Anyone planning to renovate a home in 2025 will quickly face the same question: what are the renovation costs per m²? Material and labor costs have changed, and energy-efficiency requirements are higher than they were a few years ago. That’s why it’s important to calculate with realistic price ranges — whether you’re renovating an apartment, a family home or an entire upper floor.

Why work with price per m²?

Every property is different, but calculating costs per square meter provides a solid starting point. It’s a practical way to make an initial estimate without knowing every technical detail. Especially in the early planning phase, it helps compare scenarios: a cosmetic refresh, a thorough renovation, or a full project from basic to luxury.

What determines renovation costs per m²?

The cost per m² is influenced by several factors. It’s not just about the size of the home, but also its technical condition and the choices you make.

Important elements include:

  • the age and condition of the property;

  • how much demolition and repair work is needed;

  • the condition of existing pipes and electrical systems;

  • the desired level of insulation;

  • the quality of materials and finishes.

The type of project also matters. A 1930s home with outdated installations requires a different level of investment than a relatively modern house that only needs a visual update.

Price Levels: Basic, Standard and Premium

To keep things clear, you can divide renovations into three general categories. The figures below are guidelines based on typical 2025 projects.

Basic focuses on refreshing the home without major structural changes. Think new floors, painting, light plasterwork and limited electrical updates. Costs typically range between €850 and €1,150 per m².

Standard is for those who want more than just cosmetic improvement. This may include:

  • a new kitchen and/or bathroom,

  • modernization of installations,

  • improved insulation,

  • a higher-quality finish without being overly luxurious.

For this level, costs generally range between €1,200 and €1,750 per m².

Premium emphasizes luxury and custom work. This may include moved or removed walls, built-in lighting, high-end fixtures and special flooring. Prices start at around €1,800 per m² and can go up to €2,600 or more, depending on complexity and material choices.

How to calculate a realistic renovation budget

A simple first step is multiplying the surface area by an average price within the chosen category. For example, if you have an 80 m² home and are aiming for the Standard level, you might calculate with €1,500 per m², giving you a rough estimate of around €120,000. It’s not a final quote, but it’s a realistic order of magnitude.

For a more accurate calculation, we look beyond m². In our internal renovation budget calculator, we take into account:

  • the type of property (apartment, family home, 1930s, new-build),

  • the current condition of electrical work, piping and insulation,

  • number of bathrooms and wet rooms,

  • any structural adjustments such as load-bearing walls, dormers or extensions.

By combining all these factors, we create a budget that aligns more closely with real-life project conditions than a simple rough estimate.

Want to know what your renovation would cost?

Schedule a free consultation — we’ll calculate an accurate budget using our renovation budget calculator and help you create a realistic plan.