If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, you may wonder how much it will cost to fit a Howdens kitchen. Howdens is a famous brand of kitchen cabinets and appliances known for its high-quality products and stylish designs. In this article, we’ll discuss the various factors that can affect the cost to fit a Howdens kitchen and provide tips on saving money without sacrificing quality.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Fitting a Howdens Kitchen
The cost of fitting a Howdens kitchen can vary widely depending on several factors. Some of the most significant factors that can affect the cost include:
Kitchen Size
One of the very important factors affecting the overall cost is the size of your kitchen. The kitchen’s size impacts material and labor requirements for completing the project. For example, a larger Howdens kitchen will require more cabinets, worktops, and appliances, which can significantly increase the total cost to fit. Similarly, a larger kitchen may require more electrical or plumbing work, which can add to the project’s overall cost.
Conversely, a smaller kitchen may be less expensive to fit, as it requires fewer materials and less labour. A small kitchen can still be costly with luxury materials or appliances, regardless of size. When considering the size of your kitchen, it’s also essential to consider how you use the space. Get a bigger kitchen with extra worktop space or storage if you host often or have a big family.
Ultimately, the size of your kitchen will significantly impact the overall cost of fitting a Howdens kitchen. Choose kitchen size carefully with budget in mind. Work with contractor to meet design goals and stay within budget.
Kitchen Layout
Kitchen layout is the placement of cabinets, appliances, sinks, and countertops in a kitchen. A well-designed kitchen layout is essential to creating a functional and efficient space that meets the homeowner’s needs.
There are several different kitchen layouts, each with advantages and disadvantages. The most common kitchen layouts include:
- The L-shaped kitchen.
- The U-shaped kitchen.
- The galley kitchen.
- The open-plan kitchen.
The L-shaped kitchen is one of the most popular kitchen layouts, as it provides ample storage space and allows for a good flow of traffic through the kitchen. An L-shaped kitchen has cabinets and appliances arranged in an L-shape, with one leg longer than the other.
The U-shaped kitchen is similar to the L-shaped kitchen but has an additional leg forming a U-shape. This layout provides even more storage space than the L-shaped kitchen and ample counter space.
The galley kitchen is narrow, corridor-style, with cabinets and appliances arranged along two parallel walls. While this layout can efficiently utilize space, it can also feel cramped and closed-in.
Open-plan kitchen, favored for contemporary homes, enables easy transition between kitchen, living, and dining areas for seamless flow. Cabinets and appliances in open-plan kitchens are on one or two walls, with an island/peninsula for extra storage and counter space.
Kitchen Style
The style of your kitchen refers to the overall aesthetic or design of the space, including the materials, colours and finishes used for the cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, flooring, and other elements. Howdens offers a range of kitchen styles to suit different tastes and preferences, from traditional and classic to modern and contemporary.
Some popular Howdens kitchen styles include:
- Shaker Style – This classic style features simple, clean lines, with panelled cabinet doors and drawers and a focus on functionality and practicality. It is often paired with neutral colours and natural wood finishes for a timeless look.
- Modern Style – The modern kitchen style features sleek, clean lines, and a minimalist aesthetic, often incorporating high-gloss finishes and metallic accents for a contemporary feel. It may also incorporate bold colours or patterns for a pop of visual interest.
- Industrial Style – The industrial kitchen style draws inspiration from factories and warehouses, featuring exposed brick, metal, and concrete finishes, often paired with open shelving and wire storage racks for a practical look.
- Country Style – The country kitchen style is warm and inviting, featuring natural wood finishes, floral patterns, and rustic elements such as a farmhouse sink or vintage-style range. It often incorporates light, pastel colours for a cosy, homely feel.
- Handleless Style – The handleless kitchen style is a modern design that features cabinets and drawers with sleek, integrated handles or push-to-open mechanisms. This creates a clean, streamlined look famous in contemporary kitchen designs.
The style of your kitchen is an important consideration when you’re going to fit a Howdens kitchen, as it can affect the project’s overall cost.
Appliances
When it comes to fitting a Howdens kitchen, one of the major expenses is the appliances. Appliances refer to the various electrical or gas-powered devices used in the kitchen, such as ovens, hobs, dishwashers, refrigerators, etc. Howdens offers various appliances from different brands with different features and price points.
The cost of appliances will depend on several factors, including the brand, size, style, and features. Miele, Smeg, and Neff are costly brands for high-end appliances. For cheaper options, try Beko or Zanussi. Cheaper appliances may not be the best choice, as they may not last or perform as well as more expensive ones.
