Home, Style and Design · 11 Nov 2026
Preparing for your design appointment
Your first design appointment is an opportunity to explore ideas, ask questions and discover what's possible for your home. Here's how to prepare, what to expect and how to make the most of your time with our designers.
Before you start
A little preparation goes a long way
You don't need a finished vision or every decision made. A few thoughts about your home, your routines and what you'd like to change will help your designer understand what matters most.
Whether you have architectural plans, a collection of inspiration images or simply a sense of what you'd like to change, our designers will help you explore what's possible.
It's about understanding how you live, what works in your current kitchen and what you'd love to do differently.
What to bring
A few things that can help
There's no need to arrive with a complete plan. If you have any of the following, they can help your designer get to know your project. But don't worry if you're starting with a blank page.
- Photographs of your existing kitchen or the space you're planning
- Any floor plans, room dimensions or architect's drawings
- Inspiration images, Pinterest boards or colours you love
- An idea of your budget and when you'd like your kitchen to be ready
FIVE-MINUTE EXERCISE
Start with the way you live
Before choosing cabinetry or colours, think about the experience you want from your new kitchen.
- How do we use our kitchen today?
- What frustrates us most?
- What could we never compromise on?
- How do we want to feel in this room?
- How might life change over the next ten years?
YOUR FIRST DESIGN APPOINTMENT
What happens at your first design appointment?
Your first appointment is a chance for us to get to know you and your home. We'll listen to your ideas, talk through your plans and help you explore the possibilities, without expecting you to have every detail decided.
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Ready to speak to a designer?
FROM OUR DESIGNERS
“Bring an architect's plans or floor plans to your appointment if you can. It really helps to give an overview of the space. Photos often tell more than anything else if it's a replacement of the existing space.”
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What our clients say about Harvey Jones
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot. Read what our clients say about their designer, the team and the quality of the finished kitchen.
Your design appointment: questions answered
No. You don’t need exact measurements or detailed plans to get started. If you have a floor plan, room dimensions or photographs, they’re helpful to bring along, but your designer can guide you through what will be needed as your project progresses.
Allow around 90 minutes for your first conversation with a designer. This gives you time to talk through your ideas, explore styles and discuss what matters most to you. Your local showroom can confirm arrangements when you book.
Yes. Design appointments can be in one of our showrooms, in your home or online. Speak with your chosen showroom about what’s available and which approach would work best for your project.
You don’t need a final figure, but it helps to have an idea of what you’d like to invest. It helps your designer explore suitable options and understand where you’d most like to prioritise your budget.
Your designer will explain the next steps based on your project, which may include developing your layout, refining materials and finishes, and arranging the measurements needed to move your design forward.
Every great kitchen starts with a conversation
Whether you're just beginning to explore ideas or have a clear vision in mind, our expert designers are here to help. Share your plans, priorities and inspiration, and together we'll take the first step towards creating a home that's beautifully designed around you and the way you live.
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