Renovating a kitchen in Barcelona is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to a property — both in terms of daily living quality and long-term value.
However, kitchen renovation costs in Barcelona vary widely, and for international property owners the lack of transparent information often leads to underestimated budgets, delays, or compromises in quality.
This guide provides a realistic, detailed breakdown of kitchen renovation costs in Barcelona, explains what drives prices up or down, and helps you plan your investment with clarity.
How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in Barcelona?
As a general reference:
- Standard kitchen renovation: €8,000 – €15,000
- Mid-range renovation: €15,000 – €25,000
- High-end / custom kitchen: €25,000 – €40,000+
These ranges assume:
- Full replacement (not cosmetic updates)
- Average kitchen size (8–12 m²)
- Licensed works with proper permits
- VAT included
The final cost depends less on size alone and more on layout changes, materials, and technical complexity.
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Category
1. Demolition and Preparation
€800 – €2,000
This phase includes:
- Removal of existing cabinets and appliances
- Demolition of wall or floor finishes
- Waste management and disposal
Costs increase if:
- Walls need to be removed or reinforced
- The building has difficult access (no elevator, narrow staircases)
2. Plumbing Works
€1,200 – €3,000
Plumbing costs depend heavily on whether the layout changes.
Includes:
- Water supply and drainage updates
- Relocation of sink or dishwasher
- Compliance with current regulations
If you keep all water points in the same position, costs remain closer to the lower range.
3. Electrical Installation
€1,000 – €2,500
A full kitchen renovation almost always requires electrical updates, including:
- New wiring
- Dedicated circuits for appliances
- Updated fuse protections
- Additional outlets and lighting points
Older apartments in Barcelona often require full electrical upgrades to meet current standards.
4. Flooring and Wall Finishes
€1,500 – €4,000
Typical options include:
- Porcelain tiles
- Microcement
- Natural stone
- Engineered wood (less common in kitchens)
Costs vary based on:
- Material choice
- Surface preparation
- Whether finishes extend beyond the kitchen area
5. Kitchen Cabinets and Storage
€4,000 – €12,000
This is usually the largest cost component.
Price depends on:
- Modular vs custom cabinetry
- Materials (laminate, lacquer, wood veneer, solid wood)
- Internal fittings and storage systems
Custom kitchens are more expensive but often essential in:
- Irregular layouts
- Older Barcelona apartments
- High-end properties
6. Worktops
€1,200 – €4,000
Common materials and relative cost:
- Laminate (lowest cost)
- Quartz
- Porcelain
- Natural stone (marble, granite)
Thicker slabs, waterfall edges, and seamless backsplashes increase cost.
7. Appliances
€2,500 – €8,000
Wide range depending on:
- Brand (Bosch vs Miele vs Gaggenau)
- Integrated vs freestanding
- Number of appliances
International property owners often underestimate this category, especially when opting for fully integrated kitchens.
8. Lighting and Finishing Details
€800 – €2,000
Includes:
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Ceiling fixtures
- LED profiles
- Decorative lighting
Good lighting design dramatically affects the perceived quality of the kitchen.
9. Project Management and Coordination
€1,000 – €3,000
Often overlooked, but essential.
Covers:
- Scheduling trades
- Quality control
- Supplier coordination
- Timeline management
For non-local owners, this is one of the most valuable components of the renovation.
Do You Need a Permit for a Kitchen Renovation in Barcelona?
In most cases, yes.
- Minor works permit (Obra Menor) is typically required
- If structural elements or layouts change, requirements increase
A professional renovation company will:
- Assess permit needs
- Handle applications
- Ensure compliance
Starting without permits can result in fines and work stoppages.
Common Cost Mistakes International Property Owners Make
- Underestimating electrical and plumbing upgrades
- Choosing materials without understanding lead times
- Ignoring building access limitations
- Accepting non-itemized budgets
- Assuming appliance costs are “minor”
Kitchen renovations fail financially not because of ambition, but because of poor planning.
Is a Kitchen Renovation Worth It in Barcelona?
In most cases, yes.
A well-executed kitchen renovation:
- Increases property value
- Improves rental appeal
- Reduces maintenance issues
- Aligns the property with international standards
For high-value properties, the kitchen is often the deciding factor for buyers and tenants.
Planning a Kitchen Renovation in Barcelona?
If you are an international property owner planning a kitchen renovation, early professional input can save time, money, and stress.
At Lirian, we help clients:
- Define realistic budgets
- Optimize layouts
- Manage permits and execution
- Deliver predictable results — even remotely
📩 Contact Lirian to discuss your kitchen renovation project and receive a clear, structured assessment before committing.