Anyone who’s started pricing up a new kitchen in the UK has probably hit the same wall: the term “kitchen unit” seems to cover everything from a single cabinet to a whole run of fitted storage. This guide breaks down what kitchen units actually are, what they cost in 2025, and how the UK’s biggest suppliers compare when it comes to quality and value. By the end, you’ll have a realistic budget and know exactly where your money goes.
Average cost of a new fitted kitchen in the UK: £5,000–£12,000 ·
Most expensive part: Cabinetry and worktops (40-50% of total) ·
Howdens vs Wren quality reputation: Both good quality; Howdens is trade-only, Wren direct-to-consumer
Quick snapshot
- A budget flat-pack kitchen in the UK costs £2,500–£5,300 all-in, including fitting (What to Charge)
- Standard base units are 600 mm deep and 720 mm high, with wall units at approximately 300 mm deep (MyJobQuote)
- Exact prices vary significantly by region, kitchen size, and material choice
- Warranty details and after-sales service quality differ by supplier
- January sales and Black Friday are the best times to buy, with clearance savings of 20–40% (MyJobQuote)
- Compare Howdens, Wren, B&Q, and Wickes quotes directly, then time your purchase around seasonal discounts
| Type of Unit | Typical Dimensions | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Base Units | 600 mm deep, 720 mm high | Worktop support, sink and cooker installation |
| Wall Units | 300 mm deep | Storage above the worktop |
| Tall Units | 600 mm deep, up to 2100 mm high | Full-height storage (larder, fridge housing) |
What is considered a kitchen unit?
A kitchen unit is more than just a cupboard — it’s the building block of a fitted kitchen. In the UK, a standard kitchen unit consists of a cabinet box, a door or drawer front, hinges, and sometimes a worktop. These units come in three main types: base units that sit on the floor, wall units that mount at eye level, and tall units that provide full-height storage. Understanding what counts as a “unit” matters because it directly affects how you price your project.
When choosing kitchen units, look for solid construction, soft-close hinges, and a reputable brand – these long-term savings outweigh upfront cost.
— Which? kitchen expert
What are the standard dimensions of kitchen base and wall units?
- Standard UK base units are 600 mm deep and 720 mm high, with widths ranging from 300 mm to 1000 mm (MyJobQuote)
- Wall units are typically 300 mm deep, providing a slim profile that leaves room for worktop activities
Standard dimensions exist for a reason: they ensure compatibility with appliances and worktops, which keeps costs down. To put that in context, a standard base unit is roughly the same depth as a full-size integrated dishwasher, so you can plan around a consistent grid.
Types of kitchen units: base, wall, and tall
- Base units: the workhorses, supporting worktops and hiding the plumbing and electrics
- Wall units: shallow boxes that add storage without eating into valuable floor space
- Tall units: floor-to-ceiling solutions for larder storage or housing tall appliances like American fridges
When you measure a kitchen, the number of units you need is determined by your wall and floor space. That’s why a small galley kitchen can get away with just 8 cabinets, while a large family kitchen might need 20 or more.
How much does a new kitchen cost in the UK?
The cost of a new kitchen in the UK spans a wide range, and the final bill depends heavily on the size of the room, the quality of the units you choose, and who fits them. A budget flat-pack kitchen — think IKEA or B&Q’s value range — typically sets you back £2,500 to £5,300 all-in, including professional fitting. At the other end of the scale, premium kitchens from bespoke specialists and high-end brands start at £10,000 and can easily reach £21,500 or more.
What’s driving the cost? The biggest single line item is the units and worktops, which typically account for 40–50% of your total spend. That means if you have £8,000 to play with, you’re looking at around £3,200–£4,000 for cabinetry alone, before you even think about appliances, tiling, or flooring.
You might assume paying more for a kitchen automatically means better quality, but the data tells a different story. A Howdens kitchen from a trade supplier can cost the same as a Wren kitchen bought directly, yet the two have very different manufacturing origins and warranty structures. The real question isn’t just “how much” — it’s “what are you getting for that figure?”
What is a realistic budget for a kitchen?
