Planning a New Kitchen in Brighton: Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
A new kitchen is one of the most exciting upgrades you can make to your home — and one of the biggest. Whether you’re renovating a Victorian terrace in Hanover, updating a modern flat in Brighton Marina, or transforming a family home in Hove, planning is essential to keep costs under control and avoid delays.
This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to consider before starting your new kitchen project in Brighton, from layout design to plumbing, electrics, ventilation and installation.
1. Start With a Clear Vision & Realistic Budget
Before contacting fitters or trades, decide:
- What style you want (modern, shaker, minimalist, coastal, industrial)
- What you need more of (storage, worktop space, lighting, seating)
- Whether you’re keeping the current layout or moving appliances
- Your realistic budget, including labour and materials
Brighton kitchen costs vary depending on property age and layout, so building a buffer for unexpected work — especially in older homes — is recommended.
2. Think About Your Kitchen Layout Early
Your layout will determine how complex the plumbing, waste pipes and electrics become.
Common layout styles include:
- U-shape
- L-shape
- Galley
- Island or peninsula
If you’re planning to move sinks, dishwashers or washing machines, you’ll likely need pipework moved or upgraded — especially in older Brighton properties with outdated plumbing routes.
3. Plan Your Plumbing Requirements
This is one of the most important parts of a new kitchen project. Consider:
- Sink position — Are you keeping it where it is or moving it?
- Waste pipe routing — Will it need rerouting or extending?
- Appliance feed points — Dishwasher, washing machine, fridge/freezer with water feed
- Hot water supply — Do you need upgrades for better flow?
- Gas supply — If installing a new gas hob or oven
Brighton plumbers often find hidden issues behind old cabinets (slow drains, undersized pipes, or leaks), so factor in possible corrective work.
4. Consider Electrical Upgrades
Most new kitchens need electrical updates to support modern appliances.
Key considerations:
- Extra sockets
- Under-cabinet lighting
- LED downlights
- Power for ovens, microwaves, extractors and induction hobs
- Consumer unit capacity (older fuse boards may need upgrading)
Many Brighton homes built before 1990 require additional electrical work to meet modern safety standards.
5. Don’t Forget Ventilation & Extraction
Proper extraction is essential — especially in tightly packed Brighton terrace streets where moisture can easily build up.
Check:
- If an external vent is required
- Whether your current extractor is compliant
- If ducting needs to be routed differently for your new layout
Good ventilation protects your cabinets, walls and appliances from long-term damage.
6. Choose Your Materials Wisely
Your choices influence cost, durability and day-to-day practicality.
Key decisions include:
- Worktops (laminate, quartz, granite, solid wood)
- Cabinet finishes (MDF, solid wood, wrapped doors)
- Flooring (tiles, LVT, engineered wood)
- Taps & sinks (stainless steel, composite, ceramic)
Brighton coastal homes should choose finishes that withstand moisture and temperature changes.
7. Plan the Installation Timeline
A typical kitchen installation involves:
- Removal of the old kitchen
- Plumbing and electrical prep
- Plastering or making-good
- Cabinet installation
- Worktops fitted
- Final plumbing & electrical connections
- Decoration and finishing touches
Most full kitchen renovations take 1–3 weeks, depending on complexity.
8. Work With Trusted Local Trades
Choosing reliable Brighton-based plumbers, electricians and fitters ensures:
- Faster communication
- Accurate local pricing
- Knowledge of local property structures
- Better aftercare support
Using an experienced team also reduces the risk of delays and costly mistakes.