Howdens Kitchen Extension Dilemma

[MissPollysTrolleyed]

We are having a kitchen extension done with some ancillary works. I have had an architect prepare plans for the structural works and am doing a specification so that I can get three builders to quote but thought I'd also need to get the kitchen design done so that they could quote on that too (fitting units, re-plumbing, electrical fittings etc).

My desired kitchen is with Howdens so I rang them to make an appointment but they tell me they are "trade only" and that I'll need to go through my builder. I don't understand - I don't want my builder designing my kitchen and how do I choose a builder if I don't know what I want him to do and therefore how much it will cost? Feeling very and under pressure as am six months pregnant so under great pressure to appoint a builder ASAP.

Howdens kitchens are pretty much the same as the other companies from what I've looked at (just looking through brochures and showrooms).

I've picked out a Magnet kitchen and a Howdens one which to my eye look identical. I have asked Magnet to come and design my kitchen. I then intend to give this design to my builder and ask him to quote based on Magnet trade and Howdens kitchens.

My plan is then to go whichever is the best value.

It won't be your builder designing it -the Howdens rep will come out and see you and discuss and plan it with you, give you a fancy print out of what it will look like etc.

When the builders come to see you to quote fro the work you want doing ask them about getting a quote as they can basically just give Howdens the nod to visit you.

Hi, currently in the process of doing kitchen extension, mine is built units here (Howdens) not fitted yet mind.
In my case I got a quote for the building owrk, then once the shell was up got a plumber and an electrician out to quote (with no kitchen design), all they nees to know is how many sockets etc lighting, sink dishwasher type of frige, etc and they quoted me on that. Then got the kitchen design in once shell was ready as in my experience there aren't many companies that work off plan, they prefer to measure the building and get a feel for the room once up. Once plan was in the plumber and electrician came and fitted their bits off the plan. All has run smoothly so far and has not gone over original quote.

Howdens deal direct with account holder, but meet with you to dicuss your wants and needs then do a plan to your requirements, then go back to dealing with the builder/joiner.

Ikea do a good free 3d design on their site which could give you a rough idea of what you want.

Be aware that Howdens prices also alter to reflect the 'discount' of each builder. The more Howdens units they fit the bigger discount Howdens give them. Our builder got 75% discount and passed that onto us (he was doing A LOT of building work for us), however not all will do that. Once Howdens knew which builder we were using they were more than happy to deal with us direct.

My sister looked into Howdens via a builder family friend - we were surprised how expensive they were and went with Wickes in the end.

Same as shhh - once Howden's knew our builder, they sent all quotes and designs direcly to me via email. Your "discount" (actual price as only deal with trade anyway) should be in the 70s percentage-wise.