The kitchen cabinet cost in Kenya depends on the size of the kitchen, cabinet material, door finish, number of running feet, hardware, storage accessories, worktop and installation requirements.
For 2026 budgeting, kitchen cabinets commonly fall within approximately KES 12,000–30,000+ per running foot, depending on the construction and finish. Basic blockboard or laminate cabinets sit toward the lower end, while marine plywood, premium boards, acrylic, solid wood and high-end hardware can push the price much higher.
However, the price per running foot does not always mean the same thing. Some quotations include the worktop, upper cabinets, hinges, drawers, delivery and installation, while others cover the cabinet boxes only.
This is one of the biggest reasons kitchen cabinet quotations in Kenya can look confusing.
At SUIMAS Interior Designers, we provide kitchen cabinet design, fabrication and installation based on the actual measurements and specifications of your kitchen. We can help you choose a suitable cabinet material, layout, worktop and storage system according to your budget.
What We Offer
Our kitchen cabinet services include:
- Custom Kitchen Design
- Kitchen cabinet measurement and planning
- 2D kitchen layouts
- 3D kitchen cabinet designs
- Base kitchen cabinets
- Wall-mounted cabinets
- Tall pantry cabinets
- Kitchen islands
- L-shaped kitchen cabinets
- U-shaped kitchen cabinets
- One-wall kitchen cabinets
- Galley kitchen cabinets
- Custom drawers
- Soft-close drawers and hinges
- Corner storage solutions
- Bottle pull-outs
- Cutlery organisers
- Pantry storage
- Kitchen worktops
- Granite worktops
- Quartz worktops
- Backsplash installation
- Cabinet fabrication
- Cabinet delivery
- Kitchen cabinet installation
- Complete kitchen fit-out
How Much Do Kitchen Cabinets Cost in Kenya?
A practical 2026 planning range is:
| Cabinet level | Approximate cost per running foot |
|---|---|
| Basic blockboard + laminate | KES 12,000–16,000 |
| Standard MDF/laminate | KES 14,000–20,000 |
| Marine plywood/MDF | KES 16,000–22,000 |
| Premium acrylic/high-gloss | KES 22,000–30,000+ |
| Premium custom/solid wood | KES 30,000–45,000+ |
These figures should not be treated as fixed market prices. The specification must be checked carefully.
For example, Hauzisha’s current guide puts fitted cabinetry around KES 12,000–28,000 per running foot, with budget blockboard/laminate at KES 12,000–16,000, marine plywood/MDF at KES 16,000–22,000 and premium construction at KES 22,000–28,000+.
Aalis Studios, however, quotes cabinet construction using a linear-metre approach, with basic lower cabinets around KES 35,000–50,000 per linear metre, mid-range lower cabinets with granite around KES 40,000–65,000, premium lower cabinets with stone around KES 55,000–90,000 and custom luxury cabinetry reaching KES 90,000–150,000+ per linear metre.
The difference demonstrates an important point: you must establish exactly what the quoted unit price includes before comparing suppliers.
What Is a Running Foot?
A running foot is simply a measurement used to price a length of cabinetry.
For example, if your base cabinets occupy 10 feet of wall space, you have approximately 10 running feet of base cabinetry.
However, kitchens can contain:
- Lower cabinets
- Upper cabinets
- Tall cabinets
- Corner cabinets
- Island cabinets
Therefore, a quotation should state whether the running-foot price applies to lower cabinets only, upper cabinets only, or a combined cabinet package.
Some suppliers also include the countertop in the running-foot price.
Others quote the countertop separately.
Always ask before making a comparison.
Kitchen Cabinet Cost by Material
The cabinet material is one of the biggest factors affecting the final price.
1. Blockboard Kitchen Cabinets
Approximate price: KES 12,000–16,000 per running foot
Blockboard with laminate finishes is commonly used for budget-conscious kitchens.
It can work well where the kitchen has controlled moisture exposure and the construction is properly sealed.
