Kitchens built around how New Yorkers actually live
A New York kitchen has to earn its square footage. Whether it's the garden-level kitchen of a Brooklyn brownstone, a galley in a pre-war co-op, or an open-plan renovation that removes walls entirely, the difference between a kitchen that merely looks new and one that works is planning: layout, storage, lighting, ventilation, and the unglamorous work behind the walls.
Sorbonne Construction has remodeled kitchens across the five boroughs since 2008. Our own carpenters handle demolition, framing, and millwork; our licensed plumbing and electrical partners handle gas, water, and power; and one owner — Marek or Sebastian — runs the whole job.
What's included
- Layout changes — removing or moving walls, relocating gas, water, and waste lines, and opening kitchens to dining and living space (with structural work where needed).
- Custom cabinetry and millwork — built by our carpenters or sourced from cabinet makers we've worked with for years, fitted to out-of-square pre-war walls.
- Counters and tile — marble, quartz, and stone counters; backsplash and floor tile installed by our own crews.
- Appliances and fixtures — supply, installation, and hookup, including panel upgrades where modern appliances demand more power.
- Lighting and electrical — layered lighting design, new circuits, and code-compliant GFCI work.
- Permits — DOB filings for plumbing, gas, and electrical work, handled by us.
What does a kitchen remodel cost in NYC?
In current market conditions, a straightforward NYC kitchen refresh — new cabinets, counters, and appliances in the existing layout — commonly starts in the $40,000–$70,000 range, while custom kitchens with layout changes, stone, and high-end appliances frequently run $80,000–$150,000+. We give you an itemized written estimate so you can see exactly where the budget goes and adjust scope before construction starts.
Part of a bigger renovation?
Kitchens are often the anchor of a larger project. If you're renovating multiple rooms or the whole house, see our brownstone renovation and gut renovation services — combining scopes under one contract saves money on logistics, permits, and mobilization, and gives you one schedule instead of three.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A kitchen remodel in the existing layout typically takes 6 to 10 weeks of construction once materials are on hand. Layout changes, structural work, or co-op board approvals extend that. Cabinet lead times — often 8 to 12 weeks for custom work — are usually the longest single item, so we order early.
Do I need permits to remodel a kitchen in NYC?
If the work involves moving plumbing or gas lines, adding circuits, or changing layout, yes — DOB permits and licensed filings are required. Purely cosmetic work (cabinets, counters, flooring in place) generally doesn't. We tell you exactly what your project requires and handle all filings.
Can you match cabinetry to a pre-war or brownstone interior?
Yes — that's a specialty. Our carpenters build and fit custom millwork, panel details, and moldings that sit naturally in historic interiors, alongside fully modern appliances and storage.
Do you help with design?
Yes. We work from your architect's or designer's drawings if you have them, or partner you with kitchen designers and architects we work with regularly. Either way, we review the design for buildability and budget before anything is ordered.
Can I stay in my apartment during a kitchen remodel?
Usually yes. We isolate the work area with dust protection, keep water shutoffs brief and scheduled, and can set up a temporary kitchenette. Expect noise during working hours and 6–10 weeks without a functioning kitchen.
Get a free on-site estimate
Speak directly with the owners — no salespeople, no pressure. We visit your property, walk the scope with you, and follow up with a detailed written estimate.
Request a Free EstimateMarek (917) 658-2047 Sebastian (917) 562-1257