If you’ve got a small kitchen and More"> and you’re planning a makeover, one of your biggest questions is probably: “How much are new countertops actually going to cost me?” Whether you're browsing hardware store deals or thinking about a custom solution, it helps to know what you’re paying for — and where you can save without compromising on style or durability.
Let’s break it down so you can make the smartest choice for your kitchen (and your budget).
💡 What Counts as a “Small” Kitchen?
In South African homes, a “small kitchen” typically means 2–3 meters of countertop space. This is common in apartments, townhouses, and compact suburban homes. You might have a straight counter against one wall or a small L-shape with a bit of working space near the stove or sink.
For this size, you’ll likely need 1 to 2 standard-length countertops, depending on the layout and how much surface area you’re replacing.
💸 So, What Do Countertops for a Small Kitchen Cost?
Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay in South Africa:
-
Budget Range (DIY/Builders Warehouse-style):
R600 – R950 per linear meter for basic Formica postform tops (typically 32mm thick). These are available off the shelf and are suitable for rental units or budget projects. -
Mid-Range (Custom Sizes/Better Finishes):
R950 – R1,400 per meter for higher-quality finishes, squareline profiles, and better durability. DRT Laminating offers custom-cut postform and flat-pressed tops in this category — giving you flexibility without breaking the bank. -
Premium Custom Work:
R1,500+ per meter for special colors, thicker boards, edge customization, and additional design touches like integrated kickplates or backsplashes.
👉 For a 2.4m small kitchen, a realistic spend would be:
- Budget install: ± R1,800 – R2,300
- Mid-range custom: ± R2,500 – R3,500
- Premium custom: ± R4,000 and up
🧰 Custom vs Off-the-Shelf – Why It Matters
You might be tempted to go straight to a big-box store for convenience. But here’s where custom-made tops like the ones from DRT Laminating actually shine:
- Perfect fit – No weird gaps or offcuts.
- More style options – Bullnose, squareline, flat edges? Yes, please.
- You choose the finish – Woodgrain, matte, gloss, or something modern? You get to pick.
- No upsell surprises – What you see is what you pay.
If you’re in Johannesburg, working with a local countertop manufacturer like DRT Laminating means you’re getting high-quality workmanship with shorter lead times — and support if you need adjustments.
🛠️ What Else Affects the Price?
granite laminate countertops, subway tile backsplash and decorative flowers">
- Thickness of the board: 16mm vs 32mm can make a big difference.
- Edge profile: Bullnose (rounded) vs squareline (modern) can affect both the price and the look.
- Installation: Doing it yourself vs hiring someone adds anywhere from R800 to R2,000+ depending on complexity.
- Add-ons: Backsplashes, sink cutouts, or matching kickplates can slightly bump up your cost.
📦 Looking for a Builders Warehouse Alternative?
If you’ve been comparing prices and feel like big-box store offerings look a bit… meh — we get it. You want value and something that won’t chip after six months.
DRT Laminating’s countertops are made with quality materials and care. We help you match your space, your layout, and your budget — without the mass-produced vibe.
✅ Quick Tips to Save on Small Kitchen Countertops
- Stick to standard depths (usually 600mm) to avoid custom board costs.
- Go for postform tops in common finishes for a budget-friendly look.
- Combine countertop upgrades with other kitchen updates (like cabinets) for bulk savings.
- Get quotes from local manufacturers like DRT Laminating — you’ll be surprised how competitive custom can be!
Final Thoughts
A small kitchen doesn’t mean small style — or a huge bill. With the right countertop partner, you can get beautiful, durable kitchen tops that fit your space and your budget.
At DRT Laminating, we help homeowners and professionals in Johannesburg create kitchens they love — one custom-cut top at a time.
Ready to upgrade your kitchen tops? Let’s chat and bring your vision to life.