- Budget-friendly: £3,000–£5,000 for a small galley kitchen, using chipboard units and basic appliances
- Mid-range: £5,500–£10,500 for a standard-sized kitchen in a 3-bed house, with MDF units and upgraded worktops
- Premium: £10,000+ for larger kitchens, solid wood units, and integrated appliances
On average, UK spend breaks down as follows: a basic Howdens fitted kitchen starts from £2,500, while a medium-size kitchen from Wren costs £5,000–£10,000 installed.
How much does a Howdens fitted kitchen cost?
Howdens is a trade-only supplier, meaning you’ll need a builder or kitchen fitter with a trade account to buy from them. Their kitchens are priced at a competitive level for the quality, which is why so many UK fitters prefer them. A Howdens fitted kitchen typically costs £2,500–£10,000+ depending on the range and size of the room.
What you’re paying for is a kitchen that’s built specifically for the UK market, with a reputation for solid construction and a 20-year guarantee on units and doors. The trade-off is that you often can’t just “pop into Howdens” — you need someone with an account to make the purchase for you.
How much do B&Q charge to fit a kitchen?
B&Q’s fitting service is a popular choice for UK homeowners because it’s transparent and widely available. For a standard kitchen, B&Q charges between £1,500 and £3,000 for fitting alone, with costs varying based on the number of units and whether any plumbing or electrical work is needed.
How much does a B&Q kitchen cost?
- B&Q’s own-brand units start from around £40 per unit for budget chipboard options
- Kitchen fitting charges are additional, typically £1,500–£3,000 for a standard installation
B&Q is part of the Kingfisher group, which also owns Screwfix, giving them significant buying power. Their kitchen cabinets are made from a mix of MDF and particleboard, and they offer a range of price points to suit most budgets. The B&Q “kitchen designer” service is free in-store, though you’ll need to pay for the units themselves and any worktops you choose.
How much does an IKEA kitchen cost?
IKEA’s SEKTION system (which replaced the older AKURUM range) is one of the most popular choices for budget and mid-range kitchens. In the UK, IKEA describes their typical cost as “£55–£200+ per unit”, with a full 10-square-metre kitchen costing around £2,600 in units. Add in worktops, appliances, and installation, and you can expect a total outlay of £4,000–£8,000 for a fitted IKEA kitchen.
The real appeal of IKEA is the value for money. Their units are competitively priced in the UK compared to European neighbours like France and Spain — historically around 17% cheaper in the UK, according to pricing comparisons. However, be aware that IKEA’s UK service and installation costs can push up the total.
For a 10-square-metre IKEA kitchen, you’re looking at £2,600 for the units themselves plus installation if you need it. That’s dramatically less than a bespoke fitted kitchen from a premium supplier, but you’ll need to weigh up whether the flat-pack construction and self-assembly model works for your skill level and timeline.
Howdens vs Wren: which is better?
The battle of the big UK kitchen suppliers comes down to two very different business models. Howdens is trade-only, selling exclusively through builders and kitchen fitters, while Wren sells directly to the public through showrooms and online. Both are considered premium mass-market brands, but they have distinct strengths and weaknesses that could tip the scales for your project.
Howdens operates over 800 depots across the UK and Ireland, making it the go-to choice for trade professionals who need a reliable supply chain. Their kitchens are known for their robust construction, with a 20-year guarantee on units and doors. Wren, on the other hand, has grown rapidly since 2009 and now claims to be the UK’s largest kitchen manufacturer, importing directly from their own factory in Doncaster and passing the savings on to consumers.
What are the best kitchen units to buy?
- Howdens: Excellent for trade-sourced quality, with a strong warranty and consistent dimensions
- Wren: Great for direct-to-consumer flexibility, with online planning tools and no trade account required
- B&Q and Wickes: Better for smaller budgets and DIY fitters, with mid-range MDF options
Regarding raw quality, the materials are largely comparable — both use a mix of MDF, particleboard, and foil-wrapped finishes. The key difference is the default standard: Howdens often includes soft-close hinges as standard on their main ranges, while Wren offers this as an optional extra at a premium. For the average UK homeowner, that means paying a bit more for Howdens gives you a finished product that feels more comfortable to use — but if you’re on a strict budget, Wren’s base prices are often lower per unit.
