Planning a new kitchen or bathroom project? Then you’ll need to visit some showrooms! To help you be prepared for your first appointment, we’ve put together this all-encompassing guide…

Entering the doors of an immaculate showroom can feel a little intimidating, but despite the formal setting, independent retailers and designers are usually down to earth, welcoming, and eager to help you get your project off the ground.

Your first kitchen or bathroom showroom visit

When you arrive at the showroom, feel free to a wander around and speak to the retailer, but give yourself space and time to take it all in. Open the cupboards, run your hand along the surfaces, and look at the small details.

You can also pick up samples of worktops or brassware, and knock on cupboard doors and carcasses to check their quality. If there are working bathroom displays in the showroom, play with the showers and taps to see how well the water flows.

Long-established retailer Dave Jarvis, managing director of Albion Bathrooms Kitchens Electricals, says that he likes to give his customers plenty of time to take in what’s in the showroom. But, he keeps a close eye on them so that if they look in any way confused, he’s ready to step in and offer a hand. Designers may also ask you if you would like some coffee and tea or if you want to sit down and have a chat. They do that to be friendly and to start building trust. “Personalities sell kitchens as well as a good service and quality prices,” explain Stefan Bomok, founder of Cu Cucine.

The designer may take you around the space, and talk you through some technical aspects or demonstrate products. Good designers will try to establish a rapport, rather than go in for a hard sell. “We find that the best way to engage with new clients is to really know your stuff, and not to be too pushy,” says Justine Bullock, co-owner of Welsh design company The Tap End.

A project should be a considered purchase and not something you should feel pressured into. If the company is overly persuasive or says they will offer a discount if you put a deposit on today, run! Well… maybe respectfully walk away.

What to expect during your showroom visit

Your first showroom visit will focus on you rather than the room. Don’t be surprised if you spend more time talking about how you use your home rather than specific furniture, finishes and colours. “We want to find out more about their lifestyle, the comings and goings of their household, family, hobbies and pets,” says Joanna Geddes, design director at Scotland’s JS Geddes, about her initial client appointments.

You’re going to need the basic measurements and dimensions of your space, and have an idea about what you want to achieve. Precise numbers will be more important at the site visit, when someone comes to measure up, but initially a rough vision is okay.

“Photos say more than words,” says Martina Landhed, founder and creative director from Oxfordshire-based InStil Design. She recommends to come armed with plenty of images of your current space and to have a specific budget in mind. And, why not bring along a list of must-haves, plus a separate wishlist of elements that are not so vital, too.

Prepare lots of questions and ideas and be ready to talk it over and collaborate with the retailer. Depending on the size of your project, you could be working with designers for anything from two to 18 months. So, the relationship needs to work. You must feel comfortable with the designers and have confidence in the projects they are selling, so take your time, have a discerning eye, and don’t rush your showroom visits.  

Checklist

Going on your first kitchen or bathroom showroom consultation is an exciting time, so here is a little checklist of the things you can bring with you. But, you should always ask in advance if the company requires you to bring anything specific…

• Measurements of your space. Most designers will carry out a home visit to measure up properly, but you will need to bring a rough guide of the dimensions.
• Bring plans. If you have architects’ plans, then take them along. Alternatively, make a sketch of the current layout, with details of any doors and windows.
• Take photos. Take photos of the room from different angles to get a total view of the work that needs to be done in the space.
• Come with inspiration. A Pinterest board and Instagram images are always very useful.
• Create a list of must-haves. Work out what you really need and then make a separate wishlist of less important items. 
• Arrive with questions. Ask your showroom designer about everything from timelines to specific products’ specifications. Remember, there are no stupid questions.

Good luck!

Enjoyed this post? Click here for what to expect during a design consultation

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