--- title: "FAQs | Blackthorn of Kent" description: "Common questions about our handmade kitchens, materials, pricing, and how we work. Can't find your answer? Give us a ring." lang: en-GB json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "WebPage", "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "h1", ".hero-description", ".intro-text" ] }, "name": "Blackthorn of Kent - Bespoke Kitchens", "description": "Beautiful bespoke kitchens and joinery, handcrafted in Ramsgate, Kent." }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "LocalBusiness", "@id": "https://blackthornofkent.com/#organization", "name": "Blackthorn of Kent", "alternateName": "Blackthorn of Kent Ltd", "url": "https://blackthornofkent.com", "logo": "https://blackthornofkent.com/favicon.png", "image": "https://blackthornofkent.com/og-image.png", "description": "Beautiful bespoke kitchens and joinery, handcrafted in Ramsgate, Kent. 30+ years combined experience.", "priceRange": "£££", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "18 The Laurels, Manston Business Park", "addressLocality": "Ramsgate", "addressRegion": "Kent", "postalCode": "CT12 5NQ", "addressCountry": "GB" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": 51.3361, "longitude": 1.4164 }, "hasMap": "https://maps.google.com/?q=Blackthorn+of+Kent,+Ramsgate", "openingHoursSpecification": { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": [ "Monday", "Tuesday", "Wednesday", "Thursday", "Friday" ], "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:00" }, "contactPoint": { "@type": "ContactPoint", "telephone": "+44-1843-621700", "contactType": "customer service", "email": "sales@blackthornofkent.com", "areaServed": [ "GB" ], "availableLanguage": [ "English" ] }, "areaServed": [ { "@type": "State", "name": "Kent" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "London" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "Canterbury" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "Margate" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "Folkestone" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "Ashford" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "Maidstone" }, { "@type": "City", "name": "Tunbridge Wells" } ], "makesOffer": [ { "@type": "Offer", "itemOffered": { "@type": "Service", "name": "Free Design Consultation", "description": "Free, no-obligation home visit to discuss your kitchen project" }, "price": "0", "priceCurrency": "GBP" } ], "sameAs": [ "https://www.instagram.com/blackthornofkent", "https://www.facebook.com/BlackthornOfKent61568293425349" ], "knowsAbout": [ "Bespoke kitchens", "Kitchen cabinets", "Shaker kitchens", "Hand-painted kitchens", "Kitchen islands", "Fitted wardrobes", "Joinery", "Cabinet making" ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Who are Blackthorn of Kent?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We're Ben and Sean, a kitchen designer and a cabinet maker with over 30 years of combined experience. We handcraft kitchens, wardrobes, home bars, and furniture in our workshop in Ramsgate, East Kent. We work with homeowners across Kent, London, and nationwide." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Where is your workshop?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We're based in Ramsgate, East Kent, which puts us right in the middle of Canterbury, Margate, Folkestone, Ashford, Dover, and the surrounding areas. You're welcome to visit by appointment to see how we work and talk through your ideas." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I visit the workshop?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely. We love showing people around. Pop in for a cup of tea, see the workshop, and have a chat about what you're after. Just give us a ring on 01843 621700 to arrange a time." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What areas do you cover?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We're based in Thanet but we fit kitchens right across Kent and into London. Anywhere within about an hour of the workshop, really. We also deliver and can arrange fitting nationwide for the right project." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you do the fitting yourselves?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We have an experienced fitting team who install every kitchen with care. We handle everything from removing old units to final adjustments. For Kent projects, fitting is included as standard." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long have you been making kitchens?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Between us, Ben and Sean have over 30 years of combined experience in kitchen design and cabinet making. We've worked with some of the best kitchen companies in the country before starting Blackthorn of Kent." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much does a kitchen cost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "It depends on size, design, and finish, but our kitchen projects typically range from £15,000 to £60,000+. A standalone island starts from about £5,000, and a pantry unit from £3,500. We're upfront about costs from the start and our quotes are detailed with no hidden extras." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's included in your quote?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Our quotes cover design, 3D visualisation, manufacturing in our workshop, and can include professional fitting. Everything is itemised clearly. We also offer optional hand-painting and finishing. Worktops, appliances, and flooring aren't included but we can point you to good suppliers." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you charge for the initial visit?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No. The first visit is free and there's no obligation. We come to your home, have a chat about what you want, take measurements, and give you some ideas. Detailed 3D designs are included once you decide to go ahead." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What payment terms do you offer?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We typically ask for a 30% deposit to get started, with stage payments during the build and the balance on completion. Full details come with your quote. We accept bank transfer and card payments." