Kitchen cabinets can be one of the most expensive parts of remodeling a kitchen, especially for small kitchens where space is at a premium. However, there are ways to get stylish, functional cabinets for your small kitchen without breaking the bank. Here is an overview of the factors that influence the cost of kitchen cabinets for a small kitchen remodel.
Cabinet Quality and Materials
The quality of the cabinets and materials used is the biggest factor affecting the total cost. Basic cabinets made of particle board with laminate fronts and plastic handles can cost $50-$150 per linear foot. Mid-range cabinets made of plywood or solid wood with wood or painted fronts can range from $200-$600 per linear foot. High-end custom cabinets with solid wood frames, doors, and drawers and soft-close hardware can cost $1000+ per linear foot.
Opting for stock cabinets rather than custom designs can save substantially on labor and material costs. Thermofoil and laminate fronts are the most economical options for cabinet fronts, while solid wood doors and frames are premium choices. Hardware, hinges, and drawer glides also range widely in price from basic to high-end options. Carefully select materials to get the look you want while staying within your budget.
Cabinet Brand
The brand or manufacturer of the cabinets makes a difference in price due to variations in materials, construction methods, features, and quality. Ikea and Home Depot in-stock cabinets tend to be the most budget-friendly options. Mid-level brands like KraftMaid and Aristokraft offer stronger construction. High-end designers like Bertch, Poggenpohl, and Wellborn can cost exponentially more than basic brands.
Do some comparison shopping and read reviews to find a brand in your budget that offers quality construction and the design features you need. Avoid overpaying just for the name brand.
Custom vs Stock Cabinets
Custom cabinets are designed specifically for your kitchen layout and can include unique storage solutions and custom wood choices. They typically cost $125-$250+ per linear foot. Stock or semi-custom cabinets come in standard sizes and configurations and cost much less – from $50-$150 per linear foot.
For small kitchens, carefully organizing stock cabinetry is often sufficient, rather than paying premium prices for fully customized cabinets. But if you have an unusual kitchen layout, custom designs may be needed.
Door Styles and Finishes
The style and finish of cabinet doors significantly impacts cost. Simple slab, Shaker, and flat panel doors are generally the most affordable. Decorative door styles like inset, beaded inset, raised panel, and arched doors cost more.
Laminate and thermofoil doors are the most economical. Stained wood veneer, painted, foil, and glazed finishes run middle-of-the-road. Solid wood doors with stain and paint finishes are generally the most expensive door options.
Labor Costs
Whether you choose stock or custom cabinets, installation is a major cost consideration. On average, professional installation runs $150-$300 per linear foot. DIY installation can save substantially on labor, but make sure you have the necessary skills. Complex kitchen layouts or custom cabinets typically warrant hiring an experienced cabinet installer.
Amount of Cabinets Needed
The total number of cabinet units needed is a primary cost factor. Carefully measure your space and create a kitchen cabinet plan. Focus on including essential cabinetry like base cabinets for storage and uppers for dishes and food items. Minimize costs by avoiding extravagant built-ins and unnecessary niche fillers.
As a general rule of thumb, plan to spend $2,000-$5,000 on cabinets for a small galley kitchen, $5,000-$10,000 for an L-shaped kitchen, and $7,000-$15,000+ for a larger U-shaped small kitchen.
Tips for Saving on Small Kitchen Cabinets
Here are some tips to keep costs down on your small kitchen cabinet remodel:
- Choose mid-priced stock cabinets and avoid expensive custom designs.
- Opt for thermofoil or laminate doors instead of solid wood.
- Install cabinets yourself if you have the DIY skills.
- Purchase cabinets and hardware separately to save markups.
- Select cabinets with organizational features like pull-out shelves and lazy susans.
- Set a realistic budget and stick with economical brands like Ikea.
- Carefully measure to avoid overbuying cabinets.
- Compare quotes and negotiate prices with cabinet suppliers.
FAQs About Small Kitchen Cabinet Costs
How much do stock cabinets cost for a 10×10 kitchen?
For a 10×10 kitchen, expect to pay around $3,500-$5,000 for good quality stock cabinets installed. Mid-range stock cabinets cost about $100-$200 per linear foot including installation.
What is the most affordable option for small kitchen cabinets?
Thermofoil and laminate stock cabinets from budget-friendly brands like Ikea offer the most affordable options for small kitchens, ranging from $50-$100 per linear foot installed.
Is it worth it to buy custom cabinets for a small kitchen?
Not usually. Custom cabinets are often overkill for small kitchens in terms of features and price. Carefully planned stock cabinets can provide sufficient storage and style at a fraction of the cost of custom cabinetry.
Should I reface or replace cabinets in a small kitchen?
If your current cabinet boxes are in good structural shape but doors and exteriors are worn, refacing can cost 50-70% less than full replacement. However, replacing severely damaged or outdated cabinets is often the better investment.
Can I install small kitchen cabinets myself?
With some DIY skills and helpers, you can install stock cabinets yourself and save significantly on labor costs. However, complex layouts or custom cabinets usually warrant hiring professional installers.
Conclusion
The total cost of kitchen cabinets for a small kitchen can range from $2,000-$15,000 or more, with $100-$500 per linear foot being an average range. Carefully weigh factors like materials, door styles, brand, custom versus stock designs, installation costs, and the total number of cabinets needed. Take time to comparison shop and employ cost-saving strategies to find high-quality and stylish cabinets that fit your small kitchen and your budget. With some savvy planning, you can get the beautiful, functional kitchen you want even if you have limited space.