If you’ve got a number in mind for your kitchen renovation, you’re not alone. But until you start comparing materials, finishes and layouts, it’s hard to know what that number will really get you.

Mark Bruce, Operations Manager at Kitchen Studio, says most people come in with outdated expectations. It may have been 25 years since they built their kitchen. It might have cost $8,000 at the time, and think, “I’ll double that. That should be about right.”

But it’s not that simple. Mark has spent decades helping homeowners understand how to plan a kitchen budget that fits their goals. And he says it starts with getting a clear picture of what actually drives the cost.

The real cost drivers

The biggest influence on your budget isn’t the layout. It’s the products. “The design is a little bit budget affected, but it’s usually product choice that affects a budget.” Finishes, cabinetry style, benchtop materials and hardware all carry different price points. Even small changes, like shifting from melamine to veneer, or laminate to porcelain, can make a big difference. So can things like soft-close drawers, custom cabinetry or integrated bins. Seeing these choices in a showroom can make budgeting much easier. You can see, touch and compare different options, and begin to prioritise what matters most to you.

Budget brings focus

While some people hesitate to share their budget early on, Mark says it helps shape better outcomes. “Without knowing your budget, we can’t specify product to match that budget.” Setting a clear number helps your designer filter out choices that won’t work and steer you toward options that will. That way, when you sit down to review the final design and quote, you’re not blindsided by unexpected costs. A well-defined budget doesn’t limit creativity, it gives it direction.

Budget vs lifestyle

Just because you can afford a material doesn’t mean it’s the right fit. Mark gives the example of natural marble. It might look beautiful in the showroom, but if you’ve got three young kids or a house full of guests, the upkeep might not be worth it.

That’s where a good designer makes a difference. They’ll ask how you live, how you cook, how you clean, and recommend materials that suit both your budget and your lifestyle. “We can have that conversation at a very early stage,” says Mark. “So you can say okay, let’s move you to porcelain then because that will give you the same look but it gives you a durability.”

The right material is the one that holds up in real life, not just in the showroom.

It’s all connected

Everything in a kitchen is connected. Material choice affects layout. Layout affects installation. Installation affects your timeline and budget. That’s why understanding the full picture early on is so important.

Rather than starting with a wishlist and trying to trim it back, start with a conversation. Define your budget, get clear on your lifestyle needs, and then build from there.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.