Description

Cost of Building a Kitchen in Kenya – Complete Price Guide, Materials & Installation

If you are planning to build a new kitchen, one of the first questions to answer is how much it will cost to build a kitchen in Kenya. The final budget depends on much more than the size of the room. Cabinetry, countertops, flooring, plumbing, electrical work, lighting, appliances, backsplash, storage and installation can all affect the total.

A small apartment kitchen may require a relatively simple layout and limited cabinetry. On the other hand, a large family kitchen or luxury open-plan kitchen may include full-height cabinets, a pantry, kitchen island, premium countertops, integrated appliances and customised storage.

At SUIMAS, we provide complete kitchen design and interior solutions, helping clients plan the space, select materials, develop the design, fabricate cabinetry and coordinate installation.

Whether you are building a kitchen from an empty room or replacing an old kitchen, a detailed quotation helps you understand where your money is going.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Kitchen in Kenya?

There is no single fixed price for building a kitchen in Kenya.

For general budgeting, complete kitchen projects can fall within these broad ranges:

Kitchen Type	Estimated Budget
Small/basic kitchen	KSh 300,000–600,000+
Standard family kitchen	KSh 600,000–1.2M+
Mid-range custom kitchen	KSh 900,000–1.8M+
Large/U-shaped kitchen	KSh 1.2M–2.5M+
Kitchen with island	KSh 1.5M–3M+
Premium/luxury kitchen	KSh 2.5M–5M+
Highly customised luxury kitchen	KSh 5M+

These are indicative project budgets, not fixed SUIMAS prices.

Current Nairobi market guides show similarly wide differences. One current guide places complete small apartment kitchens around KSh 450,000–900,000 and larger custom kitchens into the millions, while another fitted-kitchen guide gives KSh 500,000–1.5 million as a broad mid-range reference.

The difference comes from the specification.

A kitchen with basic cabinetry, laminate worktops and standard fittings will have a very different budget from one with marine-board cabinetry, quartz or sintered-stone countertops, premium hardware, custom storage and integrated appliances.

What Does Building a Kitchen Include?

When people ask about the cost of building a kitchen, they may be referring to the entire kitchen project rather than just cabinets.

A complete kitchen project can include:

• Kitchen design
• Site measurement
• Space planning
• Cabinetry
• Countertops
• Kitchen island
• Sink
• Taps
• Plumbing
• Electrical points
• Lighting
• Flooring
• Backsplash
• Wall finishes
• Storage systems
• Cooker or hob
• Oven
• Extractor hood
• Appliance integration
• Delivery
• Installation
• Final finishing

Not every project requires all these items.

That is why a professional quotation should clearly separate the items included in the kitchen package.

Kitchen Building Cost Breakdown

A useful way to prepare your budget is to divide the kitchen into individual components.

1. Kitchen Design

Before construction or fabrication starts, the kitchen should be properly planned.

Design services can include:

• Consultation
• Site measurement
• Layout planning
• Cabinet planning
• Appliance positioning
• Material selection
• Colour selection
• 3D visualisation
• Technical drawings
• Design revisions

Current Nairobi market guidance places design-only kitchen services broadly around KSh 50,000–150,000, depending on the scope.

At SUIMAS, we can take the project from design through implementation depending on your requirements.

Explore our Kitchen Interior Design Services.

2. Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinetry is normally one of the biggest parts of a kitchen budget.

Current Kenyan cabinet pricing is commonly quoted per running foot or linear metre. A current Nairobi guide gives approximately KSh 12,000–28,000+ per running foot for fitted cabinetry depending on the material, finish and specification.

Cabinet prices are affected by:

• Cabinet length
• Cabinet height
• Board material
• Door finish
• Hardware
• Drawers
• Pantry units
• Corner storage
• Full-height units
• Integrated appliances
• Customisation

Common materials include:

• MDF
• Blockboard
• Plywood
• Marine board
• Melamine
• Laminate
• Wood veneer
• Solid wood
• Aluminium

See our Custom Kitchen Cabinets for tailored kitchen cabinetry.

3. Kitchen Countertops

The countertop is another major cost component.

