Room-by-Room Renovation Costs 2024 : What does your budget get you?
Most renovations start with a vision, fun ideas, Pinterest boards and a whole lot of excitement. Then the momentum picks up and other parts of the house get drawn into the discussion. “We want to redo the kitchen. But if we’re doing that we may as well repaint the interior at the same time and if we’ve got trades here, let’s do the downstairs bathroom too.”
Before you know it, the conversation converts to a cost discussion. It’s one of the most common questions we get - how much should my renovation cost?
As the cost of construction has risen dramatically over the last few years, understanding the approximate price range of each room’s refurb or key renovation activity can give you a pretty quick assessment on how those fun ideas are matching the hip pocket contents.
Let’s take a walk through your home, room by room, and break down what you might expect to spend. We’ll also touch on those sometimes-overlooked upgrades—like repainting the exterior, upgrading windows, or replacing flooring—that can make a world of difference.
1. Kitchen Renovation Costs 2024: The Heart of the Home
It’s true what they say, kitchens sell houses. And the reason for that is that it’s the beating heart of the home - where we whip up Sunday roasts, help kids with homework, entertain friends and solve family dilemmas. We’re in it a lot so it’s often the first area we prioritise in the renovation budget.
Entry level refresh: Such as laminate benchtops, laminate flat panel cabinetry or painting old cabinets, standard tapware, tiled splashback. You’re looking at $25,000 to $45,000. This gets you the essentials and basic entry level appliances, but nothing too fancy.
Mid-range transformation: Ready to bring in custom cabinetry, sleek stone benchtops, mid range appliances, and a few more high-end touches? That’ll set you back around $45,000 to $75,000.
High end makeover: If you’re dreaming big—think marble benchtops, bespoke cabinets, and top-of-the-line appliances—prepare to invest $75,000 to $130,000 or more. It’s a splurge, but if designed well…the results can add substantial value to your property.
KEY COST DRIVERS : appliances, benchtops and cabinetry. Add an additional 30-40 per cent for a butlers pantry.
Hunter Street: example of a mid-level kitchen
2. Bathroom Renovation Costs: Your Private Sanctuary
Bathrooms feel like small spaces. Must be cheap to make over, right? But think about the amount of trades we need in a bathroom: Plumbers, electricians, waterproofers, tilers just to name a few. Whether you’re after a sleek modern look or a spa-like retreat, here’s what to expect.
Entry level refresh: Standard tiling and tapware, off-the-shelf basic vanity, no moving of plumbing or layout. This will likely run you $25,000 to $35,000.
Mid-range transformation: For a more significant overhaul, including a new layout, custom cabinetry, and more elevated tiling and tapware, you’re looking at $35,000 to $45,000.
High end makeover: With structural updates, premium finishes, underfloor heating, and high-end fixtures, expect to spend $45,000 to $90,000 or more.
KEY COST DRIVERS : moving plumbing / changing the layout, tapware and accessories, tiles, stone, custom cabinetry. For a powder room only (with no bath or shower), expect to pay 60-70% of the above cost ranges.
Charles Street: example of a mid-level bathroom renovation
3. Laundry Renovation Costs 2024 : Making Chores a Breeze
The laundry room might not be considered the most glamorous space. But with the right design, it can be both functional - making daily tasks effortless, and a beautiful space to be in.
Entry level refresh: New laminate cabinetry, a coat of paint, laminate benchtops and some updated fixtures can cost between $15,000 and $20,000.
Mid-range renovation: For a more comprehensive update with custom cabinetry, sintered stone benchtop and perhaps relocating plumbing, think $20,000 to $35,000.
High-end makeover: A top-tier laundry space with luxury finishes, custom cabinetry, altered layout and high-end appliances might set you back $35,000 to $60,000 or more.
Combining a pantry/laundry area can be a smart renovation idea for an entry level renovation on a limited budget. See below.
