A quick guide to the UK Kitchen Market
So you have decided to buy your new kitchen and now what ? who will design it for you and turn your dream into reality and what can you expect.
Nearly all kitchen companies offer a design service and what to expect really depends on which part of the market you are looking at buying from.
International Kitchen Companies The top of the market as you would expect offers superb service and design. This is often cutting edge design and as in the fashion world these companies are developing the trends and styles that will be on the high street in a year or two’s time. The designer will create detailed drawings either by CAD or free hand with every detail considered and designed to your exact specification and architectural standards. The detail here is amazing with some companies even producing hand painted water-colour paintings of how you kitchen will look.
To find an International Kitchen Company click here
National Kitchen Companies The market is divided here between National Retailers and Direct Sale operations. When dealing with a National Retailer you will generally visit the showroom to find styles that you like and discuss ideas. The designer will then visit your home to take measurements and then once the design is complete you will be invited back to the showroom to discuss the design and price and place the order.
For Direct Sale companies the designer will usually visit you at home and complete everything during one visit; you will choose styles from samples and they will design the layout and calculate the price and if agreeable complete the order there and then.
To find a National Kitchen Company click here
Local Kitchen Companies The smaller independent kitchen companies will usually have a showroom that you can visit to see sample and styles of kitchens and worktops and appliances. Again the designer will usually visit you to measure and then invite you back to the showroom or studio to present designs and prices.
To find a Local Kitchen Showroom click here
DIY Companies With these outlets, the large super-stores and chains you will usually need to take your room dimensions into the store for them to create a design for you. It will generally be better if you know what you want to ensure you get the best layout as it can be difficult to design a kitchen without actually seeing the room and getting a feel for the house and style so the more research and input you can have the better the outcome will be.
To find a Local Kitchen Showroom click here
Working with an Architect If you have more extensive works you may consider commissioning an Architect. This can help by ensuring the layout of the kitchen works well and is in keeping with other works and that it allows you the space to create your dream kitchen. Your Architect can project manage the process for you.
For more advice try 4Homes Find an Architect advice here or The Royal Institute of Britsh Architects (RIBA) a www.architecture.com