Popular options include:

• Laminate
• Granite
• Quartz
• Marble
• Solid surface
• Porcelain
• Sintered stone

Current market guidance gives approximate fitted worktop prices of around KSh 2,500–5,000 per running foot for laminate, KSh 6,500–12,000 for granite, and KSh 9,000–18,000 for quartz, although actual prices vary by material, thickness, fabrication and supplier.

Premium stone can therefore increase the kitchen budget considerably.

4. Flooring

Kitchen flooring needs to withstand moisture, regular cleaning and daily traffic.

Common choices include:

• Ceramic tiles
• Porcelain tiles
• Vinyl
• LVT
• Stone
• Other durable flooring finishes

Current Nairobi kitchen guides commonly place porcelain flooring in the several-thousand-shillings-per-square-metre range, depending on the tile and installation specification.

See our Floor Installation Services if flooring forms part of your kitchen project.

5. Backsplash

A backsplash protects walls around the cooking and washing areas while adding visual character.

Options include:

• Ceramic tiles
• Porcelain tiles
• Glass
• Quartz
• Stone
• Mosaic
• Decorative wall finishes

The cost depends on the area covered, material and installation method.

6. Plumbing

Plumbing is important when building a new kitchen.

It may include:

• Water supply
• Sink installation
• Waste drainage
• Tap installation
• Dishwasher connection
• Water filtration
• Relocation of existing water points

Keeping the sink close to existing plumbing can reduce costs.

However, if the kitchen layout changes significantly, additional plumbing work may be required.

7. Electrical Work

A modern kitchen normally requires several electrical points.

These may be needed for:

• Refrigerator
• Oven
• Hob
• Microwave
• Dishwasher
• Extractor
• Kettle
• Blender
• Small appliances
• Under-cabinet lighting
• General lighting

Electrical planning should happen before cabinet fabrication.

This helps ensure that sockets, switches and appliance connections are located correctly.

8. Lighting

Kitchen lighting can combine functionality and appearance.

Possible options include:

• Ceiling lights
• Downlights
• Pendant lights
• Under-cabinet LED strips
• Task lighting
• Island lighting
• Decorative lighting

Under-cabinet lighting can make food preparation areas easier to use, while pendant lights can help define a kitchen island or breakfast counter.

9. Sink and Taps

The sink and tap are smaller components compared with cabinets and countertops, but they still affect the final budget.

Options include:

• Stainless-steel sinks
• Granite-composite sinks
• Ceramic sinks
• Undermount sinks
• Top-mount sinks
• Single-bowl sinks
• Double-bowl sinks
• Pull-out taps
• Mixer taps

The sink specification should be selected before the countertop is fabricated because the required cut-out depends on the model.

Cost of Building a 10×10 Kitchen in Kenya

A 10×10 kitchen is often used as a reference when estimating kitchen costs.

A 10×10 layout can provide approximately 20 running feet of cabinet space when the cabinets occupy two 10-foot walls.

Current Kenyan market guidance places a fitted 10×10 kitchen around:

• Budget: KSh 240,000–320,000
• Mid-range: KSh 320,000–440,000
• Premium: KSh 440,000–560,000+

These figures mainly cover cabinetry and worktop rather than every kitchen expense. Appliances, major plumbing changes and other works may be additional.

Once design, flooring, backsplash, electrical work, plumbing, lighting and appliances are included, the total project budget can be considerably higher.

Cost of Building a 12×12 Kitchen in Kenya

A 12×12 kitchen provides more room for cabinets, countertops and storage.

Current market guidance places a 12×12 fitted kitchen at approximately KSh 380,000–680,000 for mid-to-premium cabinetry and worktop, depending on specification.

A complete 12×12 kitchen may cost more once you add:

• Design
• Flooring
• Backsplash
• Plumbing
• Electrical work
• Lighting
• Appliances
• Premium hardware
• Installation
• Kitchen island

Cost of Building a Small Kitchen in Kenya

Small kitchens are common in:

• Apartments
• Bedsitters
• Studio units
• Maisonettes
• Compact homes
• Rental properties

A small kitchen can be designed efficiently without requiring a large budget.