Gloucester Street Laundry: An example of an entry level laundry / pantry combination
4. Bedroom Makeover Costs: Your Personal Retreat
Your bedroom should be your sanctuary, a place to unwind and recharge. Whether you’re looking to create a serene space or a statement room, here’s what you’ll need to budget.
Entry level refresh: A coat of paint, new carpet or flooring, and perhaps some updated lighting can be achieved for $5,000 to $10,000.
Mid-range renovation: If you’re adding custom wardrobes, drapery or installing high-quality flooring, costs could rise to $10,000 to $30,000.
High-end makeover: For a more luxe bedroom, complete with custom furniture, minor floor plan changes, walk-in robe, new lighting and paint, expect to spend $30,000 to $40,000 or more.
KEY COST DRIVERS: joinery, custom furniture, window treatments. For a walk-in-robe addition, add $10,000 - $50,000.
The Collaroy: example of a high-end master bedroom/walk-in retreat
5. Home Office Upgrade Costs: Your Productive Space
A space to work from home - at least one - has become a must-have on just about every home-owner’s minds. Creating a functional and inspiring home office is more important than ever.
Entry-level refresh: A fresh coat of paint or wallpaper, some new flooring, and basic furniture will cost around $5,000 to $15,000.
Mid-range Upgrade: For a more tailored space with custom cabinetry, high-quality flooring, and integrated technology, expect to spend $15,000 to $25,000.
High-end makeover: A luxury home office with bespoke furniture, advanced tech, custom storage and premium finishes could cost $25,000 to $40,000 or more.
KEY COST DRIVERS: joinery, custom furniture, technology.
The Collaroy: example of a high-end home office with custom joinery
Let’s Not Forget the Other Essential Upgrades:
Now, let’s talk about some of those other crucial upgrades that can really elevate your home.
Painting the Exterior: A fresh coat of paint on the exterior can give your home an entirely new look. Depending on the size and condition of your home, exterior painting could range from $15,000 to $40,000.
Painting the Interior: Interior painting is a quick and simple way to refresh your space. Costs typically range from $15,000 to $50,000, depending on the number of rooms and the quality of the paint.
Upgrading Windows: New windows can improve both the look and energy efficiency of your home. Depending on the type and number of windows, costs can range from $10,000 to $70,000 or more.
Replacing Flooring: Whether it’s hardwood timber, laminate, tile or carpet, updating your flooring can transform a home. Expect to spend $10,000 to $100,000 or more depending on the materials and the scope of work.
Window Treatments: Updating window treatments throughout the home can be a game changer on many levels, including privacy, temperature regulation and light management. The price range is dramatic. You could expect to pay $100 for off the shelf roller blinds per window, compared to an approx $6,000 custom drapery and roman blind set.
Understanding the investment involved in renovations on a room by room basis helps to prioritise spend and plan out your renovating masterplan. Obviously the prices vary broadly depending on the size of the room, and the design decisions you make. Even with single room renovations, it’s wise to set aside a contingency budget in case something unexpected appears as you go, such as moisture or termite damage.
If you’re considering a mid-level or high-end upgrade, it’s worth considering an interior designer to assist you optimise the space and tap into a design that maximises the return on your investment.
Chat to us about your next renovation project here. Or, you may be interested in our flexible design packages. This always you to take the reigns of your DIY renovation, with you ability to ‘phone a designer friend’ along the way!
Happy renovating!!
If you enjoyed this article, you may find the following additional articles helpful as part of your renovation discovery process.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this Article is for general information only and is based on the insights of various industry professionals. While we strive to provide useful and up-to-date information, building costs and project specifics can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances, location, and market conditions. The figures, estimates and statistics mentioned are indicative only and should not be relied upon as definitive or tailored advice. We recommend that readers conduct their own research and consult with relevant professionals before making any decisions relating to building or renovation projects. Heliconia is not responsible for any actions taken or consequences based on the information provided in the Article.