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What wood do you use?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We use sustainably sourced tulipwood for all doors and frames. It's a brilliant wood for kitchens: durable, smooth grain, and takes paint beautifully. For carcasses, we offer premium Oak MFC or Walnut MFC options." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is your wood sustainably sourced?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. All our tulipwood comes from responsibly managed forests. We also use low-impact finishes and adhesives, and we recycle materials wherever we can." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long will a handmade kitchen last?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A lifetime, genuinely. We use traditional joinery techniques like dovetails and mortise and tenon joints. Combined with quality materials and proper construction, our kitchens are built to outlast anything mass-produced." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you guarantee your work?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We stand behind everything we make. And because we're local to Kent, we can get to you quickly if you ever need anything." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How does the process work?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "There are five steps: 1) We visit your home for a free chat and measurements. 2) We create detailed designs with 3D visuals. 3) We build everything in our Ramsgate workshop. 4) Professional finishing, painted or primed. 5) We fit it in your home." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you do 3D designs?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We create detailed 3D visuals so you can see exactly what your kitchen will look like before we start building. It's much easier to make changes at this stage, and most people find it really helpful." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long does it take from start to finish?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Typically 8-12 weeks from signing off the design to having your kitchen fitted. That includes the build, finishing, and fitting. We'll give you a specific timeline during your first visit." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you work with my architect or designer?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Of course. We regularly work alongside architects, interior designers, and other trades. We can build from your designs or collaborate to develop something together." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you paint my kitchen?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We offer hand-painted and sprayed finishes in any colour you like. Or we can supply cabinets sanded and primed, ready for you or a decorator to paint." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What paint finishes are available?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We offer hand-painted and professionally sprayed finishes using quality kitchen paints in any colour. We can match Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, or custom colours. Finishes range from matt to satin." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you make non-standard sizes?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "That's the whole point of bespoke. Every cabinet is built to your exact requirements. Awkward spaces, period features, unusual layouts: we make it all work without filler panels or compromises." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you make things other than kitchens?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We also build kitchen islands, pantries, boot rooms, fitted wardrobes, home bars, under-stair storage, media walls, and custom furniture. If it's made from wood and needs to be built properly, we can probably help." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you make kitchen islands?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, and they're one of our favourite things to build. We design islands to be the heart of your kitchen, with storage, breakfast bars, wine racks, or seating. Islands start from about £5,000." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you make fitted wardrobes?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We do. We design and build fitted wardrobes tailored to your space, including tricky features like chimneys and sloped ceilings." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you make home bars?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We build custom bar units with wine storage, glass racks, lighting, and everything you need." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you sell kitchen mantels?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. These vary a lot in size and style, so get in touch and we'll work out what you need." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you deliver nationwide?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We deliver across the UK and can arrange professional fitting anywhere. Delivery costs depend on location and we'll quote them upfront." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long does fitting take?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Usually 3-5 days depending on the size and complexity of the kitchen. We work efficiently to keep disruption to a minimum and can coordinate with other trades." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you supply appliances and worktops?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We focus on what we do best: the cabinetry. We don't supply appliances or worktops, but we work closely with worktop fabricators and can advise on appliance choices. We design everything around your chosen appliances with precise cutouts." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What timber do you use for kitchen cabinets?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We use FSC-certified birch plywood for carcasses — it's stronger and more stable than chipboard or MDF. Door frames are solid tulipwood or oak depending on the finish. All our timber is responsibly sourced from certified suppliers." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which paint brands do you use?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We work with Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Benjamin Moore, and Mylands. All are applied in our spray booth for a factory-smooth finish, then hand-detailed. We can match any colour from any manufacturer's range." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are your kitchens solid wood or veneer?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Door frames are solid hardwood. Panels may be veneered MDF for stability (solid wood panels can warp). Carcasses are birch plywood. We're always transparent about construction methods — ask us for a sample." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you use soft-close hinges and drawers?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, exclusively. We fit Blum hinges and drawer runners as standard — they're the industry benchmark with a lifetime warranty. No upgrade charge, it's just how we build." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long will a Blackthorn kitchen last?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "With proper care, 25-30 years minimum. Our solid timber construction, quality hardware, and professional finishes mean our kitchens outlast flat-pack alternatives several times over." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is your timber sustainably sourced?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We use FSC-certified timber and plywood. We also minimise waste through precise CNC cutting and recycle or repurpose all offcuts. See our sustainability page for full details." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you use eco-friendly paints?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The brands we use (Farrow & Ball, Little Greene) are low-VOC and water-based where possible. We avoid solvent-heavy lacquers. Our spray booth has proper extraction and filtration." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you install kitchens outside Kent?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We regularly work in London, Surrey, Sussex, and Essex. We've fitted kitchens as far as Windsor. Our Ramsgate workshop is central to the South East so transport is straightforward." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you use subcontractors for installation?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No. Ben and Sean handle design and project management. Our installation team are employees, not subcontractors. You deal with the same people from first consultation to final snagging." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I visit your workshop?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely. We encourage it. Seeing work in progress helps you understand our quality and process. Contact us to arrange a visit to our Manston workshop." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://blackthornofkent.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "FAQs", "item": "https://blackthornofkent.com/faqs" } ] } ] --- [![Blackthorn of Kent](/assets/images/logo-D85zsVt7.webp)](/) [About](/about)[Our Work](/gallery) [What We Make](/services) [FAQs](/faqs)[Get in Touch](/contact) Questions & Answers # Frequently Asked Questions Answers to the things people ask us most. Can't find what you're looking for? Give us a ring or drop us a message. ## About Us ### Who are Blackthorn of Kent? ### Where is your workshop? ### Can I visit the workshop? ### What areas do you cover? ### Do you do the fitting yourselves? ### How long have you been making kitchens? ## Pricing & Costs ### How much does a kitchen cost? ### What's included in your quote? ### Do you charge for the initial visit? ### What payment terms do you offer? ## Materials & Quality ### What wood do you use? ### Is your wood sustainably sourced? ### How long will a handmade kitchen last? ### Do you guarantee your work? ## Design & Process ### How does the process work? ### Do you do 3D designs? ### How long does it take from start to finish? ### Can you work with my architect or designer? ## Finishing & Painting ### Can you paint my kitchen? ### What paint finishes are available? ### Can you make non-standard sizes? ## What We Make ### Do you make things other than kitchens? ### Do you make kitchen islands? ### Do you make fitted wardrobes? ### Do you make home bars? ### Do you sell kitchen mantels? ## Delivery & Fitting ### Do you deliver nationwide? ### How long does fitting take? ### Do you supply appliances and worktops? ## Materials & Construction ### What timber do you use for kitchen cabinets? ### Which paint brands do you use? ### Are your kitchens solid wood or veneer? ### Do you use soft-close hinges and drawers? ### How long will a Blackthorn kitchen last? ## Sustainability & Environment ### Is your timber sustainably sourced? ### Do you use eco-friendly paints? ## Local & Service Area ### Do you install kitchens outside Kent? ### Do you use subcontractors for installation? ### Can I visit your workshop? ## Still got questions? We're happy to help. Get in touch and we'll have a chat. [Get in touch](/contact)[01843 621700](tel:01843621700) ![Blackthorn of Kent](/assets/images/logo-D85zsVt7.webp) Made in Ramsgate, fitted across Kent and London. Proper joinery, built to last. #### Quick Links - [About](/about) - [Our Work](/gallery) - [What We Make](/services) - [Our Process](/process) - [Materials & Finishes](/materials) - [Sustainability](/sustainability) - [Testimonials](/testimonials) - [FAQs](/faqs) - [Contact](/contact) - [Download Portfolio](/Blackthorn_of_Kent_portfolio.pdf) #### Contact - 18 The Laurels, Manston Business Park, Ramsgate CT12 5NQ - [01843 621700](tel:01843621700)[07563 342546](tel:07563342546) - [sales@blackthornofkent.com](mailto:sales@blackthornofkent.com) - [Review us on Google](https://www.google.com/search?q=Blackthorn+of+Kent#lrd=0x47d953660bc7741b:0x589cfb5904619ff7,3) #### Workshop Hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Visits by appointment #### Follow Us [](https://www.instagram.com/blackthornofkent)[](https://www.facebook.com/BlackthornOfKent61568293425349) © 2026 Blackthorn of Kent Ltd. All rights reserved. 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