Kitchen Remodel Cost: Real Numbers and Smart Ways to Save

If you’re dreaming of a fresh kitchen, the first question is always the same – how much will it actually cost? The short answer is: it depends on size, materials, and how much work you do yourself. In this guide we’ll break down the biggest cost drivers, give you a realistic budget range for 2025, and share easy tricks to keep the price under control.

Breakdown of Major Costs

Think of a kitchen remodel as three parts: demolition, the core build, and the finish. Demolition is surprisingly cheap if you do it yourself – a few bags of rubble and a rented dumpster can run under £300. Most of the money goes into the core build:

• Cabinets & storage: Custom solid‑wood cabinets can cost £4,000‑£8,000 for a medium‑size kitchen. Ready‑made Euro‑style units drop the price to £2,000‑£3,500.
• Countertops: Laminate tops are the budget option at £20‑£40 per sq ft. Quartz or natural stone (think limestone from local quarries) starts around £80 and can exceed £150 per sq ft for premium finishes.
• Appliances: A four‑piece set (fridge, oven, cooktop, dishwasher) averages £2,500‑£5,000. Energy‑efficient models cost a bit more upfront but save on bills.
• Plumbing & electrical: Rerouting pipes or adding new circuits usually runs £1,000‑£2,500, depending on how many changes you need.
• Flooring: Vinyl planks are £15‑£25 per sq ft, while engineered wood or tile can climb to £45‑£80 per sq ft.

Finishing touches—backsplash tiles, lighting, hardware—are the final line items. Backsplashes can be as cheap as £5 per tile or as pricey as £30 per tile for glass mosaics. Good lighting (LED strips, pendant lights) usually adds £400‑£1,200.

Tips to Keep Your Budget on Track

Now that you know where the money goes, here are three proven ways to trim the bill without compromising quality:

1. Plan a dry fit. Before any cutting starts, lay out cabinets, appliances, and flooring in the empty space. This “dry fit kitchen” step catches mistakes early and avoids costly re‑orders. Our own guide to dry fit kitchens shows you how to do it in a day.
2. Mix high‑end and budget materials. Use premium limestone for a standout island countertop while choosing laminate for the side runs. The contrast looks intentional and saves a lot of cash.
3. Do the simple DIY tasks. Demolition, painting, and even installing a backsplash are doable for most homeowners. Save the heavy lifting – plumbing, structural changes, and electrical work – for licensed pros.

Don’t forget to ask for multiple quotes. A reputable builder will break down labor, material, and contingency costs clearly. Compare the line items, not just the total, and you’ll see where each firm adds value.

In the end, a typical mid‑range kitchen remodel in the UK lands between £12,000 and £25,000. Luxury projects break the £40,000 mark, while a basic refresh can be done for under £8,000 if you keep the layout the same and pick budget finishes.

Ready to start? Grab a notebook, sketch your dream layout, and use the cost guide above to set a realistic budget. With clear numbers and a few smart choices, you’ll get a beautiful kitchen without a nasty surprise at checkout.