Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown in Ireland: Itemized Guide

What Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in Ireland?

In Ireland, a full kitchen renovation typically costs between €12,000 and €30,000 for a standard mid-sized kitchen, with premium renovations reaching €50,000 or more. This range includes new cabinets, countertops, appliances, and professional installation, but excludes structural changes like moving walls or rerouting plumbing and electrical lines.

The final figure depends heavily on the size of your kitchen, the quality of materials you choose, and whether you hire a full-service contractor or manage trades separately. A basic refresh—repainting cabinets and swapping hardware—can cost as little as €2,000, while a top-end renovation with bespoke joinery and luxury appliances sits at the higher end.

To get a realistic estimate, break the project into four main cost areas: cabinets, countertops, appliances, and labor. Each has its own price drivers, and understanding them helps you decide where to spend more and where you can save.

How Much Do Kitchen Cabinets Cost in Ireland?

Cabinets are the single largest expense, typically accounting for 40–50% of the total. For a standard 10-foot run of wall and base units, flat-pack cabinets from DIY stores cost around €2,500–€4,000, while semi-custom units from a kitchen specialist range from €6,000–€10,000. Fully bespoke, hand-built cabinets start at €12,000 and can climb much higher.

The material is the main price driver. Melamine-faced chipboard is the budget option, thermofoil and laminate sit in the mid-range, and solid wood or high-gloss acrylic are premium choices. Soft-close hinges, pull-out drawers, and internal organisers add €500–€1,500 to the total but improve usability.

Labour for fitting cabinets is usually included in the price if you buy from a specialist, but if you supply your own units, a carpenter will charge €40–€60 per hour or a fixed rate of €1,500–€3,000 for a typical installation. Measure carefully before ordering—custom sizes and odd wall angles add cost.

What Are the Costs for Countertops?

Countertops are the second largest item, costing between €2,000 and €6,000 depending on material and area. Laminate is the most affordable at €30–€60 per linear foot, while quartz and granite range from €80–€150 per linear foot. Solid surface materials like Corian and sintered stone cost €150–€250 per linear foot.

Beyond material, the price includes templating, cutting, and installation, which is usually quoted per linear foot or per square metre. Edge profiles, cutouts for sinks and hobs, and backsplashes add extra charges—expect to pay €100–€300 more for each cutout.

For a standard kitchen with about 10 linear feet of countertop, laminate will cost around €300–€600, quartz €800–€1,500, and granite €1,000–€2,000. Remember that thicker slabs and exotic colours push prices higher, and natural stone may need periodic sealing, which adds long-term maintenance costs.

How Much Should You Budget for Appliances?

Appliances typically account for 20–25% of the budget. A basic but reliable set—oven, hob, fridge-freezer, and dishwasher—costs €2,500–€4,000. Mid-range brands with better energy ratings and extra features run €4,000–€6,000, while premium models (e.g., induction hobs with integrated extraction, smart ovens) can exceed €8,000.

Individual prices vary widely: a built-in oven ranges from €300 to €2,000, a hob from €200 to €1,500, a fridge-freezer from €400 to €2,500, and a dishwasher from €300 to €1,500. Integrated appliances, where the door matches your cabinets, cost 10–20% more than freestanding equivalents.

Don't forget delivery and installation charges, which may be separate. Also consider energy efficiency—an A+++ rated fridge uses less electricity, which can offset a higher upfront price over time. If you're on a tight budget, buying a package deal from one retailer can save 10–15%.

What Does Labor and Installation Cost in Ireland?

Labor covers everything from removing the old kitchen to installing new units, worktops, and appliances, plus any plumbing, electrical, and tiling work. For a standard renovation, professional installation costs €3,000–€8,000, depending on the scope and the trades involved.

A general contractor or kitchen fitter might charge a flat fee of €4,000–€6,000 for a full installation, while hiring individual trades—carpenter, plumber, electrician, tiler—can add up. Plumbers charge €50–€80 per hour for moving sinks or gas hobs, electricians similar rates for wiring and lighting, and tilers €30–€50 per square metre.

If you're only replacing countertops or appliances, labor is lower—around €500–€1,500. However, if you're moving walls, changing plumbing layouts, or rewiring, structural work can add €5,000–€15,000. Always get multiple quotes and confirm what's included (e.g., disposal of old units, which may cost an extra €100–€300).

How Can You Save on a Kitchen Renovation in Ireland?

The biggest savings come from keeping the same layout. Moving plumbing or electrical points is expensive, so work with your existing footprint where possible. Refacing cabinets—replacing doors and drawer fronts while keeping the carcasses—can cut cabinet costs by 50% and is a popular mid-range option.

Choose materials wisely: laminate countertops, thermofoil cabinets, and mid-range appliances offer good value. Shop during sales (e.g., January or bank holidays) and consider ex-display or clearance items. For labor, get at least three quotes and ask for a fixed price rather than an hourly rate to avoid surprises.

If you have DIY skills, you can save by doing demolition, painting, and appliance installation yourself, but be careful—plumbing and electrical work must comply with Irish building regulations and often require certified professionals. A hybrid approach, where you handle non-specialist tasks, can save €1,000–€2,000 without compromising safety.

What Is a Realistic Total Budget for Your Kitchen?

For a typical 12–15 square metre kitchen in Ireland, a full renovation with mid-range materials and professional labor will cost between €15,000 and €25,000. A budget renovation using flat-pack cabinets, laminate tops, and basic appliances can come in around €10,000–€12,000, while a premium renovation with bespoke joinery and high-end appliances starts at €30,000.

These figures assume no major structural changes. If you're extending or knocking down walls, add €10,000–€30,000 or more, depending on the complexity. Always include a contingency of 10–15% for unexpected issues like damp, uneven walls, or delivery delays.

To get an accurate estimate for your specific kitchen, measure your space, list the features you want, and request itemized quotes from at least three suppliers or contractors. This breakdown gives you a solid starting point to compare prices and make informed decisions.