Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimates in Northwest Chicago Suburbs (2025 Guide)

Q: Can I remodel my kitchen for less than $50,000?

Yes, you can remodel your kitchen for under $50,000—especially if your kitchen is smaller and you’re open to practical choices. Reusing appliances, keeping the layout intact, and choosing stock or semi-custom cabinets and quartz countertops can keep costs down. Avoiding layout changes and using a design-build firm can further reduce costs and increase efficiency. With smart planning, a stylish kitchen is absolutely achievable under $50k.

Q: How do minimal layout changes impact remodeling costs?

Minimal layout changes help avoid expensive plumbing and electrical work, lowering remodeling costs. This approach can also shorten the timeline and reduce construction disruptions, making it a cost-effective option for many homeowners.

Q: What increases the cost of my kitchen remodel?

Several factors can raise your kitchen remodel costs, including size and scope, cabinetry selections, structural changes, skilled labor, appliance choices, and flooring or tile upgrades. Custom solutions and premium materials often contribute significantly to the overall investment.

Q: What is the difference between base-level, mid-level, and upper-level cabinetry?

Base-level (builder-grade) cabinets are budget-friendly but limited in durability and style. Mid-level (semi-custom) offers balance between customization and cost. Upper-level cabinetry provides premium features, flexible designs, and is ideal for long-term investment and high-end personalization.

Q: Is it better to define a budget first or let the design guide the investment?

Both approaches are valid. Starting with a budget provides clear limits and streamlines decisions. Letting the design guide the budget allows for creative exploration. At Advance Design Studio, we support both paths to align with your priorities.

Q: Why do kitchen remodeling estimates vary?

Estimates vary due to material choices, scope, contractor processes, and other variables. Only a fully designed kitchen with specified details and priced trades can yield an accurate quote. Working with a design-build team ensures transparency and reliable budgeting.

Small Kitchens

Medium Kitchens

Large Kitchens

Budget First or Design First? How to Approach Your Remodeling Investment

When beginning a remodeling project, one of the first questions we like to ask is: “Would you prefer to define your budget first, or let the design guide the investment?”

The truth is, both approaches can lead to successful outcomes. It really depends on your comfort level, personality, and how much flexibility you’d like throughout the process.

In today’s environment, homeowners are understandably more mindful about their investments. Every dollar matters, and there’s a growing expectation for transparency, value, and long-term return. That’s why having a clear strategy from the start—whether it means setting a firm budget or exploring design possibilities first—can make all the difference in achieving a successful and satisfying remodel.

Starting with a Defined Budget

Think of it like buying a home. When you work with a realtor, one of the first things they ask is your price range. Why? Because showing you homes far outside your budget isn’t helpful—it wastes time, leads to disappointment, and sets unrealistic expectations.

The same logic applies to remodeling. If you have a firm financial cap, starting with a defined budget helps us streamline the design process around clear limits. This might narrow your options slightly in terms of layout or materials, but it won’t compromise the overall quality or style of the finished product.

Ideal For Homeowners Who:

Prefer financial clarity and predictability from the beginning
Want to make decisions quickly and efficiently
Are focused on getting the best value within a set range

Letting Design Guide the Budget

If you’re someone who wants to explore design options and tailor every detail to your lifestyle, letting the design guide the budget may be the right approach. It offers more creative freedom and allows your vision to evolve before locking in figures.

An added benefit of this method is the ability to prioritize what matters most as the design develops. Instead of setting limitations too early, you can make informed decisions along the way, resulting in a final investment that reflects your true goals and values.

Ideal For Homeowners Who:

Want to see what’s possible before setting a number
Are comfortable with a more fluid budget range
Value customization and innovation throughout the process
Have the flexibility to invest more in a personalized, high-impact result

Key Factors Affecting Kitchen Remodel Costs

Kitchen remodeling includes many moving parts, and pricing can vary significantly based on your goals, design choices, and the professionals you work with. Any estimate you receive should be viewed as a starting point—not a final price tag. The real cost of your project will be shaped by several key factors, including:

Scope of Work: Are you simply updating finishes, or re-configuring the entire layout? Full gut renovations cost more than cosmetic upgrades.
Material Selections: Your choices for cabinets, countertops, appliances, lighting, flooring, and fixtures all influence your total investment.
Labor and Professional Services: Project management, demolition, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and installation all carry variable costs depending on the complexity and quality of work.

