard sizes. |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | $200 – $600 | $350 – $800 | Wider range of materials, styles, and sizes. More customization options. |
| Custom/Bespoke | $400 – $1,000+ | $600 – $1,200+ | High-quality materials, unique designs, precise measurements, premium finishes. |
Table 1: Estimated Kitchen Cupboard Costs per Linear Foot
Note: These prices are for the cabinets themselves. They do not typically include countertops, backsplash, appliances, or demolition of old cabinets.
Cost Breakdown by Cabinet Size
The size of your kitchen is a primary driver. A small kitchen (e.g., 10×10 feet) will naturally have lower cupboard prices than a large, expansive one.
-
Small Kitchen (10×10 feet): You might need around 10-15 linear feet of cabinetry.
- Stock: $2,000 – $7,500 (installed)
- Semi-Custom: $3,500 – $12,000 (installed)
- Custom: $6,000 – $18,000+ (installed)
-
Medium Kitchen (12×15 feet): This could require 15-20 linear feet of cabinetry.
- Stock: $3,000 – $10,000 (installed)
- Semi-Custom: $5,250 – $16,000 (installed)
- Custom: $9,000 – $24,000+ (installed)
-
Large Kitchen (15×20 feet or more): This could need 20+ linear feet of cabinetry, plus potentially more complex configurations.
- Stock: $4,000 – $15,000+ (installed)
- Semi-Custom: $7,000 – $24,000+ (installed)
- Custom: $12,000 – $36,000+ (installed)
Cost of Kitchen Cabinet Replacement
When you’re looking at a kitchen cabinet replacement cost, you’re typically focusing on the cabinets themselves, assuming the existing layout remains largely the same. If you’re doing a full remodel, the cost will be higher as it includes other elements.
For a simple cabinet replacement in a standard-sized kitchen (e.g., 10×10 feet):
- Replacing cabinet boxes only (keeping existing doors/drawers or using stock replacements): $1,500 – $5,000
- Replacing all cabinets with new stock units: $3,000 – $10,000 (installed)
- Replacing all cabinets with new semi-custom units: $5,000 – $16,000 (installed)
- Replacing all cabinets with new custom units: $8,000 – $25,000+ (installed)
These figures are illustrative and can vary greatly.
Bespoke Kitchen Cabinet Costs
Bespoke kitchen cabinet costs are at the higher end because they are tailor-made to your exact specifications. This includes:
- Unique Designs: Doors, frames, and internal layouts are designed specifically for your space and needs.
- Premium Materials: Often uses solid hardwoods, high-quality veneers, and specialized finishes.
- Custom Features: Integrated lighting, specialized storage solutions, and unique hardware.
- Skilled Craftsmanship: The manufacturing process is more labor-intensive and requires expert joinery.
- Detailed Installation: Precise fitting to ensure a flawless look.
For a mid-sized kitchen, you could expect custom kitchen cupboard costs to start from $15,000 and easily go up to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity and materials.
Getting Accurate Kitchen Cupboard Quotes
To get precise cupboard prices for your project, you need to gather quotes from several reputable suppliers and installers.
Steps to Get Quotes:
- Measure Your Kitchen Accurately: Note the dimensions of your walls, ceiling height, and the location of windows, doors, and appliances.
- Determine Your Style and Needs: Decide on the overall look (modern, traditional, transitional), door style, finish, and the types of cabinets you’ll need (base, wall, pantry, etc.).
- List Your Requirements: Create a detailed list of the cabinets you need, including their approximate sizes. For example:
- Two 30″ base cabinets
- One 36″ corner sink base cabinet
- Three 30″ wall cabinets
- One 18″ pantry cabinet
- Consider Your Budget: Have a clear budget in mind. This will help you prioritize features and materials.
- Research Suppliers: Look for kitchen showrooms, cabinet manufacturers, and reputable local carpenters or installers.
- Request Detailed Quotes: Ensure each quote specifies:
- The exact cabinets included (type, size, material, finish).
- Hardware details (hinges, drawer slides).
- Installation costs.
- Delivery fees.
- Any warranty information.
- Timeline for manufacturing and installation.
- Compare Apples to Apples: Make sure the quotes you receive are for comparable materials and services. Don’t just compare the bottom line; look at the details.
Where to Buy Kitchen Cupboards:
- Big Box Retailers (e.g., Home Depot, Lowe’s): Offer a range of stock and semi-custom options, often with design services. Good for budget-conscious projects.
