How Much Does a Complete 80m² Apartment Renovation Cost in Athens?

Introduction

Renovating an apartment in Athens represents one of the most significant investments property owners can make, with costs varying widely based on materials, scope, and contractor selection. In 2025, a complete renovation of an 80m² apartment in Athens typically ranges from €40,000 to €80,000 (€500–€1,000/m²), depending on quality level and specific requirements.

This comprehensive guide breaks down all renovation costs for an 80m² Athens apartment, helping you create an accurate budget, understand price variations, and make informed decisions about your renovation project. Whether you’re renovating for personal use or investment purposes, transparency about costs is essential for successful project planning.

Key Renovation Cost Factors in Athens (2025)

Before examining specific costs, several factors significantly influence your total renovation budget:

• Property age and condition: Pre-1980s buildings typically require more extensive work
• Building regulations: Apartment buildings (πολυκατοικίες) may have restrictions
• Quality level: Economy, mid-range, or premium finishes
• Structural changes: Moving walls or plumbing points increases costs substantially
• Permit requirements: Some renovations require municipal approvals
• Contractor vs. self-management: Project management approach affects pricing
• Location: Central Athens neighborhoods often command 10–15% higher labor costs

Average Cost Ranges by Renovation Level

Renovation Level	Cost per m²	Total for 80m²	Timeframe
Economy (basic refresh)	€500–€650	€40,000–€52,000	6–8 weeks
Mid-range (standard renovation)	€650–€800	€52,000–€64,000	8–12 weeks
Premium (luxury finishes)	€800–€1,000+	€64,000–€80,000+	12–16 weeks

Detailed Cost Breakdown by Category

1. Demolition and Preparation (€3,200–€5,600)

• Complete gutting and debris removal: €1,800–€2,800
• Wall/partition demolition (if needed): €800–€1,400
• Plumbing/electrical system removal: €600–€1,400
• Waste management: €800–€1,200 (recommended)

Pro tip: Proper waste management is critical in Athens to avoid municipal fines.

2. Structural Work (€5,600–€9,600)

• New internal walls/partitions: €120–€180/m²
• Ceiling modifications: €40–€80/m²
• Support beam installations: €1,200–€2,500
• Balcony repairs/waterproofing: €1,400–€2,600
• Structural engineer consultation: €600–€900 (essential before removing walls)

3. Plumbing System (€4,800–€8,000)

• Full bathroom plumbing: €1,800–€3,200 per bathroom
• Kitchen plumbing: €1,200–€2,000
• Water supply piping throughout apartment: €1,800–€2,800
• New water heater: €600–€1,200

Cost-saving tip: Retain existing plumbing points where possible to save €1,500–€2,500.

4. Electrical System (€4,000–€7,200)

• Complete rewiring: €2,400–€3,600
• New electrical panel: €600–€1,200
• Light fixtures (basic): €800–€1,400
• Smart home features (optional): €1,200–€3,000
• Certification (Υπεύθυνη Δήλωση Ηλεκτρολόγου): €300–€500

5. Flooring (€4,800–€9,600)

• Ceramic tiles: €28–€45/m²
• Laminate: €25–€40/m²
• Engineered wood: €45–€80/m²
• Natural marble: €70–€120/m²

6. Wall Finishes (€3,200–€5,600)

• Plastering/repairs: €12–€20/m²
• Painting: €10–€18/m²
• Decorative techniques: €25–€50/m²
• Moisture protection: €15–€25/m²

7. Kitchen Renovation (€6,400–€16,000)

• Economy: €6,400–€8,800
• Mid-range: €8,800–€12,000
• Premium: €12,000–€16,000+
• Installation labor: €1,200–€2,400

8. Bathroom Renovation (€4,800–€9,600 per bathroom)

• Economy: €4,800–€6,400
• Mid-range: €6,400–€8,000
• Premium: €8,000–€9,600+

9. Doors and Windows (€4,000–€8,000)

• Interior doors: €350–€700 each (installed)
• Entry security door: €800–€1,800
• Window replacement: €400–€800 each
• Balcony doors: €800–€1,600 each

10. HVAC Systems (€3,200–€6,400)

• Air conditioning units: €800–€1,200 per unit (installed)
• Central heating updates: €2,400–€4,800
• Underfloor heating (optional): €80–€120/m²

11. Finishing Touches (€1,600–€4,000)

• Light fixtures: €800–€1,600
• Window treatments: €800–€1,600
• Built-in storage: €1,200–€2,400

12. Professional Fees (€4,000–€8,000)

• Architect/design: €1,600–€4,000
• Engineering consultation: €800–€1,600
• Project management: 10–15% of total budget (if used)
• Permits and certifications: €800–€1,600

Additional Considerations for Athens Renovations

Permits and Regulations

• Minor interior renovations often don’t require permits
• Structural changes require approval (Έγκριση Εργασιών Μικρής Κλίμακας)
• Energy certificate (Ενεργειακό Πιστοποιητικό) updates may be required
• Building management approval necessary in many πολυκατοικίες

Timing Considerations

• Summer (Jun–Aug) sees higher labor costs; many contractors take August holidays
• Winter may offer 5–10% discounts but can cause weather delays
• Typical 80m² complete renovation timeline: 10–14 weeks

Hidden Costs to Anticipate

• Temporary accommodation: €600–€1,200/month
• Furniture storage: €200–€400/month
• Unexpected structural issues: add 10–15% contingency
• Post-renovation cleaning: €300–€500

Cost-Saving Strategies

• Phased renovation to spread costs
• Use premium materials only in high-impact areas
• Retain existing layouts to limit plumbing/electrical relocation
• Obtain 3–5 detailed contractor quotes
• Consider winter scheduling for lower rates
• Project-manage yourself to save 10–15% if feasible

Case Studies: Real Athens Renovation Budgets

• Economy Renovation: 80m² in Kypseli — €42,000 (7 weeks)
• Mid-Range Renovation: 80m² in Ambelokipi — €58,000 (11 weeks)
• Premium Renovation: 80m² in Kolonaki — €76,000 (14 weeks)

Conclusion

A complete renovation of an 80m² apartment in Athens represents a significant investment, typically ranging from €40,000 for basic renovations to €80,000+ for premium transformations. By understanding the detailed cost breakdown, you can create a realistic budget, prioritize spending on high-impact elements, and approach your renovation project with confidence.

For personalized renovation guidance, budget planning, or contractor recommendations tailored to your specific Athens property, contact our renovation specialists for a free consultation — or visit Nest Land for more services and examples.

FAQ

How long does a complete 80m² apartment renovation take in Athens?

Typically 8–14 weeks depending on scope; permits can add 2–4 weeks.

Do I need permits for apartment renovation in Athens?

Minor interior works usually don’t require permits; structural, facade, or plumbing relocations generally require Έγκριση Εργασιών Μικρής Κλίμακας. Consult your engineer or architect.

What renovation changes add the most value?

Kitchen and bathroom upgrades, energy-efficiency improvements (windows, HVAC), and adding a second bathroom in larger apartments tend to yield the highest returns.

How much should I budget for unexpected costs?

Set aside 10–15% contingency; older buildings often reveal hidden issues.

Can I live in my apartment during renovation?

Phased minor works may allow staying, but full renovations usually require temporary accommodation for 8–10+ weeks.

Contact

For a free consultation, tailored quote, or contractor recommendations: Nest Land – Services or Contact Nest Land.