How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost?
Kitchen renovation costs in 2026 start from around £3,000 for an economy refresh, while a mid-range complete renovation runs between £8,000 and £15,000, and a premium kitchen design requires £18,000 or more. Cabinets, worktops, tiling, plumbing and labour make up the main cost items.
The kitchen is the most heavily used room in the home, and its functionality directly affects your quality of life. Outdated cabinets, insufficient worktop space or failing plumbing make a kitchen renovation inevitable. However, the cost of a kitchen refit depends on many variables. In this guide you will find an item-by-item breakdown of kitchen renovation costs for 2026.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown
The cost items you can expect in a complete kitchen renovation:
| Work Item | Economy | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stripping and Waste Removal | £200 - £400 | £400 - £700 | £700 - £1,200 |
| Plumbing (water + gas) | £400 - £800 | £800 - £1,500 | £1,500 - £2,500 |
| Electrical Work | £300 - £600 | £600 - £1,200 | £1,200 - £2,000 |
| Kitchen Cabinets (8-12 units) | £1,500 - £4,000 | £4,000 - £9,000 | £9,000 - £25,000 |
| Worktop | £400 - £900 | £900 - £2,200 | £2,200 - £5,500 |
| Splashback Tiling | £250 - £600 | £600 - £1,500 | £1,500 - £3,000 |
| Flooring | £250 - £600 | £600 - £1,200 | £1,200 - £2,500 |
Prices are based on a standard kitchen of 8 to 15 square metres. Built-in appliances are not included in these prices. If you are planning a whole-house renovation, have a look at our comprehensive home renovation guide.
Kitchen Cabinet Material Options
The cabinet material determines both the appearance and durability of your kitchen:
- Laminate finish: The most economical option. Scratch-resistant and easy to maintain. Around £80 to £200 per linear metre.
- Vinyl wrap (thermofoil): Suited to curved designs with a wide colour range. Around £120 to £250 per linear metre.
- Acrylic finish: Glossy, modern appearance. Fingerprints are a drawback. Around £200 to £400 per linear metre.
- Painted (lacquered): Available in matt or gloss finishes for a sleek look. Around £250 to £500 per linear metre.
- Solid wood: The most durable and prestigious option. From £400 per linear metre upwards.
If you cook frequently, choose materials that are resistant to moisture and steam.
Worktop Material Comparison
The worktop is the most heavily used surface in the kitchen, so the right material choice is critical:
- Laminate worktop: £400 - £900. Economical but susceptible to scratching; hot pans should not be placed directly on it.
- Granite worktop: £900 - £2,200. Natural, durable and suits any kitchen style.
- Quartz worktop: £1,200 - £3,000. Stain-resistant, hygienic, available in a wide range of colours.
- Marble worktop: £1,500 - £3,500. Beautiful but requires maintenance; sensitive to acidic substances.
- Corian worktop: £1,800 - £4,000. Seamless appearance, repairable and hygienic.
What to Consider During a Kitchen Renovation
The most common mistake in a kitchen renovation is overlooking ergonomics. Worktop height should suit the user, and the work triangle (the distance between hob, sink and fridge) must be properly planned.
Ensure you have enough electrical sockets. Small appliances, the oven, dishwasher and extractor hood may each need dedicated circuits. Ventilation is also essential for air quality in the kitchen. An extractor that vents externally is far more effective than a recirculating carbon-filter model.
If you are also planning a bathroom renovation, make use of our bathroom renovation costs guide. For painting work, have a look at our house painting costs article.
Conclusion
Kitchen renovation costs in 2026 range from £3,000 to £30,000 depending on the cabinet material, worktop choice and scope of work. The right material selection, ergonomic planning and working with a reliable tradesperson are the keys to creating a kitchen you will be happy with for years to come.
At builderquote.co.uk you can compare kitchen cabinet and worktop prices to find the best options for your budget.