A practical small kitchen may cost approximately:

KSh 300,000–600,000+

depending on the cabinetry, countertop, flooring and other finishes.

For a more premium apartment kitchen, the cost can move toward KSh 700,000–1 million or more.

A small kitchen should prioritise:

• Vertical storage
• Tall pantry units
• Deep drawers
• Pull-out storage
• Compact appliances
• Efficient cabinet layouts
• Practical countertop space

Cost of Building a Standard Family Kitchen

A standard family kitchen usually requires more storage and working space.

A broad planning budget is:

KSh 600,000–1.2 million+

A mid-range kitchen may include:

• Plywood or marine-board cabinets
• Granite or quartz countertop
• Wall cabinets
• Base cabinets
• Pantry
• Standard hardware
• Tiled backsplash
• Durable flooring
• Basic lighting
• Sink and mixer
• Installation

The final figure depends on the kitchen size and specification.

Cost of Building a Luxury Kitchen

Luxury kitchens use more customised materials and finishes.

A premium project may include:

• Bespoke cabinetry
• Premium boards
• Solid wood
• Acrylic or lacquered finishes
• Quartz or sintered stone
• Large kitchen island
• Premium hardware
• Integrated appliances
• Feature lighting
• Full-height cabinets
• Walk-in pantry
• Custom storage
• Premium flooring

A luxury kitchen can therefore cost KSh 2.5 million–5 million+, with highly customised projects exceeding this range. Current Nairobi guides show luxury kitchen projects extending into several million shillings depending on the specification.

Cost of Building an L-Shaped Kitchen

L-shaped kitchens are popular because they use two connected walls while leaving useful open space.

A typical project can include:

• Base cabinets
• Wall cabinets
• Corner storage
• Countertop
• Sink
• Appliances
• Backsplash
• Lighting

For planning purposes, a standard L-shaped kitchen may fall around:

KSh 650,000–1.8 million+

depending on size and finish.

Current Nairobi market guidance puts complete L-shaped kitchens broadly around KSh 1 million–2 million at mid-range finish, although smaller or simpler projects can be lower.

Cost of Building a U-Shaped Kitchen

U-shaped kitchens use three sides of the room.

They provide extensive cabinet and countertop space and are suitable for larger homes.

A broad planning range is:

KSh 1.2 million–2.5 million+

Premium U-shaped kitchens can exceed this amount.

Current Nairobi guidance places complete U-shaped kitchens around KSh 1.5 million–3 million at mid-range finish, depending on the number of linear metres and specification.

Cost of Building a Kitchen With an Island

A kitchen island adds another work and storage zone.

An island may contain:

• Base cabinets
• Drawers
• Sink
• Hob
• Breakfast seating
• Electrical outlets
• Food preparation space

Current Kenyan market guidance estimates a kitchen island at approximately KSh 60,000–150,000+ depending on its size and worktop.

However, a larger island with premium stone, plumbing, electrical connections and specialised storage can cost considerably more.

Kitchen Cost by Material

The material specification has a major effect on the total budget.

Budget Kitchen

A budget kitchen may use:

• Laminate cabinets
• Basic board construction
• Standard hardware
• Laminate countertop
• Ceramic tiles
• Simple lighting

This can provide a functional kitchen while controlling costs.

Mid-Range Kitchen

A mid-range kitchen can include:

• Plywood or marine-board cabinetry
• Quality laminate or painted fronts
• Granite or quartz countertop
• Soft-close hardware
• Porcelain flooring
• Better lighting
• Improved storage

This is suitable for many family homes.

Premium Kitchen

A premium kitchen can include:

• Custom cabinetry
• Premium boards
• Solid wood
• Acrylic or lacquered doors
• Quartz or sintered stone
• Premium hardware
• Integrated appliances
• Custom lighting
• Bespoke storage

The total cost rises because nearly every component is upgraded.

What Makes a Kitchen More Expensive?

Several factors can increase the cost of building a kitchen.

Kitchen Size

More space normally means more cabinetry, countertops and flooring.

Cabinet Material

Marine board, premium plywood, solid wood and imported boards can cost more than basic materials.

