FREE MALAYSIA TODAY. 28TH MARCH: The cost of renovating a house in Malaysia has risen significantly over the last decade. A large part of the expenditure depends on the amount of work that will go into the project.
Factors such as the age and size of your property, location, material, and labour choices will determine the final outlay.
Before you get started, it’s always a good idea to sketch out a floor plan that includes the dimensions of your home and the specifics of each room. Consider what furnishings, appliances, or other amenities you would like; think about how feasible your plan is, and make sure you don’t go over budget.
For example, can you afford a high-end home theatre system, or marble countertops in your kitchen? Do you need to completely replace your bathtub? Will the furniture you desire fit in the space?
The kitchen
The kitchen usually accounts for a large portion of your overall budget. When you choose appliances and cabinets, you also need to think about how the walls and the countertop will look. Then you will need to consider textures that are practical.
Thankfully, you don’t have to spend a lot to get the kitchen of your dreams. While natural stone countertops such as granite and marble can be costly, laminate is a more affordable alternative that can still be aesthetically pleasing.
Tiled backsplash
A tiled backsplash is an excellent way to add colour, patterns and texture to your kitchen, increasing its aesthetic appeal. There are so many options to choose from – white tiles create a clean, versatile look, while neutral tones such as grey, tan, and even black give your kitchen an elegant appearance.
Tiles also protect your walls from moisture and are significantly easier to clean compared with wallpaper. In Malaysia, the average price per square foot of tile installation ranges from RM2.50 to RM7.50.
Cabinets
Before deciding on cabinet and storage options, make a list of everything you want to store in your kitchen. Remember that cabinets take up a sizable portion of the space, so choose colours thoughtfully and make sure they complement your countertops and backsplash.
If you’re on a tight budget, basic melamine cabinets (approximately RM3,200) are the way to go, while more expensive options with quartz, granite or stainless steel might cost up to RM10,000.
Countertops
Granite and marble are the most common choices for countertops, each with its pros and cons. Although marble exudes sophistication and luxury, it does not come cheap. The material is also prone to scratches, making it difficult to maintain.
Granite countertops, on the other hand, are a great choice if you want something more durable and affordable. Depending on the quality of the granite, prices range from RM150 to RM850 per square foot.
The bedroom
Renovating the look and comfort of your bedroom is very important as it is the main space where you should be able to relax and unwind after a long day.
Wallpaper
Wallpapers are great for adding visual appeal and extending the life of your walls. The average price per roll is between RM50 and RM250.
Curtains
The right curtains will make your bedroom warmer and cosier. There are many different materials to pick from, but they must not detract from the overall balance and style of the room.
Curtains cost between RM9 and RM12 per square foot, depending on the material.
Floors
Flooring is an important element of every home as it sets the tone and provides you with comfort. Flooring installation costs range from RM3 to RM14.50 per square foot, depending on the material.
The living room
Lighting
Consider adding new lighting as part of your renovation, as it can help complement the look of your living room and create more contrast. Fixtures come in a wide range of pricing, but you should always choose what is most practical.
Lighting installation might cost anything between RM30 and RM140 per unit, depending on the complexity of the job.
Air-conditioning
Professional air conditioning services start at RM130, while installation costs range between RM190 and RM600, depending on the size and horsepower of the AC unit.
Wall painting
Painting is one of the easiest ways to improve the interior aesthetic of your home. It can be used, for example, to make a bold statement with a splash of saturated colour, or as a relaxing backdrop for a more neutral atmosphere.
The bathroom
Your bathroom is just as important as any other room in your house, but it doesn’t have to be costly to renovate. A functional bathroom may only require the installation of a new sink and tap, as well as any necessary plumbing repairs.
Sink installation
The cost of installing a sink varies depending on the complexity of the job, and it falls between RM160 and RM550 on average.
Plumbing
Professional plumbing services start at RM80 and may cost up to RM800, depending on the difficulty of the issue.
If you don’t want to deal with the planning yourself, hiring an interior designer can take a lot of weight off your shoulders. And always remember to contact a professional for any and all renovation work.