Why Kitchen Renovations Require More Planning Than Other Rooms
Your kitchen isn’t just another room — it’s the operational heart of your home. Unlike a bedroom or lounge where you might get away with a simple redecoration, a proper kitchen renovation involves multiple trades working in precise sequence, strict adherence to Building Regulations, and careful coordination of services.
From a plasterer’s perspective, kitchens present unique challenges. You’re working around new plumbing runs, rewired electrics, extractor ductwork, and potentially structural changes where walls have been removed or openings widened. Get the plastering stage wrong, and it affects every trade that follows.
Modern kitchen renovations in 2026 also need to address energy efficiency requirements under Building Regulations Part L. If you’re removing walls or adding extensions, you’ll need to demonstrate improved thermal performance — often meaning insulated plasterboard becomes part of your specification rather than an optional upgrade.
The True Cost of Kitchen Renovation in 2026
Let’s break down realistic costs based on current UK pricing. These figures reflect actual contractor quotes in Kent and Southeast England as of early 2026, including materials and labour.
| Kitchen Type | Size | Typical Cost Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Refresh | Small (8–10m²) | £5,000–£8,000 | 2–3 weeks |
| Standard Renovation | Medium (10–15m²) | £12,000–£18,000 | 4–6 weeks |
| Premium Remodel | Large (15–20m²) | £20,000–£30,000 | 6–8 weeks |
| Luxury Kitchen | Large (20m²+) | £30,000–£50,000+ | 8–12 weeks |
These ranges include all trades — demolition, building work, plumbing, electrics, plastering, flooring, units, and worktops. For a detailed breakdown of just the kitchen elements, see our comprehensive guide on kitchen renovation costs.
What Affects Kitchen Renovation Pricing
- Structural changes: Removing walls, creating openings, or adding steel beams adds £2,000–£8,000 to your budget
- Services relocation: Moving gas, water, or drainage runs costs £800–£2,500 per service depending on distance
- Kitchen unit quality: Flat-pack from Wickes (£2,000–£4,000) versus bespoke cabinetry (£8,000–£15,000+)
- Worktop material: Laminate (£150–£300), solid wood (£400–£800), quartz/granite (£1,200–£3,500+)
- Appliance specification: Budget package (£1,500–£2,500) versus premium brands (£5,000–£10,000+)
- Flooring choice: Vinyl (£20–£35/m²), porcelain tiles (£40–£80/m²), engineered wood (£50–£90/m²)
The Complete Kitchen Renovation Timeline
Understanding the sequence of work helps you plan realistically and coordinate trades effectively. Here’s the professional timeline for a typical medium-sized kitchen renovation:
Phase 1: Strip Out and First Fix (Week 1–2)
Days 1–3: Demolition and strip out. Old units removed, appliances disconnected, tiles stripped from walls. If you’re removing walls, this happens now — with proper structural calculations and Building Control notification for load-bearing walls.
Days 4–10: First fix trades. Plumber runs new pipework, electrician installs new circuits and moves sockets, gas engineer relocates boiler or hob supply. Plasterers can’t start until all services are first-fixed and chased into walls.
Phase 2: Plastering and Making Good (Week 2–3)
Days 11–13: Wall preparation and plastering. This is where we come in. Chase lines are filled, walls prepared with bonding coat if needed, then skim coated with finishing plaster. For kitchen walls, we typically use Thistle Multi-Finish which provides a harder, more durable surface than standard board finish.
On external walls or those prone to condensation, we’ll spec insulated plasterboard (typically 50mm+ Celotex or Kingspan bonded to 12.5mm British Gypsum board) to meet thermal regulations and prevent mould growth behind units.
Days 14–16: Drying time. This is non-negotiable. Fresh plaster needs 7–14 days to dry fully before painting or tiling, depending on conditions. You can speed drying with gentle heat and ventilation, but never rush it — trapped moisture causes paint to bubble and tiles to fail.
For detailed information on plaster drying times and what affects them, see our guide on how long plaster takes to dry.
Phase 3: Second Fix and Installation (Week 3–5)
Days 17–20: Flooring installation. Goes down before units to provide a level base and allow you to move units around if needed. Porcelain tiles need 24–48 hours to cure before walking on them.
Days 21–28: Kitchen units fitted. Base units installed first, levelled carefully, then wall units hung. Worktops templated and fitted (stone worktops need a separate visit for templating, then 7–10 days fabrication time).
Days 29–32: Appliances and second fix. Sink connected, hob wired in, tiling completed around worktops, electrician fits faceplates and lights, decorator applies mist coats to fresh plaster and final paint.
Phase 4: Finishing (Week 5–6)
Days 33–35: Snagging and finishing. Silicon seals applied around worktops and sinks, handles fitted to units, touch-up painting completed, final appliances installed and commissioned.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Most kitchen renovations fall under permitted development and don’t require planning permission. However, Building Regulations approval is mandatory for:
- Removing or altering load-bearing walls (structural changes)
- Moving or installing new gas appliances
- Significant electrical work (new circuits, consumer unit changes)
- New drainage or modifications to existing waste systems
- Windows or external doors that affect thermal performance
Your electrician must be registered with a Competent Person Scheme (NICEIC, NAPIT, or equivalent) to self-certify electrical work. Gas work must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. For structural work, you’ll need calculations from a structural engineer and Building Control sign-off.
In 2026, new builds and major renovations must achieve higher energy efficiency standards under the updated Part L. This typically means improved insulation values — if you’re plastering external walls, specify insulated plasterboard with a U-value of 0.18 W/m²K or better.
Common Kitchen Renovation Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
After twenty years plastering renovation projects, I’ve seen the same mistakes repeated. Here’s what catches homeowners out:
1. Underestimating the Budget
The average kitchen renovation costs 20–30% more than initial estimates once you account for unexpected issues, design changes, and upgraded specifications. If your budget is tight, see our guide on renovating a kitchen on a budget for practical cost-saving strategies.
2. Poor Trade Coordination
Kitchen renovations involve 6–8 different trades working in sequence. If your electrician is delayed, the plasterer can’t start. If plastering overruns, the kitchen fitter sits idle. Use a main contractor or project manager to coordinate trades — it costs 10–15% extra but saves weeks of delays and prevents costly mistakes.
3. Ignoring the Plaster Drying Phase
This is the most common issue I encounter. Kitchen suppliers book installation dates before plaster has dried, then blame the plasterer when paint bubbles or tiles fall off weeks later. Fresh plaster contains significant moisture that must evaporate naturally — there are no shortcuts.
4. Not Planning for Waste Removal
A typical kitchen strip-out generates 3–5 tonnes of waste. Budget £300–£600 for a skip or grab lorry hire. Factor in two weeks’ hire minimum — you’ll need it for the initial strip-out and again at the end for packaging and offcuts.
5. Choosing Style Over Substance
That Instagram-worthy kitchen might not suit your lifestyle. Design for how you actually cook — if you’re serious about cooking, you need worktop space either side of the hob, not a massive island you’ll never use. Position the dishwasher within one step of where plates are stored. Put the bin near where you prep vegetables.
Kitchen Design Trends in 2026
Current kitchen design in the UK emphasizes practicality, sustainability, and integrated technology. Here’s what we’re seeing specified on recent projects:
- Integrated appliances: Flush-fitted fridges, dishwashers, and ovens behind unit fronts for seamless aesthetics
- Sustainable materials: Recycled glass worktops, FSC-certified timber, water-based paints, and low-VOC finishes
- Larger islands: Multi-functional islands with seating, storage, and appliances — minimum 1200mm × 900mm to be practical
- Handleless units: Push-to-open mechanisms or J-pull profiles for clean lines (though traditional handles are making a comeback)
- Smart storage: Pull-out larders, corner carousels, drawer dividers — maximizing every centimeter of space
- Neutral palettes: Greys, greiges, and warm whites dominate, with natural wood accents for warmth
- Quartz worktops: Now more affordable than granite and outperforming both granite and laminate in durability and maintenance
From a plastering perspective, the trend toward full-height splashbacks (floor-to-ceiling tiles or glass behind hobs) means more precise cutting and sealing around services. We’re also seeing increased demand for Venetian or polished plaster finishes in high-end kitchens — providing a seamless, wipe-clean surface that’s more interesting than paint.
Essential Kitchen Services and Specifications
When planning your renovation, ensure these specifications are correct from the start. Retrofitting services is expensive and disruptive.
