Buying kitchen units-Howdens versus Ikea, Wickes and B&Q?

[ArcticRoll]

Have been waiting to update my hideous country kitchen for ten years and now want to make sure don't muck it all up. Am planning to buy simple white units and spend more on Corian work surface, taps and flooring . Just trying to weigh up the pros and cons of the above companies. Would be grateful for any tips, thanks.

We used DIY Kitchens, after looking at the brands you are considering OP. I think they are based in Pontefract, but we did everything over the phone/online. After 7 years everything is still solid and looks good. Our kitchen fitter didn't know the brand and was so impressed that he looked into Kitchen DIY units for his daughter. We bought appliances and work surfaces from other places. At the time DIY's selection on those wasn't so good.

Finally OP, you should sign up to Pinterest (if you aren't already on it) and start creating an inspiration pin-board of kitchens you love to help you "out it all together."

Wow this is an old thread !!!
I wonder what they did ? And if it's still looking good - be interesting to see !
Re DIYkitchens - have designed quite a few for clients using them - not heard any negative feedback so far so that's another positive in their favour ! There are loads of places that used to be 'trade only' now selling by online direct to retail clients - they don't offer the same service as the studios - is no planning or guidance as such - but worth a look . But don't dismiss local independent studios ! Most have years of experience and they have displays you can see and try etc !!! Really a good idea to give them a chance too ! They might surprise you !!!

Yes, I know this is a very old thread but William Hanson's latest belongs here...
(I feel he would never use the expression "zombie thread"!)

www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3914030/Etiquette-expert-William-Hanson-reveals-kitchen-accessories-makes-look-common.html

Lol - I'm posher than I thought ! Just off to the stables so the neighbours can be annoyed by my kettle on the Aga ! ( I'll leave the windows open and hope the noise reaches them across the field !!! ) toodeloo chums !!

That is not true, you can buy just the door frontals from Howdens

I wouldn't buy a kitchen from anywhere except Howdens. They are an in stock company so you do not have to wait up to 6 weeks for delivery. They have not featured on rip off Britain or dodgy builders like wicks and all their carcasses come with a service void which allows you to fit appliances and sinks without damaging the carcasses. Ikea does not have that feature and as soon as you cut into one of the units you loose all guarantee. I am a landlord and I will only have Howdens kitchens in my properties. Great Quality, Great value for money. All vinyl wrapped doors not sprayed like other companies and come fully assembled.

Blimey Zombie thread if ever there was