Small Kitchen Remodel Cost Without Appliances: Realistic Budget Guide: Fast-Track Guide to Estimating Small Kitchen Remodel Costs (No Appliances Needed)

I approach small kitchen remodels like precision projects: every inch matters, and every dollar needs a job. When you exclude appliances, the cost picture becomes clearer—focused on cabinetry, finishes, lighting, plumbing, and labor. For most compact kitchens (70–120 sq ft), I typically see total remodel costs without appliances range from $12,000 to $28,000 depending on material grade, layout changes, and trade complexity.

Two data points help anchor expectations. According to NKBA’s Kitchen & Bath Market Index, cabinetry and hardware often account for 29–35% of total kitchen budgets, while countertops average 10–15%—figures that still hold when appliances are excluded. From a performance perspective, WELL v2 guidelines recommend task lighting illuminance of 300–500 lux for food prep zones—meeting that standard often adds $600–$1,500 to lighting line items when you specify quality fixtures and control systems (NKBA; WELL v2).

One more practical benchmark: Steelcase research shows that better environmental ergonomics and lighting reduce strain and improve performance; translated to kitchens, I budget an extra 5–8% for ergonomic heights, safe reaches, and glare control to protect long-term comfort (Steelcase Research). In compact plans, small changes—drawer-heavy bases or edge-lit undercabinet task lights—return outsized usability gains.

Baseline Budget Range (Without Appliances)

For a modest, 85 sq ft kitchen, I break down typical costs as follows:

1. Cabinetry and Hardware: $4,000–$10,000 (stock to semi-custom)
2. Countertops: $1,200–$4,000 (laminate to entry quartz)
3. Backsplash & Wall Finishes: $600–$2,200 (ceramic to porcelain)
4. Flooring: $800–$2,500 (vinyl to engineered wood)
5. Lighting & Electrical: $800–$2,000 (recessed + undercabinet + dimming)
6. Plumbing Fixtures & Minor Relocation: $600–$2,000
7. Paint & Detailing: $300–$900
8. Labor (carpentry, tile, electrical, plumbing): $3,000–$6,500

Typical subtotal: $12,000–$28,000, with geographic labor rates and material selection driving the spread.

Where the Money Goes: Smart Allocations

I prioritize function and durability first—especially in tight kitchens. Allocate 30–40% to cabinetry because storage efficiency shapes daily experience. Favor full-extension soft-close drawers over extra wall cabinets; drawers cut reach stress and improve workflow. Put 10–15% into countertops, and if you cook frequently, lean toward quartz for stain resistance. Lighting deserves 6–10% to meet the 300–500 lux task range and reduce shadows on the prep line. The rest covers flooring, backsplash, plumbing fixtures, and labor.

Layout Decisions That Move the Budget

Keeping the sink, range, and primary outlets where they are can save thousands. Moving a sink more than a few feet may trigger drain, vent, and supply reroutes; shifting circuits for new task lighting and code-compliant GFCI protection adds costs too. If you’re testing plan options—galley vs. L-shape—use a room layout tool to visualize clearances, landing zones, and prep flow before committing to trades.

Material Choices: Cost vs. Longevity

Cabinetry: Stock boxes with durable thermofoil or melamine fronts are budget-friendly; semi-custom allows better interior organization and filler reduction—worth it in tight rooms. Countertops: Laminate keeps costs lean; entry quartz balances resilience and hygiene. Backsplash: Ceramic subway tiles remain cost-effective and timeless; porcelain mosaics raise both labor and material costs. Flooring: Waterproof vinyl planks handle spills and cushion standing time; cork is comfortable but needs care around moisture.

Lighting That Works in Small Kitchens

I specify layered lighting: recessed general lighting (or low-glare surface mounts), undercabinet task lighting at 300–500 lux for chopping and reading recipes, and a dimmable accent over the eating perch. Match color temperatures around 3000–3500K to keep food looking natural and reduce eye strain. Follow IES guidance for uniformity and glare control; microprism diffusers or shielded undercabinet strips prevent bright hotspots on glossy counters.