Electrical Requirements
Modern kitchens need dedicated circuits for high-power appliances. Your electrician should install:
- Cooker circuit: 32A or 40A radial circuit for electric oven and hob
- Socket circuits: Minimum two 20A radial circuits or one 32A ring main for general sockets
- Dedicated circuits: Separate circuits for dishwasher, washing machine, and American-style fridge-freezers
- Lighting circuits: Separate circuit with multiple zones for under-unit, pendant, and ambient lighting
- Extractor: Fused spur for cooker hood (ideally switched, not pull-cord)
All electrical work must comply with BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations). Sockets should be 150mm above worktop height, never directly above the hob.
Plumbing Specifications
- Water supply: 22mm copper or MDPE for mains feed, 15mm branches to individual appliances
- Waste pipes: 40mm for sink waste, 32mm minimum for appliances, properly trapped and vented
- Stop valves: Individual isolation valves for each appliance — essential for maintenance
- Hot water supply: Ensure adequate flow rate from combi boiler or sufficient cylinder capacity
Ventilation Requirements
Building Regulations Approved Document F requires mechanical ventilation in kitchens. Minimum extract rate of 60 litres/second during cooking or 30 litres/second continuous background ventilation. Cooker hoods must duct externally where possible — recirculating hoods are less effective and don’t meet regulations for new builds.
Choosing Your Kitchen Units and Materials
Unit quality varies enormously across price points. Here’s what you’re actually paying for:
| Unit Type | Carcass Material | Typical Cost | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (B&Q, Wickes) | 15mm chipboard | £2,000–£4,000 | 5–8 years |
| Mid-range (Howdens, Magnet) | 18mm moisture-resistant board | £4,000–£8,000 | 10–15 years |
| Premium (Mereway, Nobilia) | 18mm plywood/solid wood | £8,000–£15,000 | 15–25 years |
| Bespoke (Local cabinetmaker) | Solid wood throughout | £12,000–£25,000+ | 25–50 years |
The carcass material matters more than the door fronts. Cheap chipboard units sag and hinges pull out within 5–7 years. Quality units use 18mm moisture-resistant board with proper corner bracing and adjustable feet.
Worktop Materials Compared
- Laminate (£150–£300): Budget option, decent appearance, scratches easily, poor heat resistance, 8–10 year lifespan
- Solid wood (£400–£800): Warm, natural appearance, requires regular oiling, can be sanded/refinished, water-sensitive
- Quartz composite (£1,200–£2,500): Most popular choice in 2026, extremely durable, non-porous, wide colour range, 25+ year lifespan
- Granite (£1,500–£3,000): Natural stone, requires sealing, unique patterns, heavy (needs proper unit support), extremely durable
- Dekton/Neolith (£2,000–£4,000): Ultra-compact sintered surface, extremely hard, heat/scratch resistant, premium appearance
Working With Your Plasterer During Kitchen Renovation
As plasterers, we need specific conditions and preparation to deliver quality work. Here’s what helps the job run smoothly:
Before We Arrive
- Complete first fix trades: All services chased in, backboxes fitted, cables/pipes protected
- Remove all loose material: Old tiles off, wallpaper stripped, loose plaster knocked back to solid substrate
- Provide access to water: We need clean water for mixing — a working kitchen tap or outside tap
- Clear the space: We need room to work and set up mixing equipment
- Protect finished elements: Cover any completed flooring or fixed elements that can’t be removed
What We Provide
Professional plasterers bring their own tools, mixing equipment, and consumables. We’ll spec the correct plaster type for your walls — typically Multi-Finish for regular conditions, or specialized plasters if you have damp issues or need enhanced thermal performance.
For kitchen walls that will be tiled, we’ll leave a slightly textured finish (pulled up with a devil float) to provide better adhesion for tile adhesive. For painted walls, we’ll polish to a smooth, paint-ready finish.
