We’ve become totally accustomed to filling our homes with antiques and second-hand furniture and are well-versed in the cost and environmental benefits of doing so.
But second-hand kitchens are another story entirely. Don’t we all want a pristine new kitchen with untouched hobs and sparkling cabinets? Certainly. But second-hand kitchens are becoming increasingly popular, and they might not be what you expect.
There are a growing number of retailers specialising in the resale of kitchens, and Daniel Abrahams, founder of Used Kitchen Hub speaks to Country Living about the myriad benefits of buying preloved, as well as four things to consider before you buy.
“As homeowners increasingly prioritise eco-friendly practices and seek to reduce their carbon footprint, the trend of purchasing both used and second-hand kitchens has gained significant traction,” says Daniel.
“This is not only driven by environmental concerns but also by economic considerations, as people look for cost-effective alternatives to traditional kitchen renovations.”
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When browsing websites like the Used Kitchen Hub, you’ll see the kitchens photographed in situ, with a breakdown of the units included, their sizes and condition, and details of any appliances like wine fridges and cookers that are often included.
But the process of buying a used kitchen is a bit of an exercise in creativity and resourcefulness.
There are almost endless possibilities for reconfiguring – individual materials like marble countertops or wooden fronts might be available for repurposing or cutting to size for your own home, a kitchen island or sideboard could be sold separately, or a reconditioned Quooker tap on offer, all at drastically reduced prices.
“While some may have concerns about the durability of used kitchens, it’s important to dispel the misconception that they are inherently inferior to new ones,” Daniel tells us. “In fact, many second-hand kitchens are meticulously maintained and offer longevity comparable to their newer counterparts due to superior craftsmanship.”
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The benefits of buying a second-hand kitchen
Cost saving: second-hand kitchens are considerably more affordable than brand new kitchens, and they’re a great way to save money without compromising on quality. “This affordability not only makes kitchen upgrades more accessible to a wider audience, but also empowers homeowners to explore high-end options that may have previously been beyond their budget,” says Daniel.
Sustainability: buying second hand prevents a perfectly functional kitchen ending up in a landfill. “Research has shown that buying a second-hand kitchen can significantly reduce landfill waste and carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and disposal – so much so that buying a second-hand kitchen saves around 5 tonnes of carbon.”
Better quality materials: a second-hand kitchen is often crafted with premium materials, ensuring resilience and durability. It is not uncommon to find luxury kitchen brands like deVOL, Bulthaup and Harrison Collier.
Faster delivery: Unlike new kitchens that require build and assembly, second-hand kitchens are ready to be delivered and installed promptly.
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Daniel’s top tips for buying second-hand:
1. Ensure you get what you pay for
“When it comes to purchasing anything second-hand, ensuring its quality is paramount. Unlike a brand-new kitchen which is guaranteed to be pristine, buying second-hand requires a keen eye for detail. Structural integrity, material quality and the functionality of appliances are key factors during the inspection process,” Daniel tells us.
“Reputable sellers play a crucial role in facilitating this process, offering assurances through rigorous inspections and transparent disclosure of any issues or imperfections.”
2. You don’t have to stick with the configuration you buy
“One of the most appealing aspects of purchasing a second-hand kitchen is the opportunity to customise and adapt pieces to suit individual preferences,” says Daniel. “From reconfiguring layouts to repainting cabinets and refreshing fixtures, there are plenty of ways to breathe new life into a second-hand kitchen and make it your own.”
If you’re customising your second-hand kitchen, save money with offcut worktops or graded appliances, and explore alternative sources for materials and accessories such as timber yards, car boots and online marketplaces.
3. Look for ex-display kitchens
Second-hand kitchens will usually come from private homes, whereas ex-display refers to those kitchens that have been used in showrooms, stores or for photoshoots, that are ostensibly unused. “Most ex-display kitchens in particular come with a complete set of appliances, which are often unused and still under warranty,” says Daniel.
4. Consider the resell value
“One of the most compelling aspects of purchasing a second-hand kitchen is the cost savings it offers,” says Daniel, “moreover, the re-sale value of second-hand kitchens tends to hold relatively well, offering homeowners the potential to sell it on again in the future if necessary.”
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Rachel Edwards is the Style & Interiors Editor for Country Living and House Beautiful, covering all things design and decoration, with a special interest in small space inspiration, vintage and antique shopping, and anything colour related. Her work has been extensively translated by Elle Japan and Elle Decor Spain. Rachel has spent over a decade in the furniture and homeware industry as a writer, FF&E designer, and for many years as Marketing Manager at cult design retailer, Skandium. She has a BA in French and Italian from Royal Holloway and an MA in Jounalism from Kingston University. Follow Rachel on Instagram @rachelaed