Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Make My Kitchen Look Bigger? - FAQs

  • What are some space-saving appliances for a small kitchen?

    Multi-tasking appliances like washer-dryers and hobs with built-in extraction are excellent choices. Integrated appliances can also help maintain a seamless look.

  • How can lighting affect the look of my kitchen?

    Proper lighting can make your kitchen appear larger by brightening dark corners and highlighting space-enhancing features like reflective surfaces.

  • How can I clear clutter in my small kitchen?

    Keeping your worktops clear can make a big difference. Consider storing items in cupboards or using wall panelling to house kitchen essentials.

  • What storage solutions work best in a compact kitchen?

    Maximise cupboard space with tall pull-outs and swivel units, and use drawer organisers for cutlery and utensils. Many of these can be retro-fitted if needed.

  • Are there alternatives to wall tiles for a small kitchen?

    Yes, consider glass splashbacks or wall panelling, as they can enhance the illusion of space and are available in various colours and finishes.

Which Kitchen Layout Will Work For Me? - FAQs

  • What is the minimum space required for seating in a kitchen?

    Each seating area should be at least 610mm wide, with appropriate leg clearance depending on the table or counter height.

  • Where should the sink be placed for optimal kitchen efficiency?

    Ideally, the sink should be located next to or directly across from the stove and fridge for convenience.

  • How close should a dishwasher be to the sink?

    A dishwasher should be placed within 900mm of a sink to ensure ease of use.

  • How wide should walkways be in a kitchen?

    Walkways should be at least 915mm wide to allow for comfortable movement.

  • What is the work triangle in kitchen design?

    The work triangle is a design concept that ensures efficiency by creating a clear path between the hob, fridge, and sink.

How Much Does a Kitchen Extension Cost? - FAQs

  • What factors influence the cost of a kitchen extension?

    The cost of a kitchen extension depends on several factors, including the size of the extension, the materials used, the amount of glass in the design, and additional costs like planning permission and engineering fees.

  • How much does a single storey kitchen extension cost?

    A straightforward, rectangular single storey kitchen extension typically costs between £1,250-£1,650/m², depending on your location in the UK and the standard of build.

  • How do I know if an extension will add value to my home?

    To determine if an extension will add value, consult local estate agents and research ceiling prices in your area to ensure the added value exceeds the building costs.

  • Is it cheaper to extend my kitchen or move house?

    Extending your kitchen can be more cost-effective than moving, as it saves on stamp duty, moving costs, and solicitors fees, especially if it’s your ‘forever home’.

  • Can the cost of a kitchen extension vary by location?

    Yes, costs can vary significantly by location, with more affluent areas like London potentially seeing prices as high as £1,700-£2,500/m² for a kitchen extension.

Why Do Similar Kitchens Have Such Different Prices? - FAQ's

  • Why are kitchen quotes so different when the designs look the same?

    Because kitchens are priced on what they are made from and what is included behind the scenes, not just how they look. Differences in cabinet materials, internal specification, appliance tiers, installation scope, project management and aftercare can create big price gaps even when two designs look similar. 

  • What should I compare to make sure quotes are like-for-like?

    Compare materials (including cabinet board quality), internal specification (drawers, runners, hinges and storage mechanisms), appliance models or tiers, what installation includes, and what support you get after fitting. Once those are aligned, totals usually make far more sense. 

  • Do drawers really affect the cost of a kitchen?

    Yes. Drawer units include more components and engineering than a standard cupboard, such as drawer boxes, runners and soft-close mechanisms, plus additional manufacturing. They often improve day-to-day usability, but they increase the cost compared with simple cupboards. 

  • Why can appliances change the price so much?

    Many appliances look similar at a glance but sit in different price tiers depending on brand, features and build quality. Quotes can vary if one includes entry-level appliances and another includes more premium models, so it is worth checking exactly what is specified. 

  • Does installation and aftercare affect the quote?

    Often, yes. Some quotes include experienced installers, coordination of trades, and support after the kitchen is fitted. Others reduce scope and leave more organisation and problem-solving with the homeowner. Different scopes can change the price and the overall experience. 

How to Design a Timeless Kitchen

  • What makes a kitchen feel timeless rather than trendy?