It is suitable for:
- Rental properties
- Budget homes
- Simple kitchen renovations
- Basic apartment kitchens
However, the quality of the board, laminate and workmanship matters.
Do not select a cabinet simply because the price per foot is low.
2. MDF Kitchen Cabinets
Approximate price: KES 14,000–20,000 per running foot
MDF can provide a smooth surface for painted or laminated cabinet doors.
It is particularly useful for certain modern finishes.
However, moisture protection is important because ordinary MDF can be affected by prolonged exposure to water.
The areas around the sink, dishwasher and other wet zones require particular attention.
3. Marine Plywood Kitchen Cabinets
Approximate price: KES 16,000–25,000+ per running foot
Marine plywood is a popular option for homeowners looking for a stronger and more moisture-resistant cabinet construction.
It can be suitable for:
- Family homes
- Busy kitchens
- Modern kitchens
- Premium renovations
- Wet areas
The actual price depends on the board specification, thickness, door finish, hardware and workmanship.
4. Acrylic Kitchen Cabinets
Approximate price: KES 22,000–30,000+ per running foot
Acrylic finishes provide a glossy, modern appearance.
They work particularly well in contemporary kitchens where homeowners want:
- High-gloss surfaces
- Modern colours
- Easy-to-clean doors
- A premium appearance
The final cost depends on the board underneath the acrylic finish and the quality of the acrylic itself.
5. Solid Wood Kitchen Cabinets
Approximate price: KES 30,000–45,000+ per running foot
Solid hardwood cabinetry is generally positioned at the premium end.
The final price depends heavily on:
- Type of wood
- Thickness
- Joinery
- Door design
- Finish
- Hardware
- Amount of custom work
It is normally selected for high-end or traditional kitchens.
Kitchen Cabinet Prices Per Running Metre
Some Kenyan kitchen companies quote cabinets per linear metre instead of running foot.
The conversion is approximately:
1 metre = 3.28 feet
Therefore, a price of KES 18,000 per running foot is approximately KES 59,000 per linear metre.
For this reason, do not compare a quote of KES 20,000 per foot directly with another quotation of KES 50,000 per metre without converting the measurements.
More importantly, check what each quotation includes.
Aalis Studios uses linear metres extensively in its current pricing guide and states that cabinet material, number of linear metres, finish, hardware and layout complexity are among the major cost drivers.
Kitchen Cabinet Cost for a 10×10 Kitchen
A 10×10 kitchen is a common reference point when homeowners are planning a kitchen budget.
If the design uses approximately 20 running feet of cabinetry, a rough cabinet budget could look like:
Budget Cabinetry
20 ft × KES 12,000–16,000
Approximately:
KES 240,000–320,000
Mid-Range Cabinetry
20 ft × KES 16,000–22,000
Approximately:
KES 320,000–440,000
Premium Cabinetry
20 ft × KES 22,000–28,000+
Approximately:
KES 440,000–560,000+
Hauzisha gives similar 10×10 planning ranges of approximately KES 240,000–560,000, depending on the construction level.
However, the exact cabinet run must be measured.
A 10×10 room does not automatically mean 20 running feet of cabinets because doors, windows, appliances, corners and circulation areas can reduce the usable cabinet length.
Kitchen Cabinet Cost for a 12×12 Kitchen
A 12×12 kitchen generally provides more space for cabinetry.
Using approximately 24 running feet as a simple planning example:
Budget
24 ft × KES 12,000–16,000
Approximately:
KES 288,000–384,000
Mid-Range
24 ft × KES 16,000–22,000
Approximately:
KES 384,000–528,000
Premium
24 ft × KES 22,000–28,000+
Approximately:
KES 528,000–672,000+
Hauzisha’s current guide places a 12×12 fitted kitchen at roughly KES 290,000–680,000, depending on specification.
Again, these figures should be treated as planning estimates rather than quotations.
How Much Do Upper Kitchen Cabinets Cost?
Upper cabinets are priced differently from base cabinets because they do not require the same countertop arrangement.
A practical planning range is approximately:
KES 15,000–28,000+ per running foot
depending on material, height, door finish and hardware.