Where can I buy cheap kitchen units?
If you’re looking to cut costs, a few UK retailers stand out for good reason. B&Q and Wickes are the classic high-street choices, offering chipboard units for as little as £30–£60 per unit and MDF options in the £75–£150 range. IKEA undercuts most competitors on price-per-unit, with their METOD and SEKTION systems offering solid construction at £40–£100 per unit depending on the finish.
For deeper discounts, keep an eye on the January sales and Black Friday — kitchen retailers often clear out old stock to make room for new designs, with savings of 20–40% on selected lines.
| Supplier | Price per unit (chipboard) | Warranty | Fitting service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Howdens | £50–£150 (trade) | 20 years | Via independent fitters |
| Wren | £60–£200 | 15 years | In-house fitting available |
| B&Q | £40–£120 | 10 years | Fitting from £1,500 |
| Wickes | £45–£130 | 10 years | Fitting from £1,500 |
| IKEA | £40–£100 | 5 years | Self-assembly or third-party |
The pattern: Trade suppliers like Howdens offer longer warranties but require a middleman, while direct retailers give you more control over the buying process but may have shorter guarantees.
Upsides of Howdens-style trade supply
- Higher default build quality with soft-close included
- Fitters know the product, reducing errors
- Strong warranty (20 years)
Downsides of Howdens-style trade supply
- Requires trade account (need a builder)
- Less design flexibility for unique layouts
- Fitter availability can be limited
How much do UK kitchen fitters charge?
Labour is a major part of any kitchen renovation budget, and it’s one area where costs can spiral if you’re not careful. For a standard kitchen, kitchen fitters in the UK charge between £1,500 and £4,500 for installation, depending on the size and complexity of the room. That figure typically covers fitting the units, worktops, sink, and basic plumbing connections, but not electrical work or plastering.
The best way to estimate your fitting costs is to look at the number of units. A professional fitter will charge £150–£400 per unit including labour and materials, with a typical price of £200–£300 for a standard base unit. That’s a useful rule of thumb when comparing quotes.
Kitchen fitting cost per unit in the UK
| Unit Type | Budget (chipboard) | Mid-range (MDF) | Premium (solid wood) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single floor unit | £65–£75 | £80–£110 | £150–£300 |
| Double floor unit | £75–£90 | £100–£130 | £175–£400 |
| Single wall unit | £55–£70 | £65–£90 | £100–£200 |
| Double wall unit | £75–£90 | £85–£110 | £150–£300 |
Those price bands come from MyJobQuote and reflect the range of materials available at each tier. Chipboard is the budget standard — it’s durable and fine for most homes — while MDF offers a smoother finish that’s more resistant to moisture. Solid wood is the premium choice, but it costs two to three times more for the privilege.
How much do Howdens charge to fit a kitchen?
Howdens doesn’t employ its own fitters — like many trade suppliers, they work through a network of independent kitchen fitters who hold trade accounts with the company. You’ll pay the fitter directly, not Howdens, which means the cost is set by local market rates. Expect to pay £150–£300 per unit for Howdens installation, depending on your region.
The advantage of going through Howdens is that their fitters are familiar with the product, which can reduce fitting time and the risk of errors. The downside is that they’re often booked up weeks in advance, and you’ll need to coordinate directly with the fitter rather than going through a single point of contact.
How much does a Howdens kitchen cost to fit?
For a typical 10-unit Howdens kitchen, you’re looking at £1,500–£3,000 to fit the units, which includes the standard connection of sink and taps but excludes electrical and plumbing works beyond the basic hook-up. Add in worktops at £30–£50 per linear metre for installation, and the total fitting bill lands in the £2,000–£3,500 bracket for a mid-sized kitchen.
How much do Wickes charge to fit a kitchen?
Wickes offers a similar fitting service to B&Q, with prices starting from £1,500 for a basic kitchen and rising to £3,500 or more for complex installations. The key difference is that Wickes often runs seasonal offers on fitting, knocking £200–£500 off the labour cost if you buy your units from them. Their surveyors will visit your home to measure up precisely, ensuring there are no surprises on installation day.
