Modern Kitchen Designs and Prices in Kenya
Modern Kitchen Designs and Prices in Kenya–
What each style costs, why quotes differ so much, and how to build a realistic budget before you call anyone.
By the SUIMAS Interior Designers team, Nairobi
Quick answer A modern kitchen in Kenya costs from about KES 250,000 for a small, simple kitchen to KES 3,000,000 or more for a large open-plan kitchen with an island. Fully bespoke kitchens run from KES 4,000,000 to KES 8,000,000. Fitted cabinets alone typically cost KES 12,000 to KES 40,000 per running foot, which is KES 39,000 to KES 131,000 per linear metre. Worktops, appliances, plumbing, electrical work and flooring are extra unless the quotation says otherwise.
Ask five kitchen companies in Nairobi for a price and you will get five numbers that don’t match. One quotes per running foot. Another quotes per metre. A third gives a lump sum with no dimensions. One includes the worktop and another quietly leaves it out. Comparing them is like comparing a plate of rice with a plate of pilau.
This guide fixes that. It gives you prices for modern kitchen designs in Kenya in both feet and metres, shows what each style, material and finish does to the bill, and walks through three complete sample budgets so you can see where the money really goes. Use it to build a sensible number first, then talk to designers with your eyes open.
1. Why kitchen quotes in Kenya are so hard to compare
Most of the confusion comes from units. You will run into three in the market:
- Per running foot. Common with local workshops and fabricators. One running foot is 30.5 cm of cabinet run along a wall.
- Per linear metre. Common with architects, designers and larger firms. One metre equals 3.28 running feet.
- Lump sum. One figure and no dimensions. It’s convenient, and it hides what you are actually paying for.
A rate of KES 20,000 per foot and a rate of KES 65,600 per metre are the same price. Nobody is cheating you. They are just holding different tape measures. Throughout this guide we show both.
| Feet | Metres | Feet | Metres |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 ft | 1.83 m | 20 ft | 6.10 m |
| 8 ft | 2.44 m | 25 ft | 7.62 m |
| 10 ft | 3.05 m | 30 ft | 9.14 m |
| 12 ft | 3.66 m | 35 ft | 10.67 m |
| 15 ft | 4.57 m | 40 ft | 12.19 m |
Before you accept any figure, ask five questions:
- Is the rate for base cabinets only, or base and wall units together?
- Is the worktop included?
- Which board and which door finish are being used?
- Which hinge and drawer-runner brand is specified?
- Does the price cover plumbing, electrical work and installation?
If a company can’t answer these, the quotation isn’t ready to be compared.
2. Modern kitchen prices at a glance
These are planning ranges for a complete, fitted kitchen. They are meant to help you sense-check a quotation, not replace one.
| Layout | Typical cabinet run | Best for | Indicative total (KES) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight-line | 8 to 14 ft (2.4 to 4.3 m) | Studios, one-bedroom flats | 250,000 to 600,000+ |
| Galley | 16 to 26 ft in two runs (4.9 to 7.9 m) | Narrow kitchens | 350,000 to 800,000+ |
| L-shaped | 16 to 28 ft (4.9 to 8.5 m) | Most apartments and 2 to 3 bedroom homes | 500,000 to 1,200,000+ |
| U-shaped | 24 to 40 ft (7.3 to 12.2 m) | Larger homes, heavy cooking | 700,000 to 1,800,000+ |
| Peninsula | 18 to 32 ft plus a 5 to 7 ft peninsula | Medium open-plan homes | 600,000 to 1,500,000+ |
| Island | 24 to 40 ft plus a 6 to 10 ft island | Maisonettes and villas | 900,000 to 2,500,000+ |
| Large open-plan | 30 to 50 ft plus island | Large family homes | 1,200,000 to 3,000,000+ |
| Premium custom | Any size | Design-led projects | 2,000,000 to 5,000,000+ |
| Luxury bespoke | Any size | High-end villas | 4,000,000 to 8,000,000+ |
What you get at each budget level
| Tier | Budget | What it usually includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | KES 250,000 to 600,000+ | Blockboard or MDF carcass, laminate fronts, laminate or local granite worktop, basic hardware, simple lighting |
| Mid-range | KES 600,000 to 1,500,000+ | Better board, branded soft-close hardware, granite or quartz, tiled splashback, LED lighting, a few storage upgrades |
| Premium | KES 1,500,000 to 3,000,000+ | Marine or branded boards, handleless, acrylic or veneer fronts, quartz or sintered stone, an island, appliance housings, a proper lighting plan |
| Luxury | KES 3,000,000 to 8,000,000+ | Bespoke joinery, premium stone, imported hardware, custom storage, feature finishes |
These totals cover the kitchen itself. Appliances and design fees are usually separate, so check how your quotation treats them.
