Kitchen renovation cost in London (2026)
By Kristian Toth, Co-owner, Making World Beautiful · Last updated: 16 October 2026
Short answer
Most MWB kitchen renovations in London cost £15,000–£40,000, depending on size, layout changes and finish. A typical project takes 4–8 weeks on site.
| Scope | Typical cost | Time on site |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh: same layout, new units and worktops | £15,000–£22,000 | 3–4 weeks |
| Full renovation: new layout, electrics, plumbing | £22,000–£32,000 | 5–6 weeks |
| Premium: bespoke joinery, stone, island | £32,000–£40,000 | 6–8 weeks |
Indicative MWB prices including labour and materials. Your fixed price follows a free site visit.
What drives the cost of a kitchen?
Layout changes and finish level matter most. Moving sinks, gas or walls adds plumbing, electrics and making good.
- Cabinetry: off-the-shelf vs bespoke joinery
- Worktops: laminate, quartz or natural stone
- Appliances and extraction
- Flooring, lighting and plastering
What hidden costs should I budget for?
Allow roughly 10–15% on top of the build price for fees and contingency. The most common extras in London are:
- Party wall surveyor: typically £700–£1,500 per neighbour if works affect a shared wall
- Structural engineer calculations: usually £500–£2,000
- Building control fees: commonly £800–£2,000 depending on the council
- Skip permits and parking suspensions: charged per week by the borough
- Planning or lawful development certificate fees where needed
Do I need planning permission for a new kitchen?
Usually not. Internal kitchen works rarely need planning. Removing a structural wall needs Building Regulations approval and an engineer; listed buildings need listed building consent.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in London?
With MWB, between £15,000–£40,000 for most London homes.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
Typically 4–8 weeks on site, plus 2–4 weeks beforehand for design and ordering.
Can I live at home during a kitchen renovation?
Yes, most clients do. We can set up a temporary kitchen area and keep dust contained.