How much does an open-plan layout cost in New Zealand?

Adopting an open-plan layout has become hugely popular in the past few decades. As a modern take on interior design, it also encourages socialising and is great for families with young children to keep a watchful eye on. 
Since open-plan is a general design concept, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly how much creating such a layout might cost, given all the variables. However, there are a few aspects that most open-plan conversions have in common: the size/scope of your renovation, structural considerations, products used, and joinery.  
To help you get a better idea of what it costs to create an open-plan layout, we’ll outline how these main budget drivers affect the bottom line. With this information, you’ll be able to consider your priorities, compare similar projects on our website, and assess what you may spend. 
Some budget drivers may have more impact than others, depending on your desired result, but there is usually room for compromises and splurges. Working with a Refresh Renovation Consultant is the best way to reach an accurate budget for your open-plan renovation but we’ll provide actual renovation costs and project details to help you get a better understanding of what can be accomplished within different budgets. 

Main budget drivers

• Size/scope of your renovation
• Structural considerations
• Products used
• Joinery Read on to find out how much your open-plan renovation may cost depending on the changes you are looking to make. ## Size/scope of your renovation Judging the cost of an open-plan renovation by its size can be tricky. Why? Well, removing a single dividing wall from a spacious floor plan will be far less expensive than working around a more challenging and cramped layout.  But open-plan doesn’t always have to apply to an entire interior. During this 7m2 renovation, the homeowners simply wanted to open up their kitchen so it was more functional. See how this compact kitchen was transformed for $34,000*. (JUN 2022) Coming in at 105m2, this is an average size for this type of project; the hefty price tag is due to extensive wall removal and a high level of customisation. But the total actually came in under budget and it was a life-changing transformation, so at $300,000*, it was well worth it. (APR 2022) This next project was slightly larger but half the price. Because the structural changes were minimal, this 125m2 open-plan renovation was completed for $149,000*. (AUG 2021) See the full story here.  ## Structural considerations Removing walls during an open-plan renovation can affect your home’s structural integrity; walls may be load-bearing or house much of your property’s electrical wiring. These projects often require architects, structural engineers, and other speciality contractors, all of whom come at a cost. And let’s not forget council consent, application, and inspections. Those aren't free either. But proper bracing requirements are essential to ensure your property is safe for you and your family.  The following two projects are great examples of how structural requirements can affect the final cost. Creating an open-plan layout during this 100m2 renovation was achieved for $110,000* because the wall to be removed wasn’t load-bearing, so no intensive structural changes were needed. (OCT 2021)  However, this 20m2 renovation requires bracing methods to compensate for the lack of structural integrity caused by removing an internal wall, bringing the final total to $150,000*. (SEPT 2022) Mark Morrison - An ultra-modern open-plan living area in Rānui, Porirua ## Products used Two main motivations behind a renovation are budget and design. During a budget-led renovation, homeowners have a strict figure in mind and want to accomplish as much as possible within that budget, whereas in a design-led project, homeowners have a specific design in mind and are willing to spend whatever it takes to achieve it.  Product choice can make or break a budget, but it doesn’t have to. Nowadays, there are plenty of cost-effective fixtures and finishings that give you a high-end look without compromising value.  By opting for cost-effective materials, the homeowner was able to extend the scope of this 40m2 project and renovate nearly his entire home for $71,000*. (MAR 2022) During this design-led renovation, this villa received an open-plan layout that extended outside to maximise the indoor/outdoor flow. The full extent of this 70m2 project was laden with bespoke fixtures and finishings which brought the final total to $400,000*. (SEP 2021) Steve Wang - Renovated Villa Provides Inspiration for Open-plan Living in Island Bay, Wellington ## Joinery Joinery isn’t always at the forefront of your mind when considering an open-plan layout, yet it can play a crucial but costly role. Adjusting the interior layout may require removing or adding windows and doors to keep the flow of your home optimal.  This renovation included the creative use of joinery for a curated layout that was perfectly suited to the homeowners’ lifestyle. The design utilises a glass-panelled cavity door to offer the option of separation for a semi-open layout. The 90m2 renovation was completed for $156,000*. (APR 2022) ## Curious about the cost to create an open-plan layout in your home? Part of Refresh’s 5-step approach to renovations is a thorough costing phase. This results in a fixed quote for your project so you know what to expect. But before that, your process will begin with a free no-obligation consultation to discuss your goals, budget, and timeline expectations. To arrange yours, get in touch with a local Renovation Consultant today.  *Costs are shown as an indicative guide of what previous projects have cost. The costs of renovating a home increase each year as material and labour costs rise. For an estimate/quote on your specific project, please consult your local Refresh Renovations specialist to find out more about our planning, design and build process. **All Refresh Renovations franchises are independently owned and operated.