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UK Kitchen Renovation Cost: Find the Average Cost of Kitchen Renovation
- Dan Hall
- Aug 31
- 13 min read
Planning a new kitchen is exciting, but let’s be honest—the first question on everyone’s mind is, “How much will it cost?” Getting a grip on the numbers from the very beginning is the key to setting a realistic budget and avoiding any nasty surprises later on. Understanding the average cost of kitchen renovation is your first step.
In the UK, the average cost of a kitchen renovation typically falls somewhere between £6,200 and £16,800, but this figure can swing dramatically depending on how big your plans are.
Your Quick Guide To UK Kitchen Renovation Costs
Embarking on a kitchen renovation is a serious investment, and the total expense can vary wildly based on the choices you make. A simple cosmetic refresh is one thing; a complete, high-end transformation is another beast entirely. Every decision, from the worktops to the tap fittings, will nudge that final figure up or down.
Recent figures suggest that the average budget for a full kitchen renovation in the UK hovers around £11,500. This usually breaks down into the cost of fitting the kitchen itself (averaging about £5,200) and the supply of new kitchen units, which typically comes in at around £3,000. Of course, our in-house services can help you factor in all the other costs, too.
Understanding The Cost Brackets
To get a clearer picture of where your project might land, it helps to think in terms of different tiers: budget, mid-range, and high-end. Each level comes with its own expected price tag and is a key factor in the average cost of kitchen renovation.
For a deeper dive into how different elements contribute to the final bill, it’s worth exploring guides on the average cost of a kitchen remodel.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Brackets At A Glance
The table below gives you a quick summary of what you can expect to invest at each level, helping you gauge where your own project fits in.
Renovation Tier | Typical Cost Range | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
Budget | £4,000 - £8,000 | £6,000 |
Mid-Range | £8,000 - £17,000 | £12,500 |
High-End | £17,000+ | £30,000+ |
These figures are a great starting point for wrapping your head around the potential investment required for your new kitchen.
A well-planned kitchen not only enhances your daily life but can also add significant value to your property, making it one of the smartest home improvements you can undertake.
Whether you're aiming for a modest update or a full-scale remodel, knowing these figures provides a solid foundation. Our team provides fully itemised quotes using our in-house services to ensure you see exactly where your money is going.
So, What Really Drives Your Renovation Price?
Ever wondered why one kitchen renovation quote comes in at a neat £8,000, while another shoots past the £30,000 mark? That final figure isn't just pulled out of thin air. It’s the sum of dozens of interconnected choices you'll make along the way. Getting a handle on these key variables is the first step to mastering your budget and understanding the real average cost of kitchen renovation for your home.
It all starts with the basics: the size of your kitchen and the complexity of its layout. These are, without a doubt, the biggest initial cost drivers. A simple refresh of a small galley kitchen is naturally going to be a much smaller investment than gutting and reconfiguring a large, open-plan space.
The Big Impact of Size and Structural Changes
The single most expensive decision you can make is to alter your kitchen's existing footprint. As soon as your plans involve knocking down walls, moving the plumbing for a sink, or running new electrical circuits for that dream island, the costs start climbing. Fast.
These jobs require a team of skilled tradespeople—plumbers, electricians, plasterers—and can easily add thousands to your final bill. Our in-house services provide all these experts under one roof, simplifying the process for you.
Pro Tip: One of the most effective ways to keep a lid on costs is to keep your existing layout. This simple decision minimises the need for complex and expensive plumbing, gas, and electrical work.
Structural work in older properties can also open a can of worms. Once the walls are opened up, you might uncover hidden problems like damp, dodgy old wiring, or crumbling pipework. For any home built before 2000, you also have the potential headache of asbestos, which can seriously inflate your budget. It’s vital you know what you’re doing when it comes to finding licensed asbestos removal contractors to handle it safely and legally.
Materials and Appliances: Where Your Choices Really Count
After the layout, your choice of materials and appliances has the biggest say on the final price. It's a bit like choosing the spec for a new car. The basic model will get you from A to B, but if you want the leather seats and top-of-the-range tech, you’ll pay a premium. This is where you get to define the look and feel of your kitchen, but it’s also where the budget can spiral.
Here’s a quick look at how your choices can make a difference:
Worktops: Laminate is your go-to for a tight budget. Stepping up to solid wood, granite, or quartz means a big jump in both quality and cost.
Cabinetry: Standard flat-pack cabinets are the most economical option by far. On the other end of the scale, semi-custom or fully bespoke handmade joinery is a major investment, but you get unparalleled quality and a perfect fit.