Fitting costs are where the difference between a Howdens and a Wickes kitchen starts to blur. You can buy units cheaply, but if a local fitter quotes you £3,000 to install them, the total can rival a premium kitchen from a direct supplier. Always get at least three fitting quotes before committing to a supplier.
The cost of fitting can vary dramatically depending on the complexity of the room. Always get at least three quotes before committing.
— UK kitchen fitter, MyJobQuote
How much does it cost to build a kitchen from scratch UK?
If you’re building a kitchen from the bare shell — ripping everything out and starting fresh — the costs stack up faster. The average UK homeowner spends £7,000–£15,000 on a full kitchen renovation, according to a national survey of kitchen costs. That includes everything: units, worktops, appliances, flooring, and installation.
What you’ll pay depends heavily on the size of your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of unit costs by kitchen size, based on data from MyJobQuote:
- Small kitchen (10 m² roughly): £2,000–£4,000 in units, with a total project cost of £5,000–£8,000
- Medium kitchen (13 m²): £3,000–£6,000 in units, total project cost of £7,000–£11,000
- Large kitchen (18 m²+): £5,000–£8,000+ in units, total project cost of £12,000–£18,000
One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make is underestimating the cost of worktops. Budget laminate is around £200–£500 for a standard kitchen, while quartz or granite can push your spend over £2,000. The same pattern applies to appliances — a mid-range integrated fridge-freezer costs £600–£1,000 alone.
Kitchen unit costs by material: chipboard vs MDF vs solid wood
The material you choose for your cabinet doors has one of the biggest impacts on both cost and longevity. What to Charge estimates the following costs for a typical 10-unit kitchen:
| Material | Price Range (10-unit kitchen) | Durability |
|---|---|---|
| Budget chipboard | £1,000–£2,500 | Prone to moisture damage but cheap to replace |
| Mid-range MDF | £2,000–£5,000 | Resistant to warping, paintable, good colour retention |
| Premium solid wood | £5,000–£10,000+ | Longest-lasting, repairable, high-end appearance |
The gap between chipboard and solid wood is dramatic because the materials are fundamentally different. Chipboard is a composite material that swells and absorbs moisture if the seal breaks, while solid wood can be sanded down and refinished even after years of heavy use. If you’re selling your home, solid wood doors can add a premium of 10–15% to your resale value, making them a smart long-term investment.
How much does it cost to paint kitchen units?
If your existing units are structurally sound but look dated, painting them is a budget-friendly alternative to a full replacement. Professional kitchen cabinet painting costs £150–£300 per unit, with most companies offering a fixed price for a standard kitchen of 10–12 units. That works out at £1,500–£3,000 for a complete respray, compared to £5,000+ for new mid-range units.
The most important factor is preparation. Cheap paint jobs fail quickly when the paint chips around the edges of the doors. Make sure your contractor uses a specialist liquid acrylic or spray-gun paint finish, not the DIY brush-on options from a hardware store, and you can realistically get another 10 years out of your existing kitchen.
Painting kitchen units is a false economy if you’re planning to sell soon — many homebuyers expect a new kitchen in a move-in-condition home. However, if you’re staying put, a £2,000 spray-paint job can buy you five years before you need to commit to a full renovation, freeing up budget for other home improvements.
How long does it take to fit a kitchen UK?
Fitting a standard 10-unit kitchen takes about 5 days for one experienced professional, but the total time — from start to finish — is usually closer to 2 weeks. That’s because the core fitting is just the beginning: there’s plumbing to connect, electrics to wire, worktops to template, and tiling to complete around the units.
- Day 1: Rip out the old kitchen, run any new plumbing and electrics, prep the floor
- Day 2-3: Fit base units, secure them to the wall, and install the worktop
- Day 4: Fit wall units, sink, and tap, connect appliances
- Day 5: Finish with adjust the doors, seal the edges, and clean up
The best time to buy a new kitchen is during the January sales or Black Friday, when the big retailers – Howdens, Wren, B&Q, and Wickes – all run significant discounts on their kitchen ranges. January is particularly good for clearing old stock, with savings of 20–40% on selected lines. If you can wait, end-of-season clearance in August and September can also yield savings on display kitchens and discontinued ranges.