Aalis Studios currently gives upper wall cabinet pricing of approximately KES 15,000–28,000 per linear metre in its Nairobi guide.
When requesting a quotation, ask whether upper cabinets are:
- Included
- Charged separately
- Priced per foot
- Priced per metre
- Priced per cabinet
This can make a substantial difference to the final quotation.
Kitchen Island Cabinet Cost
A kitchen island adds another cabinet run to the project.
The cost depends on whether the island includes:
- Storage
- Drawers
- Sink
- Hob
- Electrical sockets
- Seating
- Wine storage
- Appliance integration
- Plumbing
- Special worktop
Hauzisha estimates that an island can add approximately KES 60,000–150,000, depending on its size and worktop.
Aalis Studios uses a broader premium-market range for island construction, depending on materials and service integration.
Therefore, a simple storage island and a fully serviced island should never be expected to cost the same.
Kitchen Worktop Cost
One common mistake is assuming that the cabinet price includes the countertop.
Sometimes it does.
Sometimes it does not.
Common worktop options include:
Laminate Worktop
Approximately KES 2,500–5,000 per running foot.
This is one of the more affordable options.
Granite
Approximately KES 6,500–18,000+ per running foot or equivalent installed measurement, depending on the stone and fabrication.
Quartz
Approximately KES 9,000–18,000+ per running foot, with premium options costing more.
Sintered Stone
Generally KES 18,000+ per running foot for premium specifications.
Hauzisha’s current guide gives laminate, granite, quartz and premium solid/sintered surfaces in broadly these bands.
Aalis Studios also shows a wide countertop range, from basic ceramic/porcelain surfaces through local and imported granite, quartz, sintered stone and premium marble.
Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Cost
The hardware can significantly affect the final price.
It includes:
- Hinges
- Drawer runners
- Handles
- Soft-close mechanisms
- Corner mechanisms
- Pull-out baskets
- Pantry systems
- Cutlery trays
- Bottle racks
- Lift-up systems
Basic hinges and runners can reduce the initial quotation.
Premium soft-close hardware increases the price but can improve everyday operation and durability.
For this reason, a cabinet quotation should identify the hardware specification, rather than simply saying “quality hinges.”
Cost of Kitchen Drawers
Drawers are generally more expensive than ordinary cabinet shelves because they require drawer boxes and runners.
A kitchen with many drawers can therefore cost considerably more than one with mostly hinged doors.
You may choose:
- Standard drawers
- Deep drawers
- Soft-close drawers
- Full-extension drawers
- Tandem drawers
- Special internal drawers
If your budget is limited, prioritise drawers in areas where you use them most.
For example, drawers below the preparation area can be more useful than installing expensive drawer systems throughout the entire kitchen.
What Makes Kitchen Cabinets Expensive?
The main cost factors include:
Cabinet Size
More running feet mean more materials and labour.
Cabinet Material
Marine plywood, premium boards and solid wood generally cost more than basic board options.
Door Finish
Laminate, acrylic, veneer, lacquer and solid timber have different prices.
Hardware
Premium hinges, runners and storage systems increase the cost.
Number of Drawers
More drawers mean additional hardware and fabrication.
Tall Units
Pantry and full-height storage units use more material.
Corner Units
Special corner mechanisms can cost more than ordinary shelves.
Kitchen Island
An island adds cabinets, worktop and potentially plumbing or electrical work.
Worktop
Granite, quartz and sintered stone can add considerably to the overall project.
Installation
Some quotations include installation, while others charge installation separately.
Cabinet-Only vs Complete Kitchen Cost
This distinction is extremely important.
Cabinet Supply Only
You receive the fabricated cabinets.
You may still need to pay separately for:
- Delivery
- Installation
- Worktop
- Sink
- Taps
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- Backsplash
- Appliances
Cabinets + Installation
The quotation includes cabinet fabrication and fitting.
The worktop and other kitchen services may still be separate.
Cabinets + Worktop + Installation
This gives you a more complete cabinetry package.