3. 12 modern kitchen styles and what each one costs
“Modern” covers a lot of ground. The table shows how each style moves the price compared with a plain, flat-panel laminate kitchen.
| Style | The look | Price effect |
|---|---|---|
| Minimalist flat-panel | Flat doors, one or two colours | Baseline |
| Two-tone | Two colours or materials | 0 to 10% more |
| Wood-look (laminate) | Warm wood grain | 0 to 10% more |
| Matt and supermatt | Soft, low-reflection fronts | 10 to 25% more |
| Handleless | No visible handles | 10 to 25% more |
| Fluted or ribbed panels | Vertical grooves as a feature | 10 to 30% more (on the panels used) |
| Modern-classic | Slim shaker or framed doors | 10 to 30% more |
| High-gloss and acrylic | Mirror-like fronts | 25 to 50% more |
| Japandi | Light wood, soft neutrals | 10 to 30% more |
| Industrial modern | Dark matt, black hardware | Similar to mid-range |
| Waterfall island | Worktop runs down the sides | Adds to the island price |
| Aluminium cabinets | Waterproof, termite-proof | Mid to high range |
1. Minimalist flat-panel.
Plain doors, a short colour palette, storage tucked out of sight. It is the best-value route to a modern look because the doors are simple to make. If your budget is tight, start here.
2. Two-tone.
Light upper cabinets over a darker base, or a contrasting island. Popular pairings are white and oak, cream and dark green, grey and walnut, navy and white. If you only change colour, the price stays close to a single-colour kitchen. It climbs when each tone uses a different material.
3. Wood-look.
Wood-grain laminate brings warmth for a small premium. Real veneer looks richer and typically costs 30 to 70% more, with more care needed. Pair either with white or light-grey quartz and warm LED lighting so the room doesn’t feel clinical.
4. Matt and supermatt.
A calmer finish that hides fingerprints far better than gloss. Anti-fingerprint supermatt laminates have become a popular mid-range choice, usually 10 to 25% above standard laminate.
5. Handleless.
Doors open with a finger groove (J-pull), a recessed profile or a push-to-open mechanism. It’s the cleanest look and easy to wipe. Expect roughly KES 16,000 to 30,000+ per running foot (KES 52,000 to 98,000+ per metre), because the profiles and tight tolerances cost more than a handle. If you choose push-to-open, ask which brand of mechanism is used. Cheap ones fail first.
6. Fluted or ribbed panels.
Vertical grooves on an island side or a tall unit add texture without extra colour or handles. Use them as a feature on one surface. Everywhere, they add fabrication cost and collect dust.
7. Modern-classic.
Slim shaker or framed doors in a modern palette. It suits families who want something softer than flat panels. The routed doors cost more to make, usually 10 to 30% more than flat.
8. High-gloss and acrylic.
Reflective fronts bounce light around, which helps small or dim kitchens. They also show fingerprints and fine scratches sooner, so be honest about how much wiping you’ll do. Acrylic and gloss typically run KES 22,000 to 32,000+ per foot (KES 72,000 to 105,000+ per metre).
9. Japandi.
Light wood, soft off-white, simple lines and very little decoration. It works well in apartments with good daylight. The price depends mostly on whether you use wood-grain laminate (affordable) or veneer (premium).
10. Industrial modern.
Dark matt fronts, black taps and handles, a concrete-look or dark stone worktop, maybe a little open shelving. It suits lofts and urban apartments. Dark finishes show dust and water marks, so pick surfaces that wipe clean easily.
11. Waterfall island.
The worktop continues down the sides of the island to the floor. It is the signature of premium kitchens. It uses extra slab and needs careful mitred joins, so it sits at the top end of island pricing (see section 7).
