What Actually Drives the Cost of a Kitchen Remodel?
(And Why Two “Similar” Kitchens Can Have Very Different Price Tags)
One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering a kitchen remodel is simple:
“How much is this going to cost?”
The frustrating answer they usually hear is: “It depends.”
But the truth is — kitchen remodel costs aren’t mysterious. They’re driven by a predictable set of decisions and conditions.
At Everstead Design Build, we believe homeowners deserve clear, honest information so they can plan confidently and avoid surprises. This article breaks down what actually drives the cost of a kitchen remodel, why pricing can vary so widely, and how smart planning can help you invest where it matters most.
If you’re looking for broader guidance on planning a kitchen remodel in St. Louis, we recommend starting with our complete Kitchen Remodeling Guide here:
https://www.eversteaddesignbuild.com/kitchenremodelingguide
Why Kitchen Remodel Costs Vary So Much
You may have seen estimates online ranging anywhere from modest refreshes to six-figure remodels — and wondered how that’s possible.
The reason is simple:
kitchens are systems, not just finishes.
Every decision impacts another, and cost is driven more by scope and complexity than by one single choice.
Let’s walk through the biggest cost drivers.
1. Layout Changes (The #1 Cost Driver)
If there’s one factor that impacts kitchen remodel cost more than any other, it’s layout changes.
Keeping the layout the same
When sinks, ranges, dishwashers, and walls stay in place:
Plumbing and electrical work is minimized
Construction time is shorter
Costs stay more predictable
Changing the layout
Moving appliances, sinks, or walls adds cost because it often requires:
Plumbing relocation
Electrical rewiring
HVAC adjustments
Structural considerations
Permits and inspections
Even small layout shifts can create a ripple effect throughout the project.
👉 This is why a design-first approach is so important. A smart layout change can be worth the investment — but unnecessary changes can inflate costs without improving function.
2. Cabinetry (More Than Just Door Style)
Cabinetry is often the largest single line item in a kitchen remodel — and for good reason.
But cabinet costs aren’t just about color or style.
They’re driven by:
Cabinet construction & quality
Box materials and joinery
Soft-close hardware
Drawer construction
Configuration
Drawer-heavy designs (drawers cost more than doors, but add huge value)
Pantry cabinets
Tall cabinets to the ceiling
Specialty storage inserts
Customization level
Stock vs semi-custom vs custom cabinets
Modifications for ceiling height, appliance sizes, or layout constraints
At Everstead, we guide homeowners through cabinet decisions so they understand where upgrades add real daily value — and where they don’t.
3. Countertops & Backsplash Selections
Surface materials are highly visible — and their pricing can vary dramatically.
Countertops
Cost is influenced by:
Material type (quartz, quartzite, granite, porcelain)
Thickness
Edge profiles
Seams and layout complexity
Quartz remains a popular choice in St. Louis for its durability and low maintenance, while natural stone offers a one-of-a-kind look with added care requirements.
Backsplashes
Tile backsplashes are generally more budget-friendly, while:
Full-height stone backsplashes
Slab applications
add cost but create a seamless, elevated look.
4. Electrical & Lighting (Often Underestimated)
Lighting is one of the most commonly underestimated costs — and one of the most impactful upgrades.
A well-designed kitchen lighting plan often includes:
Recessed ceiling lighting
Under-cabinet task lighting
Decorative pendants
Dimmer switches
Updated outlets to meet current code
Older homes often require electrical updates once walls are opened, which can increase cost — but also improves safety and functionality.
5. Plumbing Fixtures & Appliance Planning
Small selections can add up quickly when combined.
Costs may increase based on:
Pot fillers
Instant hot water dispensers
Beverage refrigerators
Ice makers
High-end or panel-ready appliances
Venting requirements for professional ranges
Early appliance planning is critical. Appliance specs directly affect cabinet sizing, electrical needs, and hood design — and late changes can cause costly revisions.
6. Flooring Scope
Flooring costs depend on:
Whether existing flooring is reused, patched, refinished, or replaced
How far new flooring extends (kitchen only vs main living areas)
Material selection
Sometimes flooring decisions are driven by aesthetics — other times by practicality and long-term durability.
7. Permits, Code, and Existing Conditions
Every home has its own story — especially in St. Louis, where many homes are older.
Costs may be affected by:
Bringing systems up to current code
Discovering outdated wiring or plumbing
Structural considerations hidden behind walls
A transparent remodeling company plans for these possibilities and communicates clearly so homeowners aren’t caught off guard.
8. Level of Planning (This One Is Often Overlooked)
Poor planning doesn’t just cause stress — it costs money.
When decisions are rushed or made mid-construction:
Change orders increase
Timelines extend
Labor costs rise
A design-build process helps align layout, selections, and budget before construction begins — protecting both the homeowner and the project.
Why Two Kitchens With “Similar Finishes” Can Cost Very Different Amounts
Two kitchens might look similar on Pinterest — but behind the scenes they can differ dramatically in:
Layout complexity
Cabinet configuration
Electrical scope
Appliance requirements
Installation details
That’s why comparing bids without understanding scope often leads to confusion.
How to Control Kitchen Remodel Costs (Without Cutting Corners)
The goal isn’t to choose the cheapest options — it’s to invest wisely.
Smart cost-control strategies include:
Prioritizing layout and storage
Investing in cabinetry where it improves daily life
Choosing durable, timeless materials
Finalizing selections early
Working with a team that designs within your budget
Start With the Right Information
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and want a clear understanding of what to expect — costs, timelines, and decisions — our Kitchen Remodeling Guide is the best place to start:
👉 https://www.eversteaddesignbuild.com/kitchenremodelingguide
It walks through the entire process step by step so you can plan with confidence.
Why Homeowners Work With Everstead Design Build
At Everstead Design Build, we don’t believe in vague estimates or surprise costs. We believe homeowners deserve clear options, realistic pricing, and a structured path forward from the very beginning.
That’s why our process starts with defined remodeling tiers — Standard, Premium, and Luxury — so you can understand what’s possible at different investment levels before moving into design details.
We believe in:
Clear, upfront pricing ranges through Standard, Premium, and Luxury options
Design guidance that aligns with your selected investment level, not the other way around
Transparent communication throughout the process
Thoughtful investment decisions that balance function, beauty, and long-term value
A remodeling experience that feels organized, guided, and intentional, not overwhelming
By establishing the budget framework first, we’re able to design efficiently, avoid costly redesigns, and help you make confident decisions that stay aligned with your goals.
If you’re considering a kitchen remodel in St. Louis and want a process that brings clarity to both cost and design, we’d love to help.