Renovating a kitchen is a major home project that influences daily life and resale value. If you’re planning a remodel, you probably want a clear answer to the question how much does a new kitchen cost for your home. This guide explains the main price drivers and offers practical budgeting tips.
What drives the price
- Size and layout: larger spaces, complex layouts, and varying ceiling heights can increase labor and material needs.
- Cabinet quality and finish: materials (chipboard, plywood, solid wood), door styles, and finishes (matte, gloss) all affect cost.
- Worktops and surfaces: laminate is cheaper than solid quartz or granite, which drives up the price.
- Appliances: integrated units and energy-efficient models tend to cost more than freestanding options.
- Plumbing and electrical work: moving sinks, adding outlets, and upgrading lighting add to labor and materials.
- Flooring and backsplashes: tiles, wood, or luxury composites influence overall spend.
- Installation and project management: professional fitters, delivery fees, and scheduling impact the total.
- Removal and disposal: old cabinets, appliances, and debris removal can add to the bill.
In short, the bigger and more customized your kitchen, the higher the price. An efficient layout and careful planning can reduce labor time and save money in the long run.
Typical cost ranges to expect
In the UK, there are three broad bands you’ll often see:
- Budget or entry-level: roughly £5,000 to £12,000, including basic cabinetry, standard worktops, and standard appliances.
- Mid-range: about £12,000 to £25,000 for acrylic or wood-veneer cabinets, a mid-range worktop, and integrated appliances.
- High-end or designer: £25,000 to £60,000+ for solid wood cabinetry, premium quartz or granite, and top-tier appliances, plus professional installation and possible layout changes.
These ranges are approximate and depend on your location, the size of the space, and how much of the project you handle yourself versus leaving to a contractor.
What’s typically included in a kitchen remodel
- Cabinets and doors: style, materials, and internal hardware.
- Worktops: laminate, solid surface, quartz, or granite.
- Appliances: integrated vs freestanding, energy rating, and smart features.
- Fitting and installation: labor for cabinets, countertops, and fittings.
- Plumbing and electrical work: moving sinks, adding outlets, lighting plans.
- Backsplash, flooring, and finishing touches.
- Project management and clean-up.
Smart ways to manage costs
Plan carefully, compare multiple quotes, and prioritize changes that add value and daily use. Some effective strategies include:
- Choose standard cabinet sizes and universal fittings to minimize custom fabrication.
- Balance high-impact features (like a high-quality countertop) with economical options for cabinetry.
- Consider semi-integrated appliances or mid-range brands that still deliver performance.
- Schedule work in off-peak seasons to potentially save on labor rates.
Be sure to ask for a detailed written quote that breaks down materials, labor, and any site-specific costs before you sign a contract. If you’re looking for design inspiration and planning tips, discover ideas at the DecoHome homepage.