Complete Kitchen Fit-Out
A complete package can include:
- Kitchen design
- 3D visualisation
- Cabinets
- Worktops
- Hardware
- Backsplash
- Flooring
- Plumbing
- Electrical work
- Lighting
- Installation
- Finishing
Always establish the scope before comparing prices.
Why Some Kitchen Cabinet Quotes Are Very Cheap
If you find one company quoting KES 10,000 per running foot and another quoting KES 20,000, it does not automatically mean the first company is cheaper.
The specifications may be different.
The cheaper quote might exclude:
- Worktop
- Upper cabinets
- Drawers
- Soft-close hardware
- Delivery
- Installation
- Backsplash
- Corner accessories
Marketplace listings demonstrate just how fragmented kitchen pricing can be. Jiji currently has numerous kitchen cabinet and installation listings, with some sellers advertising “contact for price” while others list small individual services such as granite fixing or carpentry separately.
Therefore, compare the complete specification, not just the advertised price.
Custom Kitchen Cabinets vs Ready-Made Cabinets
Ready-made cabinets can appear cheaper because you are purchasing standard-sized units.
However, they may leave:
- Filler gaps
- Unused corners
- Uneven spacing
- Awkward appliance gaps
- Reduced storage
Custom cabinets are measured and fabricated for the actual kitchen.
This makes them particularly useful where the kitchen has:
- Unusual wall dimensions
- Columns
- Windows
- Beams
- Sloping walls
- Corner spaces
- Integrated appliances
Custom cabinetry can therefore make better use of the available space.
How to Save Money on Kitchen Cabinets
You do not necessarily need the cheapest cabinet material to reduce your budget.
Instead:
Keep the Existing Layout
Moving plumbing and electrical points can increase renovation costs.
Use Standard Cabinet Sizes
Custom dimensions throughout the kitchen can increase fabrication costs.
Prioritise Wet Areas
If you are working with a limited budget, consider stronger moisture-resistant construction around the sink and other wet areas.
Reduce Unnecessary Accessories
You do not need every pull-out system available.
Choose storage accessories according to how you actually use your kitchen.
Compare Hardware
Do not assume that expensive cabinet doors automatically mean expensive hardware.
Choose the Worktop Carefully
A practical granite worktop may offer a more economical option than premium quartz or sintered stone.
Design Before Fabrication
A detailed design can reduce expensive changes later.
3D Kitchen Cabinet Design
Before fabrication begins, a 3D kitchen design allows you to see how the proposed cabinets will look.
You can review:
- Cabinet colours
- Door styles
- Worktop
- Handles
- Upper cabinets
- Tall units
- Island
- Appliances
- Lighting
- Storage arrangement
This is particularly useful when you are investing hundreds of thousands of shillings in cabinetry.
You can also review our 3D Design and Layout Planning services.
What Should Be Included in a Kitchen Cabinet Quotation?
A good quotation should clearly state:
- Kitchen measurements
- Number of running feet/metres
- Cabinet carcass material
- Door material
- Door finish
- Cabinet thickness
- Upper cabinets
- Base cabinets
- Tall units
- Drawers
- Hinges
- Drawer runners
- Handles
- Soft-close mechanisms
- Worktop
- Worktop thickness
- Sink cut-out
- Delivery
- Installation
- Taxes where applicable
- Exclusions
It should also state whether appliances, plumbing and electrical work are included.
Kitchen Cabinet Cost by Budget
Budget Kitchen Cabinets
Approximately KES 200,000–350,000
Suitable for:
- Small kitchens
- Apartments
- Rental properties
- Basic renovations
Typical specification:
- Basic board
- Laminate finish
- Standard hardware
- Simple worktop
Mid-Range Kitchen Cabinets
Approximately KES 350,000–700,000
Suitable for:
- Family homes
- Standard L-shaped kitchens
- Larger apartments
- Modern renovations
Possible specification:
- Marine plywood or quality board
- Better door finish
- Soft-close hardware
- Granite or quartz worktop
- Improved storage
Premium Kitchen Cabinets
Approximately KES 700,000–1.5 million+
Suitable for:
- Large family kitchens
- U-shaped kitchens
- Island kitchens
- High-end homes
Possible specification:
- Premium board
- Acrylic or custom finishes
- Premium hardware
- Quartz or sintered stone
- Tall pantry units
- Special storage systems
- Custom island
Luxury Bespoke Kitchen Cabinets
KES 1.5 million–3 million+
Luxury cabinetry can include imported boards, solid wood, bespoke joinery, premium hardware, integrated appliances and highly customised storage.
