Renovation Costs in Saskatoon: Realistic Starting Points for Full-Service Design + Build

Important note: These ranges reflect full-service design + build projects, not DIY or trade-only installs. Final investment depends on scope, existing conditions, and finish level.

Renovations are exciting. They are also one of the easiest ways to blow a budget if the starting expectations are fuzzy.

One of the most common questions we get is: “Can you just tell me what this might cost?”
Yes. With one important note: every home is different, and pricing depends on scope, existing conditions, materials, and how much construction is involved.

So instead of pretending every kitchen costs the same, here are realistic starting points for full-service design + build projects. These numbers help you plan, prioritize, and quickly figure out whether your project is a light refresh or a full renovation.

What we mean by “full-service”

Full-service means we are supporting the whole process, not just giving ideas. That typically includes:

• design direction + planning

• selections (finishes, fixtures, materials, lighting)

• trade coordination + project management

• on-site decision support

• making sure the final result looks intentional, not pieced together

Basically: you get a plan, you get guidance, and you get execution support so the project does not turn into chaos.

Starting points: full-service projects

Bathrooms

Most full bathroom renovations start at $35,000+.
If you are moving plumbing, upgrading ventilation, doing custom tilework, adding heated floors, or choosing premium fixtures, it climbs fast.

Ensuites

Ensuites usually involve more detail and higher expectations. Most full-service ensuite projects start at $45,000+, and increase with custom showers, freestanding tubs, layout changes, or upgraded finishes.

Kitchens

Most full-service kitchen renovations start at $90,000+.
Kitchens involve the most trades, the most decisions, and the most ways to accidentally spend money twice. Layout changes, structural work, custom cabinetry, and upgraded appliances often push budgets well into six figures.

Laundry rooms

Laundry rooms are deceptively complex because they combine cabinetry, plumbing, electrical, ventilation, and durable finishes. Most full-service laundry projects start at $25,000+.

Mudrooms

Mudrooms are function-first spaces that still need to look good. Most full-service mudroom projects start at $20,000+. Built-in storage and durable materials are usually the big drivers.

Fireplace walls and feature walls

Most fireplace wall feature projects start at $15,000+.
If you add built-ins, lighting upgrades, or premium cladding (stone, plaster, custom millwork), it often lands in the $25,000–$50,000+ range.

Custom walk-in closets

Most custom walk-in closets start at $20,000+.
Larger layouts, integrated lighting, specialty storage, premium finishes, and dressing-island plans typically move budgets into the $30,000–$60,000+ range.

Basements

Basements vary a lot depending on whether you are finishing from scratch or renovating an older finished space.

• A full-service basement finish typically starts at $80,000+ for a more straightforward layout (rec room + basic bedroom + bathroom).

• If you are adding a full bathroom, wet bar, built-ins, a gym, or higher-end finishes, many basements land in the $120,000–$200,000+ range.

• If the basement includes a secondary suite setup (kitchenette, more plumbing, egress requirements, heavier mechanical and electrical), it can go beyond that quickly.

Whole-home renovations

Whole-home projects vary widely, but full-service renovations typically start at $300,000+.
If you are renovating kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, lighting, paint, trim, and changing layouts across multiple levels, this is the realistic zone.

Custom homes: what to expect

If you are building a custom home and want full interior design support (finish specification, selections, drawings support, and design oversight), a realistic starting point for construction is often $450+ per sq ft, not including land. Complexity and finish level can push that higher.

Other “key pieces” people forget to budget for

These are the areas that surprise people because they feel small, but they are not:

Windows and doors

If you are replacing a meaningful number of windows or changing exterior doors, it can be a major investment. It also affects trim, paint, and interior finishing.

Flooring throughout

Whole-floor or whole-home flooring updates can get expensive fast once you include prep, transitions, stairs, and baseboards.

Lighting and electrical upgrades

New lighting plans often mean new wiring, new switching, added pot lights, feature lighting, and sometimes panel capacity work.

Built-ins and millwork

Anything custom looks incredible and costs what it should. Built-ins, mudroom lockers, library walls, banquettes, paneling, and slat details add up quickly.

Railings and stair updates

This is one of the most visible things in a home, and it is also one of the most underestimated line items.

Mechanical updates

Furnace, water heater, ventilation, AC, and plumbing updates can quietly eat budget without adding “wow.” It is still money well spent when needed.

How much should you budget for design?

A reliable planning guideline is that design fees are typically 10–15% of the overall project investment for full-service projects.

Design is not just “making it pretty.” It protects the outcome. It prevents expensive mistakes, reduces indecision, and keeps the entire build aligned.

The honest truth

If your budget is below these starting points, it does not mean you cannot improve your home. It usually means the right plan is a targeted refresh, a phased approach, or a smaller scope with clear priorities.

The goal is not spending more. The goal is spending smart, with clarity.