12. Aluminium cabinet kitchens.
Aluminium carcasses and doors don’t swell, rot or attract termites. That makes them a smart choice for coastal homes, rentals and semi-outdoor kitchens. Finishes come in matt, gloss and wood-grain. If you’d like to see options, our sister company AluminiumPro Kenya makes aluminium kitchen cabinets to your measurements.
4. Choosing a layout, and the measurements that matter
The right layout depends on your room before it depends on your taste. Here is how much space each one needs.
| Layout | Room needed | Works best when |
|---|---|---|
| Straight-line | One wall of at least 2.4 m, with a 1.0 to 1.2 m walkway | You have a studio or an open-plan living area |
| Galley | Width of 2.1 to 2.4 m between walls | The room is long and narrow |
| L-shaped | Two adjoining walls, each at least 1.8 m | You want flexibility and a possible dining corner |
| U-shaped | Width of 2.4 to 3.0 m or more | You cook a lot and need storage and prep space |
| Peninsula | Around 3.0 m wide | You want a breakfast counter without a full island |
| Island | Around 3.8 to 4.2 m wide | The kitchen is large enough to walk around the island comfortably |
The island figure comes from simple arithmetic: two 600 mm cabinet runs, two aisles of at least 1,000 mm, and an island of 600 to 900 mm adds up to roughly 3.8 to 4.1 m. If your room is narrower, a peninsula will almost always feel better than a squeezed island.
The numbers a good designer checks
| Measurement | Comfortable range |
|---|---|
| Worktop height | 850 to 900 mm (taller cooks may prefer 900 mm or more) |
| Worktop depth | 600 mm standard |
| Aisle between opposing runs | 1,000 to 1,200 mm (use 1,200 mm if two people cook together) |
| Space around an island | 1,000 to 1,200 mm on each working side |
| Bottom of wall units above worktop | 450 to 600 mm |
| Cooker hood above hob | 650 to 750 mm, but follow the hood’s own instructions |
| Work triangle (sink, cooker, fridge) | Each leg about 1.2 to 2.7 m, total up to about 7.9 m |
| Free worktop beside the hob | At least 300 to 400 mm on one side, ideally both |
Pull a tape measure and write down your room’s length, width, window and door positions, and where the water, drain and power already sit. Moving a sink costs money. Designing around it usually doesn’t.
5. Cabinets: boards, finishes and hardware
Cabinets are usually the biggest line in the budget, often close to half. Three decisions drive the price: the board, the door finish and the hardware. Spend on the first and third, and be selective on the second.
Board (the box)
| Board | Moisture | Cost | Our view |
|---|---|---|---|
| Particle board / chipboard | Poor | Lowest | Avoid around sinks and in humid areas |
| Standard MDF | Moderate if sealed, swells at damaged edges | Low to mid | Fine for upper units and dry zones |
| Blockboard | Moderate | Low to mid | Acceptable on tighter budgets |
| Good-grade plywood | Good | Mid | Strong screw-holding, a solid all-rounder |
| Marine or waterproof board | Very good | Mid to high | Our pick for sink bases |
| Branded boards (such as PG Bison) | Very good | Mid to high | Consistent thickness and quality |
| Aluminium | Waterproof and termite-proof | Mid to high | Excellent for coast, rentals and wet areas |
| Solid wood | Good with treatment | High | Beautiful, but needs upkeep |
Door finish
| Finish | Price vs standard laminate | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Standard laminate | Baseline | Wide colour and wood-grain choice, tough |
| Supermatt / matt laminate | 10 to 25% more | Hides fingerprints |
| PVC foil wrap | 10 to 25% more | Smooth, seamless fronts and curved edges |
| Acrylic / high-gloss | 25 to 50% more | Bright and reflective, shows marks |
| PU / lacquer spray | 30 to 60% more | Premium paint-like finish, can chip |
| Wood veneer | 30 to 70% more | Real timber look, needs care |
| Solid wood | 50 to 100% more | Long-lasting but costly |
Hardware
Hinges and drawer runners decide how the kitchen feels on day 1,000, not just day one. Branded soft-close hinges and full-extension runners may add roughly 10 to 20% to the cabinet price, and they are the upgrade people thank us for years later. Pull-out pantries, magic-corner baskets, cutlery inserts and integrated bins add cost too, so decide what you will actually use. You can browse the range of pull-out drawers, corner baskets and pantry systems at Commercial Kitchens Kenya.
