Is a shop the best place to purchase a new Kitchen?

Nowadays there are many places where you can purchase a new kitchen. From the high street, diy stores through to independents and online stores, you have never had more choice. Prices will vary dramatically on the type of materials used, size of kitchen and also if it is from a brand name manufacturer.

Begin by knowing the size of your kitchen, measure accurately the kitchen from wall to wall and measure the window and door spaces if applicable. This will help the designer of the kitchen plan how many units will fit and the best place for the appliances. If you have an existing kitchen installed and you like the design and layout, measure the units and worktops making a rough sketch in order for the designer to digitise this for you in the planning stage later on.

Any specialist kitchen retailer or diy store offering kitchens will employ professional kitchen designers that use specific cad software in order to plan your kitchen. This should be free of charge and some may even allow you to take the print out away with you. The designer will plan how many units, worktops and what appliances you will need, this is key if you plan to compare this to an online kitchen deal. Once you have selected the worktop, units and appliances, you will a have a full quotation; some may also fit the kitchen for a fee. At this stage walk away knowing what you need and your costs.

With a quotation in your hand and knowing what type and numbers of units you need, now turn to the internet. For example you could simply search the phrase kitchens, or you could try and search for a local supplier, for example kitchens Bedford, in order to find an online kitchen supplier. They should provide examples of the kitchens available along with pictures, details and examples of them fitted. Some sites will provide prices along with online deals, others may simple ask you to contact them before providing a quote. Brand names and standard kitchens will be available, but in order for price comparisons you should try and look for an exact match to compare like for like. Usually online retailers are able to provide more competitive prices as they do not have the associated costs of a showroom and staff.

In summary purchasing a kitchen from a shop allows you to view the kitchen as it would look installed from the showroom. However you may be paying a premium in order to do this. I would recommend doing research and buying where you feel most comfortable. Online retailers will usually be cheaper but you can always use this power in order to reduce the price of a retailers kitchen. However local companies provide a face to face service, usually with fitting provided. Whatever you choose please shop around and ensure you are getting quality along with the best deal for you.