Description

Custom Kitchen Design Cost Kenya – Prices, Cabinets, Materials & Installation

If you want a kitchen designed specifically for your home, a custom kitchen design gives you more flexibility than standard or ready-made cabinets. Every part of the kitchen can be planned around the available space, your storage needs, preferred style, appliances and budget.

But how much does a custom kitchen design cost in Kenya?

There is no single fixed price because every custom kitchen is different. The final cost depends on the kitchen size, cabinet quantity, materials, finishes, hardware, countertop, storage systems, island, appliances, plumbing, electrical work and installation.

A basic custom kitchen can cost a few hundred thousand shillings, while a large premium kitchen with bespoke cabinetry, quartz or stone countertops, integrated appliances and an island can cost several million shillings.

At SUIMAS Interior Designers, we design and install custom kitchens for apartments, family homes, maisonettes, villas and other properties across Kenya. Our process can cover consultation, site measurement, space planning, 3D visualisation, material selection, custom fabrication, installation and final handover.

What We Offer

Our custom kitchen design services include:

How Much Does Custom Kitchen Design Cost in Kenya?

The custom kitchen design cost in Kenya depends heavily on the scope of the project.

For initial budgeting, you can consider these indicative ranges:

Custom Kitchen Type Estimated Cost
Basic custom kitchen KSh 300,000 – 600,000
Small to medium custom kitchen KSh 600,000 – 1.2 million
Mid-range custom kitchen KSh 1.2 million – 2.5 million
Premium custom kitchen KSh 2.5 million – 4 million+
Luxury bespoke kitchen KSh 4 million – 6 million+

These are indicative budgeting ranges, not fixed quotations.

The important distinction is whether the quoted amount covers custom cabinets only or the complete kitchen project.

For example, current Kenyan cabinet guides put fitted cabinetry broadly around KSh 12,000–28,000+ per running foot depending on material and finish. A complete custom kitchen can cost considerably more after adding countertops, appliances, lighting, plumbing, electrical work and installation.

SUIMAS’s own custom-kitchen guide also notes that there is no universal price because factors such as kitchen size, materials, hardware, storage mechanisms, countertop, island and installation all affect the final quotation.

Custom Kitchen Design Cost Breakdown

Understanding the individual components makes it easier to prepare your budget.

1. Kitchen Design

A custom kitchen begins with planning.

Design work can include:

  • Site assessment
  • Measurements
  • Space planning
  • Kitchen layout
  • Cabinet planning
  • Appliance positioning
  • Storage planning
  • Material selection
  • 3D visualisation
  • Construction drawings
  • Installation planning

Some companies charge separately for design, while others incorporate design into the complete project quotation.

Published Kenyan guides show design-only kitchen services can range from tens of thousands of shillings, while complete design-and-installation projects cost considerably more.

2. Custom Kitchen Cabinets

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

Custom cabinets can be designed to fit:

  • Uneven walls
  • Columns
  • Windows
  • Narrow spaces
  • Angled corners
  • High ceilings
  • Existing appliances
  • Unusual room dimensions

This is one of the main advantages of custom kitchen design.

Instead of leaving large gaps around standard cabinets, the units can be designed according to the actual dimensions of your kitchen.

3. Cabinet Materials

The material selected for the cabinet carcass and doors affects the price.

Common options include:

  • MDF
  • Plywood
  • Melamine
  • Particle board
  • Blockboard
  • Laminate
  • Wood veneer
  • Solid wood elements

The appropriate material depends on the location of the cabinet, moisture exposure, desired finish and budget.

4. Cabinet Finishes

The door finish also affects the appearance and cost.

Popular finishes include:

  • Matte
  • High-gloss
  • Wood grain
  • Textured laminate
  • Painted finishes
  • Veneer
  • Handleless finishes
  • Two-tone finishes

A simple laminate finish can help control the budget, while premium lacquer, veneer or specialised finishes can increase the cost.

Custom Kitchen Cabinet Cost in Kenya

Custom kitchen cabinet prices vary according to size, materials, design and hardware.

