Kitchen / dining room renovation after water damage... Post Reply

[chezzie]

I am on the verge of ordering a Magnet kitchen at 50% off and Quooker tap thrown in for free. Then saw some reviews and now hesitate. We are on a budget - so can't afford the really smart fitted kitchens (our first quote was 80k for a medium sized kitchen incl flooring, electric and plumbing, paint etc. Second quote was 40k... Is Magnet still the better pre-built kitchen? What are people's experiences? I understand sometimes it's down to the fitter. Does anyone on here have a good experience of a kitchen fitter they would recommend? My greatest wish was for everything to be completed through a company, but the quotes I have had so far have been too high for us. So, any recommendations on tilers, electricians, plumbers and painters would also be much appreciated.

 

[Goldhawk]

Have you looked at DIY kitchens and Wickes?
 

[chezzie]

Reading reviews and going on Which? suggests that DIY kitchens and Wickes are not quite same quality as Magnet - and again - it seems to be all about the kitchen fitter? Some also say they regret not going with Magnet as on comparing, for example a Howdens kitchen with a Magnet - the quality of the Magnet is noticeably better and will last longer. I would like to be able to keep the kitchen going for 20+ years.

[CyclingLondon]

Friends have a Magnet kitchen and love it.

Sample size of one I know but it's ageing well!

[chorister]

I strongly advise you to get Billy Kikidis (who has been recommeded on here before) to quote for a turnkey job including sourcing and supplying units.  He refurbished a complete flat for us including a kitchen (with Howden units) and we were absolutely delighted.  His phone number is 07538 580397.

[Delighted with Kitchen]

I was dubious about DIY kitchens but took the time to visit their show room in Pontefract. You will be amazed. The quality is at least on a par with Howdens. Their range runs from quite basic units to quite bespoke. You save on fitting as they arrive reassembled. A good builder can use their panelling to further enhance the design. The company are easy to deal with, work to short lead time. The only downside is you either need to design the kitchen yourself or instruct a kitchen designer, though they will advise. Their units and MIELE ovens/dishwashers/hob etc has resulted in a stunning, durable kitchen that looks as if it cost considerably more. For what it is worth our builder has now fitted several and thinks they are better than Magnet/Hoden.

[Alessandra Garcia]

Hi Chezzie, getting a new kitchen is stressful. I know it is a big investment and you don't want to make the wrong decision. My name is Alessandra, founder of Orsetto Interiors, a locally based interior designer. Big companies like Magnet, Howdens, Wren's, DIY Kitchens etc are as good as the service they provide. What I am trying to say is that they have many showrooms and the service varies from one to the other. It is not only important to read the general reviews of a company, but also reviews to the local branch that you will be using. It is also important to remember to check the after care policy, and how quick they can come back with solutions, for example if there is a missing or faulty item. Lead times are so important these days. Everyday that you have someone on site waiting a replacement or missing item, is money. Sometimes colour can impact the price of a kitchen too. I have had clients change the colour of their kitchen cabinet because it was considerably cheaper than the same style and design from even the same company. So worth asking around. Best of luck with your project, if you need any help get in touch!   www.orsettointeriors.com

[Lyleunt]

Compared to Howdens, the quality is comparable, if not better. Their inventory includes both standard and custom options. Being pre-assembled, you may save time and effort on assembly.

geometry dash breeze