Appliances: Freestanding appliances are almost always cheaper than the sleek, integrated models that disappear seamlessly behind your cabinet doors.
Every single decision contributes to the final average cost of kitchen renovation. Our in-house design consultants are brilliant at helping you navigate these choices, showing you where to save a little and where a bigger investment will really pay off, creating a stunning kitchen that still respects your budget.
A Detailed Breakdown of Labour and Fitting Costs
It’s easy to get carried away choosing beautiful worktops and shiny new appliances—that's the fun part, after all. But the cost of the people who actually build your dream kitchen is a massive piece of the financial puzzle. Far too often, homeowners underestimate labour and fitting costs, leading to some nasty budget shocks down the line. To really understand the true average cost of kitchen renovation, you have to get to grips with these expenses first.
Think of it this way: you can buy the finest ingredients for a gourmet meal, but without a skilled chef, you’ll just have a pile of expensive vegetables. Your kitchen is no different. The quality of the fitting is every bit as important as the quality of the materials you choose.
Who Is on the Renovation Team?
A full kitchen installation isn't a one-person job. It takes a coordinated team of specialist tradespeople, each bringing their own skills—and their own day rate—to the project. These costs can swing quite a bit depending on where you live (rates in London and the South East are almost always higher) and how complex the job is. With our in-house services, all these professionals are managed by us.
Here’s a quick rundown of who you can expect to need on your project:
Kitchen Fitters: These are your primary carpenters, the ones who assemble and install your cabinetry, worktops, and doors. Think of them as the conductors of the kitchen orchestra.
Plumbers: Absolutely essential for connecting your sink, tap, dishwasher, and any gas hobs. Remember, any and all gas work must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Electricians: They’re responsible for wiring up your oven, hob, and lighting, plus installing any new sockets you need. This work has to be certified to meet current building regulations.
Tilers & Flooring Specialists: The experts who will install your splashback and lay that smart new floor.
Plasterers & Decorators: They come in to prepare walls and ceilings before the units go in and then apply the final, flawless coats of paint.
Deconstructing the Fitting Quote
Recent data shows that the cost of fitting a kitchen in the UK typically falls somewhere between £3,500 and £9,500. On average, you can expect labour costs for fitters to be around £300 per day, though this figure can fluctuate between £250 and £350 depending on their experience and your location.
To avoid any confusion later on, it's vital that your quote clearly itemises every single part of the job. This transparency lets you see exactly what’s included and what might be classed as an 'extra'.
At Hallmoore, our in-house team of tradespeople allows us to manage your entire project seamlessly from start to finish. We provide fully-itemised quotes that clearly separate all labour and material costs, so you have a complete and transparent understanding of where your money is going. This approach is consistent across all our work, as we detail in our comprehensive UK house renovation costs guide. Our commitment is simple: provide total clarity and prevent unexpected expenses, giving you complete confidence in your budget.
How Different Budgets Shape a Kitchen Remodel
Seeing the numbers is one thing, but understanding what those numbers actually get you is where it gets interesting. To bring the average cost of kitchen renovation to life, let’s walk through three common projects we see every day: a budget-friendly refresh, a full mid-range overhaul, and a top-of-the-line luxury transformation.
Each of these tiers involves a different scope of work, quality of materials, and of course, a different final price tag. These examples should give you a much clearer idea of what’s possible and where your own project might land.
The Budget-Friendly Refresh
Think of this as a strategic cosmetic update, not a complete gut job. The goal here is simple: get the biggest visual bang for your buck by focusing on the most noticeable surfaces. It’s the perfect route for a kitchen that works just fine but is starting to look a bit tired or dated.
Usually, this kind of project involves:
Painting existing cabinets instead of ripping them out.
Replacing worktops with smart, cost-effective options like laminate or solid wood.
Updating hardware—new handles and knobs make a surprising difference.
Adding a new splashback with simple, stylish tiles.
By keeping the existing layout and reusing the cabinet carcasses, you sidestep the hefty costs of moving plumbing, rewiring electrics, and buying brand-new units. Our in-house services can help you make clever choices to see an amazing transformation, even on a smaller budget.
The Mid-Range Overhaul
This is the most common type of kitchen project we handle and lines up nicely with the typical average cost of kitchen renovation. It involves a complete replacement of the old kitchen, giving you the chance to improve both the layout and how the space works for you. You’ll be choosing all-new units, worktops, and appliances from the ground up.
