When you first set out to buy a new kitchen, the plethora of different kitchen brands and styles can be somewhat confusing. But a kitchen is an expensive investment and will be a focal point of your home for many years to come. This is why it is important to make the right decision and recognize early that not all kitchen manufacturers and not all kitchen brands are equal. For example, rigidly built, fitted German kitchen furniture has a very different look, price, quality, and warranties compared with flat-pack self- assembly kitchen furniture.
Brands with visual appeal
The first thing that attracts us to any product is how it looks, and this is also true for kitchen brands. This may be a door style, colour or finish that grabs your attention. However, whether you are looking online or browsing through different brochures from different companies, this is often the first step in kitchen shopping. It is always a good idea to visit a kitchen showroom for the actual product in person.
Establish your Price Point
Of course, price is an important factor in any purchase decision, and there is a big price difference between the alternate types of kitchens available within the market:-
- Flat pack Kitchens
Flat pack kitchens that can be self-assembled are at the bottom of the market. - Ready-made Kitchens
Next is standard-sized cabinetry, which can be bought pre-made and fitted at well-respected DIY or home improvement shops. - Custom-made kitchens
Custom kitchens are more expensive than standard kitchens. These kitchens are made to order and manufactured according to specific customer specifications. - Fully custom kitchens
Fully bespoke kitchens are at the top of the market. This type of kitchen is open to all materials, finishes, colours, and may include custom detail and hand finishing.
When considering which kitchen type (and price point) is right for you, it is worth remembering the well-known quote:
‘The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.’
Benjamin Franklin
Ultimately, you get what you pay for, so if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. After deciding on the best type of kitchen for you, you’ll likely discover that prices can be competitive between brands or between companies that supply the same product. If this is true, you should determine the reason there is a significant price difference before choosing one over another. It could be the difference in finish quality, or the fact that one company offers an inclusive installation service, etc.
Quality – Always choose trusted kitchen brands
You should ensure that you are purchasing a reliable and high-quality product. This is why, in addition to looking at the styles you like, you need to do extensive research on different kitchen brands and narrow down the ones you find positive reviews about. These reviews should be accompanied by photos of actual installations by the retailer, not just stock images. A good reputation is a sign that a quality brand is reliable and will last a long time.
Customer Services – The people matter just as much as the products
The quality of a kitchen brand is not the only thing that matters. Different brands and companies will offer different levels of customer service and expertise throughout the design and installation of your kitchen. The quality of the employees employed by the company will determine the final quality of your kitchen. A highly skilled designer is necessary for designing your kitchen. Otherwise, you could end up with a poorly designed layout or worse, a kitchen that doesn’t fit when it is installed.
Warranty
The strength and length of a kitchen warranty can vary greatly between brands. This could be a sign of its quality. A kitchen is an investment, no matter how high-end or flat pack. You want it to be reliable and last a long time. It is important to have peace of mind that your kitchen will be covered in case it needs repair or replacement.
Do it right
Every kitchen company should be able guide you through its products and services. They should also answer any questions that you may have until you can make an informed decision. If you are still unsure about a particular brand or company, then it may not be the right one for you. If you would like some help in finding a reputable kitchen supplier in your local area such as Totally Kitchens in Southampton, then get in touch with the Kitchen Experts today.
