My first kitchen - help!

[PrincessOlga]

I have become a home owner for the first time and I want to install a new kitchen (the existing one is literally collapsing and is a horrible grey colour). The only problem is I do not know how to start logistically.

I already have a plan in my own mind and know the basic measurements. But which service do I approach first? I dropped into IKEA, but their own kitchens just did not grab me and there was even a rather "depressed" vibe given off by their computer (designer) department.

My own preference is a little bit minimalist, what I think is sometimes called a "German kitchen". But how do I go about it all?!? I always presumed that the fitter (joiner) is the most important person, but I am in a totally new town and know none of the tradesmen (I do have a plumber, but they have no one to recommend). Am I better contacting a design firm, a kitchen company, a fitter? Help!

The likes of B&Q do a free design and colour printout - IMO, you will have a much better idea re colours, heights of cabinets, worktops/floors - they move stuff around for you on their computers and give you a printout with prices.

We used then years ago as the cabinets were cheaper and we bought the doors, tops, hobs/ovens from others

NB: For a good kitchen always ensure the cabinets/carcass is the best you can afford as it makes the kitchen very sturdy

I would start by getting a free design from somewhere like Wren. They don’t get the best reviews ( see Trustpilot for fitted kitchen reviews) but they have good kitchen designers who can do you a plan as a starting point.

I would get a few different companies to measure up and do you a design. Once you know what you want you can then shop around for the best price. Might be worth asking on local Facebook groups for recommendations of someone to fit. My local Howdens have business cards for local carpenters/kitchen fitters as well.

I'd start by pinning the design you like on Pinterest. I'm surprised you can't find a German style (not sure what that is) in ikea, they have some very plain kitchens, and being Swedish, they're not a million miles from a German aesthetic. So a Pinterest board may help clarify style.

I'd make a plan, with measurements, windows and doors marked on and share it on here. The plans I've seen from kitchen companies on here are always awful and I've seen much better designs on here.

Once you've got an idea of what ypu want, find a supplier with the style ypu want, and ask around for good fitters. I'd look for a joiner, they're generally more skilled than a fitter.

Take a look at DIY kitchens - once you have a design in mind.

Do what @Pfpppl says but invest in a burner phone as they will hassle you constantly.