This approach gives you far more freedom. You can pick better quality materials, like durable quartz worktops, and go for integrated appliances for that sleek, seamless finish. A mid-range kitchen remodel will typically land somewhere between £25,000 and £75,000, striking a great balance between getting significant upgrades and keeping spending under control.
The Luxury Transformation
Pushing beyond the mid-range, a huge number of UK homeowners are investing in high-end, luxury kitchen remodels. These projects, which in 2025 can cost anywhere from £80,000 to £150,000 (and sometimes more), are all about premium materials, bespoke craftsmanship, and clever technology. You can find more insights on what drives these luxury kitchen costs on surfexfilm.uk.
To illustrate where the money goes, the table below breaks down potential costs across these three project types.
Sample Renovation Project Cost Breakdown
Here’s a comparative look at how different choices in materials and scope impact the overall budget for a typical kitchen renovation.
Expense Item | Budget Project Example (£) | Mid-Range Project Example (£) | Luxury Project Example (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
Design & Labour | 2,500 | 8,000 | 20,000 |
Cabinetry | 3,000 (refaced/painted) | 10,000 (semi-custom) | 35,000 (fully bespoke) |
Worktops | 1,500 (laminate) | 6,000 (quartz) | 15,000 (marble/rare stone) |
Appliances | 2,000 (freestanding) | 7,000 (integrated) | 25,000 (high-end brands) |
Flooring | 800 (vinyl) | 2,500 (engineered wood) | 8,000 (premium tile) |
Splashback | 400 (ceramic tile) | 1,500 (glass/stone) | 5,000 (full-height stone) |
Lighting & Electrics | 800 | 2,000 | 7,000 (smart lighting) |
Plumbing & Sink | 500 | 1,500 | 5,000 (boiling water tap) |
Contingency (15%) | 1,725 | 5,775 | 18,000 |
Total Estimated Cost | £13,225 | £44,275 | £143,000 |
As you can see, the final investment varies wildly based on your choices. A budget refresh focuses on cosmetic wins, while a luxury project invests heavily in bespoke craftsmanship and top-tier materials.
The data clearly shows how decisions like refacing your cabinets instead of replacing them can cut that specific expense right in half. What these examples really prove is that no matter the budget, our expert in-house services can guide you towards a beautiful and functional kitchen that works for you.
Smart Ways to Renovate Your Kitchen for Less
A stunning new kitchen doesn't have to come with a jaw-dropping price tag. With a bit of smart planning and a few strategic choices, you can dramatically reduce the average cost of kitchen renovation without sacrificing an ounce of style or quality. It really just comes down to knowing where to invest your money and where you can find clever savings.
The single biggest money-saver is often the simplest: keep your existing kitchen layout. The moment you start moving sinks, ovens, or dishwashers, you’re wading into the deep end of plumbing and electrical work, which can quickly drain your budget. By designing your new kitchen around its current footprint, you sidestep those major expenses right from the start.
Strategic Material Choices
Your choice of materials will have a massive impact on the final bill. While high-end stone worktops are undeniably beautiful, you’d be amazed at what modern laminates can do. They offer an incredible range of realistic finishes—from convincing marble to warm wood grains—at a fraction of the cost. Plus, they’re durable and a breeze to maintain.
It’s the same story with your cabinets. Flat-pack units are the most budget-friendly route if you’re happy to handle the assembly yourself. Pre-assembled cabinets cost a bit more upfront but will save you a good chunk on labour time. Both can look fantastic when chosen well, and our in-house services can walk you through the options to strike the perfect balance for your project.
The secret to a successful budget renovation is making savvy choices about where to splurge and where to save. Invest in the things you touch every day, like taps and handles, and save on the bigger elements where cost-effective alternatives offer similar looks and performance.
Timing and Sourcing
Thinking outside the box can also unlock some serious savings. Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind:
Plan for Off-Peak Seasons: Most contractors are swamped in the spring and autumn. If you can schedule your renovation during a quieter period, like early winter, you might find they have better availability and more competitive quotes.
Source Wisely: Keep an eye out for end-of-line appliances or ex-display models. These are often brand new but are being sold at a significant discount to make way for the next season's stock.
Prioritise Your Spending: Figure out what your absolute "must-haves" are. Is it that high-end worktop or a specific type of flooring? Put your money into your priorities and then find more economical solutions for the less critical areas.
