How much does a new kitchen cost?

A standard fitted kitchen typically costs between £6,000 and £15,000, while premium kitchens can exceed £30,000 depending on cabinetry, appliances, worktops and structural alterations.

How long does a kitchen renovation take?

Most kitchen installations take between two and four weeks once work begins. Larger projects involving extensions or structural work may take considerably longer.

Do I need planning permission for a kitchen renovation?

Replacing an existing kitchen usually doesn't require planning permission. However, Building Regulations may apply to electrical work, structural alterations, ventilation and drainage.

What worktop is best?

Quartz is one of the most popular choices because it's durable, low maintenance and resistant to stains. Granite, porcelain, laminate and solid wood each have their own advantages depending on budget and style.

Should I replace appliances during a renovation?

Replacing older appliances during a renovation often improves energy efficiency and ensures the new kitchen is designed around correctly sized appliances from the outset.

Is an island worth adding?

Kitchen islands provide additional storage, preparation space and seating, but they require adequate clearance around all sides. They're most suitable for medium to large kitchens.

Can I fit a kitchen myself?

Confident DIYers may assemble cabinets or undertake decorating, but plumbing, electrical work, gas appliances and worktop installation are generally best carried out by qualified professionals.

What adds the most value?

Quality cabinetry, durable worktops, efficient layouts, modern lighting, energy-efficient appliances and timeless design choices generally provide the best long-term value.

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kitchen

Homeowner Hub › Kitchen Improvements

Kitchen Improvements

Create a kitchen that's stylish, functional and designed for everyday living. Whether you're refreshing tired cabinets, installing a brand-new kitchen or redesigning the layout of your home, this guide explains costs, planning, timelines, design ideas and how to find trusted local tradespeople.

Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by: The TopTenTrades Editorial Team

Planning a Kitchen Improvement

A kitchen is often the busiest room in the home, making it one of the most rewarding spaces to renovate. A well-planned kitchen improves functionality, increases storage, enhances energy efficiency and can add significant value to your property. Before choosing cabinets or worktops, think about how you use the space every day — cooking habits, entertaining, family life and future needs. Investing time in the planning stage often leads to a better layout and fewer costly changes later.

Why This Project?

check_circleModernise an outdated kitchen
check_circleImprove storage and organisation
check_circleCreate an open-plan living space
check_circleReplace worn cabinets and worktops
check_circleInstall energy-efficient appliances
check_circleImprove lighting
check_circleIncrease property value
check_circleMake better use of available space

Costs

Type	Typical Cost (UK)	Typical Duration
Cosmetic refresh	£2,000–£6,000	3–7 days
Standard kitchen replacement	£6,000–£15,000	2–4 weeks
Premium fitted kitchen	£15,000–£30,000	3–6 weeks
Luxury bespoke kitchen	£30,000+	6+ weeks

CabinetsWorktopsSinkTapsAppliancesFlooringLightingPlumbingElectrical workDecorating

Structural alterations, premium stone worktops and bespoke cabinetry will increase the overall cost. Building Regulations may apply to electrical work, structural alterations, ventilation and drainage, even though planning permission usually isn't required for replacing an existing kitchen.

Planning Your Project

Galley Kitchen

Ideal for smaller homes where efficiency and workflow are important.

L-Shaped Kitchen

Provides flexible work areas and works well in open-plan homes.

U-Shaped Kitchen

Offers maximum storage and generous preparation space.

Kitchen Island

A popular option for larger kitchens, providing additional seating, storage and preparation space.

Open-Plan Kitchen

Combines cooking, dining and living areas to create a sociable family space. If removing walls to create an open-plan layout, consult qualified builders or structural specialists before work begins.

Choosing Cabinets, Worktops and Appliances

Carefully selected materials improve both appearance and durability. Energy-efficient appliances can help reduce running costs while improving everyday convenience.