Cabinet Finish

Acrylic, lacquered, high-gloss and specialist finishes can increase fabrication costs.

Hardware

Soft-close drawers, premium hinges, pull-outs and corner mechanisms add to the specification.

Countertop

Quartz, sintered stone and premium granite can cost more than laminate or basic surfaces.

Kitchen Island

An island adds cabinetry, countertop and potentially electrical or plumbing work.

Appliances

Integrated appliances require specialised cabinet planning.

Plumbing Changes

Moving the sink or dishwasher can increase labour and material costs.

Electrical Changes

New circuits, sockets and lighting can add to the project scope.

Flooring and Backsplash

Premium tiles and detailed installation increase the finishing budget.

Location and Logistics

Projects outside Nairobi may require additional transportation and accommodation for installation teams.

How to Reduce the Cost of Building a Kitchen

A good kitchen does not have to use the most expensive materials available.

You can manage the budget by:

• Choosing a practical layout
• Keeping plumbing points where possible
• Using standard cabinet sizes
• Selecting durable mid-range materials
• Prioritising important storage
• Avoiding unnecessary custom features
• Comparing itemised quotations
• Planning appliances early
• Choosing countertops according to actual needs
• Avoiding major design changes after fabrication begins

For example, you could invest more in cabinet construction and hardware while choosing a simpler countertop.

The best approach is to allocate the budget according to how you actually use the kitchen.

New Kitchen vs Kitchen Renovation

Building a kitchen in a new space can be easier to plan because plumbing, electrical points and cabinet positions can be considered from the beginning.

Renovating an existing kitchen may involve additional work such as:

• Removing old cabinets
• Demolition
• Waste disposal
• Plumbing relocation
• Electrical modifications
• Wall repairs
• Floor replacement
• Backsplash replacement
• Cabinet replacement
• Countertop replacement

If you are upgrading an existing kitchen, explore our Kitchen Renovation Services.

How SUIMAS Builds and Installs a Kitchen

At SUIMAS, we approach kitchen projects as a complete process.

1. Consultation

We discuss your requirements, budget, preferred style and intended use.

2. Site Assessment

The kitchen space is measured and assessed.

We consider:

• Room dimensions
• Windows
• Doors
• Plumbing
• Electrical points
• Ceiling height
• Appliance positions

3. Kitchen Design

We create a practical layout based on the available space.

4. 3D Visualisation

Where required, a 3D design helps you visualise the kitchen before implementation.

See our 3D Design & Layout Planning Services.

5. Material Selection

We help you choose suitable cabinets, countertops, hardware, flooring and finishes.

6. Detailed Quotation

The agreed specification is converted into a project quotation.

7. Fabrication

Approved cabinets and other components are prepared.

8. Installation

Cabinets, countertops and other agreed elements are installed.

9. Finishing

Plumbing, electrical, lighting, backsplash and other finishing works are completed where included.

10. Inspection and Handover

The completed kitchen is inspected before handover.

What We Offer

SUIMAS provides complete kitchen and interior design solutions, including:

• Kitchen Interior Design
• Custom Kitchen Cabinets
• Kitchen Cabinet Designs
• Custom Kitchen Designs
• Kitchen Cabinet Installation
• Kitchen Renovation
• Kitchen Remodelling
• Kitchen Fit-Out
• Kitchen Storage Solutions
• Kitchen Island Design
• Countertop Installation
• Kitchen Lighting
• Appliance Integration
• Custom Joinery
• 3D Kitchen Design

Estimated Price Range

For general planning, the cost of building a kitchen in Kenya can start around KSh 300,000–600,000 for a small/basic kitchen, while a standard family kitchen may fall around KSh 600,000–1.2 million+.

Mid-range custom kitchens can reach KSh 900,000–1.8 million, while large or premium kitchens can cost KSh 2.5 million–5 million+.

These figures should be used as planning ranges rather than fixed quotations. Current market sources show that the biggest cost differences come from cabinetry, countertops, kitchen size, layout, hardware, flooring, lighting and installation scope.

For an accurate price, the kitchen should first be measured and specified.

