What is the definition of a 'good' kitchen?
Quotes vary massively for very similar things. We're getting a new kitchen installed in our open plan extension soon. Total cost is £10k including fitting, and the kitchen is a long L shape, plus large island unit, and small utility room. Price also includes oven, hob, tall fridge and integrated microwave.
Areas where you can save:
Use recommended, local kitchen companies instead of larger businesses such as IKEA Wickes etc unless you can either fit it yourself or have your own fitter. These bigger companies add thousands for fitting when in reality the actual fitter only gets a fraction of that.
Doors - solid wood doors will cost a lot more than vinyl painted ones. They are thought to last longer but these days the vinyl ones are made to last just as long and are a lot more versatile as well as being cheaper. We chose vinyl shaker door which cost £2k less than the equivalent solid shaker doors and look almost entirely the same.
Appliances can really eat up your budget. Do you really need high-end? Fancy gadgets like hot water taps and pop-up electrics are nice to have but also bump cost up.
Worktops - granite costs more, solid wood costs more (and needs regular maintenance) the cheaper worktops have again massively improved in quality in the last few years and a fair saving can be made.
And shop around, get at least 3 quotes and make sure they are all quoting like for like. If you prefer the service at one but another comes in cheaper then ask if they'll match it, most will do.