Description

Kitchen Designs and Their Cost in Kenya

Choosing the right kitchen design in Kenya is about more than appearance. A good kitchen should make cooking easier, provide enough storage, fit the available space and match your budget. Whether you are furnishing a new house, renovating an old kitchen or building a modern home, the design you choose can have a major effect on the final cost.

Kitchen prices in Kenya vary widely because every project has different requirements. Cabinet materials, kitchen size, layout, countertops, hardware, appliances, lighting, flooring, plumbing and installation can all change the final quotation.

For example, current Nairobi market guides place smaller complete kitchen projects around KES 450,000–900,000, mid-size kitchens around KES 900,000–2.5 million, and luxury customised kitchens at KES 2.5 million and above. These are market planning figures rather than fixed quotations.

At SUIMAS Interior Designers, we help homeowners, developers, landlords, offices, hotels and other property owners plan and install kitchens according to their space, lifestyle and budget.

What We Offer

Our kitchen solutions cover the complete journey from planning to installation, including:

Our approach combines space planning, cabinetry, storage, materials, countertops, lighting, 3D visualisation and professional installation.


How Much Does a Kitchen Cost in Kenya?

There is no single price for a kitchen in Kenya. Two kitchens of the same size can have very different costs because their materials and specifications may be completely different.

As a general planning guide, complete kitchen projects can fall within these broad ranges:

Kitchen Type Estimated Cost in Kenya
Small / compact kitchen KES 350,000 – 900,000+
Standard L-shaped kitchen KES 600,000 – 1,800,000+
Mid-size family kitchen KES 900,000 – 2,500,000+
U-shaped kitchen KES 1,000,000 – 3,000,000+
Kitchen with island KES 1,200,000 – 3,500,000+
Luxury custom kitchen KES 2,500,000 – 6,000,000+
Major kitchen renovation KES 1,000,000 – 3,000,000+

These figures are indicative planning ranges, not fixed SUIMAS quotations. The actual price depends on the size, layout, cabinetry, finishes, hardware, appliances and installation requirements.

For comparison, current published Nairobi market data places a small apartment kitchen around KES 450,000–900,000, a mid-size family kitchen around KES 900,000–2.5 million and luxury kitchens from about KES 2.5 million upwards. (Aalis Studios)


Types of Kitchen Designs in Kenya

There are several kitchen layouts commonly used in Kenyan homes. The best choice depends on the size of your room, movement, storage requirements and how you intend to use the kitchen.

1. L-Shaped Kitchen Design

The L-shaped kitchen design is one of the most practical choices for Kenyan homes.

Cabinetry is installed along two adjoining walls, creating an L shape. This arrangement provides a good working area while leaving the centre of the room relatively open.

Suitable for:

  • Apartments
  • Three-bedroom houses
  • Four-bedroom homes
  • Open-plan homes
  • Medium-sized kitchens

Estimated cost

A standard L-shaped kitchen can cost approximately KES 600,000–1.8 million+, depending on cabinet materials, countertop, storage and finishes.

Premium L-shaped kitchens with high-end cabinetry and stone surfaces can cost considerably more.


2. U-Shaped Kitchen Design

A U-shaped kitchen uses three walls for cabinetry and work surfaces.

It provides substantial storage and countertop space, making it suitable for families that cook regularly or require several appliances.

Advantages

  • Large storage capacity
  • Plenty of working space
  • Good separation of preparation areas
  • Suitable for larger homes
  • Can accommodate multiple users

Estimated cost

A U-shaped kitchen may cost approximately KES 1 million–3 million+, depending on its size and specification.

Current Nairobi market guides place U-shaped kitchens broadly within this range, with premium versions costing considerably more. (Aalis Studios)


3. Straight or One-Wall Kitchen

A straight kitchen places the cabinets and appliances along one wall.

This is particularly useful where space is limited.

It is common in:

  • Apartments
  • Bedsitters
  • Studio units
  • Small homes
  • Rental properties
  • Compact guest houses

Although the layout is simple, good planning can still provide plenty of storage through tall cabinets, wall units, drawers and pull-out systems.

