Description

Open-Plan Kitchen Design Cost Kenya – Prices, Ideas, Islands & Renovation

An open-plan kitchen connects the kitchen with another living area, usually the dining room, living room or family area. This layout creates a more spacious feel and makes it easier for people to cook, eat, work and socialise in the same space.

But how much does an open-plan kitchen design cost in Kenya?

The cost depends on the size of the kitchen, cabinet materials, countertop, island or breakfast counter, flooring, lighting, appliances, plumbing, electrical work and whether structural changes are required.

A simple open-plan kitchen in an existing space can cost much less than a complete renovation that involves removing a wall, installing an island, changing plumbing and electrical points, replacing flooring and fitting premium cabinetry.

At SUIMAS Interior Designers, we provide open-plan kitchen design, 3D visualisation, custom cabinetry, renovation, fit-out and installation services. We plan the kitchen together with the surrounding living space so that the finishes, colours, lighting and furniture work as one interior.

What We Offer

Our open-plan kitchen services can include:

• Open-Plan Kitchen Design
• Modern Kitchen Cabinet Designs
• Custom Kitchen Cabinets
• Modular Kitchen Design
• Bespoke Kitchen Design
• 3D Kitchen Design
• Kitchen Island Design
• Breakfast Counter Design
• Kitchen Renovation
• Kitchen Remodelling
• Kitchen Fit-Out
• Kitchen Installation
• Kitchen Storage Solutions
• Countertop Installation
• Lighting Planning
• Custom Joinery
• Kitchen Consultation and Quotation

We can also coordinate related flooring, painting, ceiling, lighting and interior finishing works to create a consistent open-plan space.

How Much Does an Open-Plan Kitchen Cost in Kenya?

The open-plan kitchen design cost in Kenya varies depending on whether you are installing a kitchen in an already open space or converting a separate kitchen into an open-plan layout.

For initial budgeting, consider these indicative ranges:

Open-Plan Kitchen Type	Estimated Cost
Small/basic open-plan kitchen	KSh 600,000 – 1 million
Standard open-plan kitchen	KSh 1 million – 1.8 million
Open-plan kitchen with island	KSh 1.2 million – 3 million+
Premium open-plan kitchen	KSh 2 million – 4 million+
Luxury custom open-plan kitchen	KSh 4 million – 6 million+

These are indicative project ranges, not fixed quotations.

Published Kenyan guides show a similar spread. Aalis currently places an island/open-plan kitchen at approximately KSh 1.2 million–1.8 million for basic finishes, KSh 1.8 million–3 million for mid-range finishes and KSh 3 million–6 million+ for luxury work. InteriorDesigners gives an indicative range of about KSh 1.2 million–3 million+ for island kitchens.

The difference comes down to what is included. Some prices cover cabinetry and countertops, while a complete open-plan renovation may also include flooring, lighting, plumbing, electrical work, structural alterations and installation.

Open-Plan Kitchen Cost Breakdown

An open-plan kitchen is more than cabinets and a countertop. Several components contribute to the final budget.

1. Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinetry is usually one of the largest expenses.

Depending on your design, you may need:

• Base cabinets
• Wall cabinets
• Tall cabinets
• Pantry units
• Drawer units
• Corner storage
• Appliance cabinets
• Full-height storage
• Island cabinets
• Open shelving

The amount of cabinetry depends on the kitchen dimensions and layout.

For example, a compact open-plan apartment may require only one main cabinet run, while a large family kitchen can have an L-shaped or U-shaped arrangement plus an island.

2. Kitchen Island

The island is one of the most recognisable features of an open-plan kitchen.

It can provide:

• Additional storage
• Extra worktop space
• Breakfast seating
• Food preparation space
• A social area
• Appliance integration
• A visual separation between kitchen and living areas

The size and specification of the island can significantly affect the total cost.

A simple island with storage is different from a large island with a sink, hob, electrical outlets, seating, premium countertop and feature lighting.

3. Countertop

The countertop contributes significantly to the kitchen budget.

Common options include:

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

For an open-plan kitchen, the countertop is particularly visible because the kitchen is connected to the rest of the living area.

Therefore, many homeowners choose a finish that complements the surrounding flooring, furniture and wall colours.

4. Flooring

Open-plan kitchens often share the same flooring with the dining or living area.

This creates a continuous visual flow.

Possible flooring options include:

• Porcelain tiles
• Ceramic tiles
• Vinyl
• Luxury vinyl tiles
• Natural stone
• Engineered flooring
• Polished concrete

If an existing wall is removed, the floor may need to be repaired where the wall previously stood.

This can add to the renovation cost.

5. Lighting

Lighting is especially important in an open-plan kitchen because the kitchen is part of a larger living space.

A design can combine:

• Ceiling lights
• Under-cabinet LEDs
• Pendant lights
• Island lighting
• Dining lights
• Accent lighting
• Task lighting

Pendant lights above an island or breakfast counter can also become a visual feature.

6. Plumbing

If the kitchen remains in its existing location, plumbing costs can be relatively controlled.

However, moving the sink, dishwasher or other water connections can increase the budget.

This is one reason why plumbing should be considered during the design stage.

7. Electrical Work

An open-plan kitchen may require additional electrical points for:

• Oven
• Hob
• Extractor
• Refrigerator
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Small appliances
• Island sockets
• Lighting
• Dining area
• Entertainment systems

Electrical planning should be completed before cabinetry is fabricated.

Open-Plan Kitchen With Island Cost

An island can transform an open-plan kitchen.

For budgeting purposes, an island can add a significant amount to the project depending on its size and specification.

A simple storage island may require:

• Base cabinets
• Countertop
• Electrical provision
• Installation

A more advanced island may include:

• Sink
• Hob
• Dishwasher
• Seating
• Drawers
• Waste system
• Water connections
• Premium countertop
• Pendant lighting

Therefore, when comparing an open-plan kitchen with island cost in Kenya, check what is included in the island quotation.

A published Nairobi guide currently gives an indicative kitchen-island cost of around KSh 45,000–120,000 per m², depending on material and integration requirements.

Cost of Converting a Kitchen to Open Plan in Kenya

If you already have a closed kitchen, creating an open-plan layout can involve additional construction work.

The project may require:

1. Site assessment
2. Structural assessment
3. Wall removal or modification
4. Electrical adjustments
5. Plumbing changes
6. Floor repairs
7. Ceiling repairs
8. Painting
9. Kitchen installation
10. Lighting installation
11. Final interior finishing

Not every wall can simply be removed.

If the wall is structural or load-bearing, the work needs appropriate professional assessment and structural support.

Published Nairobi cost guides indicate that structural or major plumbing changes can add substantially to a kitchen budget.

For this reason, a quotation for an open-plan conversion should separate the kitchen cost from the construction or structural alteration cost.

Open-Plan Kitchen Design Ideas Kenya

An open-plan kitchen should look connected to the rest of the house.

Here are some practical design ideas.

Kitchen Island as a Divider

A kitchen island can create a natural boundary without closing the kitchen.

It separates the cooking area from the dining or living area while keeping the room visually open.

Breakfast Counter

A raised or extended countertop can provide casual seating.

This can be useful in apartments and smaller homes where there may not be space for a separate breakfast table.

Matching Colours

Use related colours across:

• Kitchen cabinets
• Walls
• Flooring
• Dining furniture
• Living room furniture

The areas do not need to be identical. However, complementary colours can create a more cohesive interior.

Consistent Flooring

Using the same flooring throughout the open-plan area can make the room appear larger.

Feature Island

The island can become the focal point of the kitchen.

A contrasting countertop, pendant lights or two-tone cabinetry can make it stand out.

Tall Storage

Full-height cabinets can provide useful storage without taking additional floor space.

Integrated Appliances

Built-in appliances can create a cleaner appearance, especially when the kitchen is visible from the living room.

Modern Open-Plan Kitchen Designs

Modern open-plan kitchens usually focus on clean lines and minimal visual clutter.

Popular features include:

• Flat-panel cabinets
• Handleless doors
• Matte finishes
• High-gloss finishes
• Wood-grain finishes
• Two-tone cabinetry
• Quartz countertops
• Full-height storage
• Integrated appliances
• Under-cabinet lighting
• Large kitchen islands
• Pendant lighting

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

Good space planning can have a major effect on the final appearance.

Small Open-Plan Kitchen Design

Open-plan layouts can work particularly well in apartments and compact homes because removing unnecessary partitions can make the living area feel more spacious.

For a small open-plan kitchen, consider:

• Single-wall kitchen layouts
• Compact L-shaped layouts
• Slim islands
• Breakfast counters
• Tall cabinets
• Pull-out pantry units
• Integrated appliances
• Wall-mounted storage
• Light colours
• Reflective finishes
• Under-cabinet lighting

Avoid installing an oversized island simply because the space is open.

There must still be comfortable circulation between the kitchen, dining and living areas.

Open-Plan Kitchen and Living Room Design

When the kitchen opens directly into the living room, the two areas should work together visually.

Consider:

Matching Finishes

Use complementary cabinet, wall and furniture colours.

Lighting Zones

Create separate lighting for:

• Kitchen work areas
• Island
• Dining table
• Living room
• Accent areas

Furniture Placement

Position sofas and dining furniture so they do not block kitchen circulation.

Kitchen Storage

Keep frequently used appliances and items organised to reduce visual clutter.

Feature Wall

A feature wall can help define the dining or living area without adding a physical partition.

Open-Plan Kitchen and Dining Design

Connecting the kitchen with a dining area is another popular approach.

The dining table can sit opposite or beside the kitchen island.

This creates a natural flow:

Kitchen → Island → Dining → Living Area

The arrangement can make entertaining easier because the person preparing food remains connected to everyone else.

For larger homes, the kitchen island can provide casual seating while the dining table provides formal meals.

Open-Plan Kitchen Cost by Finish Level

Your choice of finish can significantly change the budget.

Finish Level	Indicative Open-Plan Kitchen Budget
Basic	KSh 600,000 – 1.2M
Mid-range	KSh 1.2M – 2.5M
Premium	KSh 2.5M – 4M+
Luxury	KSh 4M – 6M+

These ranges are intended for preliminary budgeting.

A small kitchen with a basic finish can cost less, while a large villa kitchen with premium cabinetry, stone surfaces, integrated appliances and structural changes can exceed the upper range.

What Affects Open-Plan Kitchen Design Cost?

1. Kitchen Size

Larger kitchens generally require more cabinets, countertop material, flooring and lighting.

2. Layout

One-wall, L-shaped, U-shaped and island configurations have different material requirements.

3. Cabinet Material

Common choices include:

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

4. Countertop

Granite, quartz, porcelain, marble and sintered stone have different prices.

5. Hardware

Soft-close hinges, full-extension drawers and specialised storage systems can increase the budget.

6. Island

A large island with plumbing, appliances and premium finishes costs more than a simple storage island.

7. Appliances

Integrated appliances may require custom cabinetry and additional electrical work.

8. Structural Changes

Removing or modifying walls can add construction, structural support and finishing costs.

9. Plumbing

Moving sinks or water-connected appliances can increase installation costs.

10. Flooring

If the kitchen and living area need new flooring, the project budget will increase.

11. Lighting

Additional pendant, task and accent lighting can add to the overall cost.

Open-Plan Kitchen Renovation Cost Kenya

Renovating an existing open-plan kitchen can involve either minor improvements or a complete redesign.

A basic renovation may involve:

• New cabinet doors
• New handles
• Countertop replacement
• Additional storage
• New lighting

A larger renovation may include:

• New cabinets
• New countertop
• New flooring
• Backsplash
• Plumbing
• Electrical work
• Island
• Appliance integration
• Painting
• Ceiling work

If the existing layout is already suitable, retaining the plumbing and electrical positions can help control costs.

How SUIMAS Designs an Open-Plan Kitchen

At SUIMAS, the kitchen is planned as part of the larger interior rather than as an isolated room.

1. Consultation

We discuss your lifestyle, cooking habits, preferred style, storage requirements and budget.

2. Site Assessment

We measure the kitchen and surrounding living or dining area.

We also assess doors, windows, plumbing, electrical points, ceiling height and available circulation space.

3. Space Planning

The kitchen, island, dining area and living area are arranged to create a practical flow.

4. 3D Design

Our 3D Design & Layout Planning service can help you visualise the proposed kitchen before implementation.

5. Material Selection

We help select cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, hardware and other finishes.

6. Quotation

The project is priced according to the approved design and selected materials.

7. Fabrication and Installation

Cabinets and other components are fabricated and installed according to the agreed specification.

8. Final Inspection

The completed kitchen and surrounding interior are checked before handover.

How to Reduce Open-Plan Kitchen Costs

You can control your budget through planning.

Consider:

• Keeping existing plumbing positions where practical
• Using standard cabinet sizes
• Prioritising essential storage
• Choosing practical cabinet finishes
• Comparing countertop materials
• Limiting unnecessary structural changes
• Using an appropriately sized island
• Planning electrical points before installation
• Selecting appliances early
• Using complementary rather than expensive matching finishes
• Requesting an itemised quotation

The cheapest materials are not always the best way to reduce costs. Instead, prioritise the parts that affect long-term functionality, such as cabinet construction, hardware, countertop quality and installation.

What Should an Open-Plan Kitchen Quotation Include?

Before approving a project, check whether the quotation clearly covers:

• Kitchen design
• Site measurement
• 3D visualisation
• Cabinets
• Cabinet material
• Door finish
• Hardware
• Drawers
• Pantry storage
• Countertop
• Island
• Sink
• Tap
• Backsplash
• Flooring
• Lighting
• Plumbing
• Electrical work
• Structural alterations
• Appliance installation
• Delivery
• Installation
• Painting
• Ceiling repairs
• Exclusions and variations

This makes it easier to compare quotations from different companies.

Open-Plan Kitchen vs Closed Kitchen

Feature	Open-Plan Kitchen	Closed Kitchen
Connection to living area	High	Limited
Natural interaction	High	Lower
Visual space	Usually greater	More separated
Cooking smells	More likely to spread	More contained
Noise	Shared with living area	More contained
Entertainment	Convenient	More separated
Storage	Depends on layout	Depends on layout
Construction cost	Can be higher if walls are removed	Often lower if existing layout remains

An open-plan layout can provide a strong connection between kitchen and living spaces, but it should be designed around how the household actually uses the home.

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 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, our service areas include Nyali, Mvita, Kizingo, Tudor, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kisauni, Likoni, Changamwe and Jomvu. We also handle projects in other parts of Kenya depending on project requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an open-plan kitchen cost in Kenya?

An open-plan kitchen can broadly cost KSh 600,000 to KSh 3 million+, while premium and luxury projects can reach KSh 4 million–6 million+. The final cost depends on the kitchen size, cabinetry, countertop, island, appliances, finishes and installation requirements.

How much does an open-plan kitchen with an island cost?

A standard open-plan kitchen with an island can start around KSh 1.2 million and can exceed KSh 3 million depending on size, materials and island specification.

Is an open-plan kitchen more expensive?

It can be, particularly when the project requires wall removal, structural support, plumbing relocation, electrical changes, new flooring and additional finishing. However, an existing open space can be fitted out without these additional construction costs.

How much does it cost to remove a wall for an open-plan kitchen?

The cost depends on whether the wall is non-load-bearing or structural and what remedial work is required afterward. A professional assessment should be completed before removing or modifying a wall.

What is the best layout for an open-plan kitchen?

L-shaped, U-shaped and island layouts can all work. The best arrangement depends on room dimensions, circulation, storage needs and the position of doors, windows and services.

Is an island necessary in an open-plan kitchen?

No. An open-plan kitchen can work without an island. A peninsula or breakfast counter may be more practical for a smaller space.

Can you convert my existing kitchen to open plan?

Yes. The project can include layout planning, structural assessment, kitchen redesign, cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing, electrical work and finishing.

Do you provide 3D open-plan kitchen designs?

Yes. A 3D design can show how the kitchen, island, dining area and surrounding living space will work together before implementation.

Get an Open-Plan Kitchen Quotation in Kenya

Planning an open-plan kitchen for an apartment, family home, maisonette or villa?

SUIMAS Interior Designers can assist with the complete process, from space planning and 3D design to custom cabinets, kitchen islands, countertops, renovation, fit-out and installation.

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

Contact SUIMAS today:

• Phone: 0717 044 443 / 0739 255 050
• Email: info@suimas.co.ke
• Location:  Nairobi CBD
• Contact Us Today