Open-Plan Kitchen (Mid-Range)

This scenario explores a larger, 12 square meter kitchen renovation with mid-range finishes—a popular choice for families wanting quality without going ultra-premium. We'll also touch on the costs of creating an open-plan layout.

The Project

Why This Setup?

A 12 sq m kitchen is a decent-sized family kitchen or open-plan kitchen-diner. Mid-range finishes strike a balance: better quality than budget options, but not top-of-the-line. Think good cabinets with soft-close doors, quartz or solid-surface worktops, branded appliances (not premium, but not entry-level), and better lighting.

We're using a 12% contingency here because the kitchen is newer (hypothetically), so less risk of hidden horrors. If this were an older property or involved structural work, we'd go higher.

Using the Calculator

Here's how to input this scenario:

1. Room Type: Select "Kitchen"
2. Size: Enter "12" and choose "sq m"
3. Finish Level: Select "Mid-range"
4. Contingency: Enter "12"
5. Click "Calculate Budget Range"

What's Included at Mid-Range Level?

Typical Mid-Range Open-Plan Kitchen Costs (UK 2024)

For a 12 sq m open-plan kitchen renovation in the UK at mid-range quality, typical costs in 2024 range between £18,000 and £28,000. This includes demolition, structural adjustments (e.g., removing a non-load-bearing wall to create the open-plan effect), new cabinetry, worktops, flooring, tiling, electrics, and fitting. Labour typically accounts for 40–50% of the total, with materials making up the remainder. The open-plan aspect may add £2,000–£5,000 depending on whether you need steel beams (RSJs) or other structural support — though in many cases, especially in newer builds, the existing structure may already allow a ‘soft’ open plan without major work. If you’re replacing an existing kitchen rather than converting a closed kitchen into an open-plan one, costs may sit toward the lower end of the range.

What’s Included in This Budget?

The mid-range open-plan kitchen scenario assumes a full fit-out with quality but not bespoke elements: base and wall cabinets with soft-close doors and drawers, integrated or semi-integrated appliances (e.g., a 60cm oven, 4-burner gas hob, extractor, fridge-freezer), 30mm quartz or solid-surface worktops (e.g., Silestone or Caesarstone), underfloor heating or quality vinyl/laminate flooring, and tiled splashbacks. Electrical re-wiring or additional sockets is included only if minimal — major electrics upgrades would be extra. Tiling, plumbing (e.g., moving a sink or boiler), and lighting are included at standard specifications (e.g., LED downlights, not custom fittings). If you want features like a kitchen island, built-in wine rack, or premium flooring (e.g., oak), expect to add £2,000–£6,000 depending on size and material.

How This Compares to Other Kitchen Scenarios

Compared to a budget kitchen (e.g., £10,000–£16,000 for 12 sq m), the mid-range option adds noticeable quality: better cabinet construction (MFC vs MDF), thicker worktops, more durable flooring, and more reliable appliances. In contrast, a high-end renovation (e.g., £35,000–£60,000) would feature custom cabinetry, luxury stone (e.g., granite, marble), integrated technology (smart appliances, hidden storage), and designer finishes. The open-plan layout also increases cost compared to a standard enclosed kitchen — mainly due to finishes continuity into the living/dining space and potential structural work. That said, the benefit is a more sociable, spacious feel — a key selling point for UK homeowners looking to maximise living area, especially in urban properties where space is at a premium.

Key Factors Influencing Open-Plan Kitchen Costs

When planning an open-plan kitchen renovation, several factors can significantly impact your budget. The layout itself plays a major role—opening up walls or creating new connections between the kitchen and living areas often requires structural changes that add to costs. Additionally, the choice of materials affects pricing considerably. For instance, mid-range granite worktops will cost more than laminates but less than natural stone. The positioning of plumbing and electrical fixtures also influences expenses, especially if existing infrastructure needs upgrading. If your home has older wiring or outdated plumbing, these elements may need attention during the renovation process.

Mid-Range Finishes: What to Expect

In a mid-range open-plan kitchen, you can expect quality without the premium price tag. Cabinets typically feature soft-close mechanisms and mid-tier materials such as medium-density fibreboard (MDF) with a good paint or laminate finish. Worktops are often quartz or solid-surface materials that offer durability and a clean appearance. Appliances in this category include well-known brands but not luxury lines—think Samsung, Miele, or Bosch for dishwashers and ovens, rather than Sub-Zero or Viking. Lighting choices may include a mix of ambient ceiling lights and task lighting under cabinets, with LED options providing energy efficiency. These selections balance aesthetics, functionality, and cost effectively.

Planning for Unexpected Expenses

Even with a 12% contingency, it's wise to prepare for potential surprises during an open-plan kitchen renovation. Hidden structural issues, such as asbestos or outdated electrical systems, can arise in older homes. Plumbing problems may surface when connecting new fixtures or moving existing ones. If you're removing a load-bearing wall to create the open plan, additional engineering and reinforcement work might be required. It's also important to consider that local building regulations may change during your project timeline, affecting permits or approval processes. Having a buffer in your budget ensures these unforeseen costs don't derail your renovation plans.

The Open-Plan Factor

If you're removing a wall to create an open-plan kitchen-diner or kitchen-living space, be prepared for additional costs:

• Structural survey: You'll need a structural engineer to assess if the wall is load-bearing.
• Steel beam (RSJ): If load-bearing, a steel beam is required to support the structure above. This includes the beam itself, installation, and any necessary brickwork or stud work to conceal it.
• Building control: Structural work requires building control approval, which involves inspections and fees.
• Making good: Once the wall is removed, you'll need plastering, flooring continuity, redecorating, and possibly electrical/plumbing adjustments.

Depending on the wall size and complexity, removing a load-bearing wall can add £2,000-£5,000+ to your project. This is not included in the basic kitchen renovation estimate above—it would come from your contingency or be budgeted separately.

Where the Money Goes

• Cabinets and worktops: ~35-40%
• Appliances: ~20-25%
• Labour (fitting, plumbing, electrical): ~25-30%
• Lighting, flooring, tiling: ~10-15%

Why It Might Cost More

• Structural work: As mentioned, removing walls or creating open-plan layouts adds significant cost.
• Better appliances: Upgrading to premium brands or adding extras like a wine cooler or coffee machine.
• Complex layouts: U-shaped or L-shaped kitchens with islands involve more cabinetry, more worktop fabrication, and potentially more plumbing/electrical runs.
• Flooring: If you're opening up to a living space, you might need to extend or match flooring throughout, adding to the bill.

Why It Might Cost Less

If you keep the existing layout (no structural work, minimal pipe or cable moves), shop sales for appliances, or DIY simpler tasks like painting or tiling a small backsplash, you could land closer to the lower end of the estimate.