Buying Guide

Kitchen Buying Guide

Buying a fitted kitchen can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, it can be an enjoyable experience. This guide helps you plan with confidence.

The Key Steps

1. Choose your products
2. Set your budget
3. Design your kitchen
4. Compare quotes
5. Place orders
6. Check deliveries
7. Installation

What Makes a Kitchen

Every kitchen includes four essentials:
● Furniture – cabinets, doors, storage
● Appliances – ovens, hobs, sinks, taps
● Worktops – laminate, wood, stone, or resin
● Installation – professional fitting for best results

Budget Planning

Your total cost depends on your choices. A sensible budget split is:
● 40% Furniture
● 25% Appliances
● 20% Worktops
● 15% Installation

Design & Installation

You can design your kitchen yourself, use a retailer’s free service, or hire an independent designer. Always use a professional kitchen fitter—quality installation makes all the difference.

Final Tip

Check all deliveries carefully and avoid paying the full cost upfront. With good planning, your new kitchen will be smooth, stress-free, and long-lasting.

Bathroom Buying Guide

Planning a bathroom refurbishment can feel daunting, whether it’s a family bathroom, en-suite, wet room, or home spa. With the right approach, it can be smooth and rewarding.

Where to Start

First, decide how you want the project handled:
● DIY or self-managed – lower cost, more time and effort
● Bathroom specialist – higher cost, less stress, better finish
Budgets vary widely. A basic bathroom can start under £5,000, while premium designs can cost significantly more. Set a realistic budget and stick to it.

Choosing the Right Tradespeople

A good tradesperson makes all the difference:
● Use recommendations or trusted platforms (e.g. Checkatrade)
● Get at least 3 written quotes
● Ask for references and check past work
● Avoid unsolicited doorstep offers
● Ensure electrical, gas, and plumbing work is certified

Furnishing Your Bathroom

Start with a blank canvas and design around your lifestyle. Consider:
● Bath vs shower or wet room
● Storage for towels and toiletries
● Lighting (mirrors, feature lighting, downlights)
● Tiles, wall finishes, and fittings
Luxury options like spa features or smart lighting can be added if budget allows.

Timeframe

Most bathroom refurbishments take 1–3 weeks. If it’s your only bathroom, plan for temporary arrangements during installation.

Final Tip

If the process feels overwhelming, a bathroom specialist can guide you from design to completion, saving time, stress, and costly mistakes.