A broad budgeting guide is:

Cabinet Level Indicative Cost
Basic custom cabinetry KSh 120,000 – 350,000
Medium custom cabinetry KSh 350,000 – 900,000
Premium custom cabinetry KSh 900,000 – 2.5 million+

These figures refer primarily to cabinetry and should not automatically be treated as the cost of a complete kitchen.

Another useful way of estimating cabinets is by running foot. Current Kenyan guides place fitted cabinetry broadly around KSh 12,000–28,000 per running foot, depending on construction and finish.

For this reason, a proper site measurement is more useful than relying on a generic cabinet price.

Custom Kitchen Designs and Prices

Custom kitchens can take many forms.

Modern Custom Kitchen

A modern custom kitchen usually focuses on clean lines, practical storage and minimal visual clutter.

Features can include:

  • Flat-panel cabinets
  • Handleless doors
  • Matte finishes
  • High-gloss finishes
  • Wood-grain cabinets
  • Two-tone cabinetry
  • Quartz countertops
  • Integrated appliances
  • Under-cabinet lighting

Indicative budget: KSh 800,000–2.5 million+.

Classic Custom Kitchen

Classic kitchens can feature:

  • Shaker-style cabinets
  • Decorative profiles
  • Wood finishes
  • Traditional handles
  • Glass-front cabinets
  • Detailed joinery
  • Granite or quartz countertops

Indicative budget: KSh 700,000–2.5 million+.

Luxury Custom Kitchen

A luxury bespoke kitchen may include:

  • Premium custom cabinetry
  • Quartz or sintered-stone worktops
  • Full-height storage
  • Premium hardware
  • Integrated appliances
  • Large island
  • Feature lighting
  • Custom pantry
  • Specialised storage mechanisms

Indicative budget: KSh 2.5 million–6 million+.

What Makes a Kitchen Custom?

A kitchen does not become custom simply because the cabinets are made locally.

A genuinely custom kitchen is designed around the actual requirements of the homeowner and the room.

This can include:

Custom Dimensions

Cabinets are built to fit the available wall lengths and heights.

Custom Storage

Storage can be designed for specific items such as:

  • Sufurias
  • Plates
  • Cutlery
  • Spices
  • Bottles
  • Small appliances
  • Food supplies
  • Cleaning products

Custom Appliance Housing

Cabinets can be designed around:

  • Built-in ovens
  • Microwaves
  • Refrigerators
  • Dishwashers
  • Extractor hoods
  • Hobs

Custom Corners

Awkward corners can be turned into useful storage using suitable corner mechanisms or specialised cabinet arrangements.

Custom Island

The island can be designed according to the available space and intended use.

Custom Kitchen With Island Cost

A kitchen island can significantly improve an open or large kitchen.

Depending on the specification, the island can provide:

  • Storage
  • Drawers
  • Seating
  • Food preparation space
  • Sink
  • Hob
  • Electrical outlets
  • Waste storage

A simple storage island costs less than a fully equipped island with plumbing, electrical connections, premium cabinetry and a large stone countertop.

Current Kenyan kitchen guides place island costs broadly around KSh 60,000–150,000+ for many projects, although premium or highly integrated islands can cost considerably more.

Custom Kitchen Countertop Cost

The countertop is another major part of the kitchen budget.

Popular options include:

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

For a custom kitchen, the countertop is measured according to the actual cabinet arrangement.

An island also requires additional countertop material.

Quartz and other premium surfaces can increase the total project cost, but they can also create a strong focal point in modern kitchens.

Custom Kitchen Storage Solutions

One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose custom kitchens is storage.

A custom design can include:

  • Deep drawers
  • Tall pantry units
  • Pull-out pantries
  • Corner storage
  • Bottle racks
  • Spice drawers
  • Cutlery organisers
  • Appliance garages
  • Under-sink storage
  • Full-height cabinets
  • Open shelving
  • Waste sorting systems

The storage should be designed around how the kitchen is actually used.

For example, heavy cookware can be placed in deep lower drawers, while frequently used ingredients can be kept within easy reach.