Ergonomics and Human Factors

Compact kitchens punish poor heights and clearances. Target 36-inch counter height (or 34-inch for shorter users) and ensure 42 inches of aisle width where possible, 36 inches minimum in truly tight plans. Favor drawer bases for heavy items; install pull-outs for corner bases. Plan primary prep between sink and cooktop with a minimum 24-inch landing. Good ergonomics reduce fatigue and make the space feel bigger without structural changes.

Acoustics, Maintenance, and Daily Comfort

Hard surfaces amplify clatter. If the kitchen is part of an open plan, consider sound-absorbing treatments: soft window coverings, a cork or rubber underlayment, and felt bumpers inside doors. Matte finishes hide fingerprints better than high gloss; specify stain-resistant grout and silicone at sink edges to avoid maintenance headaches.

Hidden Costs to Expect

1. Electrical upgrades to meet code (AFCI/GFCI, dedicated circuits): $400–$1,200
2. Minor plumbing fixes when valves or traps are outdated: $200–$600
3. Wall repairs after tile demo: $200–$500
4. Countertop templating and edge upgrades: $150–$500
5. Permits and inspections (varies by city): $150–$600
6. Delivery, haul-away, and site protection: $250–$700

Building a 10–15% contingency is wise—small rooms reveal surprises quickly.

Value Moves Under $2,000

1. Swap door fronts for slab or Shaker and add soft-close hinges.
2. Install undercabinet LED strips with high CRI; dimmable drivers improve food color rendering.
3. Replace a tired laminate with a compact quartz remnant on a small L.
4. Upgrade faucet to a pull-down sprayer with 1.5 gpm flow for better control and efficiency.
5. Add vertical organizers: tray dividers, spice pull-outs, and a slim trash pull-out.

Timeline and Phasing

Demolition and rough work typically run 2–4 days; finishes and installation take 7–12 days, with punch-list adjustments in the final week. If budget is tight, phase the project: start with lighting and paint, then backsplash and counters, and finish with cabinetry upgrades. This sequence preserves function throughout.

FAQ

How much does a small kitchen remodel cost without appliances?

For an 70–120 sq ft kitchen, expect $12,000–$28,000 depending on materials, layout changes, and local labor rates.

Where should I put the biggest share of my budget?

Cabinetry (30–40%) and lighting (6–10%) in compact kitchens—storage efficiency and safe, glare-free prep lighting drive daily usability.

Do I need to move plumbing to improve the layout?

Not usually. In most small kitchens, smart storage and lighting outperform expensive plumbing moves. Keep the sink in place unless flow is severely compromised.

What lighting levels should I target?

Task zones at 300–500 lux with 3000–3500K color temperature for accurate color rendering and comfortable visual contrast, aligned with WELL v2 and IES guidance.

Is quartz worth the premium over laminate?

If you cook frequently, yes—quartz resists staining and heat better, reducing long-term maintenance. For light use or tight budgets, modern laminate is respectable.

How can I make a small kitchen feel bigger without structural work?

Use drawer bases, light-colored matte finishes, continuous backsplash lines, and layered lighting. Keep upper cabinets modest or add open shelves in limited areas to reduce visual bulk.

What contingency should I add?

Plan 10–15% for hidden conditions—electrical updates, drywall repair behind tile, or minor plumbing fixes.

Can I phase the project to spread costs?

Yes. Start with paint and lighting, then backsplash and counters, and finish with cabinetry. This maintains function while improving the space step by step.

Do I need permits for a small remodel?

If you alter electrical or plumbing, permits are typically required. Budget $150–$600 depending on locality.

How do ergonomics affect budget?

Allocating 5–8% for ergonomic details—drawer bases, pull-outs, anti-glare lighting—pays off in daily comfort and efficiency without major structural changes.