Apartment renovation costs in Lausanne: a complete guide for 2026
Renovating an apartment in Lausanne is much more than just a construction project. It's a strategic investment that improves living comfort, modernizes an older property, and sustainably increases its real estate value. Whether you want to transform an aging apartment, optimize space, remodel a kitchen, modernize a bathroom, or undertake a complete renovation, the question of budget remains paramount.
In 2026, the cost of renovating a property in Lausanne depends on several factors: the size of the dwelling, its initial condition, the quality of the materials chosen, the technical complexity of the work, and the desired level of finish. In this comprehensive guide, FABINHA SA helps you better understand the costs, project stages, and best practices for a successful renovation in the canton of Vaud.
What is the average price of an apartment renovation in Lausanne?
In French-speaking Switzerland, and particularly in Lausanne, renovation costs are influenced by the level of demand in the local market, the expected quality of workmanship, and the price of materials. Generally speaking, average budgets are distributed as follows:
- Light renovation: between 400 and 800 CHF per m²
- Complete renovation: between 900 and 1500 CHF per m²
- High-end renovation: between 1500 and 3000 CHF per m²
For an 80 m² apartment in Lausanne, this represents an estimated budget of:
- 32,000 to 64,000 CHF for a light renovation
- 72,000 to 120,000 CHF for a complete renovation
- CHF 120,000 to CHF 240,000 for a premium or high-end renovation
These figures are indicative only. A precise quote always requires an on-site visit, a technical analysis of the property, and a detailed understanding of your objectives. A renovation company in Lausanne like FABINHA SA can help you establish a realistic, consistent estimate tailored to the exact nature of your project.
Key takeaway: the cost of an apartment renovation in Lausanne can vary significantly depending on the type of work. A light renovation, a complete renovation, or a high-end renovation will each have different objectives and budgets.
What factors influence the cost of an apartment renovation?
1. The initial state of the dwelling
An older apartment in Lausanne or the canton of Vaud may present hidden drawbacks. Outdated electrical wiring, aging plumbing, uneven walls, poor insulation, or deteriorating finishes can quickly inflate the budget. The more extensive the technical upgrades required, the higher the overall price.
2. The quality of the materials
The choice of materials has a direct impact on the final cost. Standard tiles, engineered wood flooring, a custom kitchen, designer bathroom fixtures, or high-end finishes all have different budgets. It's not just about aesthetics: materials also contribute to the durability, comfort, and increased value of the property.
3. The complexity of the work
A simple surface renovation remains far more affordable than a project involving structural modifications, room redistribution, opening up a kitchen, integrating custom-made furniture, or a complete 3D design. As soon as the project involves multiple trades and complex coordination, the costs logically increase.
4. The desired level of finish
Some homeowners are looking for a quick update, while others want to transform their apartment into an exceptional property. The desired level of finish significantly influences the budget. In a high-end renovation, every detail counts: alignment, textures, lighting, woodwork, color choices, and overall aesthetic coherence.
5. The area to be renovated
The total surface area remains, of course, a key factor. However, the price per square meter can decrease or increase depending on the property's layout. Small apartments with kitchens and bathrooms needing renovation are sometimes more expensive per square meter than large apartments requiring minimal work.
What work is generally included in a complete renovation?
A complete apartment renovation in Lausanne may include all or part of the following services:
- demolition and removal of the old elements,
- floor and wall covering renovation,
- bringing the electrical system up to code,
- plumbing work,
- kitchen renovation
- bathroom renovation,
- Painting and finishing,
- creation of custom-made storage or furniture,
- modification of partitions and optimization of spaces,
- interior design advice and choice of materials.
The more comprehensive the project, the more important it is to be supported by a company capable of managing the entire project with rigor, method and aesthetic vision.
Why request a quote before starting work?
A detailed quote provides a clear overview of the budget, the scope of work, the materials to be used, and the timeline. It is an essential foundation for managing the project smoothly.
FAQ about apartment renovation in Lausanne
How long does a complete renovation take?
The timeframe depends on the type of renovation undertaken, the availability of materials, the complexity of the project, and the level of prior preparation. As a guideline:
- Partial renovation: approximately 4 to 8 weeks
- Complete renovation: approximately 2 to 4 months
- High-end project with bespoke design: sometimes even more depending on the specific requirements.
Good planning helps avoid delays, cost overruns, and hasty decisions. That's why the preparation phase is just as important as the execution of the work itself.
Why hire a renovation company in Lausanne?
Entrusting your project to a specialized company offers several major advantages. You benefit from a single point of contact, better coordination between the various trades, solid technical support, and a comprehensive overview of the project. This significantly reduces the risk of errors, budget overruns, or poor workmanship.
By choosing a company like FABINHA SA , you also benefit from a quality-oriented approach focused on design and property enhancement. A successful renovation is not simply about replacing what already exists: it must improve functionality, enhance the elegance of the spaces, and create a lasting result.
How to optimize your renovation budget?
To control the cost of an apartment renovation in Lausanne, several best practices can be implemented from the outset. It is essential to define your priorities, clarify the desired level of finish, anticipate technical constraints, and seek guidance from experienced professionals. A well-defined project from the beginning prevents most budget overruns.
The price depends on the surface area, the initial condition of the property, the materials chosen, and the level of finish. On average, the budget ranges from 400 to 3000 CHF per m², depending on whether it is a light, complete, or high-end renovation.
It is also recommended to consider renovations from a long-term value perspective. A well-designed kitchen, an elegant bathroom, durable materials, and optimized circulation not only provide comfort but also enhance the property's appeal on the Lausanne real estate market.