How Much Does a New Kitchen Cost in 2025? A UK Homeowner’s Guide

Thinking about a new kitchen can be exciting, but also a bit overwhelming. With so many materials, layouts, and design options on offer, knowing what your dream kitchen might actually cost is a challenge many UK homeowners face.

From budget-friendly upgrades to fully bespoke installations, understanding the real cost of a new kitchen in 2025 is essential before diving in. Whether you’re after functionality, luxury, or something in between, the right information will help you plan smartly and avoid unexpected expenses.

How Much Does a New Kitchen Cost in 2025?

What Influences Kitchen Cost in 2025?

A new kitchen’s cost isn’t just about cabinets and worktops; it’s shaped by several interconnected factors. Knowing what drives pricing helps avoid surprises and plan realistically for the entire project.

The layout of your kitchen is one of the first variables to consider. A straight-line galley kitchen will cost significantly less than a full U-shaped design with an island, due to the increased cabinetry and worktop area. Changes to plumbing or electrics, like moving sinks, rewiring for new lighting, or adding additional sockets, can also impact your overall spend.

Size matters, too. Larger kitchens naturally need more materials and longer fitting times. However, small kitchens with awkward angles or structural quirks can be just as expensive due to bespoke adjustments or added labour.

The scope of the renovation plays a major role. A supply-only kitchen where you purchase units and organise installation separately may cost less upfront but requires more hands-on management. In contrast, a supply-and-fit service provides convenience and accountability but at a higher price.

Finally, regional factors can affect labour rates and availability. While nationwide averages help guide expectations, fitting costs can vary by 10–20% depending on local demand and the complexity of the work involved.

Material choice, layout, fittings, and whether your project includes structural changes will all combine to determine your final budget.

Average Kitchen Costs: Budget to Bespoke

Understanding the broad categories of kitchen pricing helps homeowners compare options and set expectations based on quality, functionality, and design goals. While no two kitchens cost the same, industry professionals generally group kitchens into three tiers: budget, mid-range, and bespoke. According to the 2025 UK Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, the median kitchen renovation spend increased by 34 % to about £17,500, rising from £13,000 in 2024. For larger kitchen remodelling, the median spend is closer to £20,000

Budget Kitchens

Budget kitchens are typically built around affordability and quick installation. They often feature flat-pack units, laminate worktops, and off-the-shelf appliances. These kitchens work well in rental properties or for homeowners who need a fresh look without a major investment. Materials are more limited, and labour is streamlined, often with fewer trades involved. While finishes may be basic, thoughtful design can still make a big impact.

Mid-Range Kitchens

Mid-range kitchens strike a balance between quality and cost. These projects usually involve pre-assembled units, stone or composite worktops like Duropal or Silestone, branded appliances such as Bosch or NEFF, and a mix of standard and custom cabinetry. Homeowners in this range often invest more in layout planning and integrated features, creating a space that is both stylish and practical.

Bespoke Kitchens

At the top end are bespoke kitchens, fully tailored to the home and homeowner. These kitchens may include made-to-measure cabinetry, high-end finishes, built-in larders, Blum soft-close fittings, and statement appliances. The planning process is more involved, often requiring in-person design consultations and professional templating. The materials are typically premium, think real wood, Caesarstone worktops, and integrated lighting systems.

Here’s a simplified comparison of what each tier generally includes:

One homeowner came to us after living with the same kitchen for nearly two decades. Their layout no longer worked, the cabinets had swollen with age, and their worktops were showing signs of water damage. They originally set out for a budget refresh but soon realised that a mid-range kitchen could give them everything they needed, without unnecessary extras. By upgrading to quartz worktops, integrating a few Bosch appliances, and improving lighting, they achieved a stylish, highly functional kitchen that fit their daily routine. It wasn’t bespoke, but it was built around what actually mattered.

Choosing the right kitchen tier is about more than price; it’s about how you live, cook, entertain, and move through your space. Whether you’re making modest updates or building your dream kitchen from scratch, knowing where your priorities lie will shape your project from the ground up.

How Much Does Installation Alone Cost?

While kitchen units and appliances often steal the spotlight in a renovation, installation is one of the most critical (and sometimes underestimated) cost elements. Labour doesn’t just bring the kitchen together, it ensures it’s functional, safe, and built to last.

The Labour Breakdown

When we talk about installation, we’re referring to more than just a kitchen fitter screwing units into place. A full kitchen installation involves multiple trades. At the very least, you’ll need a qualified kitchen installer, but most projects also require electricians, plumbers, tilers, and possibly plasterers or flooring specialists. Each of these professionals brings a different cost structure and timeline to the job.

A straightforward install might take a few days if the layout remains the same and there are no structural changes. But as soon as you move a sink, reposition a hob, or add under-cabinet lighting, your labour requirements increase, and so do your costs. Electrical work must be carried out by a Part P-certified electrician. Plumbing modifications, such as moving waste pipes or installing new dishwashers, require experienced hands to prevent leaks or compliance issues. And for tiled splashbacks or floor changes, professional finishing ensures clean lines and long-term durability.