Custom Kitchen Design for Small Spaces

Customisation is not only for large luxury homes.

A small kitchen can benefit greatly from custom planning.

Possible solutions include:

  • Full-height cabinets
  • Tall pantry storage
  • Pull-out units
  • Deep drawers
  • Wall cabinets
  • Compact appliances
  • Corner storage
  • Foldable worktops
  • Integrated appliances
  • Light-coloured finishes
  • Under-cabinet lighting

Custom cabinets can help reduce wasted gaps between standard units and walls.

This makes bespoke design useful for apartments and compact kitchens as well as large homes.

Custom Kitchen Design for Large Homes

Large homes provide more opportunities for customisation.

A large kitchen can include:

  • Kitchen island
  • Breakfast counter
  • Walk-in pantry
  • Tall storage
  • Appliance wall
  • Double ovens
  • Integrated refrigerator
  • Beverage station
  • Large prep area
  • Feature lighting
  • Dining connection

For a large kitchen, the design should focus on workflow as well as appearance.

Adding more cabinets does not automatically make the kitchen better. The arrangement should allow comfortable movement between storage, preparation, cooking and cleaning areas.

Custom Kitchen Renovation Cost Kenya

You do not always need to build a completely new kitchen.

An existing kitchen can be customised through renovation.

Possible improvements include:

  • Replacing cabinet doors
  • Adding new cabinets
  • Replacing countertops
  • Adding drawers
  • Upgrading hardware
  • Adding pantry storage
  • Improving corner storage
  • Installing a backsplash
  • Upgrading lighting
  • Integrating appliances
  • Changing the layout
  • Replacing the entire kitchen

The cost depends on how much of the existing kitchen can be retained.

If the cabinet carcasses are still in good condition, a partial upgrade can cost less than complete replacement.

What Affects Custom Kitchen Design Cost in Kenya?

Several factors influence the final price.

Kitchen Size

A larger kitchen generally requires more cabinets, worktops and materials.

Layout

Straight, L-shaped, U-shaped, galley and island kitchens require different quantities of cabinetry.

Cabinet Material

Different boards and finishes have different prices.

Hardware

Soft-close hinges, drawer runners, pull-outs and specialised mechanisms can increase the cost.

Countertop

Granite, quartz, porcelain, marble and other surfaces have different price levels.

Storage

More drawers, pantry systems and specialised organisers increase the budget.

Appliances

Integrated appliances may require specially designed cabinets.

Plumbing

Moving a sink or dishwasher can add plumbing costs.

Electrical Work

New appliance points, lighting and island sockets may require additional electrical work.

Installation

Fabrication, delivery, fitting and finishing should be included when comparing quotations.

How SUIMAS Designs Custom Kitchens

A custom kitchen should be designed before fabrication begins.

Our process can include:

1. Consultation

We discuss your kitchen requirements, preferred style, storage needs, appliances and budget.

2. Site Measurement

We measure the room and identify walls, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical points and other important details.

3. Space Planning

The kitchen layout is planned around workflow and available space.

4. 3D Visualisation

Our 3D Design & Layout Planning service allows you to visualise the proposed kitchen before installation.

5. Material Selection

We help select cabinet boards, finishes, countertops, hardware and storage systems.

6. Detailed Quotation

The approved specification is used to prepare an itemised quotation.

7. Fabrication

The custom cabinets are produced according to the approved dimensions and design.

8. Installation

The cabinets, countertops and other components are installed and aligned.

9. Inspection and Handover

The completed kitchen is checked for finishing, alignment and functionality.

What Should Be Included in a Custom Kitchen Quotation?

Before approving a quotation, check whether it clearly identifies:

  • Design
  • Site measurement
  • Cabinet carcass
  • Cabinet doors
  • Door finish
  • Hinges
  • Drawer runners
  • Handles
  • Storage mechanisms
  • Countertop
  • Backsplash
  • Island
  • Appliance housing
  • Sink
  • Tap
  • Lighting
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical work
  • Delivery
  • Installation
  • Additional works
  • Exclusions

This is important because two companies can quote different prices for apparently similar kitchens while using completely different materials and specifications.

