From Concept to Completion: The Kitchen Renovation Timeline Explained

A kitchen renovation is an exciting journey that transforms one of the most important spaces in your home. However, it can also be a complex process involving numerous stages, from initial planning to the final installation. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help you plan, manage expectations, and make the process as smooth as possible. Here’s a breakdown of the typical kitchen renovation timeline, so you can feel prepared every step of the way.

1. Initial Planning and Budgeting (1-2 Weeks)

The first step in any kitchen renovation is to establish your goals, set a budget, and start gathering ideas. During this stage, you’ll want to:

• Define Your Goals: Consider why you’re renovating. Are you looking to improve functionality, increase storage, or update an outdated style? Having clear goals will help guide your choices throughout the project. 
• Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allow for a contingency fund of around 10-15% for any unexpected costs. Knowing your budget from the outset will help keep you on track as you make design decisions. 
• Gather Inspiration: Look through magazines, websites, and social media for design ideas. Create a mood board or save images of kitchens that appeal to you to help clarify your vision.

Once you’ve set your goals and budget, you can start reaching out to local kitchen designers, contractors, and suppliers to discuss your ideas.

2. Design and Layout Planning (2-4 Weeks)

This stage involves working with a designer or kitchen planner to create the layout and choose materials, finishes, and features. During the design phase:

• Consult with a Specialist Kitchen Designer: An experienced designer can help you bring your vision to life and make recommendations based on your space, budget, and preferences. 
• Plan the Layout: Decide on the layout of your kitchen, taking into account the classic work triangle (sink, hob, and fridge positioning) to optimise workflow. 
• Choose Materials and Finishes: Select your cabinets, worktops, flooring, lighting, and other finishes. This may take some time as you explore samples, colours, and textures. 
• Finalise Your Design: Once you’re happy with the layout and finishes, your designer will create final drawings and plans. These plans will be essential for the next stages of the renovation. 

Designing the kitchen may take longer if you’re making custom choices or waiting on specific samples. However, taking the time to finalise your design will prevent delays later on.

3. Ordering Materials and Scheduling Contractors (2-8 Weeks)

Once you’ve approved the design, it’s time to order materials and schedule contractors. This phase can vary in duration depending on the availability of materials and tradespeople. Here’s what happens at this stage:

• Order Materials: Your designer or supplier will place orders for cabinetry, worktops, appliances, and other materials. Custom items may have longer lead times, so early ordering is essential to avoid delays. 

• Book Contractors: Confirm schedules with contractors for tasks such as plumbing, electrical work, and tiling. Coordinating schedules can be challenging, so it’s important to finalise dates as early as possible. 

This stage may seem like a waiting period, but it’s an essential part of the process to ensure everything arrives on time and is ready for installation.

4. Room Preparation (1-2 Weeks)

With materials on order and contractors booked, it’s time to prepare your space for the kitchen renovation. This involves removing the existing kitchen and preparing the area for new installations. Key steps include:

• Clearing Out the Kitchen: Remove all items from your cabinets and consider setting up a temporary kitchen in another area to minimise disruption. 
• Removal: The old cabinets, worktops, flooring, and fixtures will be removed. Depending on the complexity of the demolition, this process can take several days. While demolition/removal may be messy, it’s a quick stage that prepares the space for a fresh start. 
• Assessing the Condition: Once the kitchen is stripped, contractors will assess the walls, floors, and structure. This is important for identifying any issues that may need addressing, such as plumbing or electrical repairs. 
• Preparing the Space: If any structural changes are needed, such as removing walls or adjusting layouts, they will be completed during this phase. 

5. Plumbing, Electrical, and Structural Work (1-2 Weeks)

With the kitchen stripped back, any necessary plumbing, electrical, and structural work can begin. This phase is essential for laying the groundwork for your new kitchen and includes:

• Plumbing: If you’re moving the sink, adding a dishwasher, or adjusting the layout, plumbers will reroute pipes and make necessary connections. 
• Electrical Work: Electricians will install wiring for lighting, appliances, and outlets according to your design plan. This includes wiring for under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, and any special features. 
• Structural Adjustments: If you’re adding new walls, doors, or windows, this work will be completed during this stage. 

Once the plumbing and electrical work are done, the area will be inspected to ensure everything meets safety standards before proceeding to the next phase.

6. Flooring Installation (1-3 Days)

Installing the flooring is typically done before the cabinetry to create a seamless look. This stage may involve:

• Preparing the Subfloor: If needed, the subfloor will be prepared and levelled to ensure a smooth surface. 

• Laying the Flooring: Flooring, whether it’s tiles, wood, or vinyl, will be installed according to your design. Some types of flooring, like tiles, may require additional time for adhesive to dry. 

With flooring in place, the foundation of your new kitchen is complete, and it’s ready for the cabinets to be installed.

7. Cabinet and Worktop Installation (1-2 Weeks)

Now that the foundation is prepared, the kitchen cabinets and worktops can be installed. This stage is where your vision starts to come to life:

• Installing Cabinets: The kitchen cabinets are fitted and secured in place according to your design plan. This can take several days depending on the size and complexity of the layout. 

• Fitting Worktops: Once the cabinets are installed, the worktops are cut to size and fitted. This step may take additional time if custom measurements are needed. 

Worktops made from materials like granite or quartz may be templated and then manufactured off-site, requiring an additional wait time for fitting.

8. Installation of Appliances and Fixtures (1-2 Days)

With the kitchen cabinets and worktops in place, the installation of appliances and fixtures can begin. This includes:

• Fitting Appliances: Ovens, hobs, dishwashers, and fridges are installed and connected to the electrical and plumbing systems. 

• Installing Fixtures: Sinks, taps, and any other fixtures are added during this stage. 

 Each appliance will be tested to ensure it’s working correctly, and any final adjustments will be made to ensure everything is aligned and secure.

9. Final Touches and Decoration (2-5 Days)

The final touches bring everything together, adding style and personality to your new kitchen. These finishing steps may include:

• Tiling and Splashbacks: Tiles or splashbacks are installed behind the hob and sink to protect walls from splashes and create a stylish focal point. 

• Painting: Any wall painting is completed, adding the final layer of colour and finishing to your kitchen. 

• Lighting Installation: Pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting, and any other decorative lights are installed and tested. 

These details complete the look and help create the kitchen’s atmosphere, ensuring every element aligns with your vision.

10. Final Inspection and Clean-Up (1-2 Days)

The final stage of your kitchen renovation involves a thorough inspection to ensure every detail is in place and working correctly. This includes:

• Inspecting All Installations: A final check is done to ensure everything, from cabinets to appliances, is properly installed and functioning. 

• Cleaning Up: Contractors will tidy up, removing any leftover materials or dust from the installation process. 

• Walkthrough with the Designer or Contractor: You’ll do a walkthrough of the kitchen with the designer or contractor to ensure you’re satisfied with the result. This is also a good time to ask any questions and get advice on maintaining your new kitchen. 

Final Thoughts

A kitchen renovation can be a lengthy process, but each step brings you closer to a beautiful, functional space. Knowing the typical timeline can help you plan and manage expectations, making the experience more enjoyable. By understanding each stage – from initial planning to the finishing touches – you can feel confident as you watch your kitchen transformation unfold.

Thinking of starting a renovation? Consult with a professional kitchen designer to get expert guidance tailored to your space. With the right team, your dream kitchen will soon be a beautiful reality you can enjoy for many long years ahead.