Designing a new kitchen is one of the most exciting home improvements you can make, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many layouts, finishes, colours, and appliances to choose from, it’s easy to make decisions you later regret. As a family local independent kitchen company with years of experience designing and installing fitted kitchens across the area, we’ve seen what works beautifully… and what doesn’t.
To help you create a space that’s functional, stylish, and built to last, we’ve put together our essential kitchen design do’s and don’ts. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or replacing a dated kitchen, these expert tips will guide you through the process with confidence.
✅ DO: Start With the Right Layout
Before you choose colours or finishes, focus on the layout. A well-planned layout is the foundation of every great kitchen. Consider how you cook, how your household moves around the space, and how much preparation and storage you need.
Think about:
- The working triangle between hob, sink, and fridge
- Keeping prep areas clear
- Ensuring enough walkway space
- Placing appliances where they’re easy to access
A smart layout will make your new kitchen not only look stunning but also feel effortless to use.
❌ DON’T: Design Around Trends Alone
As fun as it is looking through Pinterest and home magazines It’s tempting to pick the colour everyone is currently raving about, or install an ultra-trendy feature you’ve seen on social media. But trends come and go quickly, and your kitchen needs to be personal to you to enjoy for many years to come.
Instead, choose a timeless foundation and bring trends in through:
- Handles
- Paint colours
- Decor
- Lighting
- Bar stools
This approach keeps your fitted kitchen modern without risking a look that dates too soon.
✅ DO: Invest in Quality Cabinets & Fittings
Your kitchen is one of the hardest-working rooms in the home, so durability matters. High-quality cabinetry, soft-close runners, durable hinges, and strong worktops ensure your kitchen still looks and feels great in 10 years’ time.
As an independent kitchen company, we supply kitchens made to last — and designed to give better value than big-box retailers.
❌ DON’T: Try to DIY
Installing a kitchen involves plumbing, electrics, plastering, tiling, and joinery. A DIY approach often leads to delays, mistakes, and higher costs when repairs are needed.
A professional kitchen installer ensures:
- All cabinets are level
- Appliances fit perfectly
- Worktops align correctly
- Doors and drawers operate smoothly
- Safety standards are met
At Tefore, all our fitted kitchens are installed by trusted, highly skilled installers who ensure the finish is flawless.
✅ DO: Maximise Storage Wherever Possible
Good storage transforms how enjoyable your kitchen is to use. Make the most of every inch with:
- Tall larders
- Internal drawers
- Corner solutions
- Pull-out bins
- Built-in spice and pantry storage
- Made-to-measure units
A beautifully designed kitchen isn’t just about looks — it’s about having a place for everything.
❌ Additional Kitchen Design DON’Ts
Don’t: Ignore Your Workflow
Your kitchen should support how you cook, clean, and entertain.
Avoid placing your hob too far from your sink, locating your fridge at the opposite end of the room, or placing the dishwasher where it blocks walkways.
A poorly planned workflow makes daily tasks frustrating.
Don’t: Assume All Cabinets Are the Same
Many customers think all kitchen units come from the same place — but the difference in quality can be huge.
Cheaper cabinets often mean:
- flat-pack units that don’t last
- flimsy backs that bow over time
- less stable shelves
- colour mismatches
- poor fitting accuracy
Investing in rigid-built cabinets, solid materials, and proper edging means your fitted kitchen will stay looking good for years
Don’t: Skip Research
Take time to look into:
- reviews
- previous installations
- showroom quality
- the experience of the designer
- the aftercare offered
A company with skilled designers, quality products, and experienced fitters is worth every penny.
⭐ Why Choose a Local Independent Kitchen Company?
Working with a local kitchen specialist offers benefits you won’t receive from national chains. You get:
- One-to-one support
- A dedicated designer who understands your home
- High-quality products made to last
- A smoother, more personal design process
- Realistic advice based on years of experience
- A showroom where you can see finishes, worktops, appliances, and colour options in person
Your kitchen isn’t just a purchase , it’s an investment. Choosing an independent company ensures you get the care and attention you deserve.
Ready to Start Designing Your New Kitchen?
If you’re planning a new fitted kitchen and want expert help avoiding the common design mistakes, we’d love to help.
Book a free showroom appointment with our design team to explore finishes, layouts, appliances, and more.
Call us on 01527 518188 or drop us a message to get started.