    A timeless kitchen is built around layout, proportion and everyday usability rather than fashion-led choices. Neutral colours, well-balanced layouts, quality materials and classic finishes tend to age far better than bold trends, which can feel dated surprisingly quickly. Kitchens that work well day to day rarely feel out of style, even years later. 

  • Are neutral colours essential for a timeless kitchen?

    Neutral colours aren’t essential, but they do provide a calm, flexible foundation that stands the test of time. Shades like white, beige and grey work well because they’re versatile and allow you to introduce personality through textures, materials and accessories. Trend-led colours are best used sparingly, in areas that can be easily changed later. 

  • Does the kitchen work triangle still matter in modern kitchen design?

    Yes, the kitchen work triangle remains a useful design principle for creating efficient, functional layouts. While it isn’t a strict rule, thinking about the relationship between the sink, hob and fridge helps reduce unnecessary movement and makes everyday cooking easier. Modern kitchens often adapt the triangle to suit open-plan living and individual routines. 

  • Which materials are best for a kitchen that will last?

    High-quality, durable materials are key to a long-lasting kitchen. German kitchen designs often use robust cabinetry, solid surfaces such as natural stone or Dekton, and practical finishes like stainless steel. These materials cope well with daily use, require less maintenance over time, and help the kitchen age gracefully. 

  • Should I avoid trends completely when designing a kitchen?

    You don’t need to avoid trends entirely, but they’re best used thoughtfully. A good rule of thumb is to introduce trend-led colours, patterns or finishes in elements that don’t dominate the whole kitchen and can be easily updated later, such as lighting, stools or accessories. This allows your kitchen to evolve without needing a full redesign. 

How can I make my kitchen feel expensive? - FAQ's

  • How can I make my kitchen feel expensive without spending more?

    Focus on layout, proportion and restraint rather than features. Kitchens feel expensive when they’re calm, balanced and easy to use, not when they’re packed with bold finishes or the latest trends. 

  • Do expensive materials automatically make a kitchen feel high quality?

    Not necessarily. How materials are used matters more than what they cost. Consistent, well-judged material choices usually feel more expensive than mixing lots of premium finishes together. 

  • Why do some kitchens feel expensive even if they’re quite simple?

    Because simplicity often signals confidence. When a kitchen has clear proportions, a cohesive palette and nothing fighting for attention, it tends to feel considered and high quality. 

  • Are bold colours and statement worktops a bad idea?

    Not at all — but they work best when used sparingly. Bold colours or heavily patterned stone can dominate a space, so they’re usually better introduced in areas that don’t define the whole kitchen. 

  • What’s the biggest mistake people make when trying to create an ‘expensive’ kitchen?

    Trying to impress with features rather than thinking about how the kitchen feels to live in. A kitchen that works effortlessly day to day almost always feels more expensive over time. 

German Kitchens Cardiff - FAQ's

  • Do I need to book an appointment before visiting the showroom?

    You’re always welcome to visit our showroom, but we do recommend booking an appointment if you’d like to sit down with one of our designers.

    That way, you’ll have proper time to talk through your project, look at options, ask questions, and get advice without feeling rushed. 

  • Where is your kitchen showroom?

    Our showroom is based at Unit 3, Radyr Court Precinct in Danescourt, Cardiff.

    You’ll find a range of German kitchen displays, including Nobilia & Schüller, along with BORA appliances, worktop ideas, clever storage options and plenty of inspiration for your own kitchen project. 

  • What areas do you cover?

    We mainly design, supply and install kitchens across Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan, Newport, Bridgend, Caerphilly and the wider South Wales area.

    We also work on selected projects further along the M4 corridor, depending on the size and type of project. 

  • Can I speak to someone before booking a design appointment?

    Yes, definitely. In fact, it’s often the best place to start.

    A quick chat can help you understand what’s realistic for your space, your timescale and your budget before you commit to a full design appointment. 

  • How quickly can someone call me back?

    During normal working hours, we’ll always try to get back to you as quickly as possible.

    If you use our instant callback request during opening hours, someone will usually call you within 60 seconds. 

    Outside of those hours, we’ll get back to you the next working day. 

  • Do you charge for kitchen design appointments?

    Our initial kitchen design consultation and design presentation is free.

