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What a modular kitchen actually costs by carcass material, finish and hardware — with the line items most quotations hide.
Most kitchen quotations are impossible to compare because each one measures differently. Here is how to read them.
The three real cost drivers
1. Carcass material. BWP plywood and HDHMR cost more than MDF or particle board but survive water. In a kitchen, this is not the place to save.
2. Shutter finish. Laminate is the value option, acrylic gives high gloss, PU gives a painted finish and lacquered glass sits at the top.
3. Hardware. Channels, hinges and lift-ups are 15–25% of a kitchen and decide how it feels three years later.
Indicative ranges
A 10x8 L-shaped kitchen typically lands between ₹1.45 lakh (laminate on BWP, basic hardware) and ₹3.6 lakh (acrylic or PU with premium soft-close and tall units). Counter, chimney, hob and sink are usually quoted separately.
Ask for running-foot clarity
Insist that base, wall and tall units are quoted separately per running foot, and that the carcass brand and hardware brand are written in the quotation — not just "imported hardware".