Key Takeaways
- In the UK, a kitchen island will typically cost £3,000-£7,000, rising to £5,000-£10,000 for an L-shaped island.
- In London, you can expect to pay between 20%-40% above the national average due to higher labour costs.
- Although kitchen islands are often considered expensive, their true cost is often comparable with more common, standard kitchen fittings.
ℹ️ Remember that how you intend to use the island can impact its size almost as much as the available space. Always think through how you intend to use it before determining the final dimensions.
Average Cost of a Kitchen Island in the UK
In the UK, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from £3,000 to over £7,000 for a fitted kitchen Island.
This range depends on various factors, including size, materials, and complexity of design.
Material Costs and Choices
The choice of material greatly influences the final cost of a kitchen island.
Granite, marble, and quartz worktops are popular for their durability and aesthetic appeal, but they can be more expensive, often ranging from £150 to £400 per square metre and even more. Some marble countertops start at £500 per square metre.
For a less costly option, composite materials or laminate can offer a similar look at a fraction of the price, with laminate worktops starting at just £20 per square metre.
If you are looking for something mid-range then you might consider a material like hardwood which has great aesthetics that compliment many kitchen styles that cost in the region of £180 to £250 per square metre.
Size and Customisation Impact on Cost
The size of the kitchen island plays a crucial role in determining the cost.
A larger island requires more materials and labour, increasing the expense.
Remember that bespoke designs can and almost always will increase costs, often by 25% to 50% if not more, due to the unique materials and skilled labour required.
In such cases, it is not unusual to end up with a final cost exceeding £10,000 – particularly if you are located in London.
Overhang - Cost Implications
The overhang of a kitchen island, particularly crucial for accommodating seating, has a notable impact on the overall cost.
The extent of overhang required on a kitchen island depends largely on its intended use. For instance, if the island will be used for casual dining or as a workspace, a standard overhang of 12 to 15 inches is typically sufficient.
However, if the island will double as a full dining area, a larger overhang may be necessary to comfortably accommodate seating.
When considering how much overhang on a kitchen island, it’s important to remember that larger overhangs require additional structural support.
This can mean the installation of support brackets or corbels, which are designed to hold the weight of the countertop and prevent it from sagging or cracking.
The cost implications of a larger overhang are twofold: first, the additional material required for the countertop itself, and second, the cost of the necessary support structures.
In terms of numbers, adding a substantial overhang to a kitchen island could increase the overall cost by as much as 10%–20%.
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Kitchen Island?
The labour costs to install a kitchen island vary based on the complexity and location of the installation.
Some free-standing, lower-end kitchen islands can be assembled without the need for professional installation.
However, for a fitted Island that requires plumbing and electricity for a dishwasher or other appliances, there will be significant installation costs.
On average, labour costs for installing a kitchen island in the UK range from £500 to £1,000, but it can escalate if the design includes intricate details or requires extensive electrical or plumbing work.
This is based on an hourly rate of £30–£60 per hour across two days to complete the installation (8 hours per day.) applicable for installation specialists, plus plumbers and electricians as required.
In London, these charges will likely be 20%–40% higher. Meaning labour costs of £600 to £1,400 to install a basic kitchen island with an hourly rate of £40-£80.
Cost of a Kitchen Island with a Sink and Dishwasher
Incorporating a sink and dishwasher into the kitchen island adds functionality but also increases the cost.
The cost of a kitchen island with sink and dishwasher can increase the total expense by £1,500 to £3,000, depending on the appliances’ quality and the complexity of installation.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Kitchen Island?
If you’re replacing an existing island, the costs can be lower. The cost to replace a kitchen island often ranges from £2,000 to £5,000, but can be significantly less, depending on whether you’re repurposing existing elements like countertops or appliances.
Additional Labour Costs
Labour is often included in the quoted price, but sometimes additional labour is necessary with more complex installations.
The average hourly rate for services you may require for complex projects
Plumbers = £42–£65 per hour. £50-£90 in London.
Kitchen Fitters = £35 per hour. £42-£49 in London.
Electricians = £45–£60 per hour. £54-£72 in London.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are Kitchen Islands So Expensive?
Kitchen islands are often perceived as expensive due to several contributing factors. Firstly, the materials used can significantly impact the cost.
High-quality materials like granite, marble, or quartz are more costly, but they offer durability and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the complexity of the design also influences the price.
Then, custom features like built-in appliances, sinks, or special cabinetry add to the overall cost.
However, in real terms, a kitchen island doesn’t have to be much more expensive than more traditional kitchen fittings, relatively speaking, unless you insist on having a bespoke product with top-of-the-line materials.
How Much Does an L-shaped Kitchen Island Cost?
On average, the price for an L-shaped island in the UK can range from around £5,000 to over £10,000.
This higher cost bracket is due to the complex shape, which often requires more material and labour.
The cost can also be influenced by the need for structural adjustments to accommodate the unique shape, especially in smaller or irregularly shaped kitchens.
What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing a Kitchen Island Design?
When selecting a kitchen island design, several critical factors should be considered to ensure that it meets both functional and aesthetic needs.
- Firstly, the size of the kitchen plays a crucial role; the island should be proportionate to the space, allowing for easy movement around it.
- Material choice is also important, not just for cost implications but also for durability and maintenance.
- The intended use of the island (e.g., cooking, dining, storage) will influence its design; features like sinks, cooktops, or seating areas should be planned accordingly.
- The style of the island should complement the overall kitchen design.
- Finally, budget constraints are key; balancing desired features with the available budget is essential for a successful kitchen island installation.
Safely Navigating Kitchen Islands
The journey to installing a kitchen island in London, or anywhere else in the UK, requires careful navigation through a myriad of factors.
From selecting the right materials that balance cost with durability and style, to understanding the complexities of design and installation, every decision plays a pivotal role in shaping the final cost.
The inclusion of functional elements such as sinks, dishwashers, and the desired overhang for seating further adds layers to the budgeting equation.
However, while the expense may seem substantial at first glance, a well-planned kitchen island can offer unmatched aesthetic appeal and functionality, enhancing the heart of your home.
And, ultimately, by carefully considering these factors and balancing them against your budget and kitchen needs, you can achieve a beautiful and practical kitchen island that stands the test of time and adds value to your home.
Is a kitchen island the next thing on your wishlist? Start making your wish come true by designing your own customised kitchen island.