Estimated cost

A compact one-wall kitchen may start from around KES 350,000–900,000+, depending on the cabinet specification and other finishes.


4. Galley Kitchen Design

A galley kitchen has two parallel runs of cabinets facing each other.

It makes good use of narrow spaces and can provide an efficient cooking workflow.

Suitable for:

  • Narrow homes
  • Apartments
  • Compact houses
  • Long kitchen spaces
  • Renovation projects

The main consideration is the distance between the two cabinet runs. There should be enough space for comfortable movement and opening drawers and appliances.


5. Kitchen Island Design

A kitchen island can become the centrepiece of a modern home.

Depending on the design, an island can provide:

  • Additional storage
  • Extra countertop space
  • Breakfast seating
  • Food preparation space
  • Sink installation
  • Hob installation
  • Appliance integration

However, an island requires adequate floor space. Installing one in a very small kitchen can make movement difficult.

Estimated cost

A complete kitchen with an island may cost approximately KES 1.2 million–3.5 million+, depending on the kitchen size and level of customisation.

The island itself can also add a substantial amount to the budget because it requires additional cabinetry, countertop material, electrical work and sometimes plumbing.


6. Peninsula Kitchen Design

A peninsula kitchen is similar to an L-shaped kitchen but includes an extension that projects into the room.

The extension can function as:

  • Breakfast counter
  • Dining area
  • Preparation surface
  • Storage unit
  • Room divider

It is particularly useful for open-plan homes where a full island may not fit comfortably.


7. G-Shaped Kitchen

The G-shaped layout provides extensive cabinet and countertop space.

It can work well in large family homes where the kitchen needs to accommodate significant storage and preparation requirements.

However, it requires more floor space than a straight or L-shaped kitchen.

For this reason, it is usually more suitable for larger houses and spacious open-plan layouts.


Modern Kitchen Designs in Kenya

Modern kitchens focus on clean lines, efficient storage and practical finishes.

Popular modern features include:

  • Flat-panel cabinets
  • Handleless cabinets
  • High-gloss finishes
  • Matte finishes
  • Two-tone cabinets
  • Quartz countertops
  • Integrated appliances
  • Under-cabinet lighting
  • Full-height cabinets
  • Kitchen islands
  • Pull-out storage

Modern design does not necessarily mean expensive materials. The appearance can be adapted to different budgets.


Classic Kitchen Designs

Classic kitchens focus on timeless details rather than highly fashionable finishes.

Common features include:

  • Shaker-style cabinets
  • Wood finishes
  • Decorative cabinet doors
  • Traditional handles
  • Granite countertops
  • Warm colours
  • Detailed cabinetry

This style works particularly well in family homes, maisonettes and larger kitchens.


Contemporary Kitchen Designs

Contemporary kitchens combine modern functionality with softer design elements.

They may include:

  • Neutral colours
  • Mixed materials
  • Wood-look cabinetry
  • Quartz surfaces
  • Minimal handles
  • Feature lighting
  • Open shelving
  • Statement backsplashes

The result is a kitchen that feels modern without being overly minimal.


Minimalist Kitchen Designs

Minimalist kitchens focus on simplicity.

The design usually reduces visible clutter by incorporating:

  • Handleless cabinets
  • Integrated appliances
  • Hidden storage
  • Simple colour palettes
  • Clean countertops
  • Built-in pantry systems

This style is especially useful in apartments and modern open-plan houses.


Rustic and Farmhouse Kitchen Designs

Rustic and farmhouse kitchens create a warmer, more traditional atmosphere.

They may use:

  • Wood-look cabinets
  • Natural colours
  • Open shelving
  • Shaker doors
  • Stone-look countertops
  • Warm lighting
  • Traditional accessories

These designs can work particularly well in larger homes, countryside properties and homes where the kitchen connects to a dining or outdoor area.


Kitchen Cabinet Costs in Kenya

Cabinetry is one of the largest parts of a kitchen budget.

The price depends on the board, door finish, hardware, drawer systems and amount of storage.