Every remodeling journey is a little different. As your design evolves, so can your budget—and that’s completely normal. Whether you’re adjusting your wish list or responding to design discoveries along the way, flexibility is part of the process.

That’s why at Advance Design Studio, we emphasize completing the design and finalizing pricing before construction begins. This design-build approach allows you to make fully informed decisions with a clear picture of cost, scope, and timing—reducing surprises once work is underway.

gilberts-kitchen-and-bath-remodel-31-advance-design-studio

Advance Design Studio: Your Partner in Kitchen Remodeling

At Advance Design Studio, we help homeowners make confident, informed decisions throughout every step of the remodeling process. This kitchen cost guide is designed to give you a realistic investment range for professional renovations in Chicago’s northwest suburbs—whether you’re pursuing a simple refresh or a full custom kitchen.

While every kitchen is unique and exact costs will vary, these ranges are meant to provide early clarity as you begin to shape your design direction. Think of them not as quotes, but as helpful markers to guide your planning.

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Small Sized Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimates

10' x 12' (approximately 100 to 150 square feet)

Base-Level

$40k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Base-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Base-Level Cabinetry 30″ Uppers (keep layout)
Base-Level Decorative Hardware
Base-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Ceramic Tile Backsplash
New Light Fixtures
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Mid-Level

$60k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Mid-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Mid-Level Cabinetry 36″ Uppers (some layout changes)
Mid-Level Decorative Hardware
Mid-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Ceramic Tile Backsplash
New Light Fixtures
Soffit Removal
Mid-Level Flooring (or existing hardwood refinish)
Appliances Stay in Original Location
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Upper-Level

$70k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Minimal Wall Changes
Mid-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Mid-Level Cabinetry 36″+ (some layout changes)
Crown / Under-Cabinet Moldings
Cabinet Accessories & Lighting
Mid/Upper-Level Decorative Hardware
Mid/Upper-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Designer Light Fixtures
Mid/Upper-Level Flooring (or existing hardwood refinish)
Garbage Disposal
Some Appliance Relocation
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Can I remodel my kitchen for less than $50,000?

Yes, you can remodel your kitchen for under $50,000- especially if your kitchen is smaller and you’re open to practical choices. Keeping the layout the same, reusing some appliances, and opting for stock or semi-custom cabinets and quartz countertops can help stay on budget. A budget-friendly remodel also typically avoids moving plumbing or walls and focuses on efficient updates.

Design-build firms are ideal partners, as they manage both design and construction, minimizing miscommunication, maximizing value, and controlling costs. With smart planning and a skilled team, a fresh, modern kitchen is absolutely possible under $50k.

Read More Here

Thinking about a kitchen update and want to explore what’s possible within your budget? We’d love to help you design smart, build efficiently, and love your kitchen—without breaking the bank.

How do minimal layout changes impact remodeling costs?

Keeping the original kitchen layout helps avoid costly plumbing and electrical relocations. This approach typically lowers expenses, shortens project timelines, and minimizes construction disruptions. Thinking about minimizing layout changes for your remodel? Learn more about this approach here.

Medium Sized Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimates

14' x 16' (approximately 200 to 250 square feet)

Base-Level

$65k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Base/Mid-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Base-Level Cabinetry 30″ Uppers (keep layout)
Base/Mid-Level Decorative Hardware
Base/Mid-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Ceramic Tile Backsplash
Decorative Light Fixtures / Can Lights
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Mid-Level

$80k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Mid/Upper-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Mid-Level Cabinetry 36″ Uppers (some layout changes)
Crown / Under-Cabinet Moldings
Cabinet Accessories & Lighting
Mid/Upper-Level Decorative Hardware
Mid/Upper-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Ceramic or Porcelain Backsplash
Decorative Light Fixtures / Can Lights
Soffit Removal
Mid-Level Flooring (or existing hardwood refinish)
Minimal Appliance Relocation
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Upper-Level

$95k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Wall Changes to Accommodate Layout Expansion
Mid/Upper-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Mid/Upper-Level Cabinetry 36″+/Stacked (some layout changes)
Decorative Hood
Crown / Under-Cabinet Moldings
Cabinet Accessories & Lighting
Mid/Upper-Level Decorative Hardware
Mid/Upper-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Natural Stone or Porcelain Backsplash
Designer Light Fixtures
Mid/Upper-Level Flooring (or existing hardwood refinish)
Garbage Disposal
Appliance Relocation
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

What increases the cost of my kitchen remodel?