Fitted cabinet prices
| Cabinet specification | Per running foot (KES) | Per linear metre (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic laminate on blockboard | 12,000 to 16,000 | 39,000 to 52,000 |
| Mid-range MDF or laminate | 16,000 to 22,000 | 52,000 to 72,000 |
| Marine plywood or MDF fronts | 18,000 to 28,000 | 59,000 to 92,000 |
| Acrylic or high-gloss | 22,000 to 32,000+ | 72,000 to 105,000+ |
| Premium custom cabinetry | 30,000 to 40,000+ | 98,000 to 131,000+ |
| Wall units (finish dependent) | 5,000 to 12,000 | 16,000 to 39,000 |
| Tall unit (pantry or oven tower, per 600 mm unit) | 45,000 to 150,000+ each |
These rates are for base cabinets, fitted, with doors, hinges and standard hardware, worktop excluded. The final figure depends on the specification, so treat the table as a guide.
6. Worktops, sinks and taps
Worktops are normally priced per running foot at a standard 600 mm depth, supplied and installed.
| Worktop | Per running foot (KES) | Per linear metre (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | 2,500 to 5,000 | 8,200 to 16,400 | Economical, not heat-proof |
| Granite | 6,500 to 12,000 | 21,300 to 39,400 | Durable, seal it periodically |
| Quartz (engineered stone) | 9,000 to 18,000 | 29,500 to 59,000 | Non-porous, consistent colour |
| Sintered stone and premium surfaces | 18,000+ | 59,000+ | Heat and scratch resistant, best for islands |
Granite or quartz? Granite is genuinely good value and takes a hot pan better than most things. Quartz wins on consistency and low maintenance because it doesn’t need sealing and doesn’t stain easily. For a busy family kitchen, most people are happier with quartz. If the budget is tight, spend on cabinets first and choose a good granite.
Sinks and taps (supplied, indicative):
| Item | Price (KES) |
|---|---|
| Single-bowl stainless sink | 8,000 to 25,000 |
| Double-bowl stainless sink with drainer | 15,000 to 45,000 |
| Granite-composite or undermount sink | 30,000 to 90,000 |
| Standard mixer tap | 5,000 to 20,000 |
| Pull-out or designer tap | 15,000 to 45,000 |
For worktop and surface options, see the worktops and surfaces range at Commercial Kitchens Kenya.
7. Kitchen islands and peninsulas
An island is the feature everyone asks for. It’s also the item where people most often get surprised by plumbing and power costs.
| Island type | Indicative cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Basic preparation island | 60,000 to 120,000+ |
| Storage island | 100,000 to 200,000+ |
| Seating island | 120,000 to 250,000+ |
| Island with sink | 180,000 to 350,000+ |
| Island with hob | 250,000 to 500,000+ |
| Premium statement island (waterfall, fluted panels, premium stone) | 350,000 to 800,000+ |
A sink or hob in the island needs drainage, water, power and extraction planned in advance, which is why those versions cost so much more. A peninsula (an island attached to a wall or cabinet run) gives you the breakfast counter and prep space for less money and less floor space. If you’d like to see finished examples, browse the kitchen islands and peninsulas our sister brand supplies.
8. Splashback, flooring, ceiling and lighting
Cabinets and worktops get the attention, but these four items finish the room.
Splashback. Tiles usually cost around KES 2,500 to 7,000 per square metre fixed. Slab splashbacks (porcelain, quartz or sintered stone) look seamless and cost more, and are normally quoted per slab or per run. For a cleaner look, match the splashback to the worktop.
Flooring. Kitchens need something water-tolerant and easy to clean.
| Flooring | Per m² supplied and fixed (KES) |
|---|---|
| Standard ceramic tile | 1,500 to 3,500 |
| Large-format porcelain | 3,500 to 7,500 |
| Premium or imported rectified porcelain | 7,500 to 14,000 |
| Vinyl or SPC | 2,500 to 5,000 |
Large tiles mean fewer grout lines and less scrubbing. For a deeper look at tile prices, read our kitchen and bathroom tiling cost guide or explore flooring solutions. If you’d like us to handle the floor as part of the project, see our floor installation services.
Ceiling. A simple gypsum ceiling with recessed downlights makes a kitchen look finished and hides wiring neatly. Our guide to gypsum ceiling and lighting installation costs explains typical prices, and our gypsum ceiling installation service can fit it at the same time as the kitchen.