A detailed quotation lets you compare the scope and specification, rather than simply comparing the final amount.

Custom Kitchen vs Ready-Made Kitchen

Feature Custom Kitchen Ready-Made Kitchen
Cabinet dimensions Tailored Standard
Awkward spaces Can be accommodated More difficult
Storage Customised Predefined
Finishes Wide selection Limited options
Appliance integration Tailored Depends on units
Initial cost Usually higher Often lower
Space utilisation High May leave gaps
Design flexibility High Limited

A ready-made kitchen can work well when the room has standard dimensions.

Custom cabinetry becomes more useful when you need specific dimensions, unusual storage or a particular design.

How to Reduce Custom Kitchen Costs

Custom does not automatically mean luxury.

You can manage your budget by:

  • Prioritising essential storage
  • Using standard cabinet dimensions where possible
  • Choosing practical finishes
  • Comparing countertop materials
  • Limiting unnecessary decorative details
  • Selecting hardware according to usage
  • Planning appliances before fabrication
  • Keeping existing plumbing where practical
  • Choosing a smaller island
  • Requesting an itemised quotation

You can also use premium finishes selectively instead of using expensive materials throughout the entire kitchen.

For example, a premium countertop or feature cabinet area can create visual impact while keeping the rest of the kitchen within budget.

Other Services We Offer

SUIMAS also provides Residential Interior Design, Commercial Interior Design, Building & Construction Services, Office Partitioning Design, Gypsum Ceiling Installation, Floor Installation Services, Professional Painting Services, Reception Desk Design, Branding Services and Hotel Interior Design.

Areas We Serve

SUIMAS provides custom kitchen design, interior design, renovation and fit-out 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.

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

In Mombasa, we serve Nyali, Mvita, Kizingo, Tudor, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kisauni, Likoni, Changamwe and Jomvu, as well as other locations depending on project requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a custom kitchen cost in Kenya?

A custom kitchen can broadly range from KSh 300,000 to KSh 2.5 million+, while premium and luxury bespoke kitchens can reach KSh 4 million–6 million+ depending on size, materials, cabinetry, countertops, appliances and installation.

How much does custom kitchen design cost alone?

Design-only fees vary between providers and project complexity. Published Kenyan guides show design-only kitchen services can range from roughly KSh 20,000–60,000+, while more comprehensive design services can cost more.

How much do custom kitchen cabinets cost?

Custom cabinetry can broadly range from KSh 120,000 to KSh 900,000+, with large premium projects reaching KSh 2.5 million or more. The actual amount depends on cabinet size, materials, finish and hardware.

Is a custom kitchen more expensive than a ready-made kitchen?

Usually, custom work has a higher initial cost because the cabinets are designed and fabricated for a particular space. However, custom cabinets can use awkward spaces more efficiently and provide more flexibility.

Can I get a custom kitchen on a small budget?

Yes. Customisation does not automatically require luxury materials. You can control costs by choosing practical cabinet materials, limiting specialised hardware and prioritising the storage features you actually need.

Can custom cabinets fit around existing appliances?

Yes. Cabinets can be designed around existing or new appliances, provided their dimensions are known before fabrication.

Can you design a custom kitchen for a small apartment?

Yes. Custom design can be particularly useful in small kitchens because cabinets can be planned around the available wall space, corners, windows and appliances.

Do you provide 3D custom kitchen designs?

Yes. A 3D design can help you visualise the cabinet arrangement, colours, countertops, storage and appliances before implementation.

Get a Custom Kitchen Design Quotation in Kenya

Planning a custom kitchen for your apartment, family home, maisonette or villa?

SUIMAS Interior Designers can help with space planning, 3D kitchen design, custom cabinets, countertops, storage solutions, kitchen renovation, fabrication and installation.

For a project-specific quotation, share your kitchen measurements, location, preferred style and budget.

Contact SUIMAS today: