Fitted Kitchen Costs in Kenya – A Complete Pricing Guide Leave a comment
A fitted kitchen is a customized kitchen design where cabinets, countertops, sinks, and appliances are built into the layout of the room. Fitted kitchens allow for maximum utilization of space and provide a seamless, integrated look.
The cost of installing a fitted kitchen in Kenya can vary significantly depending on the size of the space, materials used, appliances included, and additional custom features. On average, a mid-range fitted kitchen in Nairobi costs between KES 500,000 to KES 1.5 million. High-end fitted kitchens with premium materials and appliances can cost over KES 2.5 million.
When planning for a new fitted kitchen, it’s important to set a realistic budget and understand what factors drive costs up. This article provides an overview of fitted kitchen costs in Kenya, including:
- Average price range for fitted kitchens
- Factors affecting costs
- Differences between high-end and budget kitchens
- Tips for reducing costs
- FAQs on fitted kitchen pricing
Reviewing this information can help homeowners make informed decisions when investing in a new fitted kitchen for their home.
Key Takeaways
- Average cost for a fitted kitchen is KES 500,000 to 1.5 million based on size, location, materials, and features.
- Expect to pay KES 800,000 to 1.2 million for a medium 10 sqm fitted kitchen in Nairobi.
- Key factors affecting cost include layout, size, materials, appliances, customization, and location.
- High-end kitchens with premium materials cost 2-5X more than budget options starting at KES 500,000.
- Select mid-range materials, look for deals, limit customization to reduce costs.
- Allow 2-3 weeks for typical installation; hire an experienced contractor for best results.
- Carefully evaluating kitchen features, costs and value helps create a fitted kitchen matching your budget and lifestyle needs.
Average Cost of Fitted Kitchens in Kenya
The average cost of a fitted kitchen in Kenya ranges from KES 500,000 to KES 1.5 million, with mid-range options falling around KES 800,000 to 1 million. Here’s an overview of typical price ranges based on location:
- In Nairobi, expect to pay:
- KES 500,000 to 800,000 for a small basic fitted kitchen
- KES 800,000 to 1.2 million for a medium-sized fitted kitchen
- KES 1.2 to 1.5 million for a larger, high-end fitted kitchen
- In Mombasa, average prices are:
- KES 600,000 to 900,000 for a small to medium fitted kitchen
- KES 900,000 to 1.3 million for a large luxury fitted kitchen
- In Kisumu, prices tend to be:
- KES 450,000 to 750,000 for a simple small fitted kitchen
- KES 750,000 to 1 million for a medium custom fitted kitchen
- In Nakuru, average cost is:
- KES 500,000 to 850,000 for a fitted kitchen
Prices also depend on the size of the kitchen, with larger kitchens costing more overall:
- Small kitchen (5 – 8 sqm): KES 500,000 – 800,000
- Medium kitchen (8 – 12 sqm): KES 800,000 – 1.2 million
- Large kitchen (>12 sqm): KES 1.2 – 1.5 million+
This gives a rough estimate for budgeting purposes. The specific costs for a fitted kitchen depends on the features, materials, appliances chosen.
Key Takeaways
- Choose mid-range flooring, countertops and backsplashes instead of premium materials
- Look for cabinetry deals and purchase multiple units together
- Prioritize essential appliances over specialized high-end ones
- Consider ready-to-assemble options to save on labor
- Install budget backsplashes in low-spill areas
- Negotiate seller discounts and value-adds on materials and appliances
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Fitted Kitchen
Several variables affect the overall cost of installing a new fitted kitchen in Kenya. Key factors include:
Size and Layout
The size of the kitchen directly impacts cost. Larger kitchens require more cabinetry, countertops, and appliances which increases overall pricing. Complex kitchen layouts also cost more.
Materials
Higher quality materials like solid wood cabinets, granite countertops, and tile backsplashes cost more than laminates and plywood. Common material options include:
- Cabinets: plywood, MDF, solid wood
- Countertops: granite, quartz, marble, tile, laminate
- Backsplashes: tile, glass, stone
- Floors: stone, tile, wood, vinyl
Premium materials can increase kitchen costs by 50% or more.
Appliances
Appliances account for a major share of expense. High-end ovens, cooktops, refrigerators and dishwashers raise costs quickly. Entry level options are more budget friendly.
Additional Features
Add-ons like undercabinet lighting, pull-out shelves, custom cabinetry, kitchen islands etc. enhance kitchen functionality but also increase the pricing. Simple fitted kitchens cost less.
Contractor’s Fees
Experienced contractors who specialize in fitted kitchens charge higher rates for their services. Their expertise also ensures a higher quality end result.
Location
Cost of materials, labor, and real estate vary by region. Kitchens in Nairobi or Mombasa will cost more than similar ones in Kisumu or Nakuru. Delivery charges for materials also add to costs outside Nairobi.
Carefully evaluating all these factors allows homeowners to make targeted choices to meet their budget goals when installing a fitted kitchen in Kenya. Prioritizing critical elements over upgrades helps balance costs and value.
High-End vs Budget Fitted Kitchens
There are significant differences between high-end and budget fitted kitchens:
High-end fitted kitchens have a luxury, customized look and feel using top-notch materials and appliances.
Budget fitted kitchens take a simpler, more functional approach but still maximize space efficiently.
Here is an overview of range for both categories:
| Feature | High-end | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost | KES 1.5 – 2.5+ million | KES 500,000 – 800,000 |
| Cabinets | Solid wood with custom designs | Plywood or laminates with modular designs |
| Countertops | Granite, quartz or marble | Laminate or tiles |
| Backsplash | Stone, glass or ceramic tiles | Painted drywall or simple tile |
| Sink & Faucet | Stainless steel or porcelain undermount sink, designer faucet | Drop-in stainless steel sink, standard faucet |
| Appliances | High-end imported oven, refrigerator, dishwasher etc. | Locally purchased entry level appliances |
| Flooring | Hardwood, stone or tiles | Vinyl or concrete finish |
| Lighting | Undercabinet, accent lighting | Basic top lighting |
| Overall Look | Luxurious, spacious, custom | Simple, functional |
Key Takeaways:
- High-end kitchens use premium materials like granite countertops and solid wood cabinets to create a luxury look and feel.
- Budget kitchens utilize more affordable laminates, tiles and plywood to deliver value and functionality.
- High-end kitchens include top-of-the-line appliances and extensive customization.
- Budget kitchens feature standard appliances and modular cabinetry for simplicity.
- There is a significant cost difference between the two with high-end kitchens costing 2-5x more than budget options.
Tips for Reducing Fitted Kitchen Costs in Kenya
Installing a fitted kitchen in Kenya can be expensive, but there are ways to lower costs with careful planning and decision making:
Choose medium grade materials
Opt for mid-range materials like laminate countertops, tile backsplashes and vinyl flooring rather than top of the line options. These still offer durability and style at a lower price point.
Look for cabinetry sales
Retailers frequently offer sales, discounts and package deals on kitchen cabinets, especially if you purchase multiple units together.
Take advantage of seller deals
Negotiate with sellers for discounts or value-adds like including fixtures, faucets or appliances as part of your kitchen purchase.
Install lower-priced appliances
Prioritize spending on essential appliances like a cooker or refrigerator rather than high-end specialty appliances.
Consider ready-to-assemble
Opt for cabinets and fixtures that come ready to assemble. You save on labor costs of custom building cabinetry.
Install backsplashes selectively
Use less expensive materials like painted drywall for backsplash areas that won’t be prone to splashes or spills.
Look for countertop discounts
Check for deals on countertop materials. Some retailers offer discounted remnants or thin countertops.
Reduce custom add-ons
Avoid expensive extras like kitchen islands, custom cabinetry and specialty lighting to reduce costs.
FAQs on Fitted Kitchen Costs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the cost of fitted kitchens in Kenya:
How much does a 10 sqm fitted kitchen cost in Kenya?
For a medium 10 sqm fitted kitchen in Nairobi, expect to pay KES 800,000 to 1.2 million. In Mombasa, a 10 sqm fitted kitchen will cost KES 900,000 to 1.1 million. Kitchens are cheaper in Kisumu, around KES 600,000 to 900,000.
What is included in a fitted kitchen package?
A fitted kitchen package typically includes cabinetry, countertops, sinks, faucets, appliances, floors, and installation. Some vendors offer deals bundling these together. Additional costs are for special features like lighting or backsplashes.
How can I get the best price on a fitted kitchen?
- Get quotes from multiple vendors
- Look for discounts and sales on materials
- Opt for medium grade rather than premium materials
- Negotiate freebies and value-adds from sellers
- Purchase cabinets and appliances together as a package
Should I choose imported or locally made cabinets?
Imported solid wood cabinets offer premium quality and customization but also cost 2-3 times more than locally produced options. Plywood cabinets made in Kenya provide good functionality at a lower price point for budget-conscious buyers.
How much extra do granite countertops cost?
Granite countertops cost 50-100% more than laminate or tile countertops. Granite costs approximately KES 1500-2500 per square foot installed. Laminate counters cost KES 500-800 per square foot. Prioritize longevity for higher traffic areas.
How long does it take to install a fitted kitchen?
A typical fitted kitchen installation takes 2-3 weeks. Custom or larger kitchens can take 4+ weeks. Time is needed for cabinet building, template creation, plumbing, electrical work, countertop installation and finishing. Discuss timeline with your contractor.
Should I DIY or hire a contractor?
It’s recommended to hire an experienced kitchen contractor unless you have specialized skills. The customized nature and precision required makes fitted kitchens challenging for DIY installation by homeowners. Paying for an expert contractor saves time, money and headaches down the road.
