- Typical cost
- From $35,000 (small kitchen), $55,000 (average), $80,000+ (large kitchen)
- Typical timeline
- 6–10 weeks of construction, plus 3–8 weeks of design and permitting
- Permits through
- Santa Monica Building & Safety
- Service area
- Santa Monica, Westside
What's Included
Everything from a same-footprint refresh to opening up a load-bearing wall and rebuilding the whole space. We do our own demo, framing, MEP coordination, tile and finish work.
- Custom and semi-custom cabinetry
- Quartz, natural stone and porcelain counters
- Island design and layout changes
- Plumbing, gas and electrical relocation
- Panel upgrades and dedicated appliance circuits
- Ducted range hoods and proper ventilation
Kitchen Remodeling Conditions in Santa Monica
Salt air is the other factor. Openings, fasteners, flashing and exterior metal all corrode faster within a mile of the water, so we specify corrosion-resistant materials rather than whatever is cheapest on the shelf. Lots are narrow and street parking is limited, which means staging materials day by day instead of filling a driveway.
- 1920s to 1940s bungalows with galvanized pipe and original wiring
- Local energy and green building amendments above state minimums
- Corrosion-resistant windows, fasteners and flashing for coastal exposure
- Narrow lots with limited staging and parking for crews
- Foundation bolting and cripple wall bracing on most pre-war houses
Where the Money Goes
Cabinetry, layout changes, and anything structural drive the budget. If you keep the sink, stove and refrigerator roughly where they are, you'll typically save $10,000 to $20,000 in plumbing, gas and electrical work. We'll tell you honestly when a layout change is worth it and when it isn't.
- Mid-range refresh: $35,000 – $60,000
- Full remodel with layout changes: $60,000 – $100,000
- Luxury design-build: $100,000 – $120,000+
Permits and Code
Moving plumbing, adding circuits, or removing a wall requires a permit through LADBS. A cabinet-and-counter swap on the same footprint usually doesn't. We never suggest skipping permits, because unpermitted work surfaces during appraisals and costs far more to fix later.
- LADBS permit submittal and inspections
- Structural engineering for wall removals
- Title 24 energy compliance
- GFCI and dedicated circuit requirements
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you do kitchen remodeling in Santa Monica?
Yes. Santa Monica is part of our regular service area. We'll come out for a free on-site consultation, walk the property, and tell you what's realistic before you spend anything on design.
What does kitchen remodeling cost in Santa Monica?
From $35,000 (small kitchen), $55,000 (average), $80,000+ (large kitchen). Site conditions in Santa Monica and your material selections move the number, which is why we price after walking the property rather than over the phone.
Who issues the permit in Santa Monica?
Permits for this work go through Santa Monica Building & Safety. We handle the submittal, plan check corrections and inspections as part of the project.
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Los Angeles?
Kitchen remodels start at $35,000 for a small kitchen, $55,000 for an average-size kitchen, and $80,000 and up for a large kitchen. Cabinetry and layout changes are the biggest cost drivers.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
Usually 6 to 10 weeks of construction, plus 3 to 8 weeks beforehand for design, material ordering and permits. Custom cabinets take 8 to 12 weeks to arrive, so we order them well before demo day.
Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen in Los Angeles?
If you're moving plumbing, adding or relocating electrical, or removing walls, yes. A cosmetic refresh on the same footprint generally does not require one.
Who is the best kitchen remodeling contractor near me in Los Angeles?
Look for a licensed design-build kitchen renovation company that pulls its own permits and builds with in-house crews. 1 Smart Build handles kitchen remodels and open concept kitchen renovations across Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley and every city within about 100 miles of our Woodland Hills office.
Similar Projects We've Built
Kitchen Remodel with Load-Bearing Wall Removal, Sherman Oaks
A closed-off 1954 kitchen opened into the dining and living rooms with an engineered beam, a 10 ft island and relocated plumbing and gas.
Mid-Century Kitchen Remodel in Studio City
A 1961 post-and-beam kitchen rebuilt with walnut cabinetry and terrazzo counters, keeping the original exposed beam ceiling fully intact.
Kitchen Remodel on Florentina Ave, Alhambra
On Florentina Ave in Alhambra, a closed-off 1940s kitchen was rebuilt with new cabinetry, quartz counters and a widened opening to the dining room.
DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT WITH 1 SMART BUILD
Licensed, bonded and insured design-build general contractor serving Los Angeles County and Southern California. Tell us about your property and goals, and we'll walk you through feasibility, permitting and a clear plan.