· 3 min read · By White Buffalo Bespoke
Kitchen projects have a reputation for running over. In our experience, most delays are avoidable, and they usually come from decisions made late rather than problems on site. Here is what a realistic programme looks like.
Before anything is removed
The time before the build often takes as long as the build itself. It covers:
- an initial visit and detailed measure
- design and layout, including where appliances, sinks and sockets sit
- choosing cabinetry, worktops, tiles, handles, taps and appliances
- a fully itemised quote and sign-off
Bespoke or made-to-order cabinetry and stone worktops are not off-the-shelf. Ordering as soon as the design is agreed protects your start date.
The build, stage by stage
- Strip-out and preparation. The old kitchen is removed, and floors, walls and services are made ready. Any structural work, such as removing a wall or adding steel, happens here.
- First fix. Plumbing, electrics and any new gas or ventilation runs are positioned before walls are closed up.
- Plastering and flooring. Surfaces are finished so that cabinets sit on a flat, clean base.
- Cabinetry installation. Units are levelled and fixed. Precision here decides how good every later stage looks.
- Worktops. Templates are taken once cabinets are in, and worktops are fabricated to fit. Stone and quartz need this template step, so allow for the gap between measuring and fitting.
- Second fix and finishing. Appliances, sinks, taps, lighting and sockets are connected, tiling and splashbacks are completed, and the room is decorated.
- Snagging and handover. We walk through everything with you and put right anything that is not perfect.
What causes delays
- Late changes. Swapping an appliance, moving a socket or changing a worktop after ordering can add weeks.
- Surprises behind the walls. Old pipework, uneven floors or hidden damp are common in older North London homes. A good builder allows for the possibility and explains it as soon as it appears.
- Delivery lead times. Some appliances and materials take longer than expected.
- Worktop templating. Nothing can be cut until cabinets are level and fixed.
How to keep the programme on track
- Finalise every choice before the start date, including handles and tap positions.
- Ask for a written programme, and for updates when anything moves.
- Set up a temporary kitchen area (kettle, microwave, a sink you can use) so you are comfortable while the room is out of action.
- Keep one point of contact, so decisions are quick.
Living at home during the work
Most people stay in their home during a kitchen fit. It is manageable with a little planning, and we cover the practicalities in living at home during a renovation.
Next steps
We give you a clear, realistic schedule before we start, and we manage the whole project, including plumbing, electrics and tiling, so you deal with one team from first sketch to handover. See our kitchen service, browse finished work in our gallery, or ask for a quote.
