Planning a kitchen renovation in London can be both exciting and daunting. With rising material and labour costs, it’s more important than ever to understand the real financial implications of a kitchen remodel in the capital. Whether you’re updating a compact galley kitchen or redesigning a large open-plan space, this blog offers a comprehensive breakdown of kitchen renovation costs in 2025.
We’ll explore the average cost ranges, major influencing factors, and cost-saving tips, plus share a real-life example from a recent London project. This guide is crafted to help homeowners budget smarter and avoid common pitfalls.
Why Kitchen Renovation Costs Are Higher in London
Kitchen renovations in London are typically 15–25% more expensive than elsewhere in the UK. This is largely due to:
- Higher labour rates
- Limited access in terraced or period homes
- Cost of living adjustments
- Premium demand for high-spec finishes
Working with an experienced team who understands London-specific logistics is crucial for avoiding delays and unexpected costs.
Average Kitchen Renovation Costs in London (2025)
| Renovation Tier | Cost Range | What’s Included |
| Budget | £10,000– £15,000 | Flat-pack cabinetry, laminate worktops, minimal changes |
| Mid-Range | £20,000– £35,000 | Mix of standard/bespoke cabinetry, quartz tops, branded appliances |
| High-End Bespoke | £40,000– £75,000+ | Fully custom layout, premium materials, smart appliances |
These estimates include cabinetry, worktops, appliances, labour, lighting, flooring, and finishes.
Key Factors That Affect Kitchen Renovation Costs
1. Size and Layout of Your Kitchen
The bigger your kitchen, the more materials and labour are required. But even small kitchens can become expensive if you opt for bespoke cabinetry or high-end finishes. Also, changing the layout (e.g., relocating plumbing or knocking down walls) significantly adds to the cost.
2. Choice of Materials
Your finishes determine a big chunk of the budget. For example: – Laminate worktops:
£25–£50/m – Quartz worktops: £200–£400/m – Dekton/porcelain: £400–£600/m –
Cabinet carcasses: MDF vs plywood affects both durability and price
3. Appliances Tech Integration
Upgrading to integrated or smart appliances (e.g., boiling taps, smart ovens, wine fridges) can drive up your total. Expect to spend £3,000–£6,000 for a decent set, or more for premium brands like Miele, Siemens, or Fisher C Paykel.
4. Labour Installation
In London, you’ll typically pay: – Kitchen fitters: £250–£400/day – Electricians: £300–£500 for kitchen rewiring – Plumbers: £250–£450 for re-plumbing sinks and appliances – Tilers:
£40–£70/m²
Skilled labour is a major cost driver in the capital.
5. Structural Work Planning
If your renovation includes removing a wall, extending, or moving doorways, costs increase quickly. You may also need planning permission or building control approval.
Real-Life Cost Breakdown (Mid-Range Example)
Project Brief: 3-bedroom Victorian terrace in Ealing, West London. Medium-sized kitchen requiring layout change and full upgrade.
Costs:
| Category | Approximate Cost |
| Bespoke cabinetry | £11,000 |
| Quartz worktops | £3,200 |
| Bosch/Neff appliances | £5,500 |
| LED lighting C rewire | £2,000 |
| Porcelain flooring | £2,300 |
| Plumbing adjustments | £1,500 |
| Painting C decoration | £800 |
| Installation C labour | £5,500 |
| Total | £31,800 |
Timeline: 4 weeks (with staggered trades)
How to Save Money Without Compromising Quality
Here are ways to reduce costs smartly:
Д Stick to Your Existing Layout
Avoid relocating water, gas, or waste connections.
Д Prioritise Key Features
Splurge on worktops and cabinetry but go modest on tiles or lighting where possible.
Д Mix and Match Suppliers
Use a designer or builder who’s happy to source finishes from multiple suppliers to find the
best deals.
Д Reuse Appliances (If Viable)
Your current fridge or oven might still have years of life.
Financing Options for Kitchen Renovations in London
Not everyone pays for their kitchen upfront. Financing options include:
- 0% interest credit cards (short term)
- Kitchen supplier finance plans (watch out for hidden fees)
- Personal home improvement loans
- Remortgaging or equity release (for larger-scale projects)
Speak with a financial advisor to find the most cost-effective option for your situation.
Top Mistakes to Avoid
- Not having a contingency fund – Always budget 10–15% extra
- Choosing style over substance – Focus on function first
- Over-reliance on one supplier – Limits your design options
- Poor timeline planning – Delays are costly in London
How Arch KBB Helps You Stay on Budget
At Arch KBB, we specialise in helping London homeowners design and build kitchens that are stylish, functional, and cost-effective. Here’s what we offer:
• Free design consultations across West and Central London
• Detailed breakdowns for complete transparency
• Expert planning advice to avoid costly errors
• In-house project management so your budget is protected
Whether you’re renovating your first home or upgrading a long-term property, we’ll help
you create a kitchen that adds lasting value.
Final Thoughts
Kitchen renovation costs in London can seem overwhelming, but they don’t have to be. The key is to start with clear expectations, partner with experienced professionals, and build a budget that accounts for your priorities.
Renovating your kitchen is an investment in both your property and your lifestyle. With the right design and the right team, you can transform even the smallest kitchen into something exceptional.
Ready to Plan Your Kitchen Layout?
Ready to start planning your kitchen renovation? Book a free design consultation with Arch KBB and receive a detailed quote tailored to your home and budget.
