7 ways to bring down the cost of a Kitchen Remodel in 2023
Last Updated on March 28, 2023
When deciding to remodel a tired kitchen, or one that is not fit for purpose, there are a lot of things to consider. How much of a change do you plan to make? Can you keep any of the existing fixtures or fittings? Is your kitchen big, or small?
All these aspects will make a difference to the cost of a kitchen remodel, so there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution. But there are several things you can do to make sure you get the most from your budget, without losing out on style or quality.
It is generally considered that the cost of a kitchen remodel will likely range between £5,000 and £14,000. A kitchen fitter will likely cost between £200 and £320 per day. But, for a remodel rather than a full install, you will probably only need them for one or two days, which will help to keep your costs down.
- Worktops
A new kitchen worktop will instantly give your kitchen a facelift. There are many different styles and colours to choose from, so you are bound to find something that suits what you want to achieve with your new look, and within your budget.
A solid oak kitchen worktop will complement any style, and is both versatile and durable. If looked after properly, an oak worktop will last a long time, so the cost of a kitchen remodel will benefit in the long-term, as you won’t need to replace it again for a while.
With many people now working from home, often in the kitchen, adding some extra worktop space that can be used as a makeshift desk is a handy way of remodelling that is both practical and adds some extra interest.
- Cupboards and Drawers
Often, existing kitchen cabinets can be repurposed if the carcasses are still ok, so you could just change the doors and knobs. To cut down the cost of a kitchen remodel further, sanding and painting or varnishing the doors is a quick fix that will barely cost anything at all, but can make a big difference to how your kitchen looks.
Even if you aren’t planning the same layout, you may find that at least some of your current cupboards can be reconfigured to suit your new design. If they aren’t able to be reused, opting for double width cupboards in place of standard sized ones, could save you up to 25% on the final price, so that is well worth considering.
- Shelving
Choosing to include shelving into your kitchen design could save you money on reducing the number of kitchen cupboards you might need, so the cost of a kitchen remodel can be decreased even further.
You will need to keep your kitchen tidy, if everything is out on show, and may want to incorporate your pots, pans and utensils into your overall design. This can work equally well in a farmhouse kitchen with rustic or copper pans, or a modern look with stainless steel.
- Dining
Having space for a dining area in your kitchen can add to the overall value of your home, as well as being a practical and useful seating area, which can be used for family time or entertaining. Again, if your kitchen isn’t fully taken up with cabinets and storage, then the cost of a kitchen remodel will be lessened if part of the kitchen is taken up with a dining table and chairs.
These can be picked up cheaply, with second-hand furniture stores and online selling sites offering them at a steal, so well worth checking out.
- Flooring
Changing the flooring of your kitchen may seem like a luxury when it comes to the cost of a kitchen remodel, but it has to withstand a lot of wear and tear as one of the most used rooms in a home. So, it is worth seeing what is available in your budget, be it vinyl, ceramic tiles, stone, concrete, laminate or solid wood. With so many options to choose from, you will almost certainly find something to suit.
You may also find that changing the flooring becomes necessary, if you are taking up existing cupboards, as the current flooring may have been fitted round them, leaving you with unsightly gaps.
- Appliances
If your appliances are still in working order, and aren’t looking too dated and tired, then keep them. There is no need to go all out, and this is an area where you can really save money on the cost of a kitchen remodel.
However, if you are looking long-term, then exchanging old appliances for more modern versions that tend to be more energy efficient will help save you money on the rising energy costs, as well as being better for the environment.
- Installation
If you feel you can fit your kitchen yourself, or have handy friends and family who can help out, go for it. The cost of a kitchen remodel needs to factor in installation, so doing it yourself will cut those costs out completely.
Alternatively, if you don’t feel confident, and want to make sure it is done properly and professionally, shop around for a trusted trader who will do the job on time and in budget, so you don’t end up having to call someone else in at a later date.
Final thoughts
The cost of a kitchen remodel doesn’t have to be expensive. There are so many areas where you can cut costs, but without compromising on the final result. Put a plan in place, and stick to it as much as possible. Check out salvage yards and retailers for ex-display kitchen units, sinks, tiles and anything else which can help you make your kitchen unique. Mix and match for a more homely feel, or keep everything streamlined for a modern and minimalist look.
Look at your long-term options, so that you won’t need or want to remodel your kitchen again in the near future, and choose a timeless style that will never go out of fashion, and will appeal to potential buyers when you come to sell your house.