Nicola Sharkey, UK insights and research lead at Gleeds, looks at supply costs for a range of kitchen and bathroom fixtures and fittings
Kitchens and bathrooms are the most difficult products to provide general cost information for because of variation in design and quality of fittings. The following rates are intended to give a guide of the range of costs for basic to top-end trade and contract fixtures and fittings.
The Technical Housing Standards – Nationally Described Space Standard sets out requirements for the gross internal area of new dwellings at defined occupancy levels.
Primary considerations for kitchen design are layout and functionality. Hazards and corners must be minimised to accommodate the needs of less able users, incorporating such elements as additional space for easier mobility or lower-level worktops.
Water saving is one of the significant drivers for bathroom fitting design, as over half our average water consumption takes place in the bathroom. Dual flush toilets are now standard, and shower baths are increasing in popularity, giving the option of a shower, which, on average, uses significantly less water than a bath.
Digital and smart showers also help to reduce water use – some even have a proximity sensor, reducing water flow when you step away from the shower (for example to lather your hair) before resuming the original flow once you’re back.
The following rates are based on the UK average and represent typical prices at Q3 2022.
Please note prices can vary significantly depending on specifications and markets are volatile at present.