Lighting. Plan three layers: ceiling lights for general light, LED strips under wall units for tasks, and one decorative feature such as pendants over the island.
| Lighting package | Indicative cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Basic (a few downlights, simple strip) | 15,000 to 40,000 |
| Mid-range (downlights, under-cabinet LEDs, feature light) | 40,000 to 100,000 |
| Premium (designed layers, pendants, dimmable circuits) | 100,000 to 250,000+ |
Fittings such as pendant lights, LED strips and task lighting are available through Commercial Kitchens Kenya.
9. Appliances
Appliances are often priced separately, and they can add as much as a good worktop. Buy them early, because cabinet sizes are made around them.
| Appliance | Indicative price (KES) |
|---|---|
| Freestanding cooker | 35,000 to 180,000 |
| Built-in electric oven | 45,000 to 250,000+ |
| Gas hob | 20,000 to 90,000 |
| Induction hob | 45,000 to 160,000 |
| Cooker hood or extractor | 15,000 to 120,000 |
| Fridge-freezer | 60,000 to 350,000+ |
| Dishwasher (freestanding to built-in) | 55,000 to 250,000 |
| Built-in microwave | 30,000 to 120,000 |
As a rough guide, a cooker, hood and fridge package for a modest kitchen runs about KES 130,000 to 280,000. A mid-range built-in set (oven, hob, hood, dishwasher, fridge) often lands between KES 350,000 and 700,000. A premium built-in package starts around KES 800,000 and keeps climbing.
Before cabinets go into production, confirm exact appliance dimensions, ventilation needs and power requirements. An oven tower built for the wrong oven is an expensive mistake.
10. Where the money goes: three sample budgets
Here is how three typical Kenyan kitchens add up. Each uses the rates above and excludes appliances and design fees.
Sample A: compact apartment L-shape (mid-range)
16 ft base run (4.9 m), 10 ft of wall units, mid-range laminate fronts, granite worktop, about 8 m² of floor.
| Item | Cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Base cabinets, 16 ft × 19,000 | 304,000 |
| Wall units, 10 ft × 7,000 | 70,000 |
| Granite worktop, 16 ft × 7,500 | 120,000 |
| Tiled splashback (about 4 m²) | 20,000 |
| Sink and tap | 30,000 |
| Lighting | 25,000 |
| Plumbing and electrical adjustments | 40,000 |
| Porcelain floor, 8 m² × 4,500 | 36,000 |
| Demolition and disposal (renovation) | 20,000 |
| Total | 665,000 |
| With 10% contingency | about 730,000 |
Sample B: 3-bedroom family L-shape (mid-range to premium)
22 ft base run (6.7 m), 16 ft of wall units, marine-board carcasses, quartz worktop, about 14 m² of floor.
| Item | Cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Base cabinets, 22 ft × 22,000 | 484,000 |
| Wall units, 16 ft × 8,000 | 128,000 |
| Quartz worktop, 22 ft × 12,000 | 264,000 |
| Porcelain splashback (about 7 m²) | 35,000 |
| Sink, tap and accessories | 90,000 |
| Lighting | 50,000 |
| Plumbing and electrical | 70,000 |
| Porcelain floor, 14 m² × 5,000 | 70,000 |
| Demolition and waterproofing | 40,000 |
| Total | 1,231,000 |
| With 10% contingency | about 1,355,000 |
For this kitchen, cabinets take roughly 50% of the budget, the worktop about 21%, flooring and splashback about 9%, sink and accessories 7%, plumbing and electrical 6%, lighting 4% and demolition 3%.
Sample C: maisonette island kitchen (premium)
30 ft base run (9.1 m), 20 ft of tall and wall units, acrylic fronts, a seating island with waterfall edges, about 24 m² of floor.
| Item | Cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Base cabinets, 30 ft × 28,000 | 840,000 |
| Tall and wall units, 20 ft × 14,000 | 280,000 |
| Seating island with waterfall edges | 320,000 |
| Quartz worktop on main run, 30 ft × 15,000 | 450,000 |
| Porcelain slab splashback | 120,000 |
| Sink, tap and premium accessories | 220,000 |
| Lighting (pendants, under-cabinet, downlights) | 150,000 |
| Plumbing, electrical and ducted extraction | 150,000 |
| Porcelain floor, 24 m² × 7,000 | 168,000 |
| Demolition, waterproofing and ceiling work | 90,000 |
| Total | 2,788,000 |
| With 10% contingency | about 3,070,000 |
Your own number will differ, but you now have a method: measure your run, pick a tier, then add each line.