- Kitchen Showrooms: Provide a curated selection of higher-end and custom cabinetry. Staff can offer expert design advice.
- Online Retailers: Can offer competitive pricing, especially for stock or simpler semi-custom options. Be sure to check reviews and shipping policies.
- Local Cabinet Makers: Ideal for custom kitchen cupboard costs and bespoke solutions. They can offer personalized service and unique designs.
Factors Influencing Installation Costs
The kitchen cupboard installation cost can vary significantly. Here are some factors that influence this expense:
- Complexity of the Kitchen Layout: Irregular walls, angled corners, or the need to work around existing plumbing and electrical can increase installation time and cost.
- Type of Cabinets: Frameless cabinets might require more precise installation than framed ones. Custom cabinets often require more meticulous fitting.
- Removal of Old Cabinets: If you need old cabinets removed and disposed of, this will add to the cost.
- Cabinet Adjustments: Minor modifications needed on-site to ensure a perfect fit can increase labor time.
- Installer’s Rates: Professional installers in high-cost-of-living areas will generally charge more.
- Additional Work: This might include installing a new toe kick, scribe molding, or minor drywall repairs.
Typical installation costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for a full kitchen, often calculated as a percentage of the cabinet cost (10-25%) or an hourly rate.
Making Smart Choices for Your Budget
When navigating kitchen cabinet costs, smart choices can save you money without sacrificing quality or style.
Tips for Saving Money:
- Opt for Stock or Semi-Custom: If your kitchen layout is fairly standard, stock or semi-custom cabinets can offer significant savings over custom.
- Choose Simpler Door Styles: Flat-panel or Shaker doors are generally less expensive to manufacture than more intricate raised-panel or mitered designs.
- Consider Laminate or Veneer Finishes: These can mimic the look of more expensive wood species at a lower price point.
- Limit Customization: Stick to standard sizes and configurations where possible. Avoid overly complex internal organizers if budget is tight.
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple suppliers and installers.
- Buy During Sales or Promotions: Many retailers offer seasonal discounts on kitchens.
- DIY Some Aspects: If you’re handy, consider installing the cabinets yourself, but be realistic about your skills. You might still want to hire a professional for the trickier parts.
- Reface Instead of Replace: If your existing cabinet boxes are in good condition, consider refacing – replacing only the doors, drawer fronts, and applying a new veneer to the cabinet boxes. This can be a cost-effective alternative to full replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions homeowners have about kitchen cupboard costs:
How much does it cost to install kitchen cabinets?
The kitchen cupboard installation cost typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for a complete kitchen. This can be charged as a percentage of the cabinet cost (around 10-25%) or by the hour, with rates varying by location and the complexity of the job.
What is the average cost of new kitchen cabinets?
The average kitchen cupboard prices for a standard-sized kitchen (10×10 feet) can range from $3,000 to $10,000 for stock cabinets, $5,000 to $16,000 for semi-custom, and $8,000 to $25,000+ for custom, including installation.
Can I get a quote without a designer?
Yes, you can get quotes directly from cabinet suppliers or manufacturers. Many offer online tools or in-store consultations where you can provide your kitchen measurements and desired style to receive an estimate.
What does “fitted kitchen cupboard prices” typically include?
Fitted kitchen cupboard prices usually include the cost of the cabinets themselves, delivery, and professional installation. Always confirm what is included in the quote to avoid unexpected charges.
Is it cheaper to buy custom or stock cabinets?
Stock cabinets are generally the cheapest option. Semi-custom offers a balance of customization and cost, while custom or bespoke cabinets are the most expensive due to their tailor-made nature.
How much does it cost to replace just kitchen doors and drawer fronts?
Replacing only the doors and drawer fronts (refacing) is typically much cheaper than replacing the entire cabinet. Costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for a standard kitchen, depending on the material and finish chosen.
What are bespoke kitchen cabinet costs based on?
Bespoke kitchen cabinet costs are based on the unique design, premium materials used (often solid hardwoods), specialized finishes, intricate joinery, custom features, and the skilled labor involved in their creation and installation.
Choosing new kitchen cupboards is a significant decision. By understanding the factors that influence kitchen cabinet costs, researching your options, and getting detailed quotes, you can make an informed choice that fits your budget and delivers the kitchen of your dreams. Remember that while initial cost is important, durability, functionality, and the aesthetic appeal of your chosen cabinetry will serve you for years to come.