    It’s a chance for you to tell us what you’re hoping to achieve, get some expert advice, and see whether we’re the right fit for your project. 

  • What should I bring to my first appointment?

    Don’t worry if you haven’t got everything ready.

    Helpful things to bring include:

    • Room measurements or builder’s plans
    • Photos or videos of your current kitchen
    • Inspiration images from Pinterest, Instagram or Houzz
    • An idea of your budget
    • Any appliance or worktop preferences
    • Details of any building work or extension plans

    But if you’re still at the early ideas stage, that’s fine too. 

  • Can you help if we’re planning an extension or building work?

    Yes, and it’s actually better to speak to us early.

    Many people wait until the building work is already underway, but getting your kitchen designer involved sooner can help avoid awkward layouts, poorly positioned services, and expensive changes later on. 

  • Can you work from architect’s drawings?

    Yes. If you’ve got architect’s plans, builder’s drawings or planning layouts, we can usually work from those to start exploring ideas.

    Final measurements would still need to be checked before anything is ordered, but plans are a great starting point. 

  • How much does a German kitchen cost?

    It depends on the size of the kitchen, the brand, the door finish, appliances, worktops and installation requirements.

    As a rough guide, many of our complete Schüller kitchen projects, including installation, are around £25,000, but some projects will be less and some will be significantly more.

    The best way to get a realistic starting point is to use our kitchen cost estimator or speak to one of our designers. 

  • Do you install the kitchens yourselves?

    Yes, we can offer a full installation service.

    We also work with clients who already have their own builder or fitter, so we can supply the kitchen only if that suits your project better. 

  • Can you supply appliances and worktops as well?

    Yes. We can help with appliances, worktops, sinks, taps, extraction, lighting and internal storage.

    We’re also one of the UK’s leading BORA showrooms, so if you’re considering a venting hob or professional grade oven, we can talk you through the options properly. 

  • Can I just buy the kitchen from you and use my own installer?

    Yes. We offer supply-only kitchens as well as fully installed projects.

    If you’re using your own builder or installer, we’ll make sure they have the information they need, but it’s important that they’re comfortable fitting a German kitchen accurately. 

  • How long does the kitchen process usually take?

    The full process depends on your project, but most kitchens need proper planning time.

    Once the design is agreed, the kitchen is made to order, delivered, and then installed or supplied depending on your chosen service.

    If you’re working around building work, extensions or other trades, it’s worth speaking to us as early as possible so we can help you plan the timing properly. 

  • Can I make changes after my first design appointment?

    Yes. Your first design is rarely the final design.

    Most clients make changes as the project develops. That might include layout tweaks, colour changes, appliance decisions, worktop choices or storage upgrades.

    The important thing is that everything is finalised before the kitchen goes into manufacture. 

  • I’m not ready to buy yet. Is it still worth contacting you?

    Yes. Some of the best kitchen projects start with an early conversation.

    Even if you’re months away from making a decision, we can help you understand what’s possible, what to avoid, and how to plan your space properly from the start. 

  • Do you offer finance?

    Not currently.

    In our experience, kitchen finance often works out more expensive than people realise. There’s no such thing as truly “interest free” finance. The cost is usually built into the price somewhere, either through the kitchen studio paying the finance provider or by reducing the discount available to you.

    We’d rather keep your kitchen price as transparent as possible.

    If you do want to spread the cost, it’s usually better to arrange finance externally through your own bank, building society or mortgage provider. That way, you’re not paying hidden finance costs inside the kitchen price itself. 

  • Can you help me choose between Nobilia & Schüller

    Yes. That’s exactly what we’re here for.

    You don’t need to know which brand is right for you before you contact us. Once we understand your space, budget and wish list, we can guide you towards the range that makes the most sense. 

  • What happens after I submit the contact form?

    Once we receive your enquiry, one of the team will review your details and get back to you.

    Depending on what you need, we may arrange a showroom appointment, a phone call, a Zoom design consultation, or ask for a few extra details so we can point you in the right direction. 

  • What’s the best way to contact you?

    The easiest way is to fill in the contact form or request a callback.

    You can also call the showroom directly if you’d rather speak to someone straight away. For anything design-related, booking an appointment is usually the best way to make sure you get proper time with the right person.