11. Hidden costs nobody mentions
Most surprises show up in the work around the kitchen. Ask whether your quotation includes these.
| Item | Typical cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Electrical circuit and socket upgrade | 20,000 to 70,000 |
| Moving the sink, waste or water points | 20,000 to 60,000 |
| Ducted extraction through a wall | 15,000 to 45,000 |
| Waterproofing behind the sink and hob | 10,000 to 25,000 |
| Demolition and waste disposal | 15,000 to 45,000 |
| Wall repair, plastering and repainting | 20,000 to 60,000 |
| Gypsum ceiling or bulkhead with downlights | 30,000 to 120,000 |
| LPG point or cylinder housing | 10,000 to 40,000 |
| Door or window changes | 25,000 to 120,000 |
| Contingency | 10% of the total |
A quotation that skips these doesn’t make them go away. They arrive later as “variations.”
12. How long a kitchen takes
A standard home kitchen usually takes 4 to 8 weeks from first meeting to handover. Imported worktops, appliances or an island can stretch that.
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Consultation and site measurement | 1 to 3 days |
| Layout and 3D design approval | 3 to 10 days |
| Material selection and quotation | 3 to 7 days (can overlap) |
| Cabinet fabrication | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Imported worktops or appliances | 2 to 8 weeks (order early) |
| Site preparation: demolition, plumbing, electrical, tiling | 1 to 2 weeks (runs alongside fabrication) |
| Installation and worktop fitting | 4 to 10 days |
| Snagging and handover | 1 to 3 days |
The fastest way to lose time is changing the design after fabrication starts. Approve the 3D design properly before anything is cut.
13. Designing for Kenyan homes and conditions
A kitchen photographed in Europe won’t automatically work in Nairobi or Mombasa. A few things worth planning for:
- Humidity and termites. Coastal and humid areas punish cheap boards. Choose waterproof board or aluminium for sink bases and anything near the floor.
- LPG, electric or induction. Gas needs safe cylinder placement and ventilation. Induction needs the right circuit and a plan for power cuts. Decide before the cabinets are drawn.
- Water pressure and tanks. Dishwashers and some taps need steady pressure. Check your supply.
- A dirty kitchen. Many Kenyan homes keep a second, working kitchen for heavy cooking and smoke. A modern main kitchen with an enclosed scullery lets you entertain without the smell. Durable, easy-clean finishes make sense in the dirty kitchen.
- Doors and windows. A good sliding door to a balcony or yard, or a window over the sink, changes the room. Our sister company makes aluminium sliding doors and aluminium windows that can be specified alongside the kitchen.
- Natural light. South or west windows can heat the room. Think about blinds and where you’ll put dark glossy fronts.
14. How to save money without making the kitchen cheap
Where to save
- Keep the sink where it is. Relocating plumbing is the quickest way to add cost.
- Choose a simple flat-panel door. Fancy profiles cost more and don’t improve how the kitchen works.
- Use laminate with a convincing wood-grain instead of veneer.
- Use one premium surface as a feature, such as an island top, and a good granite or quartz everywhere else.
- Standardise cabinet widths. Custom sizes in every position add cost.
- Order appliances first so nothing gets re-made.
Where not to save
- The board under the sink and along the floor.
- Hinges and drawer runners.
- Waterproofing and ventilation.
- Accurate measurement and design.
A kitchen is something you use every day for a decade or more. Cheap hinges and a swollen sink base cost far more over time than the difference you saved.
15. How to compare quotations
Put two quotations side by side and check each line:
| Check | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Measured dimensions listed | ||
| Rate per foot or metre and total length | ||
| Board type and thickness | ||
| Door finish | ||
| Hinge and runner brand | ||
| Worktop material and thickness | ||
| Sink, tap and accessories | ||
| Splashback, floor and lighting | ||
| Plumbing and electrical | ||
| Delivery and installation | ||
| What’s excluded | ||
| Warranty terms | ||
| Payment milestones |
Red flags: a lump sum with no dimensions, no board named, no hardware brand, “worktop by client” with no allowance, and a request for the whole payment upfront. Sensible payment is staged and tied to milestones such as design approval, delivery and handover. If a company can’t explain exactly what you’re paying for at each stage, keep looking.