Indicative cabinet prices can include:

Cabinet Specification Approximate Cost
Basic blockboard/laminate KES 12,000–16,000 per running foot
Marine plywood/MDF combination KES 16,000–22,000 per running foot
Premium/high-gloss finishes KES 22,000–28,000+ per running foot
Custom premium cabinetry Can exceed these ranges

These figures should be treated as planning estimates because cabinet quotations differ according to design and specification. SUIMAS also recommends comparing the actual cabinet construction, finish, hardware, storage systems, countertop and installation rather than comparing the final price alone. (Suimas)


Kitchen Countertop Costs in Kenya

The countertop can significantly affect the appearance and cost of a kitchen.

Common options include:

Granite

Granite remains popular because it is durable and available in many colours and patterns.

Quartz

Quartz provides a consistent modern appearance and is widely used in contemporary kitchens.

Marble

Marble creates a premium appearance but requires more care than some other countertop materials.

Laminate

Laminate can provide a more affordable alternative where budget is the main consideration.

Current Nairobi market guides show significant price differences between granite, quartz, marble and premium sintered stone. (Aalis Studios)


What Affects Kitchen Design Cost in Kenya?

Several factors determine the final price.

1. Kitchen Size

A larger kitchen normally requires more cabinets, countertops, flooring and lighting.

However, size alone does not determine the cost.

A small luxury kitchen can cost more than a large basic kitchen.

2. Layout

L-shaped, U-shaped, island and custom layouts require different quantities of cabinetry and countertop.

3. Cabinet Material

MDF, plywood, marine board, laminate, acrylic and solid wood have different price points.

4. Hardware

Soft-close hinges, drawer runners, pull-out baskets, corner systems and premium fittings can increase the budget.

5. Countertop

Granite, quartz, marble, sintered stone and other surfaces have different costs.

6. Appliances

Cookers, ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves and extractor systems should be considered separately unless they are included in the quotation.

7. Plumbing and Electrical Work

Moving a sink, cooker or other appliances can require additional plumbing and electrical work.

8. Flooring and Wall Finishes

Tiles, backsplash, paint and other finishes add to the project cost.

9. Installation

Professional installation affects the final price and can determine the quality of the finished kitchen.


Kitchen Design Cost by Budget Level

Instead of choosing a design based only on the final price, it is useful to divide projects into budget levels.

Budget Kitchen

Approximately KES 350,000–700,000+

May include:

  • Simple cabinet layout
  • Basic cabinet materials
  • Standard countertop
  • Basic hardware
  • Standard tiles
  • Essential lighting

Mid-Range Kitchen

Approximately KES 700,000–1.8 million+

May include:

  • Better cabinet construction
  • Improved hardware
  • Granite or quartz countertop
  • More storage
  • Better lighting
  • Quality flooring
  • Custom storage features

Premium Kitchen

Approximately KES 1.8 million–3.5 million+

May include:

  • Premium cabinetry
  • Quartz or premium stone
  • Kitchen island
  • Soft-close hardware
  • Integrated appliances
  • Feature lighting
  • Premium flooring
  • Custom storage

Luxury Kitchen

Approximately KES 2.5 million–6 million+

May include:

  • Fully customised cabinetry
  • Premium imported materials
  • Large island
  • Premium stone surfaces
  • Integrated appliances
  • Walk-in pantry
  • High-end hardware
  • Architectural lighting
  • Bespoke detailing

Published Nairobi market data similarly shows that highly customised kitchens can reach several million shillings. (Aalis Studios)


How to Reduce Kitchen Costs in Kenya

A beautiful kitchen does not always require the most expensive materials.

You can control the budget by:

Keep Existing Plumbing

Keeping the sink and major plumbing points in their current positions can reduce additional work.

Use Standard Cabinet Sizes

Standard dimensions can reduce fabrication complexity.

Prioritise High-Use Areas

Spend more on cabinet hardware, drawers and storage systems that you use every day.

Choose Materials Carefully

You can combine premium finishes with more affordable materials instead of using expensive materials everywhere.

Plan Before Fabrication

A proper design helps prevent costly changes during installation.

Request an Itemised Quotation

A detailed quotation makes it easier to understand where your money is going.