While every inch of your kitchen adds a piece to the “remodeling pie”, there are a few common factors that will tend to elevate the total cost of your kitchen remodel.

As you build your remodeling budget, keep these factors in mind and establish the top priorities for your new kitchen, especially if you are planning a custom kitchen remodel:

1. Size and Scope
2. Cabinetry Selections
3. Structural/Layout Changes
4. Skilled Labor Required
5. Appliance Selections
6. Tile & Floor Selection

What is the difference between base-level, mid-level, and upper-level cabinetry?

Cabinetry comes in several quality levels and with nearly endless options for style and finish. From builder-grade to semi-custom and fully custom cabinetry, this important element of your kitchen project may take up a large portion of your kitchen remodel investment.

Base-level cabinets (builder-grade) work best in smaller kitchens or situations where staying under budget is the top priority. They do the job, but they’re not necessarily built for longevity or personalization.
Mid-level cabinetry (semi-custom) gives enough flexibility to create a unique, functional kitchen without jumping to fully custom pricing. This level is where most projects land and many feel there is unparalleled, quantifiable value in semi-custom cabinetry.
Upper-level cabinetry often still falls within a semi-custom product line, but with more flexibility and luxury upgrades. It’s the ideal level if your kitchen is a long-term investment and you want both performance and polish, or if you have an exceptional design acumen and require a very high level of customization.

Custom storage solutions within cabinetry are in high demand, and it does cost more to include these features. Most design companies partner with an array of cabinet manufacturers who offer endless style and storage options to suit your exact needs, but those extra features can definitely drive your overall investment up.

Large Sized Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimates

16' x 24' (approximately 350 to 400 square feet)

Base-Level

$80k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Base-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Base-Level Cabinetry (existing layout)
Base/Mid-Level Decorative Hardware
Base-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Decorative Light Fixtures / Can Lights
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Mid-Level

$100k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Mid/Upper-Level Granite or Quartz Counters
Mid-Level Cabinetry 36″+ Uppers (some layout changes)
Crown / Under-Cabinet Moldings
Cabinet Accessories & Lighting
Mid/Upper-Level Decorative Hardware
Mid/Upper-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Decorative Light Fixtures / Can Lights
Soffit Removal
Mid-Level Flooring (or existing hardwood refinish)
Minimal Appliance Relocation
Drywall/Millwork Repair
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Upper-Level

$135k+

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
Wall Changes to Accommodate Layout Expansion
Mid/Upper-Level Quartz or Quartzite Counters
Mid/Upper-Level Cabinetry 36″+/Stacked (some layout changes)
Decorative Hood
Crown / Under-Cabinet Moldings
Cabinet Accessories & Lighting
Mid/Upper-Level Decorative Hardware
Mid/Upper-Level Sink, Faucet & Fixtures
Natural Stone or Porcelain Tile Backsplash
Designer Light Fixtures
Mid/Upper-Level Flooring (or existing hardwood refinish)
Window Relocation/Replacement (with exterior work)
Disposal / Pot Filler
Appliance Relocation
Drywall/Base Pre-Primed Millwork
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Is it better to define a budget first or let the design guide the investment?

Both methods can lead to successful outcomes—it depends on your personality and comfort level with flexibility.

If you have a firm financial cap, starting with a defined budget helps streamline the design process around clear limits. This may narrow your options in materials and layout, but doesn’t compromise on quality or aesthetics.
On the other hand, if you want to explore various possibilities or tailor the design creatively, letting design shape the budget within a range allows for more innovation and flexibility for your vision to evolve.

At Advance Design Studio, we guide you through either path, helping you make informed choices that align with your priorities.

Why do kitchen remodeling estimates vary?

It’s important to remember that any estimate or range you receive for your kitchen or any other space you are considering remodeling, is just that; an estimate. Prices can (and often do) vary drastically depending on your material selections, the scope of work, the process behind the team you partner with, and many other factors. Learn more here.

Only once your kitchen is fully designed—with every detail specified and every trade priced—can you receive a true, comprehensive project quote. That’s why working with an experienced design-build team like ours is essential.

We’re here to educate, guide, and empower you to make the best decisions for your home and your budget—no pressure, just honest advice and proven expertise.