Smile Kitchens vs DIY Kitchens

Creating your own kitchen design and layout might appeal if you’re a keen designer, but the advantage of a professional designer means you’ll be able to avoid common issues, from missing parts to incorrect kitchen measurements.

We’ve shared some insights into what you can expect from each service to highlight the differences, because although both companies can help deliver your ideal kitchen, the level of service included isn’t comparable.

Comparing Smile Kitchens to DIY kitchens: Key Takeaways

• Smile Kitchens specialises in customised kitchen designs, with full support from skilled designers throughout the process, while DIY Kitchens is, as the name suggests, mainly self-service.
• Homeowners investing in a new kitchen should consider their budget, time and skills, the costs of hiring tradespeople, and whether they have the knowledge and capacity to be hands-on in designing a new kitchen.
• Personalised assistance and advice, comprehensive aftercare, and a tailored customer experience can often save time and stress while reducing the risk of unforeseen additional costs from mistakes or measurement mishaps.

How Are Smile Kitchens and DIY Kitchens Different?

Customers buying a kitchen through DIY Kitchens find that the service is largely focused on supply, with the buyer responsible for taking measurements, planning their kitchen layout, and installation – although tools are available to help.

Smile Kitchens differs as a design-first, service-focused provider, with each step of the design process managed remotely and communication with real people who have years of expertise designing luxury, family-friendly, and practical kitchen spaces.

The DIY Kitchens Design Process

When using DIY Kitchens, buyers can use online planning tools or visit one of two showrooms when designing their kitchen, but the onus is on the homeowner to project-manage their new kitchen. You can expect:

• Options to arrange in-person showroom visits

• Limited access to design assistance

• Online kitchen planning tools

The customer must ensure they plan accurately, triple-check all measurements, and be happy with their decisions before proceeding.

The Smile Kitchens Design Process

Smile Kitchens offers hands-on, fully digital design management, without customers needing to travel to a showroom – instead, we deliver samples to your door for you to feel the weight and texture in person. Smile kitchens delivers:

• One-to-one remote consultations at your convenience
• Bespoke designs customised to your space and preferences
• Expert advice about layouts, materials and storage
• Options to revise or refine your design before you go ahead

“The design is the most important aspect when fitting a new kitchen, since any worktops, finishes, surfaces or cabinets that don’t fit well can cost a lot more than anticipated to put right – which is why we always recommend collaborating with a talented designer if you’re unsure.”

Direct Comparisons: Smile Kitchens vs DIY Kitchens

How Can Customers Choose Between DIY Kitchens and Smile Kitchens?

DIY Kitchens could be for you if you’re experienced in project-managing renovations or remodels, are confident you have the time and know-how to self-manage measurements and planning, and your main priority is to fit a new kitchen at minimal cost.

Smile Kitchens is a better option if you want the confidence that you’ll be delighted with your kitchen style, prefer the streamlined, stress-free benefits of a professional design service, and want to ensure your kitchen is perfectly designed for your space – without requiring a significant investment of time.

Related Reading: Smile Kitchens vs Howdens

Real Customer Reviews of Smile Kitchens vs DIY Kitchens

It’s always worthwhile to check verified customer testimonials on independent sites like Trustpilot, and we’re proud to maintain an excellent 4.8/5-star rating, with 100% of customers leaving a score of 4 stars or higher. [1]

Some of the main points raised include the value of our personalised service, the quality of the design expertise we offer, and the ease of creating a dream kitchen.

DIY Kitchens is rated 4.6/5, with a mix of 1- to 5-star ratings, with buyers commenting on competitive pricing, product quality, and the need for careful, detailed planning to avoid issues and errors. [2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Visit a Showroom to Design a Kitchen With Smile Kitchens?

No, we recognise that travelling sometimes long distances to a showroom isn’t convenient or might be impossible with the rest of life’s commitments! The full process is managed remotely, with physical samples delivered to your door.

Which Kitchen Design Service Will Help Me Avoid Mistakes?

If you’ve previously had a kitchen design disaster, you’ll know how costly and time-consuming this can be, and Smile Kitchens’ personalised approach is highly recommended if you want the assurance that you won’t find yourself in this situation again.

Can Buyers Customise a Kitchen Through DIY Kitchens?

Yes, they can, although, as we’ve mentioned, the onus is on the buyer to ensure every measurement is 100% accurate and to check that the layout will work once the units have been delivered.

How Does the Delivery Service Compare Between Smile Kitchens and DIY Kitchens?

Smile Kitchens coordinates deliveries in line with your design plan, providing detailed guidance on timelines, when your installation will be ready to proceed, and ongoing support if any unexpected issues arise – or if you need to change any of the planned delivery dates.

DIY Kitchens provides a two-day delivery window, with the confirmed day and time sent via text later on, so you’ll need to ensure someone is available to take delivery. Customers are also responsible for checking that all items, fittings, and fixings are present.

References:

1. Trustpilot: Smile Kitchens
2. Trustpilot: DIY Kitchens