When selecting appliances for your Howdens kitchen, it’s important to consider your needs and budget carefully. Think about cooking frequency, meal types, and required features like self-cleaning ovens or built-in fridges when selecting appliances. Invest in high-end appliances for frequent and long-term use as they provide superior performance and durability, making it worthwhile.
Appliances are a critical component of any Howdens kitchen and can significantly impact the project’s overall cost. By carefully considering your needs and budget and weighing the various options available, you can select appliances that meet your requirements while staying within your budget.
Worktops
In a kitchen, the worktops are the horizontal surfaces that serve as the primary work surface for food preparation, cooking, and other kitchen tasks. Worktops can be made from a wide range of materials, each with unique properties and characteristics.
One of the essential materials for kitchen worktops is granite, known for its durability, heat resistance, and natural beauty. Granite worktops can be expensive, but they are often considered worthwhile due to their longevity and visual appeal.
Another popular worktop option is quartz, an artificial material of crushed quartz mixed with resin. Quartz worktops offer durability, stain resistance, low maintenance and come in various patterns and colors.
Laminate worktops are another standard option, particularly for those on a tight budget. Under high pressure, resin-impregnated paper or fabric layers are bonded together to create laminate worktops. While less durable than granite or quartz, laminate worktops can be cost-effective and attractive for those looking to update their kitchen on a budget.
Other materials that can be used for kitchen worktops include wood, stainless steel, and concrete. Each of these materials has unique characteristics and advantages, and the choice of material will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
It is essential to consider when choosing a worktop for your kitchen that consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. You’ll also think about how the worktop will complement your cabinets, flooring, and other kitchen design elements. With so many options, you’re sure to find a worktop that meets your needs and budget.
How to Save Money When Fitting a Howdens Kitchen
While fitting a Howdens kitchen can be a significant investment, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing quality. Some tips for saving money include:
Stick to Standard Sizes
To cut costs when installing a Howdens kitchen, use standard sizes for cabinets, worktops, and appliances. Choosing standard sizes means opting for pre-made, off-the-shelf options that are readily available and don’t require bespoke customization.
On the other hand, custom or bespoke options are often more expensive because they are made to order and require more time, effort, and resources to produce. For example, suppose you need a cabinet that is an unusual shape or size. Custom manufacturing to fit your space may cost more than choosing a pre-made option that fits standard kitchen dimensions.
By sticking to standard sizes, you can also make it easier to find replacement parts or accessories in the future. Suppose you need to replace a cabinet door or drawer, for example. It’s easier to find a standard replacement than a custom one that matches the exact dimensions of your cabinetry.
Sticking to standard sizes can help you save money and make the fitting process smoother and more straightforward. Custom solutions may be needed for kitchen corners or odd angles despite using standard sizes for the rest of the cabinets.
Shop Around
Shopping around means taking the time to research and compare prices and options from different suppliers before making a purchase. When you’re gong to fit a Howdens kitchen, shopping around can be effective way to save money and to reduce the total cost.
To shop around for a Howdens kitchen, you can start by researching different suppliers online or in your local area. You can check their websites or visit their showrooms to see their range of products and services.
When you have a list of potential suppliers, comparing their prices and services is important to find the best deal. This may involve requesting quotes or estimates from each supplier and comparing the cost of materials, installation, and additional services or warranties.
It’s also important to consider the reputation and experience of each supplier, as well as any reviews or testimonials from previous customers. You can check review sites or ask for references from the supplier to get a sense of their quality and customer service.
When shopping around for a Howdens kitchen, it’s important to take your time and not rush into any decisions. By researching and comparing prices and options, you can save money and ensure you get the best quality and service for your budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fitting a Howdens kitchen can be a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to update their kitchen. However, it’s essential to consider the various factors that can affect the cost such as kitchen size, layout, style, appliances and worktops. Design a beautiful and functional kitchen on a budget by choosing wisely and following our money-saving tips. Stick to standard sizes, affordable styles, smart appliances, shop around for best deals while shopping for home items. With some planning and research, you can create your dream kitchen without breaking the bank.
FAQ’s
Are Howden’s kitchens good quality?
Howdens is known for producing high-quality kitchen cabinets and appliances. Their products are designed to last and come with a 25-year guarantee.
Do you have to use Howden’s installers?
You do not have to use Howden’s installers to fit your kitchen. If you possess the required expertise, you can either hire self-employed contractors or carry out the installation yourself as a DIY project.
Can you negotiate the price of a Howdens kitchen?
Yes, it may be possible to negotiate the price of a Howdens kitchen, especially if you’re buying in bulk or have a good relationship with your supplier. However, the prices are generally fixed, so there may be little room for negotiation.