Transforming a kitchen with 10,000 euros is possible in Portugal

They say the kitchen is the heart of the home – the epicentre of domestic life, the stage for culinary experiments, and the family’s gathering point. It’s as true as the fact that a kitchen renovation is the type of project where it’s easiest to lose track of the budget.

Before diving into the process, let’s realistically answer the question: how much does it cost to renovate a kitchen in Portugal? The answer depends on several factors, such as the size of the space, the materials chosen, and the complexity of the project.

Is it possible to transform a kitchen with €10,000? The answer is a resounding yes! This budget in Portugal allows for replacing cabinets, updating flooring, investing in new appliances, and even altering the layout, if necessary. Ingredients: careful planning, smart choices, creativity, and a dash of boldness – and you’ll have the perfect recipe for success.

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If you need ideas, draw inspiration from current trends for renovated kitchens, whether online or by visiting material exhibitions. Scandinavian style, with white cabinets and wooden accents, creates a bright and cosy atmosphere. On the other hand, the industrial style, with metallic finishes and darker tones, offers a more urban and sophisticated vibe. Or, you might opt for more rustic, countryside details.

Another bold idea is to embrace daring colours, such as petrol blue or green cabinets, paired with completely unique handles. Regardless of the style, the goal is to create a space that reflects your personality while being practical for everyday use.

After deciding on the style, you’ll need to identify your kitchen’s specific needs. A functional kitchen is essential for daily life. Optimising space, prioritising ergonomics, and ensuring smooth movement are key factors.

Once the planning is done, it’s time to get to work! These steps will help ensure you make the most of your kitchen investment.

Layout: rethinking the space

One of the first decisions in a kitchen renovation is evaluating the layout. Keeping plumbing and electrical connections in place can save a significant portion of the budget. However, if the current layout isn’t functional, it might be time to rethink the arrangement of cabinets, counters, and appliances. Establish the famous “work triangle” between the stove, sink, and fridge, and then plan the rest of the space accordingly.

An L- or U-shaped layout, for example, maximises space in smaller kitchens, while a central island can be a fantastic addition for larger ones.

A kitchen island is both functional and stylish, serving as a worktop, dining table, and social hub. With some creativity, it’s possible to build an island using more affordable materials, such as concrete blocks and reclaimed wood, for as little as €500.

If space allows, consider opening the kitchen to the living room, creating a more spacious and social environment – an increasingly popular trend in renovated kitchens.

Cabinets: elegance and storage

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Cabinets are often the most expensive element in a kitchen renovation, but there are ways to work around this. Modular cabinets are an excellent alternative to custom-made ones, offering a wide range of styles and finishes at affordable prices.

With a budget of €10,000, you can opt for MDF cabinets with laminate or melamine finishes. These materials are durable, easy to clean, and come in modern designs. A money-saving tip is to update the doors of existing cabinets by painting them or replacing the handles with contemporary models.

The total cost of cabinets can range between €2,500 and €4,000, depending on the quantity and quality of materials chosen. This is one of the largest investments in a kitchen renovation, but it’s worth every penny for the transformation it delivers.

Flooring: durability and style

Tiles, mosaics, epoxy paint, microcement – there are many flooring options available at a range of prices. Kitchen flooring needs to be durable and easy to clean, but that doesn’t mean it has to be expensive.

For a modern touch, consider ceramic or vinyl flooring. Both are affordable and come in designs that mimic wood, stone, or other more expensive materials. If you’re looking for something bolder, go for hydraulic tiles or geometric patterns to add character to the space.

The average cost to update the flooring in a small kitchen is around €1,000 to €1,500, including materials and installation. Flooring is an essential element in renovated kitchens, as it completely transforms the space with immediate visual impact.

Countertops: a touch of sophistication

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Countertops are the main work surface in the kitchen, so they need to be practical and durable. Granite and quartz are popular choices but can take up a significant portion of the budget. Alternatively, consider materials like laminate, which is affordable, versatile, and available in various colours and textures.

A quality laminate countertop can cost around €300 to €500 per linear metre, allowing you to allocate more funds to other areas of your kitchen renovation. For a finishing touch, complement the countertop with a glass or colourful tile backsplash that adds a decorative element and is easy to clean.

Appliances: efficiency for savings

Upgrading appliances is an essential part of any kitchen renovation. Focus on energy-efficient models with an A++ rating or higher. You don’t need to spend a fortune – mid-range brands offer modern and functional products at competitive prices. Look out for sales, compare prices, and choose brands that offer good value for money.

You can allocate between €2,000 and €3,000 of your budget to upgrade key appliances, such as the fridge, oven, induction hob, and extractor fan. This investment not only improves the kitchen’s functionality but can also help reduce energy consumption in the long term.

Lighting: the finishing touch

Proper lighting is essential in a kitchen renovation. Combine functional lights, such as LED spotlights under upper cabinets, with decorative options, like pendant lamps over the island or dining table.

Aim for a mix of natural and artificial lighting to create different moods. Recessed ceiling lights (costing between €100 and €300), pendants above the island or countertop (starting at €50 each), and LED strips under cabinets (around €20 per metre) ensure a warm and functional atmosphere.

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Defining the style, prioritising functionality, choosing cost-effective materials, and embracing creative solutions are the secrets to renovating the kitchen of your dreams with a budget of €10,000. Remember: the cost of a kitchen renovation can vary greatly depending on your choices and each family’s priorities.

By carefully planning your kitchen renovation, you can maximise the impact of your budget and create a space that truly becomes the heart of your home. So, don’t be intimidated by the question of how much does it cost to renovate a kitchen – especially since idealista offers a calculator to help you. With creativity and vision, you can achieve incredible results, ensuring that every moment spent in that space is truly unforgettable.