Whether you are moving house or upgrading your own, planning, designing and installing a new Fitted Kitchen is one of the most exciting home improvement projects you can take on.

As exciting as this can be, however, the ultimate question on everyone's minds is: how much is this going to cost me? With such a variety of styles, layouts, materials, and appliances to choose from, the task can become daunting rather than exciting. However, understanding how to budget accordingly and avoid unexpected costs along the way is the ultimate step to finding the joy in your new kitchen. We will help you to break down each of the expenses that create your brand new kitchen, from installation to the customisable parts such as cabinetry and worktops, so that you can make informed decisions to create your dream space, without breaking the bank. 

What Is The Average Cost Of A New Kitchen In The UK?

The cost of a brand-new kitchen varies depending on your choices. Each aspect of your kitchen must be carefully budgeted and accounted for, including size, quality, and finish. An average price, therefore, comes accordingly, based on each of these factors: 

• Budget Kitchens: Perfect for smaller spaces and simple upgrades, budget kitchens average £3,000- £8,000 and offer cost-effective kitchen cabinets, appliances, and worktops.
  
  

• Mid-Range Kitchens: Mid-range kitchens are the most common choice for kitchen upgrades, offering a wider range of cabinet options, longer-lasting worktops, and even integrated appliances. They usually range from £8,000 to £18,000, but depending on the materials and finishes, they can reach the higher end of the budget.
  
  

• Premium Kitchens: Depending on your budget, premium kitchens offer the ultimate high-end materials, such as quartz worktops, cabinetry, and designer finishes, ranging from £18,000-£30,000+. 

Though these estimates may seem daunting, they account for many aspects of your kitchen, including appliances and worktops, which may not be necessary for your upgrade. 

It is also essential to consider at this stage of budgeting whether you will need to include installation fees, which can increase the price. Although intimidating, each factor in a new kitchen must be carefully considered to achieve a realistic budget. 

Which Factors Are Most Likely To Affect The Total Cost Of My New Kitchen? 

Now that you have an estimated budget to work with, we can break down the factors that will increase or decrease your overall price so you can adjust accordingly and stay within your price limit. 

• Kitchen Size and Layout: The size of your kitchen will ultimately be the most crucial factor in your budget. Larger Kitchens, Open-plan Kitchens, or L-Shaped Kitchens are likely to cost you more, as they will require additional units, extra worktop space, and potentially more appliances. Smaller, gallery-sized kitchens will cost significantly less, due to the smaller space and less need for additional appliances.
  
  

• Appliances: Installing new appliances may significantly impact your total spend, with a complete set of standard appliances costing between £1,500 and £3,000, including ovens, hobs, dishwashers and fridge/freezers. Integrated appliances will help increase that amount, ranging from £5,000 to £10,000+ for well-known brands.
  
  

• Worktops: Essential for your kitchen, if you are considering updating them, factor in the price range each style will bring. Laminate is the most cost-effective option, ideal for smaller, quainter kitchens, whilst Quartz Worktops are popular for premium kitchens, due to their designer finish.
   

  • Laminate: £100-£300 per metre. 

  • Solid Wood: £150-£400 per metre. 

  • Quartz: £350-900 per metre. 

  • Granite: £400-£1,000 per metre. 

• Kitchen Cabinets: If you are upgrading your kitchen cabinets, they will likely take up a hefty amount of your total spend, depending on the material, design and construction. Laminate cabinets can help you keep your budget friendly while still giving a professional finish. 
  
  

• Finishing Touches: Often, the extras that help complete our kitchens to the highest standards are overlooked when budgeting, such as handles, taps, storage, and lighting. It is important to remember this step, as it is easy to go over your spending limit if each necessary item is not accounted for.
  
  

• Labour and Installation: Installation costs, of course, vary depending on the installer, with the average cost ranging from £1,500 to £8,000. For simple installations, the lower end of the price point is sufficient.
  
  For a whole new fitted kitchen that requires a complete removal and additional work, such as plumbing or rewiring, the higher end of the price point is more likely. Though this is a hefty addition to the price point, ensuring that your kitchen is fitted safely and correctly should be a high priority. 

How Can I Reduce The Cost Of My Kitchen? 

There are many ways you can cut costs for a brand-new kitchen on a smaller budget without compromising style. 

• Stick to Your Original Layout: Moving sinks and plug sockets requires professional plumbing and electrical work, which can significantly increase the total cost of your kitchen. Keeping your kitchen's original layout can help you reduce unnecessary costs while still giving your space a makeover.
   

• Choose a Mixture of Materials: If you are dreaming of a Quartz kitchen but don’t have the budget to make it happen, consider a compromise by installing Quartz in a specific area of the kitchen, such as an island. You can then use a cheaper alternative, such as laminate, on the remainder of your worktops. This will still provide you with the luxurious effect you are looking for, without breaking the bank.
  
  

• Refurbish Instead of Replacing: Not every kitchen will require a full replacement; why not try repainting cabinet doors, replacing handles, or simply replacing the worktops to give your kitchen an instant change without the need for a complete rework.
   

• Shop Sales: Try to work within budget-friendly timings, such as annual sales, or purchase in bundles to help reduce the price. 

How Do I Budget Accordingly? 

Once you have an estimated budget ready, break down each factor of your desired upgrades and stay in control to avoid surprise costs later. Try to look at each factor of your kitchen and the amount of supplies each section will require/how much they will affect the total spend; for example: 

• 50% Cabinets
  
  

• 20% Worktops
  
  

• 15% Appliances
  
  

• 10% Installation
  
  

• 5% Additional Finishing Touches

Keeping an additional 10% contingency fund will help you cover unexpected expenses, such as uncovered plumbing issues. 

Each kitchen will have its own priorities, according to the size and needs you desire. Using this breakdown as an example will help you to budget accordingly, prioritising your own needs/how much you are upgrading.

How Much Should I Spend On A New Kitchen? 

Now that we have broken down the costs involved in a kitchen upgrade, you may be ready to get started on your new kitchen. 

Properly budgeting and making the most of your kitchen space can help to provide long-term property value when necessary, but most importantly, everyday comfort in your home. Understanding why and how each cost affects your kitchen upgrade can help you find easier ways to budget more easily and adapt, cutting costs where possible. 

By choosing specific cost-saving materials, sticking to a well-defined plan and budget, and carefully considering each design decision, you can create your dream, stylish home the whole family can enjoy, without exceeding your budget. 

At Lark and Larks, we specialise in delivering cost-effective kitchen solutions without compromising on aesthetics. We will ensure that your kitchen gets the well-deserved upgrade you desire, without stretching your budget. Browse our full range of Fitted Kitchens today to find your dream pre-built kitchen. From True Handleless Kitchens for modern lovers, to Shaker Kitchens for those wanting a traditional style, we have everything you need. 

For help getting started on your brand new kitchen, contact one of our friendly team members today, who will be more than happy to help make your dream kitchen come to life.