The average spend on a kitchen has increased by 45% since 2005, according to a new survey from home insurer LV, driven by the continuing move from functional room to centre of the home.

The research, carried out by ICM for LV, found that those who had invested in a new kitchen in the last 12 months spend on average £7,099, while those who bought between one and five years ago spent an average of £4,898.

The survey also found that, by consumers' own estimates, the kitchen is now the home's most expensive room, worth over £3,950 including furniture, accessories and gadgets. This is £500 more than the typical living room despite containing TVs, DVDs and games consoles.

The average bedroom is worth £1549.7, according to LV's 'Modern Kitchen' report.

Just over 45% of homeowners have bought pricey kitchen gadgets such as le Creuset pans, bread makers and juicers in the last six months and close to seven in 10 (68%) now have at least five of these, and a quarter have more than ten.

One in ten homeowners (11%) said a focus on healthier eating had led to the purchase of small appliances such as smoothie makers and steamers.

John O'Roarke, managing director of LV home insurance, said: "Over the past few decades the kitchen has been transformed. It's no longer just where we cook, rather the kitchen is now where we eat, entertain and relax. But with so many of us investing in expensive new kitchen gear, it's important for homeowners to make sure they're protected in the event of damage by letting their insurer know if the value of their home contents changes."