Kitchen Design Appointment: The Top 5 Questions to Ask

1st September 2025

Planning a kitchen design appointment? Your kitchen is more than cabinetry and counters; it’s the stage for everyday living. From coffee-fuelled mornings to evening wind-downs, this space should feel tailored to your rhythm. Whether you’re preparing for a renovation or starting from scratch, knowing the right questions to ask can shape a space that truly works for you. 

What’s the best kitchen layout for how we actually live? 

Before colour swatches or cabinet styles, start with your daily flow. Do you prep solo or cook as a family? Do weekday mornings feel like a race, or a quiet ritual? Walk your designer through a typical day from the first cuppa to late-night snacks, so your layout supports every beat of home life. 

Why it matters: A beautiful kitchen is only successful if it works seamlessly. At Harvey Jones, we begin every kitchen design appointment with lifestyle-led planning where function guides form and every zone feels purposeful.

“I always try and understand the client’s lifestyle to help me design the space, you wouldn’t want clean laundry to be piled next to a sink predominantly used for dog baths!”  Sarah McNeill, Designer, Edinburgh

Stat to know: 43% of UK renovators added pantry cabinets to illustrate flow improvements (Houzz).
 

Can we create a kitchen that feels both luxurious and inviting?

Luxury isn’t just marble and brass. It’s a feeling of calm, comfort, and quiet confidence. Think layered lighting, soft finishes, and details that feel personal.

Why it matters: You’re not building a show home. You’re creating the backdrop for pancakes, parties, and peaceful cups of tea. Every decision should support that life.

“Lighting is one of the biggest factors in creating the right mood. We always aim for layers – task, ambient and decorative, so the space works hard and feels comfortable at every time of day.” Charlotte, Brighton & Hove Showroom

Which premium materials are worth the investment?

Some choices shine long after the install. Natural stone, FSC-certified woods, and hand-painted cabinetry are more than beautiful; they’re built to last.

Why it matters: Quality shows not just today, but ten years from now when the drawers still glide like new and the paint still looks pristine.

“A beautiful kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about how well it holds up over time. We always guide clients toward durable, natural materials that age gracefully”  Hagar, Designer, Cambridge Showroom

Did you know: Every Harvey Jones kitchen is hand-painted, allowing you to refresh your space years later without a complete refit.

Discover our bespoke kitchen collections.

How can we maintain a calm, uncluttered kitchen atmosphere?

Even the busiest kitchens can feel serene with the right design. Built-in pantries, hidden appliances, and smart drawer inserts create clarity in the chaos.

Why it matters: Clutter causes stress. A design that assigns a place to everything will keep surfaces tidy and mornings peaceful.

“When it comes to organisation, clients are often surprised by how much thought goes into internal storage. It’s about more than just kitchen cabinets; it’s creating a system that works seamlessly with how you live.”  Hagar, Designer, Cambridge Showroom

What small details will make the most significant impact?

Sometimes, the most powerful moments come from the smallest touches. A bespoke shelf. A handcrafted dresser. A detail your guests always ask about.

Why it matters: These finishing touches bring identity, soul, and a sense of home to your kitchen.

““One of my favourite recent projects involved creating a curved, open-end dresser that softened the whole kitchen, it added so much charm and functionality.” “  Charlotte, Designer, Brighton & Hove Showroom

Ready for your kitchen design appointment?

A design appointment isn’t just admin, it’s where your kitchen story begins. The more you ask, the more personal, functional, and beautiful your kitchen becomes.

Book a complimentary design appointment and bring your dream kitchen to life with Harvey Jones.