Photos by Spacecrafting/Rob Grosse
No two humble (or not-so-humble) abodes are created equal. For homeowners tackling the most luxurious remodeling project of all—the kitchen—luxury encapsulates a daily feeling shaped by your tastes, wants, and needs, along with that certain je ne sais quoi that distinguishes a space executed with the finest materials and impeccable craftsmanship. Of course, this brings us to money—the only vehicle that can deliver the ubiquitous promise of your dream kitchen. We asked local experts where a $100,000 budget stands in today’s market and what clients can expect for a kitchen remodel that’s one zero shy of a million.
According to Scott Archambault, sales manager at Amsum & Ash, a $100,000 kitchen remodel falls in the middle range of luxury. He notes that clients typically allocate 18% to 20% of the budget to countertops, which can rise to 22% to 25% when they opt for full-height backsplashes—an increasingly popular trend in the industry. “Clients are all going natural stone in the form of different quartzites, such as styles like Taj Mahal and Bianco Superiore,” says Archambault. “The blocks that move well are lighter tone with some warmth to them.”
The best way to maximize a $100,000 kitchen remodel is by working with remodelers who offer a concierge construction approach, according to Leena Heiman, owner of MCC Kitchen, Bath & Closet Remodeling. In fact, she recently finished an impressive kitchen in Eden Prairie, where the fully custom cabinetry and countertop alone cost about $80,000. Heiman says, “If 3-inch increments don’t restrict your design, then semi-custom cabinetry could be a good option—allowing you to allocate more of the budget to other parts of the kitchen, such as appliances or flooring.”
But Gabrielle Lindberg, senior designer at O’Hara Interiors, says the price points are as variable as the projects. “Luxury can be experienced in any size of space and at any price point,” she says. “It’s a matter of perspective and personal taste, so it’s different for everyone.”
As with everything in construction, costs ultimately come down to the materials, products, and labor involved. “Material costs are more standardized than ever, thanks to the internet and online retailers,” says Lindberg. “However, labor costs can vary greatly and impact the final cost of any remodeling project. The lakes region and coastal areas tend to have higher labor costs than other parts of the country.”
The consensus? There isn’t a standard for what a $100,000 kitchen remodel should look like, as projects can be as unique as the homeowners, their goals, and finances. Each kitchen expert agrees they have yet to see a client who stayed within budget regret revamping the most used and discussed room in any home.
