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New-age modular kitchens are becoming a popular addition in urban Indian homes. The best part about these kitchens is that their cost is flexible (dependant on its various parts) and the installation can easily fit into different budgets. Take a look at the various configurations with materials and finishes that affect the overall cost of a modular kitchen.
1. Size of the kitchen
The size of the kitchen is one of the key factors that determines the cost of the modular kitchen. These kitchens comprise different modules that have the flexibility to form L-shaped, parallel and U-shaped kitchens. Hence, larger kitchens will require more kitchen modules, which will add to the cost of the kitchen.
The choice of materials for the kitchen cabinetry also forms an important part of the budget. The most common materials used for fabricating the cabinetry include MDF, HDF and plywood.
- Marine plywood or commercial-grade plywood is widely used for constructing the framework of the kitchen cabinetry. Since Indian kitchens are exposed to a lot of heat and moisture, it is recommended to go for marine plywood which is waterproof and water resistant – it is more expensive than commercial-grade plywood.
- MDF and HDF are man-made composite materials which are not as strong as plywood. However HDF is stronger than MDF. These materials have the tendency to absorb moisture and may get permanently damaged after a period of time.
- Consider stainless steel cabinets for heavy-duty or industrial kitchens. Stainless steel is very expensive, but it is resistant to moisture and lasts a lifetime.
The external surface of the modular kitchen cabinets is finished in materials such as laminate, acrylic, membrane foil and so on.
- Laminate-finish cabinets are affordable, durable and come in a variety of colours and finishes. A high-gloss laminate finish is more expensive than a matte finish.
- Membrane foil is a PVC foil wrapped around MDF boards under high pressure. They impart a seamless look to the cabinetry and are more expensive than laminate finishes.
- Acrylic finishes are very costly and are used for high-end kitchens because they impart a sleek and sophisticated look.
- For a metallic look, opt for a stainless-steel finish, which is, however, very expensive.
4. Modular kitchen accessories
There are a wide range of modular kitchen accessories available in the market.
- It is essential to choose the right kitchen accessories that will be most suitable for your kitchen.These accessories help to create a highly functional and efficient space.
- The different kitchen accessories include pull-out baskets, bottle pull-outs, tall units, corner units and so on. Each kitchen accessory will have to be purchased separately and adds to the total cost of the modular kitchen.
5. Kitchen appliances
Kitchen appliances play a vital role in enabling the kitchen to function efficiently. Make it a point to purchase only those kitchen appliances that are required by you.
- Kitchen appliances are available in various choices and a wide price range. Note that the built-in kitchen appliances, as in this image, are more expensive than freestanding kitchen appliances.
- The kitchen appliances include items such as microwaves, cooktops and ovens. Make sure that the visual appearance of the kitchen appliances complements the overall design of the kitchen.
6. Countertop material
Another component that adds to cost and visual appeal of the modular kitchen is the kitchen countertop.
- Granite is the most popular kitchen countertop material because of its superlative qualities, such as high durability, affordability and low maintenance. Marble is a poor choice for the countertop as it is very porous and requires maintenance.
- The trending new countertop materials include quartz, solid surface and nano white. These materials are very expensive, but they impart a high-end sophisticated look to the kitchen.
7. Floor tiles and backsplash
- The common flooring materials include vitrified and porcelain tiles. These tiles are available in a wide price range, depending on their design, colour and quality. Marble is not a good choice for the kitchen flooring as it may get stained with kitchen ingredients such as turmeric and acidic substances such as vinegar or citrus juices.
- Consider porcelain tiles for the kitchen backsplash: this material is affordable and long lasting. The more expensive backsplash materials include glass and metal mosaic or tiles. Take your pick.
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