Kate says “Cost is often brought up during conversations with grant officers or fundholders, and I find increasingly there is limited and outdated knowledge in this area. On reviewing the average cost of a kitchen (with NO kitchen adaptations) the price range is from £3,500 – to £8,000, not including any appliances, preparation work for electrics and water or fitting costs. An adapted kitchen can range, in my experience, from £8,000 to £25,000 for an average-sized kitchen, including appliances.”
Basic changes vs Major Changes
One topic Kate discusses in her article is the differences between major and basic changes within a kitchen adaptation. Budgeting for smaller adjustments, such as a new tap or a fridge which is designed for more flexible use, should be at a much lower cost than a major adaptation where a full new kitchen is required including features such as a rise and fall worktop.
Our retailers often find that the budget for major works is often unrealistic, considering only the costs of the product but not the kitchen fitting, new appliances or even the decorating of the property that may be required from removing and fitting the new furniture.
To ensure the budget best reflects the project ahead, we recommend getting an experienced adaptations occupational therapist and accessible kitchen retailer involved in the project as early as is possible. This means that professionals can advise of the rough cost of the furniture, but also any additional works that may be required to complete the kitchen.
Rise and Fall Hob and Sink from Freedom by Symphony
Cost should not be at the forefront of any assessment, it should be client centred, but understanding the costs of your design enables better communication and decision making.
Explore more of the discussion by heading to the OT Magazine or by following Kate through the OT Service social media.
