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Step 1 - Measure and draw up your space

All your planning - and therefore the success of your new kitchen is based on your measurements. Here’s how to get them right.

Take your measurements in millimeters (mm) because it’s what manufacturers use.

Start here

1 Measure from the floor to the ceiling (see image A)
2 Then also measure the distance from wall to wall (see image A)
3 Measure from the corner to the door(s) frames (see image A)
See image A

Image A - This is where you should measure

4 Now measure each window and door from the frame, plus their distance from the floor, the ceiling, and the corner of the room (see image B)
5 Make a note of everything that sticks out into the room, such as switches and pipes.
6 Finally, note what can and can’t be moved, and what you’d like to stay
See image B

Image B - This is where you should measure

Because walls aren’t always completely square, especially in older houses, it’s a good idea to take multiple measurements for each surface.
Example front-on view
Example birds-eye view
Checklist

Have you made a note of where these are?

  • Radiators
  • Pipes
  • Vents
  • Switches
  • Plug points
  • Power outlets
  • Drains
  • Water and gas supplies
Step 2 - Plan what goes where
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Step 2 - Plan what goes where

Now the dream can start becoming reality. There’s lots to think about, including what you’d like to keep and what you want to replace. Here are our practical tops. If you feel you need some advice at any point, our design consultants will be happy to work with you on drawing up a perfect plan. Just ask in-store. It’s free.

Always start planning from the corner outwards. A closed corner base unit needs to be stepped out 125mm and a closed corner wall unit stepped out 25mm.

The Working Zones

Plan your kitchen around the idea of a working triangle of three zones, which we describe below. This is about having what you use the most in easy relationship to each other. Each zone should ideally be equal in distance from each other, and the things you use least can go furthest out of the triangle.

Food Storage Zone

Includes the fridge, freezer and dry storage

Consider the amount of storage you’ll need, including the size of the fridge and freezer. A worktop near the fridge is really handy for unpacking the shopping, and for cooking.

Cooking Zone

Includes the oven, hob, microwave and where you cook

It’s handy to have the cooking zone close to the sink so you’re not carrying hot things far. Allow worktop space for food preparation and utensils.

Washing Zone

Includes the sink and dishwasher

Plan everything that needs plumbing next to each other and/or along the same wall. Keep the fridge close to the sink for washing fruit and veg. Also, keeping the worktop above the dishwasher free of appliances leaves space for stacking and unloading dishes.

Improve accessibility with pull-out cabinets, carousels and corner options, including floor and ceiling larder cupboards.

Think about your working triangle

Galley kitchen
U-shaped kitchen
L-shaped kitchen
Open plan kitchen
Step 3 - Buy online or in-store
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Step 3 - Buy online or in-store

When you’re happy with your Wickes Lifestyle Kitchen plan and have chosen what you need it’s time to place your order. You can…

Pick up in store
Head to Wickes with your shopping list. If you need assistance, we’ll be happy to help with finding everything. Find your nearest store with our store locator.
Free Click & Collect*
Order everything online and collect in store the same day. Terms & conditions apply*.
Have it delivered
Place your order online and we can deliver your order at a convenient time for you. For more details, please see our delivery information.
Step 4 - Install your new kitchen
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Step 4 - Install your new kitchen

Our flat-packed kitchens are designed to be easily fitted by you. But we can still help...

Call 0330 123 4123 for a quote or ask in store.

How To Guides

Build a Kitchen Base Cabinet
Build a Kitchen Base Cabinet
Everything you need to know about building kitchen cabinets so they are ready for installation.
Fit a Kitchen Sink & Tap
Fit a Kitchen Sink & Tap
Replacing or installing a new kitchen sink? Follow our step by step guide for the best results.
Fit Kitchen Doors
Fit Kitchen Doors
Give your kitchen a very cost-effective makeover simply by updating your cabinet doors and handles.