It’s a dilemma faced by homeowners around the world. Do we need a new kitchen or would a refurbishment be enough? It’s a big decision and one that rightly requires time and thought. Whether you’re looking to rip out your entire set-up and install a new design or give your existing look a fresh touch, there is always going to be an associated cost. So how can you reach the right decision?
First of all, take a look at your existing kitchen to identify what you currently like and what needs to go. Some superficial elements of the kitchen may look outdated or worn out, such as cupboard doors and drawer fronts. Behind the scenes however, the units may continue to be sturdy, reliable and simply in need of a refresh. It’s well worth examining these and taking these factors into consideration.
Knowing how you want your kitchen to work is just as important as visualising how you’d like it to look. Therefore, consider the following questions:
- Is your current kitchen layout working well and meeting your family’s needs?
- Is there enough storage space?
- How old are your appliances and do you think they’ve got at least another five years of use in them?
If you’ve answered any of these questions with “no”, then you may want to consider planning for a new kitchen. Especially if you require additional cabinets, a layout rearrangement or there has been a change in how you’d like to use the room.
However, if it suits your needs practically then a refresh may be all it takes to renew your love for your home’s culinary space.
The cost of refurbishment vs a new kitchen
Of course, refurbishments can work well but it’s worth bearing in mind that the costs of a part-kitchen overhaul can quickly add up. For example, if you’re adding new cabinet doors, you may also need to replace end panels, infills, corner posts, pelmets, cornices and plinths – all for colour matching. What once appeared to be quite a simple refresh job could quickly escalate and become more complicated than you think.
So what are the prices? Well, like anything, it depends on multiple factors. These include the size of your kitchen, the extent of the work you want to carry out and the materials. Not to mention potential new appliances and installation costs. According to the 2017 Kitchen Trends Report from Houzz, the average budget and spend for kitchen renovations in UK homes was between £10,001-£25,000, with 22% of homeowners spending between £25,000-£50,000 and a further 10% clocking up a bill of over £50,000.
Of course, you won’t just be spending money. You’ll also be spending time planning for either option. According to the 2020 Houzz and Home UK Overview of Home Renovation, the average time taken to plan a kitchen refurbishment was 10.1 months whilst actual construction time clocked in at 5.2 months.
Therefore, our experts at Appletree Interiors highly recommend that customers get a quote for both a refurbishment and a brand new fit, as comparatively, there’s often not that much difference in price. It’s a big decision and one that requires a lot of thinking, particularly as your kitchen is one of the largest investments you’ll make in your house. Our professional members of staff can work with you to evaluate your options and what would provide the best value for you. Whether you’re looking for a new kitchen or bathroom or to simply upgrade your existing installation, we can help.
For any advice or further information, why not give one of our experts a call today on 01905 936260 or email us at info@appletree-interiors.co.uk. Alternatively, you’ll always receive a warm welcome in our kitchen showroom at 13 North Street Industrial Estate, Ombersley Way, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8JB. We look forward to helping you realise your dream kitchen.