The overall kitchen can cost considerably more once flooring, lighting, appliances, plumbing and other works are added.
Kitchen Cabinet Installation Cost
Cabinet installation may be included in the quoted running-foot price or charged separately.
Installation can involve:
- Delivery
- Positioning
- Levelling
- Wall fixing
- Joining cabinet units
- Fitting doors
- Adjusting hinges
- Installing drawers
- Worktop preparation
- Finishing
Always ask whether the advertised cabinet price is supply-only or supply-and-installation.
This distinction is particularly important when comparing online marketplace offers with professional interior contractors.
Kitchen Cabinet Design and Installation Process
1. Consultation
We discuss your preferred kitchen style, budget and requirements.
2. Measurement
The available wall lengths, windows, doors, service points and ceiling height are measured.
3. Layout Planning
We determine the most practical cabinet arrangement.
4. 3D Design
The proposed kitchen is visualised before fabrication.
5. Material Selection
You select the cabinet board, finish, hardware and worktop.
6. Quotation
A detailed quotation is prepared based on the approved specifications.
7. Fabrication
The cabinets are manufactured according to the approved design.
8. Delivery and Installation
The units are transported and installed at the site.
9. Worktop and Finishing
The worktop, handles, hardware and other agreed finishing elements are completed.
10. Inspection and Handover
The completed kitchen is inspected and handed over.
How Long Does It Take to Make Kitchen Cabinets?
The timeframe depends on:
- Kitchen size
- Cabinet complexity
- Material availability
- Number of custom accessories
- Worktop
- Fabrication schedule
- Site conditions
A straightforward kitchen can take several weeks from design approval through fabrication and installation.
Premium or highly customised kitchens can take longer because they involve additional fabrication and finishing stages.
The important point is to agree on the expected timeline before production begins.
Areas We Serve Across Kenya
SUIMAS Interior Designers provides kitchen cabinet design, fabrication and installation services across Baringo, Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Embu, Garissa, Homa Bay, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, Kisumu, Kitui, Kwale, Laikipia, Lamu, Machakos, Makueni, Mandera, Marsabit, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang’a, Nairobi, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Samburu, Siaya, Taita-Taveta, Tana River, Tharaka-Nithi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Vihiga, Wajir and West Pokot.
In Nairobi, we serve areas including Nairobi CBD, Westlands, Parklands, Spring Valley, Riverside, Kileleshwa, Lavington, Kilimani, Hurlingham, Upper Hill, Kitisuru, Gigiri, Runda, Muthaiga, Rosslyn, Karen, Lang’ata, South C, South B, Nyayo Estate, Imara Daima, Embakasi, Fedha, Donholm, Umoja, Buruburu, Komarock, Kayole, Tassia, Pipeline, Kasarani, Roysambu, Ruaraka, Mwiki, Zimmerman, Thome, Garden Estate, Ridgeways, Mirema, Kahawa, Kahawa Sukari, Kahawa West, Ruai, Utawala, Njiru, Dandora, Kariobangi, Eastleigh, Pangani, Ngara, Huruma and Mathare.
We also serve the wider Nairobi metropolitan area, including Ruaka, Ruiru, Kikuyu, Limuru, Thika, Kitengela, Athi River and Syokimau.
For Mombasa and the wider Coast region, services can cover Mombasa CBD, Mvita, Kizingo, Tudor, Nyali, Mkomani, Frere Town, Kongowea, Bamburi, Shanzu, Kisauni, Bombolulu, Mishomoroni, Likoni, Changamwe, Jomvu, Mikindani, Miritini, Port Reitz, Magongo and Mtambo, as well as Kilifi, Malindi, Diani, Ukunda, Kwale and Lamu.