Other Services We Offer

Beyond kitchen construction and fit-out, SUIMAS provides Residential Interior Design, Commercial Interior Design, Building & Construction Services, Gypsum Ceiling Installation, Floor Installation Services, Professional Building Painting, Reception Desk Design, Branding Services and Hotel Interior Design.

Areas We Serve

SUIMAS provides kitchen design, construction, cabinetry and installation services across all 47 counties in Kenya, including Baringo, Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Embu, Garissa, Homa Bay, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, Kisumu, Kitui, Kwale, Laikipia, Lamu, Machakos, Makueni, Mandera, Marsabit, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang’a, Nairobi City, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Samburu, Siaya, Taita-Taveta, Tana River, Tharaka-Nithi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Vihiga, Wajir and West Pokot.

Nairobi Areas

We serve Nairobi CBD, Karen, Runda, Muthaiga, Gigiri, Kitisuru, Lavington, Kileleshwa, Kilimani, Westlands, Parklands, Riverside, Spring Valley, Lang’ata, South C, South B, Embakasi, Kasarani, Roysambu and Ruaraka, among other Nairobi neighbourhoods.

Mombasa Areas

We also serve Mombasa CBD, Nyali, Mvita, Kizingo, Tudor, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kisauni, Likoni, Changamwe and Jomvu, as well as other locations along the Coast.

Get a Kitchen Building Quote from SUIMAS

Planning to build a new kitchen or completely transform an existing one?

SUIMAS can help you plan the layout, select materials, design the cabinetry, prepare the quotation and coordinate the installation.

For a project-specific estimate, share your location, kitchen dimensions, photos and preferred design with our team.

SUIMAS Interior Designers
Nairobi CBD

Call/WhatsApp: 0717 044 443 | 0739 255 050
Email: info@suimas.co.ke

Contact SUIMAS Today

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build a kitchen in Kenya?

A small/basic kitchen may cost around KSh 300,000–600,000+, while standard family kitchens can fall around KSh 600,000–1.2 million+. Larger custom and luxury kitchens can reach several million shillings.

What is the biggest cost when building a kitchen?

Cabinetry is usually one of the largest components, followed by countertops and other finishing and installation works. Current market guidance identifies cabinet material, countertop specification and cabinet length as major cost drivers.

How much does a 10×10 kitchen cost in Kenya?

A 10×10 fitted kitchen can cost approximately KSh 240,000–560,000 for cabinetry and worktop depending on specification. A complete project with flooring, lighting, plumbing, electrical work, appliances and other finishes will cost more.

How much does a 12×12 kitchen cost in Kenya?

A 12×12 fitted kitchen can cost approximately KSh 380,000–680,000 for mid-to-premium cabinetry and worktop. The complete project budget will depend on the remaining finishes and services.

Is kitchen design included in the building cost?

Not necessarily. Some contractors combine design with the complete project, while others charge a separate professional design fee. Current Nairobi guidance puts design-only services broadly around KSh 50,000–150,000 depending on scope.

Does building a kitchen include appliances?

Not automatically. Appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, cookers, dishwashers and microwaves should be clearly identified in the quotation.

How much does a kitchen island cost?

A basic kitchen island can add approximately KSh 60,000–150,000+ depending on size, cabinetry and countertop. A larger island with plumbing, electrical connections and premium stone can cost considerably more.

Can SUIMAS build a kitchen from an empty room?

Yes. SUIMAS can assist with kitchen design, cabinetry, countertops, finishes, plumbing and electrical coordination, installation and final interior finishing according to the agreed project scope.

Can you build a kitchen in an apartment?

Yes. Apartment kitchens can be designed around limited space using compact layouts, tall cabinets, integrated appliances and efficient storage.

Do you build luxury kitchens?

Yes. Custom kitchen projects can include premium cabinetry, islands, quartz or sintered-stone surfaces, specialised hardware, integrated appliances, lighting and bespoke storage.

How do I get an accurate kitchen quotation?

Contact SUIMAS with your kitchen location, approximate dimensions, photos and requirements. A site assessment can then be arranged so the design and quotation are based on the actual space.