Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you manufacture the kitchens?
All manufacturing is done in our workshop close to Hever Castle in Kent.
How long have you done this?
Our designers and manufacturers have over 20 years of experience in the kitchen industry. We have taken this experience and started Koivu because we wanted to do things a little differently from other kitchen companies.
Do you have a showroom?
We have a show kitchen and many samples and pictures at our workshop near Hever Castle in Kent.
Do you supply appliances and worktops?
We have lots of suppliers of both and can arrange to give you quotes for either. However, if you would like to source these yourself, we will be happy to advise you and provide measurements for worktop templates.
Do you only make handle-less kitchens?
We prefer the handle-less look, but the choice is entirely yours. You can have handles, hidden handles, touch-to-open mechanisms or a combination of all of these.
Why do you use birch plywood?
The birch plywood we use is farmed, so it is a sustainable product. Layering the solid birch in alternate grain patterns makes for an incredibly strong material that is stable in the changing temperatures and humidities of a kitchen. Finally, we love the look and Scandinavian style of birch plywood.
Why is the birch sustainable?
Our wood is farmed so we are not contributing to the destruction of natural forests. In addition, because the final ply product is so strong you can re-use it either by taking the kitchen with you when you move or recycling and using the wood elsewhere.
Where does the wood come from?
All of the wood we use is farmed in Finland.
If I use laminated worktops, are they as good as stone?
The birch worktops are as durable as any other laminate material. But we do recommend that you don’t put very hot cookware directly on it.
How durable is the laminate on the doors?
Like any other laminate, it’s strong and doesn’t scratch easily. It’s very easy to clean and will retain its look for a long time.
Is the kitchen easy to look after?
Most of the laminate we use is matte and does not even show finger prints. All the surfaces are easily wipeable, so retain their new look even after years of use.
Do I have to use laminate for the doors?
No, the finish is completely up to your choice. We have a huge selection of laminate but can also offer many hardwood finishes. There is also a selection of wood-like laminates available or wood veneer.
What components do you use?
We use the best components available on the market. We mainly use Grass components, but can use Blum as well. These are guaranteed to last.
What are the plywood edges finished with?
We use Osmo oil, which is a specialist flooring oil and is extremely hard-wearing and highly water resistant.
What is the procedure for ordering a kitchen?
- Full design consultation with one of our designers after which you will receive two fully costed designs.
- Further discussions to fine-turn and finalise the design including final measurements.
- You choose the materials, worktops, appliances etc.
- We build your kitchen and put it together in our workshop.
- We deliver and fit the kitchen on the agreed day.
Do you offer home visits?
We normally work from architects’ or builders’ plans, so do not need to visit the site. However, we are happy to arrange for home visits if needed, depending on the distance.
How long will the kitchen take to make?
We will need at least twelve weeks to build your kitchen, so the sooner you agree to the design and pay your deposit, the better for us to timetable your job and guarantee delivery on time.
Where do you deliver to?
We can deliver anywhere in the UK and even abroad, although we will not be able to fit abroad. We will calculate and notify you of the delivery costs when we give you a quote.
Who fits the kitchen?
We offer fitting services for all our kitchens. However, if you prefer to use your own fitter/ builder we will be happy to deliver only. We will be on hand to support your fitter if necessary.
What are your payment terms?
After the first free designs, we will charge £360 (incl VAT) for any further changes. This amount will be deducted from the 50% deposit payment, which will be payable on agreement of the final design. The final payment of 50% will be payable just before delivery.
What guarantee do you provide?
We guarantee all our kitchen components for twenty five years.
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