Why Choose SUIMAS Interior Designers?
Choosing kitchen cabinets is not only about finding the lowest price.
You need a contractor who understands:
- Space planning
- Cabinet construction
- Material selection
- Kitchen ergonomics
- Storage
- Worktops
- Plumbing coordination
- Electrical requirements
- Installation
- Interior finishing
At SUIMAS Interior Designers, we can coordinate the process from the initial concept through 3D design, material selection, fabrication, installation and finishing.
This allows the cabinet design to work together with the rest of the kitchen rather than treating each component as a separate job.
Related Interior Design Services
You may also need:
- Kitchen Interior Design
- 3D Design and Layout Planning
- Kitchen Renovation Services
- Interior Finishes
- Floor Installation Services
- Gypsum Ceiling Installation
- Professional Building Painting
Get a Kitchen Cabinet Quotation
The best way to determine your kitchen cabinet cost in Kenya is to measure the actual cabinet runs and specify the material, door finish, hardware, worktop and installation requirements.
Do not choose a cabinet contractor based only on the lowest price per running foot.
Instead, compare the complete specification and establish exactly what you will receive for the quoted amount.
At SUIMAS Interior Designers, we can help you plan and implement a kitchen that fits your available space and budget.
Contact Us Today for kitchen cabinet design, 3D visualisation, fabrication and installation.
SUIMAS Interior Designers
Address: Nairobi CBD
Phone: 0717 044 443 / 0739 255 050
Email: info@interiordesigners.co.ke / info@suimas.co.ke
Contact Us Today
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do kitchen cabinets cost in Kenya?
Kitchen cabinets can cost approximately KES 12,000–30,000+ per running foot, depending on the board, finish, hardware and whether installation and worktops are included.
What is the cheapest kitchen cabinet material?
Basic blockboard or laminate-finished cabinetry is generally among the more affordable options. However, the quality of construction and moisture protection should also be considered.
How much do marine plywood kitchen cabinets cost in Kenya?
Marine plywood kitchen cabinets can fall around KES 16,000–25,000+ per running foot, depending on the thickness, door finish, hardware and workmanship.
How much does a 10×10 kitchen cabinet cost?
A 10×10 kitchen with approximately 20 running feet of cabinetry could cost around KES 240,000–560,000+ for cabinetry and associated fitted components, depending on the specification. Hauzisha’s current 2026 guide gives a similar range.
How much do 12×12 kitchen cabinets cost?
A 12×12 kitchen can cost approximately KES 288,000–672,000+ when using a simple 24-running-foot planning calculation. The actual quotation depends on the cabinet arrangement and materials.
Does kitchen cabinet cost include the countertop?
Not always. Some suppliers include the worktop in their running-foot price, while others quote it separately. Always confirm this before comparing quotations.
Does kitchen cabinet cost include installation?
It depends on the contractor. Some prices are supply-only, while others include delivery and installation. A professional quotation should state this clearly.
Are custom kitchen cabinets more expensive?
Usually, yes. However, custom cabinets can make better use of the available space and can accommodate unusual walls, corners, appliances and storage requirements.
How can I reduce kitchen cabinet costs?
You can reduce costs by keeping the existing layout where practical, choosing standard cabinet dimensions, limiting expensive accessories, selecting an appropriate worktop and investing in good-quality construction rather than unnecessary decorative features.
Which is better: MDF or marine plywood?
The right choice depends on the application and budget. Marine plywood generally offers stronger moisture resistance, while MDF can provide a smooth surface for certain finishes. The construction quality, sealing and installation also matter.
How do I compare kitchen cabinet quotations?
Ask every supplier to provide the same information: cabinet material, thickness, door finish, running feet/metres, worktop, hinges, drawer runners, storage accessories, delivery, installation and exclusions. Then compare the specifications rather than the headline price.