16. Maintenance and lifespan
Price is only half the story. Here is what each choice asks of you afterward.
| Choice | Upkeep | Longevity |
|---|---|---|
| Laminate fronts | Wipe with a damp cloth | Long if edges stay sealed |
| Matt and supermatt | Wipe, avoid harsh abrasives | Long |
| High-gloss and acrylic | Frequent wiping, soft cloths only | Medium to long |
| Veneer and solid wood | Occasional oiling or polishing, avoid standing water | Long with care |
| Granite | Reseal periodically | Very long |
| Quartz | Wipe, avoid putting very hot pans down | Very long |
| Particle board | Cannot tolerate moisture | Short in wet zones |
| Marine board and aluminium | Minimal | Very long |
17. New kitchen, renovation, landlords and commercial kitchens
Starting from a shell. A new kitchen gives you total freedom to place plumbing, power and windows where they should be. That is the cheapest time to do it.
Renovating an existing kitchen. Keeping the layout, sink position and usable floor can reduce the bill noticeably, and it can be done in stages. See kitchen renovation costs in Muthaiga for a high-end example, or explore Renovation by Suimas Interiors for kitchen remodelling, tiling, plumbing and painting under one project.
Landlords and developers. If you’re fitting out several identical units, standardised cabinet sizes, a fixed specification and one supplier cut cost and time. Ask for project pricing instead of single-kitchen rates.
Commercial kitchens. Restaurants, hotels, schools and canteens need food-safe stainless steel, extraction, gas and workflow planning, not just pretty cabinets. For that, go to Commercial Kitchens Kenya, our sister company for commercial kitchen equipment and stainless steel fabrication.
18. What we offer at SUIMAS
We design, make and install modern kitchens for homes across Kenya. You deal with one team from the first measurement to the last handle.
Our kitchen services
- Kitchen interior design
- 3D kitchen design and layout planning
- Custom cabinets in laminate, MDF, marine board, acrylic, veneer and aluminium
- Handleless, two-tone, minimalist, wood-look, modern-classic and fluted designs
- Straight-line, galley, L-shaped, U-shaped, peninsula, island and open-plan layouts
- Worktop selection and installation in granite, quartz and sintered stone
- Splashbacks, flooring and gypsum ceilings with lighting
- Appliance housing and integration
- Kitchen storage: pantries, corner units, deep drawers and pull-outs
- Kitchen renovation and complete fit-out
- Residential interior design to match the rest of the home
- Building and construction services for new builds
How we work
- Consultation. We talk through how you cook, who uses the kitchen, your style and your budget.
- Site measurement. We measure the room and note where water, drainage and power already sit.
- Layout and 3D design. You see the kitchen before anything is cut.
- Materials. We help you choose boards, finishes, worktops, hardware and lighting.
- Itemised quotation. Every line is written out so you can compare it properly.
- Fabrication. Cabinets are made to the approved drawings.
- Installation. Our team installs the kitchen and coordinates plumbing, electrical and tiling.
- Inspection and handover. We check every door, drawer and joint with you before you sign off.
Our network, working together
- AluminiumPro Kenya for aluminium cabinets, doors and windows
- Commercial Kitchens Kenya for commercial kitchen equipment, islands and accessories
- Interior Finishes Kenya for ceilings, flooring and wall finishes
- Renovation by Suimas Interiors for full kitchen and home renovations
- SUIMAS Interiors for design, fit-out and construction
19. Areas we serve
We design and install kitchens across all 47 counties in Kenya.
In Nairobi, we regularly work in Karen, Runda, Muthaiga, Gigiri, Kitisuru, Lavington, Kileleshwa, Kilimani, Westlands, Parklands, Riverside, Spring Valley, Lang’ata, South C, South B, Embakasi, Kasarani, Roysambu, Ruaraka, Kiambu Road and Thika Road.
In Mombasa, we serve Nyali, Mvita, Kizingo, Tudor, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kisauni, Likoni, Changamwe and Jomvu. We also work in Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nyeri, Naivasha and beyond.
Get a modern kitchen quotation
Send us your measurements, a photo of the space and a few pictures of kitchens you like. We will advise on the right layout, show you a 3D design and give you an itemised quotation with no obligation.
