Kitchen Renovation in Commonwealth

On-site work for a straightforward same-layout kitchen runs 2-4 weeks; layout changes with plumbing, gas, or electrical rework push it to 4-8 weeks. The hidden timeline is before day one: custom cabinetry commonly has 4-10 week manufacturing lead times, so order early and only demolish once delivery is confirmed.

Hold 10-15% beyond the quote. The classic surprises are behind the old kitchen: degraded wiring that fails modern load requirements, corroded pipework, out-of-level floors that complicate cabinet installation, and walls that need replastering once tiles come off. Older properties justify the top of the range.

Laminate is the budget option and modern laminates are far better than their reputation. Engineered stone/quartz is the mid-to-upper standard — durable and consistent (note some countries now restrict high-silica products). Natural granite and sintered surfaces sit above it; solid timber and stainless serve specific styles. Price the benchtop with cutouts and edge profiles included, as those add meaningfully.

Yes, and it is the single biggest saver. Keeping the sink, stove, and appliance positions avoids rerouting water, waste, gas, and heavy electrical circuits — which means less demolition, fewer trades, and no re-certification of services. Spend the savings on better cabinets and benchtops, which you touch every day.

Basic renovations run roughly ₱100,000-₱350,000, while significant remodels with new cabinets, counters, and appliances land ₱400,000-₱800,000 for most homeowners; high-end custom projects reach ₱1.2M-₱2M. Provincial labor runs 20-30% below Metro Manila.

Site-built cabinets by skilled carpenters cost less and fit odd spaces, but quality depends entirely on the crew and the plywood grade — specify marine plywood in wet zones. Modular systems cost more, install in days, and have consistent hardware. Either way, laminate or spray-paint finish choice moves the price more than the box.