DIY Kitchens

[BG2015]

We have just moved into our new home 2 weeks ago. We knew that we were going to change the kitchen eventually so went up to the DIY kitchens showroom to have a look what was on offer in June before we moved.

We live in Staffordshire so it's a trek for us but we were in Sheffield for an event so travelled a bit further to take a look. We were impressed.

My DP, who does a lot of cooking declared this week that the kitchen was a nightmare. I agree, we have very little storage and it's hard work. We have downsized so we knew it would be tough. It doesn't flow, we have stuff everywhere.

We've been to Wren this morning as a starting point. We liked the design we were shown and he made good use of the space. We have a small u shaped kitchen. We now have a list of base units, appliances etc, a 3D photo and a price.

If we go up to DIY kitchens do we need to book an appointment and could they work off the Wren design to cost/design the kitchen? I'm presuming they could.

We have an amazing fitter who fitted our last kitchen. He prefers Howdens kitchens but will fit anything really. He says DIY are cheap but unreliable.

I can understand that, the only other think I would say is to get your cabinets fitted to the ceiling if you can, and not sure about Howden, but certainly DIY kitchens, the pull put drawers are better than the pull out racks.

Yes Wren have quoted for full height cabinets and 3 pan drawers - I miss my pan drawers so much.

That's good to know 👍🏻

I don't know why he thinks DIY kitchens are unreliable - they have glowing reviews generally. We have used them three times now (for our kitchen, my MILs utility room and a bar unit ) and they have been excellent, very good quality units with solid backs - plus I like the fact the inside of the unit is the same colour as the door.

However if you're not confident measuring up yourself it may be better to go elsewhere. We checked our measurements about fifty times 😀.

Also, I found it better to source appliances and worktops and accessories like handles elsewhere - not just because of price, I didn't like the handles DIY had on offer and I was fussy about brands with appliances. We got a local company to do our worktops. Recommend looking at appliances direct and ao.

Also to mention, aren't Howdens brand appliances Lamona? They have terrible reviews and my mum had endless trouble with her lamona dishwasher , I would definitely avoid those appliances.

Am I right in thinking that kitchens from B and Q are called DIY? Perhaps your fitters is thinking of them, not the firm in Pontefract.

Yes I wondered this too!

Your new design doesn't look like it's got enough work surface space. Could you add a peninsula for extra work surface?

This is my Howdens design.

Unfortunately he's not sent a price though.

I've looked at sourcing the appliances myself off EBay and they come out at just over £1k compared to Wrens £2800, so that's definitely food for thought.

Awaiting a price......

I wouldn’t buy appliances from eBay unless they are business sellers offering a guarantee. Even then it will probably only be a year.

I like the Howdens design - the colour is a bit too beige but the layout is good.

You can but appliances off ebay, places sell brand new, but with small bits of cosmetic damage. My sister did in her fancy kitchen, no issues.

I too think the Howden one looks better. I'm no fan of corner cupboards, or do many wall units, but from what you've said in previous posts, you are happy with.
Howdens looks more balanced.

Really like the Howdens - let us know what you decide and how you get on

What’s the name of that design please?

I think I prefer the Howdens one.

EBay appliances were mainly from the AO Outlet shop or big electrical appliance businesses - they weren't from individual sellers.

It's Witney pebble with oak worktops and Belfry handles

On YouTube is a kitchen camparison (Nicks home renovations) between DIY kitchens, Magnet, Howdens Wren and Wickes. He actually builds all five identical kitchens in his garage and compares price, quality, delivery etc etc. it’s very good and although long well worth a watch.

What’s his conclusion?

If I remember correctly DIY kitchens came out first for Delivery, quality and value. Enough to convince us anyway.