•Cabinet finishes: painted shaker, modern slab, timber, handleless designs
•Worktop materials: quartz, granite, solid wood, laminate, compact laminate, porcelain

Timeline

Stage	Typical Time
Design & planning	2–4 weeks
Ordering materials	4–10 weeks
Removal of old kitchen	1–2 days
First fix plumbing & electrics	2–4 days
Plastering (if required)	1–2 days
Flooring	1–3 days
Kitchen installation	5–10 days
Worktop installation	1–2 days
Second fix & finishing	2–3 days

Which Tradespeople Will You Need?

Kitchen Fitters

Kitchen fitters install cabinets, worktops, appliances and coordinate the overall installation.

Find experienced Kitchen Fitters near you

Electricians

Qualified electricians install new sockets, lighting, cooker circuits, extractor fans and appliance connections.

New sockets
Lighting
Cooker circuits
Extractor fans
Appliance connections
Under-cabinet lighting

Find qualified Electricians near you

Plumbers

Professional plumbers install sinks, taps, waste pipework, dishwashers and water supplies.

Sinks
Taps
Waste pipework
Dishwashers
Water supplies
Boiling water taps

Find trusted Plumbers near you

Flooring Specialists

Flooring specialists fit durable, kitchen-suitable flooring.

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
Engineered wood
Porcelain tiles
Stone flooring
Laminate

Find Flooring Specialists near you

Decorators

Decorators complete walls, ceilings and woodwork using durable finishes suitable for kitchens.

Find Professional Decorators near you

Builders

Builders may be required for wall removal, structural alterations, door openings, extensions and steel beam installation.

Wall removal
Structural alterations
Door openings
Extensions
Steel beam installation

Find experienced Builders near you

Kitchen Design Trends

Warm neutral coloursHandleless cabinetryWalk-in pantriesQuartz worktopsBoiling water tapsIntegrated appliancesLarge kitchen islandsFeature pendant lightingHidden storageSustainable materialsSmart home appliancesNatural wood finishes

Choose designs that remain practical rather than following short-term trends.

Checklist

check_circleFinalise your layout
check_circleSet your budget
check_circleChoose cabinets
check_circleSelect worktops
check_circleOrder appliances
check_circleConfirm delivery dates
check_circlePlan lighting
check_circleChoose flooring
check_circleArrange waste removal
check_circleProtect adjacent rooms
check_circleConfirm installer schedule

DIY or Hire a Professional?

Suitable DIY Jobs	Professional Recommended
Painting	Electrical work
Cabinet handles	Plumbing alterations
Shelving	Gas appliance installation
Decorating	Worktop fitting
Splashback sealing	Structural alterations
Minor assembly	Kitchen installation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

check_circleToo little storage
check_circlePoor lighting design
check_circleInsufficient electrical sockets
check_circleIgnoring appliance dimensions
check_circleChoosing appearance over practicality
check_circleUnderestimating ventilation
check_circleOrdering materials too late
check_circleForgetting waste and recycling storage
check_circleInsufficient worktop space
check_circleNot allowing a contingency budget — add 10–15% to cover unforeseen costs or changes during installation

Maintenance

Task	Frequency
Clean extractor filters	Every 3 months
Check silicone seals	Every 6 months
Oil timber worktops	As recommended
Clean appliance vents	Every 6 months
Inspect plumbing	Annually
Adjust cabinet hinges	When required

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Home Improvement Guides

Bathroom Renovations Home Extensions Loft Conversions Garage Conversions Flooring Decorating Roofing Garden Landscaping

Back to the Homeowner Hub Find experienced Kitchen Fitters near you Find trusted Builders near you Find qualified Electricians near you Find trusted Plumbers near you Find Flooring Specialists near you Find Professional Decorators near you

Our homeowner guides are written to provide practical, impartial advice for UK property owners. Content is reviewed regularly to reflect current building practices, regulations and homeowner priorities. Where specialist work is involved, we recommend using appropriately qualified and insured tradespeople.

Ready to Start Your Kitchen Improvement?

Don't leave it to chance — use this guide to plan ahead, save important details to your projects, and connect with trusted local tradespeople when professional help is needed.

•Save this project to My Projects and track it over time.
•Request quotes from trusted local tradespeople.
•Compare professionals based on experience, reviews and completed projects.

Find a trusted local trade Back to the Homeowner Hub

Request multiple quotes · Compare trusted professionals