With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The right designer can bring your vision to life, but the wrong one could lead to stress and disappointment.
To help you make the best decision, here are 5 warning signs to look out for when choosing a kitchen designer.
1. Offering fake discounts
Offers like ‘50% off’ or ‘free fitting’ might sound tempting – but unfortunately, these ‘deals’ are fake.
It’s well known within the kitchen industry that these ‘offers’ are made up. In most cases, the original price is artificially inflated, then dropped under the guise of a ‘limited-time deal’ to create the illusion of a discount. You may have noticed that these offers are always on – which tells you everything you need to know.
A reputable kitchen designer won’t rely on sales tactics, they will be transparent about pricing from the start.
2. Showrooms that don’t meet your standard
A showroom is a reflection of how a company operates. Attention to detail, pride in presentation, and basic upkeep say a lot about how seriously they take their work.
If displays are dusty, doors don’t close properly or things look a little too dated, this is a red flag. If the details don’t matter here, they’re unlikely to matter in your kitchen.
It’s a clear indicator of how your project will be treated. If their showroom doesn’t meet your standards, there’s a good chance your kitchen won’t either.
3. Speaking badly of a competitor
It might be subtle digs or full-on negativity – but either way, it suggests insecurity. Personally, I’d never speak badly of a competitor no matter what I think or know about them. It’s a big turn off for me.
A good designer should be able to stand by their own work and products without tearing others down. You should be choosing a company because you trust them – not because you’ve put off the others.
4. Pushy sales people
Designing your new kitchen should be an enjoyable experience – not stressful.
Unfortunately, some companies push you to make hasty decisions or even ask for deposits before you’re fully ready. It might be framed as a ‘limited-time offer’ or a discount that only applies today – but this kind of pressure often leads to rushed decisions and future regrets.
It’s a clear indicator of how your project will be treated. If their showroom doesn’t meet your standards, there’s a good chance your kitchen won’t either.
A good kitchen designer will give you space to think, ask questions, and make decisions in your own time.
You should feel in-control and confident, not rushed.
5. Poor communication
If a kitchen company is slow to respond, vague in their answers, or hard to get hold of early on – take that as a warning sign.
At this stage, they’re meant to be building trust. If communication is patchy now, it’s unlikely to improve once your project is underway – never mind what it’ll be like after they’ve taken your money.
At every stage of the process, you should feel informed, listened to, and never left wondering what’s going on.
