Howdens Kitchens — A Homeowner's Guide
Howdens is a trade-only kitchen supplier, which means you cannot walk in and buy a kitchen directly. Here is what homeowners need to know about Howdens kitchens and how to access them.
Howdens Joinery is one of the most widely used kitchen suppliers in the UK trade market. You may have seen their depots in industrial estates or heard their name mentioned by kitchen fitters — but as a homeowner, you cannot simply walk in and buy a Howdens kitchen directly. Howdens is a trade-only supplier, which means their products are sold exclusively to registered tradespeople.
This trade-only model exists for a practical reason: Howdens kitchens are designed to be fitted by professionals, and the company wants to ensure that the products are installed correctly. It also allows them to offer trade pricing that would not be sustainable in a retail environment.
As a homeowner, the way to access a Howdens kitchen is through a kitchen fitter who holds a Howdens trade account. Your fitter can visit the local Howdens depot, work with the depot's design team to plan your kitchen, and order the units on your behalf. You choose the range, the doors, the worktops and the accessories — your fitter handles the ordering and delivery.
Howdens offer a wide range of kitchen styles, from simple shaker doors to contemporary handleless designs, at various price points. Their units are rigid-built (not flat-pack), which generally means better build quality and a more straightforward installation. Worktops, sinks, taps, appliances and accessories are also available through the same account.
One practical advantage of using a fitter with a Howdens account is that replacement parts and additional items can be ordered quickly from the local depot if something is needed mid-installation. This is more convenient than waiting for a delivery from an online retailer.
It is worth noting that Howdens is not the only quality trade kitchen supplier. Other trade suppliers offer comparable products, and the right choice depends on the specific ranges available, your design preferences, and what your fitter can access and recommend.
If you are interested in a Howdens kitchen, speak to your kitchen fitter about the ranges available at your local depot. IK Master Build Ltd can discuss kitchen options with you and advise on what is available. Call 07402 059 555 for a free consultation.