Factors That Affect Installation Pricing

Several factors influence how much you’ll spend on fitting your kitchen. The complexity of the design is the most obvious. A simple L-shaped kitchen with flat-pack units is far quicker to install than a kitchen with a curved island, integrated lighting, and a mix of cabinet heights. The number of appliances being installed, especially integrated ones, adds further time, especially if appliance housing must be modified or aligned perfectly.

Access also matters. If your home has narrow doorways, multiple storeys, or a compact layout, installation may take longer due to the logistics of moving heavy units, worktops, and appliances into place. Older homes may also present challenges, such as uneven floors or walls, which require additional preparation before units can be fixed securely.

Another major cost factor is the decision between a supply-and-fit kitchen from one provider or a self-managed installation. The former is often more expensive but provides a single point of contact and accountability. Self-managed installs allow more control over individual trades but require careful coordination to prevent delays and cost overruns.

Installation Isn’t Just a Final Step

One of the most common misconceptions is that installation is the final step in a kitchen renovation. In reality, it’s often the most labour-intensive stage and affects every part of your timeline. Measuring, templating (especially for quartz or stone worktops), electrical certification, plumbing checks, and appliance testing must all be scheduled and completed in a logical order. Rushing the installation process or underestimating its complexity can result in poor finishes, misaligned units, or even long-term damage.

A professional kitchen fitter brings more than a drill; they bring years of experience in levelling, securing, adjusting, and aligning every single component of your kitchen. And when you’re investing in quality cabinets, appliances, and surfaces, professional installation ensures you protect that investment.

In summary, installation is more than a technical service; it’s a vital part of your kitchen’s success. Whether you’re working on a budget kitchen or a high-spec bespoke design, investing in quality installation pays off not only in appearance but also in how your kitchen performs over time.

Material Choices and Their Impact on Cost

One of the biggest influences on the total cost of a new kitchen is the selection of materials. From worktops to taps and fittings, each choice contributes to both the aesthetics and the budget. In 2025, UK homeowners are prioritising both function and style, making it essential to understand how each material decision affects overall spend.

Worktops

• Laminate worktops are the most cost-effective, offering a wide range of designs and finishes. They’re lightweight, easy to fit, and ideal for modest kitchen makeovers.
  
• Quartz, such as that from Silestone or Caesarstone, adds a luxury feel. It’s more durable and visually striking, but requires templating and professional installation, which increases labour and material costs.
  
• Solid wood and composite stone sit somewhere in between, offering character or modern appeal with varying maintenance needs.
  

Sinks and Taps

• Basic stainless-steel sinks are affordable and easy to maintain, but homeowners often upgrade to undermount or composite sinks from brands like Blanco or Franke.
  
• Mixer taps with pull-out sprays or boiling water taps add convenience but can push up both fitting time and budget.
  

Cabinets and Doors

• Flat-pack units with laminate doors are the most economical. These suit quick fit-outs or rental properties.
  
• Pre-assembled carcasses with acrylic or matt-painted doors offer more style options and greater durability.
  
• For a high-end look, hand-painted solid wood doors and fully custom cabinets increase both material and installation costs significantly.
  

Internal Fittings

• While often overlooked, cabinet internals make a big difference in day-to-day use.
  
• Basic shelves and drawers come as standard, but brands like Häfele and Blum offer soft-close mechanisms, pull-out larders, and corner storage systems that improve function while adding to the total cost.
  

Finishes and Details

• Handles, plinths, lighting, and splashbacks may seem minor, but when upgraded from standard to designer, they can notably increase your budget.
  
• Integrated LED lighting, for instance, is a popular trend, but requires additional electrical work and components.
  

Each material decision comes with a trade-off between style, durability, and price. Choosing wisely and balancing high-impact features with simple cost-saving alternatives can help you create a kitchen that looks high-end without overspending.

Do Bespoke Kitchens Cost More – And Are They Worth It?

The word “bespoke” often conjures thoughts of luxury, exclusivity, and high cost, and in the world of kitchens, that reputation is well-earned. But understanding what truly defines a bespoke kitchen and whether it’s worth the extra investment depends on your needs, your home, and how you use your space.

What Makes a Kitchen Bespoke?

A bespoke kitchen is fully tailored to your specific space, rather than built from standard-size cabinets or modules. It involves custom cabinet sizes, hand-selected finishes, and often one-off joinery details that aren’t available in flat-pack or showroom ranges. Every element, from the depth of the drawers to the shape of the island, is made to order. This allows full control over layout, symmetry, colour matching, and internal fittings.

Unlike mass-produced kitchens, bespoke designs are also more likely to incorporate premium materials, solid wood cabinets, quartz or natural stone worktops, and built-in features such as pantries, wine storage, or hidden utility zones. Brands like Blum and Häfele are often integrated into these projects, offering top-tier hardware and internal solutions.

Value Beyond the Price Tag

The added cost of bespoke comes not just from materials, but from time and craftsmanship. The process usually involves detailed consultations, site visits, design iterations, and longer lead times. Skilled fitters, cabinetmakers, and sometimes even electricians and builders work together to bring the design to life.

