Kitchen Renovation and Refurbishment in London

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I choose the right team for a full renovation project in London?

  When you are planning a major upgrade to the main living and cooking space, it is important to work with a company that can manage everything from survey and design through to installation and finishing. Look for a team with strong local reviews, clear written quotations and a portfolio of recent projects similar to your home. A single contractor coordinating all trades – rather than you trying to organise plumbers, electricians, fitters and decorators separately – usually results in a smoother, faster and less stressful experience.

• What budget should I allow for a high quality makeover of my cooking and dining area?

  Costs vary depending on room size, specification and whether any structural changes are required, but most London projects fall into broad ranges. Lighter cosmetic updates that refresh doors, work surfaces and finishes tend to start from the mid‑teens in thousands of pounds. Full replacements with new units, premium surfaces, flooring and lighting often sit in the mid‑twenties to mid‑forties. Bespoke designs, large spaces or layouts that need major alterations can go significantly higher. A detailed, itemised quote is the best way to understand what is realistic for your budget.

• What is the difference between a light refresh, a refurbishment and a complete transformation?

  A light refresh keeps the existing layout and focuses on visible elements such as doors, panels, worktops, splashbacks and lighting. A refurbishment goes further by replacing more components while still working within the same footprint. A complete transformation rethinks how the whole room functions, which can include opening up walls, adding an island or peninsula, moving services and redesigning storage and circulation from scratch. The right approach depends on how dated the space feels, how you use it day to day and how long you plan to stay in the property.

• How long does a typical project take once work starts on site?

  Timescales depend on scope, but many London homes follow similar patterns. A lighter facelift that keeps the same layout and services can often be completed in around one to two weeks once all materials are ready. A full replacement with new cabinetry, surfaces, flooring and lighting is more commonly two to four weeks. Where structural alterations, steelwork or major layout changes are involved, the programme can extend beyond this. A clear schedule agreed in advance helps you plan around the disruption and understand when each stage will be completed.

• Do I need planning permission or building control approval for this type of work?

  Internal upgrades that stay within the existing walls usually do not require formal planning permission, but they still need to comply with building regulations for electrics, gas, ventilation and structural safety. If your project involves extending, removing load‑bearing walls, altering openings or working on a listed building or in a conservation area, additional approvals are likely to be required. A reputable contractor will explain which consents apply, help you obtain any necessary structural calculations and liaise with building control where needed.

• What is normally included in a fully managed service for this kind of upgrade?

  A fully managed service typically covers the entire journey: initial consultation and measurements, layout planning, specification of units, surfaces and finishes, removal of the existing room, first‑fix plumbing and electrics, plastering, tiling, flooring, installation of new cabinetry and worktops, appliance positioning, lighting, decorating and final snagging. Many homeowners prefer this approach because it provides one point of contact, reduces the risk of gaps between trades and ensures that design decisions, technical details and finishing touches are all handled by the same experienced team.