Planning a kitchen renovation in West Sussex? Whether you're in Bognor Regis, Chichester, or anywhere across the county, understanding the real costs involved is essential before you commit to any project. The kitchen is often called the heart of the home: and for good reason. It's where families gather, meals are prepared, and memories are made. But renovating this crucial space requires careful budgeting.
In this complete 2026 guide, we'll break down exactly what you can expect to pay for a kitchen renovation in West Sussex, from budget-friendly refreshes to full high-end transformations. No fluff, just the facts you need to plan your project with confidence.
What Does a Kitchen Renovation Actually Cost in 2026?
Let's cut straight to it. Kitchen renovation costs in West Sussex typically range from £5,000 for basic updates to £25,000 or more for full renovations. That's quite a spread, and where you land depends on several factors we'll explore below.
According to recent UK data, the average kitchen renovation sits between £10,000 and £20,000, though around 10% of homeowners spend upwards of £50,000 for premium, bespoke kitchens. Here in West Sussex, labour costs tend to align with the South East average, which can be slightly higher than northern regions but offers excellent value when you work with experienced local tradespeople.
Breaking Down Costs by Kitchen Size
Your kitchen's size plays a massive role in the final bill. Here's what you can realistically expect:
Small Kitchens (up to 10m²)
For compact kitchens: common in flats and smaller homes across Bognor Regis and Chichester: budget between £5,000 and £10,000 for a basic renovation. Want something more upmarket? Expect to pay £15,000 to £25,000 for high-end finishes and appliances.
Medium Kitchens (10-15m²)
This is the sweet spot for most family homes in West Sussex. A standard renovation runs £10,000 to £15,000, while premium options with quality worktops and integrated appliances push into the £20,000 to £35,000 range.
Large Kitchens (15m²+)
Got a spacious kitchen or planning a kitchen-diner? Basic renovations start around £15,000 to £20,000, but high-end projects with islands, bespoke cabinetry, and top-tier appliances can easily reach £30,000 to £50,000+.
Where Does Your Money Actually Go?
Understanding the cost breakdown helps you prioritise spending and identify areas where you might save: or splurge. Here's a typical mid-range renovation breakdown:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Kitchen Units | £3,000 – £5,000 |
| Worktops | £1,200 – £4,500 |
| Appliances | £2,000 – £5,000 |
| Labour (all trades) | £2,500 – £5,000 |
| Flooring & Tiling | £400 – £1,500 |
| Plumbing | £500 – £2,000 |
| Electrical Work | £800 – £3,000 |
Total: £10,400 – £26,000 depending on your choices.
Worktops: The Biggest Variable
Worktop material is often where budgets diverge dramatically. Here's what different options cost fitted:
- Laminate: £500 – £1,200 (budget-friendly, huge design variety)
- Solid Wood: £1,500 – £2,500 (warm, natural, requires maintenance)
- Quartz: £2,500 – £4,000 (durable, low maintenance, premium look)
- Granite: £3,000 – £4,500+ (unique patterns, extremely hardwearing)
If you're watching your budget, laminate worktops have come a long way: modern options look remarkably convincing and last well with proper care. For those wanting longevity and that 'wow factor', quartz offers the best balance of beauty and practicality.
Labour Costs in West Sussex
Labour typically accounts for 20-35% of your total renovation cost. In West Sussex, you can expect:
- Kitchen fitters/carpenters: £150 – £250 per day
- Plumbers: £40 – £60 per hour
- Electricians: £40 – £55 per hour
- Tilers: £30 – £45 per square metre
Working with a single contractor like Swanbourne Construction who manages all trades simplifies the process enormously. You get one point of contact, coordinated scheduling, and: crucially: accountability for the entire project rather than finger-pointing between separate tradespeople.
Do You Need Building Regulations Approval?
Here's something many homeowners overlook: certain kitchen works require building regulations compliance. This isn't the same as planning permission (which you rarely need for internal renovations), but it's equally important.
You'll need building regulations sign-off for:
- Electrical work – Must be certified under Part P by a registered electrician
- Gas appliances – Installation must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer
- Structural changes – Removing walls or altering load-bearing elements
- Drainage alterations – Moving sinks or dishwashers significantly
At Swanbourne Construction, we handle all building regulations compliance as part of our service. That means Part P electrical certification, Gas Safe registered work, and any necessary approvals: so you don't have to chase paperwork or worry about compliance issues down the line. You can learn more about building regulations on the Planning Portal.
Budget-Friendly Kitchen Renovation Ideas
Not everyone has £20,000+ to spend, and that's absolutely fine. Here are smart ways to transform your kitchen on a tighter budget:
1. Keep the existing layout
Moving plumbing and electrics is expensive. If your current layout works reasonably well, keeping sinks and appliances in place can save thousands.
2. Consider refacing instead of replacing
Kitchen refacing: replacing just the doors and drawer fronts while keeping the carcasses: costs 40-50% less than full replacement and can be completed in just a few days with minimal disruption. It's a brilliant option if your units are structurally sound but looking tired.
3. Paint existing cabinets
A professional respray can completely transform dated cabinets for a fraction of replacement cost.
4. Upgrade worktops only
New worktops make a dramatic visual impact. Pair budget-friendly units with a stunning quartz worktop for a high-end look without the high-end price tag.
5. Focus on lighting
Proper lighting: under-cabinet strips, pendant lights over islands, and improved ceiling lighting: transforms how a kitchen feels and functions. Often achievable for under £500.
Does a Kitchen Renovation Add Value to Your Home?
Absolutely. A quality kitchen renovation typically adds 6-8% to your property value in West Sussex. For an average home valued at £350,000, that's potentially £21,000 to £28,000 in added value.
Even more importantly, an updated kitchen helps homes sell faster. Estate agents consistently report that kitchens and bathrooms are the rooms buyers scrutinise most closely. A dated, tired kitchen can lead buyers to mentally knock thousands off their offer: or walk away entirely.
If you're renovating with resale in mind, focus on timeless designs, quality worktops, and integrated appliances. Overly trendy or highly personalised choices might appeal to you but could limit your buyer pool.
For more on home improvements that add value, check out our guide to house extensions in West Sussex or browse our previous projects for inspiration.
How Long Does a Kitchen Renovation Take?
Timeline expectations matter: especially if you're living in the property during works. Most kitchen renovations take 4-6 weeks from start to finish. Simpler refits with minimal structural changes can be completed in 2-3 weeks.
Factors that extend timelines include:
- Custom cabinetry (longer lead times)
- Structural alterations
- Moving plumbing or gas supplies
- Waiting for building control inspections
We always provide an exact timeline during your initial consultation, so you know precisely what to expect before any work begins.
Getting Your Kitchen Renovation Quote
Ready to explore your options? The best starting point is always a detailed, no-obligation quote from an experienced local builder who understands West Sussex homes.
At Swanbourne Construction, we provide free consultations and quotes tailored to your specific requirements and budget. Whether you're planning a simple refresh or a complete kitchen transformation, we'll talk through your options honestly and help you understand exactly where your money goes.
Call us on 07470 078236 or get in touch through our website to arrange your free consultation. We cover Bognor Regis, Chichester, Arundel, and the wider West Sussex area: and we'd love to help you create the kitchen you've been dreaming of.