Fitted Kitchens: Meaning Benefits and Materials

What are Fitted Kitchens?

Fitted kitchens are those designed and installed to fit a specific space, often involving built-in cabinets and appliances. Unlike freestanding kitchens, they are not individual pieces of furniture that can be easily rearranged. This customization allows for a more efficient use of space and a cohesive aesthetic.

What is the Difference Between Fitted and Unfitted kitchens?

The main difference between fitted and unfitted kitchens is that fitted kitchens use fixed cabinets and units designed to fit the available space, while unfitted kitchens use freestanding furniture that can be moved, replaced, or rearranged easily. Fitted kitchens offer a streamlined and built-in appearance, whereas unfitted kitchens provide more flexibility and a traditional, furniture-style look.

1. Fitted Kitchens

A fitted kitchen is designed as a complete system where cabinets, appliances, worktops, and storage units are installed together to create a permanent layout. Each unit is usually measured and built to make the best use of the available space.

Key features of fitted kitchens:

• Cabinets are fixed to walls or floors
• Appliances are often integrated behind cabinet doors
• Storage solutions are designed around the room layout
• Worktops are fitted as continuous surfaces
• Available space is used more efficiently

2. Unfitted Kitchens

An unfitted kitchen uses separate freestanding pieces of furniture instead of fixed cabinet runs. These kitchens often include standalone cupboards, islands, dressers, shelving units, and movable appliances.

Key features of unfitted kitchens:

• Furniture pieces are independent and movable
• Cabinets are not permanently attached to walls
• Layout changes can be made more easily
• Each piece can have a different design or style

Unfitted Kitchens: 

Made up of individual, freestanding pieces of furniture: They can be purchased separately and assembled in different configurations.    

More flexible and adaptable: The layout can be easily changed or rearranged as needed.    

Lower initial cost: Individual pieces are generally less expensive than a complete fitted kitchen. 

Less cohesive appearance: Unfitted kitchens may not have a perfectly integrated look, depending on the chosen pieces

What’s Included in the Fitted Kitchen?

A fitted kitchen usually includes cabinets, worktops, appliances, sinks, storage solutions, hardware, lighting, and installation services. Each component is designed and installed together to create a practical layout that makes the best use of your available space.

How Much is a Fully Fitted Kitchen in Ireland? 

A fully fitted kitchen in Ireland typically costs between €15,000 and €25,000, including cabinets, worktops, appliances, and installation. However, the final price can range from around €8,000 for a basic fitted kitchen to €50,000+ for a premium or bespoke design, depending on the kitchen size, materials, appliances, and level of customisation.

How Long Does a Fitted Kitchen Take? 

A fitted kitchen installation usually takes 2 to 6 weeks from the initial planning stage to completion, depending on the kitchen size, design complexity, availability of materials, and the amount of building work required. The actual installation of cabinets and appliances often takes around 1 to 2 weeks, while bespoke kitchens or projects involving structural changes may take longer.

How Long Should a Fitted Kitchen Last? 

A well-made and properly installed fitted kitchen should last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, it’s not uncommon for fitted kitchens to last over 10-15 years, and in some cases, even longer.

What are the Wooden Materials for the Fitted Kitchens? 

The most common wooden materials used for fitted kitchens include solid wood, plywood, MDF, particleboard, and wood veneer. Each material has different levels of durability, moisture resistance, appearance, and cost, making some options better suited for cabinet doors while others are commonly used for cabinet frames and internal structures.

Solid Wood: 

Oak: A classic choice known for its strength, durability, and light color. 

Maple: Offers a clean, modern look with a slightly yellowish hue. 

Cherry: Provides a warm, reddish-brown color that darkens over time. 

Walnut: Known for its rich, dark brown color and distinctive grain patterns. 

Birch: A budget-friendly option with a light, neutral color. 

Engineered Wood: 

Plywood: Made from layers of wood veneer glued together, offering stability and strength. 

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): A cost-effective option with a smooth, dense surface. 

HDF (High-Density Fiberboard): A stronger and more durable version of MDF. 

What are the Best Colors for Fitted Kitchen?

The best colours for a fitted kitchen include white, grey, navy blue, green, black, beige, and natural wood tones. The right choice depends on your kitchen size, lighting, interior style, and the atmosphere you want to create. Neutral shades provide a timeless look, while darker or bolder colours can add character and depth.

Does a Fitted Kitchen include Appliances?

Yes, a fitted kitchen can include appliances, but this depends on the kitchen supplier, design package, and your chosen options. Some fitted kitchens include integrated appliances as part of the complete installation, while others only provide cabinets, worktops, and storage units, allowing you to purchase appliances separately.