Report: Kitchens - UK

With UK homes getting smaller, clever storage is the most wanted feature by more than six out of ten (22 million internet users aged 16-64), reinforcing the merit of manufacturers continuing efforts to innovate in this area.
Consumers are dissatisfied with inadequate lighting when using the kitchen, with four in ten (15 million internet users aged 16-64) wanting built-in lighting in units and over worktops.
The ability to customise kitchen units is wanted by nearly half (16.5 million), pointing to an opportunity for retailers to offer more options that include an element of customisation, but not at bespoke prices.
With installing a new kitchen seen by 45% (15.8 million) as a good way of adding value to the home and one in five (6 million) spending more time in the kitchen, a balance needs to be struck in terms of style between allowing people to express themselves and boosting saleable value.
Most buyers will need help both in terms of planning/designing and installation, with a designer visiting the home (32%) and installation of a made-to-measure kitchen by a professional (33%) the most likely preferred choices.
The internet is now a key part of the decision and buying process, with one in three (11 million) wanting to use an online kitchen planner and four in ten (14 million) likely to do research on the internet before deciding where to buy.

Kitchens - UK - August 2009