Stop Guessing and Learn Exactly How Much Your New Kitchen Will Cost

Dreaming up your perfect kitchen is an exciting first step in a renovation project. However, many homeowners feel a twinge of anxiety when it comes time to actually budget for making their kitchen vision a reality. Horror stories of massive cost overruns and expensive surprises make most wary of underestimating what that shiny new kitchen could end up costing.

To take the guesswork out of budgeting, this guide will walk through everything that factors into the final price tag, including materials, appliances, labor, and more. With an accurate understanding of potential costs, you can feel confident setting a realistic budget and avoid any startling overages down the road.

Average Cost of a New Kitchen

Across the UK, the average cost to fully remodel a mid-sized kitchen falls within the PS15,000 to PS25,000 range. However, it's possible to spend far below or above that amount. Small galley kitchens can be refaced for as little as PS5,000, while large open concept kitchens with luxury finishes can exceed PS50,000.

Most new kitchens end up costing between PS8,000 and PS15,000. But many factors specific to your project influence the final price tag.

Size of the Kitchen

The size of your kitchen significantly affects cost. Larger kitchens require more cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, and appliances. More square footage also lengthens installation time. Even upgrading from a galley kitchen to an open concept layout adds cost for knocking down walls and structural changes.

Materials

Going with higher-end materials increases the bottom line, while more affordable options save money. For example, solid hardwood or premium laminate cabinets cost more than budget melamine options. Quartz or granite counters are pricier than laminate. Professional-grade appliances and sinks exceed the cost of builder-grade fixtures. Prioritize quality construction even if you choose budget materials.

Brands

The brand names you choose also sway cost. Well-known manufacturers like Bertazzoni and Miele come at a premium over affordable lines like Ikea or B&Q's own brands. However, designer names don't always equate to better quality. Focus on finding decent warranties and construction over flashy labels.

Scope of the Renovation

The extent of the renovation influences cost as well. Just swapping out cabinets and appliances costs less than moving walls or relocating plumbing and electrical. Full gut renovations that take the kitchen down to the studs cost more in labor and materials versus simpler replacements.

Location

Where you live affects pricing too. Labor and material expenses are typically higher in expensive urban areas like London. Less populated suburban and rural areas tend to have more competitive rates.

Cost of Materials

The materials make up a significant portion of your budget. Getting accurate estimates will prevent sticker shock once installation begins. Here are typical price ranges for key kitchen components:

Cabinets

• Budget brands like B&Q, Wickes, IKEA - PS150-PS300 per unit
• Mid-range brands like Magnet, Howdens - PS400-PS700 per unit
• Premium/custom - PS700-PS2,500+ per unit

Countertops

• Laminate - PS30-PS70 per sqm
• Quartz - PS400-PS600 per sqm
• Granite - PS600-PS1,000 per sqm
• Marble - PS800+ per sqm

Flooring

• Vinyl - PS15-PS30 per sqm
• Laminate - PS20-PS40 per sqm
• Hardwood - PS100+ per sqm
• Tile - PS30-PS100+ per sqm

Appliances

• Budget/standard - PS300-PS600 each
• High-end - Up to PS15,000 for premium fridge

Lighting

• Statement fixtures - PS500-PS5,000 each

Installation Costs

In addition to materials, the labor and installation costs make up a sizeable portion of your total budget. Expect to pay around PS3,500 for professional installation of a mid-sized kitchen. Larger or more complex kitchens can run upwards of PS4,600 to install. This covers configuring and fitting your new cabinets, appliances, fixtures and finishes.

Factors like moving plumbing or electrical, adding new lighting circuits, or installing new flooring will increase installation costs. Be sure to get an accurate estimate that accounts for every service needed.

Cost Saving Tips

To make your budget go further, keep these tips in mind:

• Prioritize necessities over luxury finishing
• Comparison shop materials from multiple suppliers
• Look for appliance deals from big box stores
• Only renovate what's needed, not full demolition

Location Impacts on Cost

Where your home is located will sway renovation costs. Higher demand in large metro areas leads to increased labor and material prices. In expensive London zones, costs can be 20-50% higher compared to surrounding counties.

Areas outside high-demand urban zones offer more competitive pricing. Searching for deals just one town over can yield significant savings. However, additional travel fees may be tacked on.

Total Budgeting Tips

Creating an accurate budget requires planning ahead.

• Get multiple upfront quotes rather than estimates
• Pad your budget by 10-15% for unexpected overages
• Focus on quality over bargain materials
• Have a clear vision for layout and finishes

At the end of the day, the cost of your kitchen comes down to setting priorities. You can choose affordable materials and simple upgrades to lower costs. Or invest in premium features and bespoke designs to create a showstopping space.

Understanding all the factors that influence pricing allows you to budget realistically. This avoids going over budget or compromising on quality to save money. With proper planning and accurate estimates, you can gain the kitchen of your dreams without any financial surprises.