Kitchen Installation Timeline: How Long Does It Really Take?

If you’ve decided it’s time for a new kitchen, one of your first questions is probably: how long will the kitchen installation take? It’s a fair concern—after all, your kitchen isn’t just another room. It’s where the day begins, where everyone ends up during a gathering, and where function really matters. So, how long will your space be out of action—and what’s actually involved? 

This guide breaks down the typical kitchen installation timeline, so you can plan ahead with confidence. Whether you’re choosing a German kitchen from brands like Nobilia, Bauformat, or Ballerina, or opting for a British-made kitchen from the likes of JJO or Ashley Ann, the process follows a similar rhythm—though the detail, quality, and finish can vary dramatically depending on your choices. 

Let’s explore what goes into a kitchen installation and why it’s worth taking the time to get it done properly. 

Phase 1: Initial Design & Planning (2–4 weeks)

Before any kitchen units arrive at your door, you’ll need to finalise your design. This includes choosing layout, cabinetry, appliances, worktops, and finishes. If you’re working with a professional kitchen designer (and we strongly suggest that you do), they’ll guide you through options that suit your budget, lifestyle, and space. 

Many customers underestimate how long this part can take—especially when decisions need to be made on: 

• Cabinet finishes (e.g. textured matt vs gloss) 
• Handleless or integrated handle styles 
• Appliance brands and specifications 
• Worktop choices (quartz, ceramic, wood, or composite) 
• Lighting, sockets, and storage solutions 

Expect at least two weeks, but if you’re after something more bespoke—such as hand-painted finishes from Ashley Ann or a two-tone layout with vertical grain wood from Brigitte—planning can take longer. 

Top Tip: 
Use this phase to agree on final floorplans, sign off your specification list, and book your installation slot early. High-demand brands like Next125 or Bauformat Burger often work to extended lead times, especially during peak renovation seasons. 

Phase 2: Ordering & Lead Time (4–10 weeks)

Once you’ve signed off on your design, your chosen kitchen will be ordered from the manufacturer, and here’s where timelines really start to vary. 

• German kitchen brands like Nobilia, Ballerina, and Bauformat typically have a 4–8 week lead time. These are precision-made, made-to-order kitchens—not off-the-shelf. The trade-off is quality and customisation. For example, Ballerina offers laser-edged doors and extra-deep drawers that are built to fit your exact plan. 
   
• British kitchens such as those from JJO or Ashley Ann may offer slightly quicker delivery, especially for rigid carcasses or painted-to-order ranges, but expect a 4–6 week wait in most cases. 
   
• Flat-pack kitchens might arrive sooner, but often require more time on-site for assembly. Most independent retailers now offer rigid kitchens as standard, which cuts down on time later in the installation process. 

Phase 3: Preparation Works (1–2 weeks)

Before the new kitchen can go in, the old one needs to come out. This can be messy, but it’s a vital step in the kitchen installation timeline. You’ll also need to make space for any necessary plumbing, electrical, or structural work. 

Typical prep work includes: 

• Removal of old cabinets, worktops, tiles and appliances 
• First fix electricals (adding/removing sockets, lighting positions) 
• First fix plumbing (relocating pipes for sinks, dishwashers, boiling taps) 
• New plastering or wall prep 
• Floor levelling, tiling, or underfloor heating installation 

This phase usually takes 5–10 working days, depending on the complexity of the changes. If you’re moving appliances, adding new zones (e.g. a utility), or switching from gas to induction, expect closer to the two-week mark. 

Phase 4: Kitchen Installation (1–2 weeks)

Now the exciting part begins: the kitchen units arrive and your installer gets to work. 
A standard kitchen installation typically includes: 

• Delivery and checking of all components 
• Assembly and fixing of base and wall units 
• Fitting of end panels, fillers, and plinths 
• Installation of extractor hoods and appliance housing 
• Initial appliance fit (often handled separately by a certified installer) 
• Worktop templating (if using quartz, ceramic or Corian) 

If you’ve chosen laminate worktops, these may be cut and fitted during installation. However, if you’re having stone, quartz, or ceramic worktops, they will be templated after the base units go in. This means there’s often a 5–10 day wait for them to be fabricated and returned for fitting. 

Summary of timelines: 

• Straightforward install (with laminate worktops): approx. 5–7 working days 
• Install with stone/quartz worktops: approx. 10–12 working days including return visit for worktops and finishing 

Phase 5: Final Fit & Finishing Touches (2–5 days)

Once the main kitchen is in place, the finishing touches can be completed. This includes: 

• Final plumbing connections (sinks, taps, dishwashers) 
• Electrical second fix (ovens, hobs, lighting) 
• Worktop installation (if templated) 
• Upstands or splashbacks (glass, tiles, or matching stone) 
• Painting and decorating 
• Flooring (if not already completed) 

This phase might only take a few days, but it’s important not to rush. A good installer will return to complete any snagging, silicone work, or minor adjustments after everything has settled. 

Total Kitchen Installation Timeline: What’s Typical?

Every project is different. A small kitchen with minimal structural changes could be completed in 5–6 weeks from start to finish. A large, open-plan renovation with steelwork, underfloor heating, and luxury finishes could take 3–4 months.  Here’s a rough guide based on a full kitchen renovation:

How to Avoid Delays

A smooth kitchen installation depends on more than just good products—it’s about project coordination. Here are some ways to keep things moving: 

• Use a trusted kitchen expert who can manage design, supply, and installation from one place. 
• Confirm your layout and spec early. Avoid changing your mind mid-way through. 
• Book your installer as soon as possible. Good trades get booked up months in advance.
• Make decisions on appliances, handles, and lighting up front. Late additions may hold things up. 
• Choose rigid kitchens over flat-pack to cut down time on site. 

At Kitchen Experts, we work with reputable partners across the kitchen sector. From bespoke cabinetry and stylish accessories to premium appliances, we collaborate exclusively with manufacturers like Nobilia, Brigitte, Bauformat, and Alku—brands known for quality, precision, and timely delivery. 

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Wait?

A new kitchen is an investment in your daily life. Yes, it can take time. But choosing a trusted kitchen specialist and giving the process room to breathe usually leads to better results. You’ll get more than just beautiful cabinetry—you’ll get a layout that works, appliances that make life easier, and a finish that lasts. 

So next time someone asks how long a kitchen installation takes, the honest answer is: as long as it needs to be done properly. 

Need Help with Your Kitchen Project?

If you’re planning a renovation and want to work with experienced kitchen professionals, talk to your local Kitchen Specialist. Whether you’re interested in a luxury German kitchen from Ballerina or a flexible British-made kitchen from Ashley Ann, we’ll help you find the right fit.