Kitchen Renovation Cost – Your Practical UK Guide

If you’re thinking about giving your kitchen a fresh look, the first question is always the same: how much will it cost? The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all number, but a range that depends on what you want, where you live, and who does the work. In this guide we’ll walk you through the real‑world price points you’ll meet, so you can set a budget that feels realistic and stick to it.

Main Cost Drivers

Labour tops the list. Skilled tradespeople – cabinet makers, electricians, plumbers – charge by the hour or by the job, and rates vary by region. In London you’ll see higher numbers than in the Midlands, often £35‑£55 per hour for a qualified installer. Next up are the cabinets. Stock‑ready units from big retailers can run £2,000‑£5,000 for a modest three‑piece kitchen, while custom-built cabinets easily push past £10,000. Appliances add another chunk; a mid‑range fridge‑freezer, oven and hob package usually starts around £1,200 and can climb to £4,500 for premium brands. Finally, don’t forget finishes – tiles, backsplashes, worktops, and lighting. A decent laminate worktop might be £70 per metre, whereas a natural stone surface can cost £200‑£300 per metre.

Tips to Keep the Budget in Check

Start with a clear plan. Sketch out the layout, list every item you need, and assign an approximate price before you call any contractor. This prevents surprise quotes later on. Re‑use what you can – keep existing appliances or worktops if they’re still in good shape. Buying appliances during sales periods (Black Friday, end‑of‑season clearance) can shave off several hundred pounds. Consider semi‑custom cabinets: they use the same manufacturing process as stock units but let you pick sizes and finishes that fit your space, saving both money and time. Finally, get at least three written quotes for the whole job; the lowest isn’t always the best, but comparing them helps you spot hidden fees like disposal costs or site cleanup.

On average, a mid‑range kitchen renovation in the UK lands between £10,000 and £20,000. A high‑end project with bespoke cabinets, premium appliances and luxury finishes can exceed £30,000, while a budget refresh – refacing cabinets, new worktop and basic appliances – often stays under £8,000. Remember that unexpected issues (plumbing problems, outdated wiring) can add 10‑15% to the total, so add a contingency buffer.

Bottom line: know where your money goes, shop smart, and keep a safety net. With a solid plan and a few cost‑saving tricks, you’ll end up with a kitchen that looks great without blowing your budget.