By using these strategies, you can take control of your spending and bring the average cost of kitchen renovation down significantly. Our team is here to help you make these cost-effective choices with our in-house services, ensuring your budget is stretched as far as possible to deliver a beautiful, functional, and affordable new kitchen.
How to Plan Your Budget and Get an Accurate Quote
A successful renovation doesn't start with a sledgehammer; it starts with a rock-solid financial plan. Figuring out the average cost of a kitchen renovation for your specific project means careful budgeting from day one, making sure your vision and your finances are perfectly aligned. Think of it less as just a list of costs and more as a realistic roadmap for your new kitchen.
The first step? Get detailed. A crucial part of any kitchen project is understanding what is space planning. Getting this right from the start helps you optimise your layout and functionality, which directly impacts your budget and allows you to get a much more accurate quote. Don't just budget for the big-ticket items like cabinets and worktops; you need to account for everything, right down to the splashbacks and new plug sockets.
The Importance of a Contingency Fund
No matter how meticulously you plan, renovations—especially in older properties—have a knack for throwing up surprises. That’s why a contingency fund isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential.
A contingency fund is your financial safety net. Industry best practice is to set aside 10-15% of your total project cost. This buffer is there to cover unforeseen expenses, like uncovering hidden plumbing problems or realising you need extra electrical work.
Without this buffer, a minor hiccup can derail your entire project. It could force you to either halt the work, make compromises on quality you'll regret later, or worse, go into unplanned debt.
Gathering and Comparing Quotes
Once you have a budget mapped out, it’s time to start gathering quotes. We always recommend getting at least three detailed estimates from reputable companies. This gives you a clear picture of the market and helps you compare properly. But remember, the cheapest quote is rarely the best one.
Be on the lookout for red flags: vague descriptions, suspiciously low prices, or any pressure to make a decision on the spot. A trustworthy quote will be comprehensive and completely transparent, breaking down all the material and labour costs so you know exactly where your money is going. This level of detail is vital for making an informed choice, especially for major elements like cabinetry. For a deeper dive on that specific cost, our article on the UK cost to replace kitchen cabinets is packed with useful insights.
Partnering with a reputable company like ours ensures you receive a thorough and honest estimate from the get-go. Ready to see what your project might cost? Contact our in-house team today for a no-obligation consultation and a detailed estimate tailored to your vision.
Still Got Questions About Kitchen Costs?
Thinking through the money side of a renovation always brings up a few queries. To help you get your head around it, we've answered some of the questions we hear most often about the average cost of kitchen renovation and what it really means for your home's value.
How Much Value Does a New Kitchen Add to a UK Home?
Honestly, a new kitchen is one of the smartest places you can put your money in a property. A well-designed, properly fitted renovation can add anywhere from 5% to 10% to your home's total value.
Of course, the final figure depends on things like where your property is and the quality of the finish you choose, but it almost always delivers a solid return. It's not just about the sale price, either—a modern, functional kitchen makes your home stand out to potential buyers, helping it sell much faster when the time comes.
How Long Does a Typical Kitchen Renovation Take?
The timeline really comes down to the scale of the job. If you're just after a cosmetic refresh—say, painting cabinets and swapping out the worktops—we could be in and out in just a few days.
But for a full-gut renovation with new units, appliances, plumbing, and electrics, you're typically looking at 2 to 5 weeks from the first day of work to the final polish. If you're planning bigger structural changes, like knocking down a wall to create an open-plan space, the project might stretch to 6 weeks or more. Our in-house services always map out a detailed schedule to keep the disruption to your daily life to an absolute minimum.
Is a DIY Kitchen Renovation a Good Way to Save Money?
Going the DIY route can definitely shave off the labour costs, but it’s a path loaded with risks that can end up costing you far more in the long run. Fitting a kitchen properly isn't just about assembling flat-pack units; it demands real skill in carpentry, plumbing, and electrics.
Simple mistakes can be incredibly expensive to put right and, more importantly, can be outright dangerous. For any work involving gas or complex electrics, you are legally required to use a certified professional.
A great middle ground is the hybrid approach. You could tackle the more straightforward jobs like ripping out the old kitchen or doing the final painting yourself, then bring in our professional in-house services for the skilled work. This way, you get the satisfaction of being hands-on while ensuring all the critical parts are installed safely and to a high standard. It’s the best of both worlds.
Ready to get a clear, no-obligation quote for your project? The team at Hallmoore developments uses our in-house services to manage every detail, from initial design to final fitting, ensuring a seamless process and a stunning result. See how we can help by visiting https://www.hallmoore.co.uk today.
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