A new kitchen is one of the most popular home improvements in the UK, and one of the easiest to overspend on. A kitchen renovation typically costs £8,000 to £15,000 for a mid-range project, from around £5,000 for a budget refresh to £25,000 or more for bespoke units, stone worktops and premium appliances.
Where the money goes surprises many people. Units and worktops take the biggest share, but installation, plumbing, electrics, flooring and decorating add up quickly – and moving the sink, cooker or walls can push the kitchen budget up sharply.
This kitchen planning guide shows typical prices by budget level, how costs usually split, the trades and certificates involved, and practical ways to get the kitchen you want without blowing the budget.
Three budget levels
- Flat-pack or entry-level units
- Laminate worktops
- Same layout, standard appliances
- Rigid, pre-assembled units
- Solid wood or quartz-effect worktops
- Some layout changes, mid-range appliances
- Bespoke or handmade cabinetry
- Quartz or granite worktops
- Islands, premium appliances, structural work
Where the money typically goes
Planning your kitchen step by step
- Set a budget and keep a 10–15% contingency for surprises behind old units.
- Decide on the layout – galley, L-shape, U-shape or island – around the sink, hob and fridge.
- Measure carefully, including window heights, radiators, boiler position and doors.
- Get two or three designs and quotes with the same specification so you can compare fairly.
- Order units and appliances, allowing for delivery lead times.
- First fix: plumbing, electrics and any wall changes before units go in.
- Fit units, worktops and appliances, then tiling and flooring.
- Final checks and certificates.
Trades and certificates involved
- Electrician: new kitchen circuits and changes near sinks are often notifiable – ask for an Electrical Installation Certificate.
- Gas Safe engineer: any gas hob, oven or pipework work must be done by a registered engineer.
- Plumber: moving the sink, dishwasher or washing machine.
- Building control: needed if you remove a structural wall or create an open-plan space.
Smart ways to save
Budgets reflect typical UK kitchen renovation costs.
Independent guide – not linked to any kitchen retailer or fitter.