How Long Does A Kitchen Renovation Project Take To Complete?

One of the first questions homeowners ask when planning a new kitchen is simple: how long is this going to take? It is an understandable concern. A kitchen renovation affects daily life, from cooking and eating to how the rest of the home functions, so having a realistic idea of the timeline helps you plan ahead with confidence.

At John Ladbury, every kitchen is designed and hand-built around the individual project, so timescales can vary. However, most bespoke kitchen renovations follow a similar journey from first conversation to final installation. Here is what you can typically expect at each stage.

Every good kitchen renovation starts with thorough design and planning. This is where the layout, style, materials and finer details are worked through, often across a few meetings with your designer.

During a design appointment, we take the time to understand how you use your kitchen, what is working well in your current space and what you would like to change. From there, initial concepts are developed, refined and adjusted until the design feels right.

Depending on the complexity of the project, this stage typically takes between two and six weeks. Larger renovations, extensions or kitchens involving structural changes may take a little longer, as they often involve coordinating with architects or builders.

Manufacturing Your Bespoke Kitchen

Once the design is finalised, your kitchen moves into manufacturing. Because our kitchens are hand-built rather than mass-produced, this stage naturally takes longer than a flat-pack alternative, but it is where the real craftsmanship happens.

Manufacturing a bespoke kitchen usually takes between eight and twelve weeks, depending on the scale of the project, the finishes chosen and current workshop schedules. This includes the cabinetry, doors, worktops and any bespoke joinery elements unique to your home.

While your kitchen is being made, this is a good time to plan the practical side of the renovation, such as arranging temporary cooking facilities or booking any trades you will need on-site.

Preparing Your Home For Installation

Before the new kitchen arrives, some preparation is usually needed. This might involve removing the old kitchen, making any structural alterations, first-fix electrical and plumbing work, plastering or flooring.

The length of this stage depends heavily on the condition of the existing space and whether any building work is required. A straightforward like-for-like renovation may only need a few days of preparation, whereas a project involving knocking through walls or reconfiguring services can take several weeks.

The Installation Process

Installation is often the part homeowners are most focused on, as it is when the new kitchen physically takes shape. For most bespoke kitchens, installation takes between one and three weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the design.

Our installation teams work methodically, fitting cabinetry, worktops, appliances and finishing details in a logical sequence. Good communication during this stage helps keep the process running smoothly and ensures any final adjustments are made with precision.

A Realistic Timeframe From Start To Finish

Taking all stages into account, most bespoke kitchen renovations take somewhere between three and six months from initial design appointment to final installation. Smaller or simpler projects may move faster, while larger renovations involving structural work can take longer.

The key to a smooth renovation is working with a team who can guide you through each stage clearly, so you always know what to expect. To see examples of completed projects and get a feel for the process, take a look at our kitchen gallery.

If you are ready to start planning your own renovation, get in touch with our team on 01707 262966 or visit our contact page to arrange a conversation about your project and timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a full kitchen renovation usually take?
Most bespoke kitchen renovations take between three and six months from the first design appointment through to completed installation, depending on the scale and complexity of the project.

Can I speed up the process if I need my kitchen finished quickly?
Making decisions promptly during the design stage and confirming your specification early can help keep the project moving. However, hand-built kitchens do require realistic manufacturing lead times to maintain quality.

Will I be without a kitchen for the whole renovation?
Not necessarily. Many households set up a temporary cooking area during installation, and your designer can talk through practical options based on your specific project.

Does a kitchen extension take longer than a like-for-like renovation?
Yes, typically. Extensions or projects involving structural changes require additional time for building work, planning and coordination between trades before the kitchen itself can be installed.

What is the best time of year to start a kitchen renovation?
There is no single best time, though many homeowners prefer to complete major work outside of peak entertaining seasons. Starting the design process early gives you the most flexibility over your preferred installation date.