Preparing for a kitchen appointment: what to bring

The designer needs two things from you: the dimensions of the room and an idea of how you cook in it. Approximate measurements are enough for an initial design. Before you visit, also divide your budget into three parts so you know what you can include and where to draw the line.

Bring measurements and photos

Have these ready before going to the showroom:

• the length and height of every wall
• windows, doors and which way they open
• water, drainage, electricity, gas and ventilation connections
• photos of each wall and the consumer unit
• a building drawing, if you have one

Film a walk around the room too. A video helps the designer see how the doors open, where you walk and how the kitchen connects to the next room. Measuring your kitchen sets out the other dimensions they need.

Describe how you use the kitchen

Tell the designer how you cook and store things. This helps them assess the layout around the way you use the room. Write down:

• how many people usually cook together
• whether you want a view of the living room while cooking
• whether you use large pans
• which appliances stay on the worktop: the coffee machine, air fryer or food processor

Also note what bothers you now: too few drawers, cupboard doors that collide or a fridge in the middle of a walkway.

New kitchen costs: divide your budget into three parts

Set an amount for the kitchen, a separate amount for fitting and a reserve for work outside the quote. That last part might include electrics, pipework, plastering, floor repairs and removal of the old kitchen.

During the appointment, ask the kitchen supplier for three prices: the basic layout, your chosen specification and the price including all known fitting and preparation work. New kitchen costs explains what else can increase the price.

Take time to decide

Ask for an itemised quote and take the drawing home. Check the product codes and measurements at home, then read the details on appliances, fitting, exclusions, deposits and delivery terms. A showroom discount is no reason to leave technical details unchecked.

What to do now

• take your floor plan, photos and measurements to the showroom
• film a walk around the room so the designer can see how the doors open and where you walk
• write down how you cook and store things, and what bothers you now
• divide your budget between the kitchen, fitting and a reserve for work outside the quote
• ask for three prices and check the product codes and measurements at home