Request a quotation or WhatsApp us
SUIMAS Interior Designers Solar House, Fourth Floor, Nairobi CBD Phone: 0717 044 443 / 0739 255 050 Email: info@interiordesigners.co.ke
20. Frequently asked questions
How much does a modern kitchen cost in Kenya?
A modern kitchen in Kenya costs from about KES 250,000 for a small, simple kitchen to KES 3,000,000 or more for a large open-plan kitchen with an island. Fully bespoke kitchens run from KES 4,000,000 to KES 8,000,000. The final price depends on the length of cabinets, the board and finish, the worktop and what the quotation includes.
How much do fitted kitchen cabinets cost per running foot and per metre in Kenya?
Fitted base cabinets typically cost KES 12,000 to KES 40,000 per running foot, which is KES 39,000 to KES 131,000 per linear metre. Basic laminate sits at the low end, mid-range MDF or laminate in the middle, and acrylic or premium custom cabinetry at the top. One metre equals 3.28 running feet.
What is the cheapest modern kitchen design?
A straight-line or small L-shaped kitchen with flat-panel laminate doors is the cheapest way to get a modern look. Fewer cabinets, simple doors and a laminate or granite worktop keep the cost down. A basic modern kitchen can start from around KES 250,000.
How much does a kitchen island cost in Kenya?
A simple preparation island starts around KES 60,000, while a seating island usually costs KES 120,000 to KES 250,000. Islands with a sink or hob cost more because of plumbing, power and extraction, and a premium statement island with waterfall edges can reach KES 800,000 or more.
Is quartz or granite better for a kitchen worktop in Kenya?
Granite is good value and handles heat well, but it needs periodic sealing and colour can vary between slabs. Quartz is non-porous, consistent in colour and needs little upkeep, so most busy families prefer it. Quartz typically costs KES 9,000 to KES 18,000 per running foot, granite KES 6,500 to KES 12,000.
Are handleless kitchens more expensive?
Yes, usually. Handleless cabinets need special profiles or push-to-open mechanisms and tighter fitting, so they often cost 10 to 25 percent more than handled cabinets. Expect roughly KES 16,000 to KES 30,000 or more per running foot, depending on the system and finish.
Which cabinet material is best for Kenya’s climate?
Marine or waterproof board, good-grade plywood, branded boards and aluminium all handle humidity well. Aluminium is also termite-proof, which makes it popular for coastal homes and rentals. Avoid particle board and low-grade MDF around sinks and in humid areas.
How long does it take to install a modern kitchen in Kenya?
Most home kitchens take 4 to 8 weeks from first meeting to handover. Cabinet fabrication usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, and installation 4 to 10 days. Imported worktops, appliances or complex islands can add several weeks, so order them early.
Are appliances included in the price of a modern kitchen?
Usually not. Many quotations cover cabinets, worktops and installation but leave appliances out. A basic cooker, hood and fridge package costs about KES 130,000 to KES 280,000, and a mid-range built-in set often costs KES 350,000 to KES 700,000. Always confirm what your quotation includes.
What hidden costs should I budget for in a kitchen project?
Common extras include electrical upgrades, moving plumbing, ducted extraction, waterproofing, demolition and disposal, wall repairs, ceiling work and door or window changes. Together they can add KES 100,000 or more. Also keep a contingency of about 10 percent of the total.
Can I have a modern kitchen in a small apartment?
Yes. Straight-line, galley and L-shaped layouts work well in compact apartments. Full-height storage, handleless doors, integrated appliances and light finishes help a small kitchen feel larger and stay uncluttered.
Can SUIMAS design and install kitchens outside Nairobi?
Yes. SUIMAS designs and installs kitchens across all 47 counties in Kenya. Projects outside Nairobi may include extra transport and logistics, which we show as a separate line in the itemised quotation.
Keep reading
- Kitchen interior design in Kenya
- Kitchen renovation ideas and cost in Muthaiga
- Bathroom and kitchen tiling cost in Kenya
- Gypsum ceiling and lighting installation cost in Kenya
- Aluminium kitchen cabinets
- Commercial kitchen equipment and fabrication
- Residential interior design in Kenya
Prices in this guide are indicative planning ranges in Kenya shillings and vary with specification, site conditions and supplier. They are not a quotation. Contact us for a project-specific, itemised price.