Yet for many homeowners, the value lies in the result, a kitchen that fits perfectly, functions efficiently, and reflects their lifestyle. In homes with unusual layouts or awkward dimensions, bespoke units can maximise every inch in a way that off-the-shelf options can’t.

A Tailored Decision

One client recently upgraded their kitchen from a standard modular layout to a bespoke design after finding that flat-pack units didn’t fit their ceiling height and left too much wasted space. With custom cabinetry and a redesigned larder wall, they created a kitchen that not only worked better day-to-day but also elevated the look of the entire ground floor. The additional investment felt justified, not just in finish, but in flow.

In the end, bespoke kitchens do cost more, often significantly, but they offer flexibility, precision, and long-term satisfaction that’s hard to replicate with modular alternatives. For those who value craftsmanship and customisation, the benefits can far outweigh the added cost.

Saving on Your Kitchen Without Sacrificing Style

Not every kitchen upgrade needs to break the bank. With thoughtful planning and smart choices, it’s entirely possible to create a stylish, practical kitchen while keeping costs under control. The key is knowing where to invest and where to be selective.

One of the most effective ways to manage costs is to prioritise layout over luxury. Keeping sinks, cookers, and electrics in their original positions can reduce the need for costly plumbing or rewiring work. It’s also wise to invest in the parts of the kitchen you interact with every day, like worktops and drawers, while simplifying the things you use less frequently.

Mixing materials can also bring down the budget without compromising on visual appeal. For example, pairing laminate base units with a statement quartz island creates a high-end feel without fitting every surface in stone. Similarly, combining open shelving with closed cabinetry cuts down on door costs while adding visual interest.

Another smart tactic is shopping strategically. Ex-display kitchens, seasonal sales, and clearance stock from reputable suppliers can offer quality products at a fraction of the original price. Many well-known brands sell last-season ranges that still offer durable materials and on-trend finishes.

You can also personalise a mid-range kitchen with clever design tweaks. Swapping standard handles for designer pulls, adding LED strip lighting under cabinets, or upgrading taps to a sleek mixer can completely change the feel of the space, without the expense of full customisation.

Finally, if you’re not ready for a complete overhaul, targeted updates like new doors, worktops, or splashbacks can refresh your kitchen without a full replacement. These smaller projects can stretch your budget while still delivering big visual impact.

In short, saving on your kitchen isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about planning carefully and choosing value where it counts. With the right balance, you can achieve a stylish, functional space that looks more expensive than it actually is.

Plan Your Dream Kitchen Within Budget

A new kitchen is one of the most significant improvements you can make to your home, both in terms of functionality and value. But the wide range in design, material, and installation options means there’s no universal cost. What matters is choosing a kitchen that fits your space, suits your lifestyle, and aligns with your budget.

Whether you’re opting for a compact, budget-friendly update or exploring the world of bespoke design, understanding where your money goes is the first step. Layout complexity, choice of materials, quality of appliances, and fitting costs all contribute to the final figure.

You don’t need to spend extravagantly to get a kitchen that feels premium. With smart planning, like mixing materials, keeping the layout simple, and investing in key finishes, you can achieve a beautiful result at any price point. The most successful kitchen projects aren’t always the most expensive ones; they’re the ones that are well thought-out and tailored to how you live.

Final Thoughts

A new kitchen isn’t just a home improvement; it’s an investment in how you live, cook, and connect with your space. Whether you’re starting with a modest refresh or building a fully bespoke layout, having a clear understanding of what influences cost can help you plan with confidence.

From layout and materials to installation and finishes, each decision affects your final budget. But with careful planning and realistic expectations, you can create a kitchen that delivers both style and practicality, without unnecessary overspending.

Ready to start your project? Get your free kitchen design quote today from Preston & Co, your trusted kitchen renovation experts.

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of a new kitchen in the UK in 2025?
   

   Most homeowners in the UK spend between £10,000 and £20,000 on a new kitchen, including units, worktops, appliances, and installation. Costs can be lower for simple updates and higher for bespoke projects with premium finishes.

2. Why do installation prices vary so much?
   

   Installation costs depend on layout complexity, number of appliances, condition of existing electrics and plumbing, and access to the space. Kitchens requiring structural work or full rewiring will naturally cost more to fit.

3. Is it cheaper to buy kitchen units separately and hire a fitter?
   

   In some cases, yes. Buying supplies only and hiring your own fitter can reduce costs, but it requires coordination and may not include the guarantees that come with full supply-and-fit services.

4. What adds unexpected costs to a kitchen project?
   

   Common hidden costs include electrical upgrades, plumbing changes, plastering, flooring repairs, and waste disposal. These are often discovered after the old kitchen is removed.

5. How can I keep kitchen costs low without going over budget?
   

   Choose affordable materials in high-impact areas, maintain the existing layout, and allocate spending to items like worktops or cabinetry that enhance both function and appearance. Shopping during sales or opting for ex-display ranges can also help.