Managing Your Kitchen Renovation Project
Unless you’re an experienced renovator, managing multiple trades yourself is stressful and prone to costly mistakes. Consider these approaches:
Option 1: Main Contractor
Cost: Add 15–20% to total project cost
Advantages: Single point of contact, they coordinate all trades, they carry liability insurance, they handle Building Control and warranties
Disadvantages: Higher cost, less control over trade selection, their profit margin added to every element
Option 2: Self-Manage
Cost: Save 15–20% versus using main contractor
Advantages: Direct relationship with each trade, choose your own suppliers and tradesmen, potentially higher quality as you select specialists
Disadvantages: Requires significant time commitment, you carry all project risk, coordinating trades and deliveries falls to you, any mistakes are your responsibility
Option 3: Hybrid Approach
Many homeowners use a kitchen supplier with installation service (Howdens, Magnet, Wren) for the units and coordination of their trades, then separately contract structural work, plastering, and flooring. This splits the risk and gives more control than a main contractor while providing some professional project management.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a full kitchen renovation take in the UK?
A complete kitchen renovation typically takes 4–8 weeks from demolition to completion. Budget kitchens with no structural work can be done in 3–4 weeks. High-end renovations with bespoke cabinetry, structural alterations, or stone worktops requiring templating often extend to 8–12 weeks. The critical path item is usually plastering drying time (7–14 days) — this cannot be compressed without causing problems later.
Do I need Building Regulations approval for a kitchen renovation?
Yes, if you’re doing structural work, electrical work, gas work, or drainage modifications. Simple like-for-like replacement of units and appliances doesn’t require approval. However, removing walls, installing new circuits, moving gas appliances, or adding waste pipes all trigger Building Regulations. Your electrician and gas engineer must be registered with appropriate schemes to self-certify their work. Structural changes need Building Control inspection and sign-off.
Can I live in my house during a kitchen renovation?
Yes, but it’s challenging. You’ll have no kitchen facilities for the entire project duration — plan to use a microwave, kettle, and temporary sink setup in another room. Dust and disruption affect the whole house despite protective sheeting. Many homeowners rent accommodation for major renovations or arrange to stay with family. At minimum, set up a temporary kitchen in the dining room or garage with basic appliances, camping stove, and washing-up facilities.
Should I buy kitchen units before plastering?
No. Order units after plastering is complete and dried, but before installation week. This gives you accurate wall measurements on finished surfaces — plasterboard and skim coat can add 20–30mm to wall thickness. Most kitchen suppliers work on 4–6 week lead times from order to delivery, which aligns perfectly with the plastering-to-installation window. Only exception is bespoke cabinetry with 10–12 week lead times — then order earlier but build in flexibility for measurement adjustments.
What’s the best kitchen layout for a small space?
Galley (parallel) layouts work best for narrow kitchens under 2.4m wide. Keep 1200mm minimum between opposing units for comfortable movement. L-shaped layouts suit square rooms and maximize corner space with carousel units. U-shaped kitchens provide maximum storage and work surface but need at least 3m × 3m to avoid feeling cramped. Islands need minimum 3.6m × 3m rooms to allow 1000mm circulation space around them. If you’re tight on space, consider a peninsula (three-sided island) attached to one wall instead.
How much should I budget for unexpected issues?
Add 15–20% contingency to your kitchen renovation budget. Common unexpected costs include: damp treatment (£500–£2,000), outdated wiring requiring full rewire (£2,000–£4,000), asbestos removal from old floor tiles or textured coatings (£500–£1,500), structural issues once walls are opened (£1,000–£5,000+), and floor leveling or replacement of rotten joists (£800–£3,000). In Victorian or Edwardian properties, budget 20–25% contingency — older homes hide more problems.
Final Thoughts on Kitchen Renovation Planning
A well-planned kitchen renovation transforms not just the space but how you live in your home. The kitchens that work best are those where every detail has been thought through — from the practical routing of services to the height of sockets above worktops.
From a tradesman’s perspective, the smoothest projects are where homeowners have done their homework, established a realistic budget with proper contingency, and understand the sequence of work. They don’t push trades to cut corners or rush critical stages like plaster drying. They’ve chosen materials that suit their lifestyle rather than just following trends.
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Kent and need experienced plasterers who understand how kitchens work as part of the bigger renovation picture, we’re here to help. We coordinate regularly with other trades, understand Building Regulations requirements, and deliver the quality finish your new kitchen deserves.
Take your time in the planning phase — it’s the decisions you make now, before any work starts, that determine whether your renovation runs smoothly or becomes a stressful, over-budget nightmare. Get quotes from multiple trades, check references, and don’t automatically choose the cheapest price. In renovation work, you genuinely get what you pay for.