In the market for a new kitchen? We look at what you need to know about independent retailers and what they have to offer…
From high-street, independent, to artisan, trying to summarise the types of kitchen retailers is no easy feat. Which is why we’re breaking it down into categories to make navigating the different options available for you a bit easier. So, although concise, this article by KBB journo Charlotte Luxford, will give you a flavour of independent brands.
Read on to discover if this route is the right fit for your project…
Independent kitchen retailers
This is the hardest category to define, as it’s an enormous umbrella term for a plethora of companies with different offerings. Often the goldilocks of kitchen design, these retailers are a go-to for many prospective buyers, as they offer a (very large) middle ground between high-end and high-street.
Most will have a select number of showrooms dotted around the UK (ranging anywhere from one-to-two all the way up to 20 or 30) and will offer a range of kitchen styles that can be tailored to suit your needs.
The key differentiator is that they tend to sit in the ‘mid-range’ category in terms of budget – often with kitchens costing north-wards of £20,000. For example, Sigma 3 Kitchens and Neptune kitchens start from around £15,000. However, also included in this giant category are other premium brands, with prices for collections from John Lewis of Hungerford or Tom Howley starting at around £25,000 to £30,000.
Personalisation
Shehryar Khan, managing director at Sheraton Interiors, explains that indies can offer a sweet spot of personalised service, local expertise, and competitive pricing, without the price tag of super-bespoke kitchens. “We can balance quality, custom design with specially sourced ranges, plus our lead times are generally quicker than bespoke makers but allow for more customisation than the fast-track solutions of high-street chains,” says Shehryar.
The designers at local firms can guide you through the design journey and tailor solutions to your individual needs, lifestyle, and home. The process is hands-on and flexible, from in-depth consultations to site visits.
Continuity
You’ll also benefit from continuity, usually working with the same kitchen designer from concept to completion, and receive a good level of aftercare for any future issues.
Local retailers are also likely to have a deep understanding of any local building codes and regulations that need following, and have access to trusted local suppliers and subcontractors. Having local tradespeople on hand, especially if you’re in the middle of a big renovation and something needs addressing urgently, is a big advantage.
However, despite the many advantages of working with a local independent firm, if you have really specialist needs or are about to embark on a particularly tricky or sensitive renovation, a super-bespoke solution may be better. While there will be plenty of choice on offer, you may still be limited to certain ranges or finishes, and while the quality is good, it still won’t beat the craftsmanship of a top-end, artisan, bespoke kitchen maker.
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