What you actually pay more for
Bespoke earns its premium when the room is awkward — odd angles, period features, non-standard runs — or when you want a material or detail modular ranges don't offer. On a regular rectangular room, a good modular range with upgraded worktops and handles is often indistinguishable in daily use.
A rough hierarchy of spend
- Modular (flat-pack/rigid) — best value; quality varies most on carcass and hinges.
- Modular + upgrades — better worktops, integrated appliances, solid fronts: the sweet spot for most homes.
- Semi-bespoke — modular boxes with made-to-fit fronts and fillers; good for tricky spaces.
- Full bespoke — every cabinet built for the room; worth it for character properties and statement kitchens.
Where the cost really lands
Worktops, appliances and the install (plumbing, electrics, tiling, plastering) frequently cost more than the cabinets. Compare quotes on a like-for-like spec — cabinets, worktop, appliances and fitting itemised separately.
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