THE ULTIMATE BUYER'S GUIDE TO Kitchens

What are the options for buying a new kitchen? We explore a number of routes you can take to realize your dream kitchen

There are few more exciting stages in a self-build, extension, or renovation project than designing and planning a new kitchen. But excitement aside, there are a lot of decisions to be made. Many of the buying processes for the various routes you can take to purchase a kitchen are similar, but like all aspects of building and renovating, how involved you want to be, and your budget, will determine which route you opt to take.

For example, you could choose your own carcasses, doors, and appliances or rely on the expertise of a kitchen specialist to specify these items; you could fit the whole thing yourself or hire professionals to come in and get the job done – all options available to you regardless of your DIY expertise or budget.

But before we break down the different buying routes available, there's some groundwork to do first, whatever path you choose to take.

WHERE TO START?

Firstly, you need to establish your budget. Not only will this be a major factor in determining which design and install option you choose, and the kitchen range you end up with, it will also mean that you don't see your dream design only to realize that it's wildly out of your price range. That's not to say with a little research you won't find something very similar elsewhere but being as realistic as possible from the start will avoid disappointment further down the line.

As well as being realistic with your money, also seriously consider your own DIY skills. If you're renovating then you can reduce your costs by ripping out the existing kitchen yourself but this might include the flooring and any tiling too. If you're careful and the kitchen units are in good condition, you could sell it online to make some money back.