What makes a kitchen look cheap?
Even a well-budgeted kitchen can look cheap if the wrong finishes or installation shortcuts are used. Understanding these pitfalls helps you avoid them without necessarily spending more.
How to avoid a cheap look when choosing kitchen units
- Poor quality hardware (plastic handles, no soft-close mechanisms) instantly signals budget
- Cheap laminate worktops with visible seams lower perceived quality
- Uneven gaps, misaligned doors, and exposed hinges are telltale signs of poor installation
- Lack of design cohesion (mixing too many styles/colours) also makes a kitchen look cheaper
Materials and finishes that signal quality
- Soft-close hinges and full-extension drawers are now standard in mid-range kitchens
- Solid wood or high-quality MDF doors with durable paint finishes last longer
- Seamless worktops (quartz or solid surface) avoid the cheap look of visible joins
- Consistent handle and tap finishes (matching metal) create a cohesive appearance
The implication: A cheap look often comes from attention to detail, not just material cost. Spending a little more on hardware and fitting can transform the overall feel of your kitchen.
Related reading: New kitchen cost guide · Kitchen remodel cost comparison
fmb.org.uk, bestbuilders.co.uk, whattocharge.co.uk, fantasticservices.com, beamsrenovation.com, checkatrade.com, tradematch.uk, checkatrade.com, plansmadeeasy.org, homerun.co.uk
Frequently asked questions
Do kitchen units come with worktops included?
No, kitchen units do not typically include worktops. The worktop is almost always purchased and fitted separately, as it needs to be cut to fit the exact dimensions of your kitchen layout, and materials like quartz and granite require specialist templating and installation. Worktop costs range £200–£2,000+ depending on material.
How long does it take to fit a kitchen?
A standard 10-unit kitchen takes 5–10 working days for a professional fitter, including plumbing and electrical work. More complex kitchens with tall units, islands, or solid wood worktops can take up to 2–3 weeks.
Can I install kitchen units myself to save money?
Yes, you can save £1,500–£3,000 by fitting a kitchen yourself, but only if you’re confident with plumbing and electrical work. Most UK kitchens have hidden pipework and wiring that needs relocating, and getting that wrong can void your home insurance. If you’re not experienced, it’s safer to hire a professional for the tricky parts.
What is the difference between a fitted kitchen and a freestanding kitchen?
A fitted kitchen is built around the room’s dimensions, with units that are anchored to the walls and floor, covering the full footprint. Freestanding kitchens use standalone units on legs that you can move around, which is cheaper but often leaves gaps that collect dirt. Fitted kitchens are more labour-intensive and cost more upfront but typically add more value to your home.
Are IKEA kitchen units good quality?
IKEA’s kitchen units offer decent quality for the price, particularly their SEKTION ranges which feature 18mm panels and five-year guarantees on mechanical parts. However, their MDF units are generally thinner than those from Howdens or Wren, and the self-assembly model means quality largely depends on your fitting skills.
How often should kitchen cabinets be replaced?
On average, kitchen cabinets last 15–20 years before requiring replacement. This timeline depends on usage, material quality, and how well the units are maintained. Solid wood cabinets can last much longer with occasional refinishing, while chipboard units may need replacing sooner if they develop moisture damage.
What financing options are available for kitchen units?
Most UK kitchen retailers offer interest-free credit periods, typically 24–48 months for orders over £1,500–£3,000. Howdens, Wren, and B&Q all have in-house finance plans, while IKEA offers a credit card with rewards. Compare the interest-free period and any arrangement fees before borrowing.
Homeowners should compare multiple quotes and aim for seasonal discounts to get the best value. A well-planned kitchen purchase balances upfront cost with long-term durability and resale appeal.
Henry William Bennett Murray is a staff writer for CivicInsight.uk, covering UK public affairs, policy and civic life. He works under Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Langford, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.