Construction Kenya also recommends separating essential kitchen requirements from items that can be added later when working within a construction budget. (CK)


What Should Be Included in a Kitchen Quotation?

Before approving a kitchen project, make sure the quotation clearly explains what is included.

A professional quotation should identify:

  • Kitchen measurements
  • Cabinet construction
  • Cabinet material
  • Door finish
  • Handles
  • Hinges
  • Drawer runners
  • Storage accessories
  • Countertop
  • Sink and taps
  • Appliances, if included
  • Lighting
  • Backsplash
  • Flooring
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical work
  • Delivery
  • Installation
  • Project exclusions

This is important because two contractors can give very different prices for what appears to be the same kitchen.

The difference may come from materials, hardware, cabinet dimensions, countertop quality or services excluded from the cheaper quotation.


Why Choose SUIMAS for Kitchen Design in Kenya?

At SUIMAS Interior Designers, kitchen projects can be handled from the initial consultation through design, material selection, quotation, fabrication, installation and handover.

Our kitchen design approach focuses on:

  • Functional space planning
  • Custom cabinetry
  • Smart storage
  • 3D visualisation
  • Material selection
  • Countertop selection
  • Lighting planning
  • Professional installation
  • Kitchen renovation
  • Kitchen remodelling
  • Project coordination

We design kitchens for different property types, including apartments, family homes, maisonettes, luxury residences, rental properties, offices, hotels and commercial spaces.

The goal is to create a kitchen that looks good while remaining practical for everyday use.


Related Services We Offer

If you are planning a complete home improvement project, you can also explore:


Areas We Serve

SUIMAS provides kitchen design, kitchen renovation, custom cabinetry and interior design services across all 47 counties in Kenya.

We serve 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, our service areas include 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 neighbourhoods.

In Mombasa, we serve areas including Nyali, Mvita, Kizingo, Tudor, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kisauni, Likoni, Changamwe and Jomvu.


Get a Kitchen Design and Quotation in Kenya

Planning a new kitchen or renovating an existing one?

Instead of relying on a general kitchen price, have your space assessed and receive a quotation based on the actual measurements, layout, materials and finishes you need.

Contact SUIMAS Interior Designers for kitchen design, custom cabinets, renovation, remodelling and installation services.

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

Contact Us Today


Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen cost in Kenya?

A complete kitchen can cost from approximately KES 350,000–900,000+ for a smaller or basic project, while mid-range and luxury kitchens can reach KES 1 million to several million shillings. The final amount depends on the design, materials, size and installation requirements.

What is the cheapest kitchen design in Kenya?

Straight or one-wall kitchens are often among the simpler layouts because they use one main cabinet run. However, the final cost still depends heavily on cabinet materials, countertop and fittings.

How much does an L-shaped kitchen cost in Kenya?

An L-shaped kitchen may cost approximately KES 600,000–1.8 million+ depending on its size, cabinet specification, countertop, storage and finishes.

How much does a U-shaped kitchen cost?

A U-shaped kitchen can cost approximately KES 1 million–3 million+, although larger luxury kitchens can exceed this range.

How much does a kitchen island cost in Kenya?

A kitchen island can add significantly to the project budget because it requires additional cabinets, countertop material and sometimes plumbing and electrical connections. A complete kitchen with an island can commonly fall around KES 1.2 million–3.5 million+, depending on specification.

What is the most expensive part of a kitchen?

Cabinetry is normally one of the largest expenses, followed by countertops and other major components. The exact proportion varies between projects.

Can I renovate my existing kitchen instead of installing a new one?

Yes. Depending on the condition of the existing kitchen, you can repaint or replace cabinet doors, upgrade countertops, add storage, change hardware, improve lighting or carry out a complete remodelling.

Do you provide 3D kitchen designs?

Yes. 3D visualisation can help you understand the proposed layout, cabinetry, finishes and overall appearance before implementation.

How can I get an accurate kitchen quotation?

The most reliable approach is to have the kitchen measured and assessed. The quotation should then be based on the approved layout, cabinet specification, countertop, hardware, finishes, installation and any additional works.