How to Budget for Custom Construction Projects

Planning a major renovation, historic restoration, or new build? Whether you’re reimagining a legacy home or creating an iconic space for your brand, the first question is always the same: what will it cost?

At Kiel Thomson Company, we believe every great project starts with clarity. This guide helps you navigate construction budgeting with confidence—so your vision isn’t limited by uncertainty.

Key Factors That Shape Your Budget

While no two projects are alike, these are the most consistent budget drivers:

  • Are you updating a single space, restoring a full residence, or building from the ground up? A clear scope is essential to accurate planning.

  • Historic moldings. Commercial-grade kitchens. Integrated smart systems. The more custom your vision, the more carefully we budget.

  • Your taste shapes your investment. From bespoke tile to artisan cabinetry, we help match selections to your goals and lifestyle.

  • Tight urban lots, aging structures, or remote access—all bring unique needs. We assess every angle up front.

  • Need to open by a launch date or complete before a major life event? Your schedule informs your strategy.

Our Transparent Budgeting Process

We treat budgeting as a craft in itself—precise, collaborative, and grounded in real-world experience:

  • We listen deeply: to your story, your priorities, your expectations.

  • We evaluate physical conditions and project readiness.

  • Based on similar high-end projects, we provide a range that reflects your intent—not just square footage.

  • Whether you bring your own architect or work with ours, we align design with budget from day one.

  • You receive a detailed scope of work, fixed price cost, and a realistic project schedule.

Budget Ranges

New Construction

$750,000+ (starting price)

Build a distinctive, custom-designed home from the ground up—tailored to your site, lifestyle, and vision.

  • Fully custom architectural design (in-house or partnered)

  • High-end structural systems and energy efficiency options

  • Bespoke finishes and premium material selections

  • Site development and permitting included

  • Full-service project management from concept to move-in

Transform your existing home through a comprehensive renovation—perfect for aging layouts, historical updates, or luxury upgrades.

  • Complete interior reconfiguration and flow optimization

  • Structural modifications, including wall removals and additions

  • Premium kitchens, baths, and integrated smart home features

  • Period-sensitive restoration for historic homes

  • Systems upgrade (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) included

Whole-Home Renovation

$500,000+ (starting price)

Design and construct high-performing, brand-aligned spaces for restaurants, retail, and boutique offices.

  • Coordination with brand and design consultants

  • Specialized HVAC, fire suppression, and kitchen systems

  • ADA, health, and fire code compliance

  • Custom millwork, bar builds, and customer-facing finishes

  • Seamless coordination with business operations/timelines

Commercial Build-Out

$300,000+ (starting price)

When your project doesn’t fit in a box—think historic replications, millwork-only commissions, or high-concept spaces.

  • Museum-quality historic restoration or replication

  • Artisan-level cabinetry, trim, and architectural details

  • Complex staging/timeline or client-specific requirements

  • Luxury penthouses, outbuildings, ADUs, and unique structures

  • White-glove service and tailored project planning

Custom & Specialty Projects

Variable – $200,000 to $2M+

The heart of your home—redesigned for beauty, functionality, and enduring quality.

  • Full gut of existing space and reconfiguration of layout

  • High-performance appliances and chef-caliber design insight

  • Custom cabinetry, luxury lighting, and premium countertops

  • Integrated butler’s pantry, wine storage, or hidden workspaces

  • Designed for everyday living and elevated entertaining

Luxury Kitchen Remodel

$100,000+ (starting price)

Bring your culinary vision to life with a space that serves both form and function.

  • End-to-end construction for dining, bar, and back-of-house

  • Custom kitchen layout informed by chef experience

  • Code compliance for health, ventilation, fire, and accessibility

  • Integration of brand and customer experience through finishes

  • On-time delivery for soft opens, launches, and inspections

Restaurant Build-Out

$300,000–$1M+ (starting prices)

Your personal sanctuary—crafted with sophistication, flow, and comfort in mind.

  • Structural changes to expand bedroom, closet, or bath area

  • Custom vanities, built-ins, and high-end finish selections

  • Spa-inspired bathroom with steam, soaking, or luxury shower

  • Lighting, sound, and window treatment integration

  • Improved privacy, soundproofing, and modern heating/cooling

Primary Suite Transformation

$150,000+ (starting price)

From legacy buildings to new construction—designed for long-term value and tenant appeal.

  • Adaptive reuse or ground-up multifamily housing

  • Permitting, fire safety, zoning, and code compliance

  • Sound separation, shared amenity integration, and utility metering

  • High-durability finishes and efficient build systems

  • Ideal for developers, mission-driven investors, and urban infill

Multifamily Build-Out or Conversion

$500,000–$5M+ (starting price)

Extend your lifestyle outside—with craftsmanship that blends beauty and durability.

  • Covered patios, outdoor kitchens, fire and water features

  • Custom-built pergolas, pavilions, and hardscaping

  • Seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces

  • Lighting, audio, and smart integration options

  • Designed for all-season use and elevated entertaining

Outdoor Living Spaces

$100,000+ (starting price)

Reimagine how your team works, hosts, and grows—with a space that inspires productivity and reflects your brand.

  • Space planning, zoning, and ergonomic flow improvements

  • Upgrades to lighting, HVAC, and acoustics

  • Millwork, branding elements, and client-facing finishes

  • Phased construction to minimize operational disruption

  • Ideal for boutique firms, private practices, and creative studios

Office Space Renovation

$250,000+ (starting price)

Want your own custom quote?