Bespoke is no longer a luxury or hype: this is becoming the standard

Consumers are making more and more frequent choices about kitchen design and modifications 

Personalization is the norm. Where consumers used to buy standard kitchens that lasted for years without many modifications, we now see a clear trend: the modular kitchen. This concept, which focuses on flexibility and adaptability, may well define the future of kitchen specialty stores. With all the challenges that come with it.

At its core, modular means that consumers build their kitchens out of individual, customizable elements. Think kitchen cabinets that can be rearranged, countertops that are interchangeable, and appliances that can be easily replaced without major renovations. This concept fits perfectly at a time when flexibility and sustainability are paramount. But it is also part of a time when consumers are becoming increasingly demanding.

In any case, the modular kitchen has several distinct advantages for the modern consumer. First, it offers an unprecedented degree of flexibility. Homes are getting smaller and people are moving more frequently. A kitchen that can easily move with them or adapt to changing living conditions is therefore an attractive option. With a modular kitchen, you don't have to purchase an entirely new kitchen every time you move: you simply adapt the existing elements to the new space.

In addition, durability plays a major role. Throwing away a complete kitchen because one part is worn out is no longer in keeping with the times. Instead, consumers can now opt for a system in which they only replace the elements that are actually in need of replacement. This not only saves on costs, but is also better for the environment.

What does this mean for kitchen retailers?

For the kitchen specialty stores of the Netherlands, this trend offers great opportunities. After all, selling a modular kitchen requires a different approach than traditional kitchen sales. Whereas a standard kitchen is often a one-time, large purchase, the modular kitchen actually offers opportunities for long-term customer relationships. Consumers can keep coming back for new elements, updates or modifications, making sales more spread out over a longer period of time.

Consultant and partner

Thus, the kitchen specialist of the future should position itself as an advisor and partner rather than a traditional salesperson. Helping to design and furnish a modular kitchen requires customization and personal advice. This offers opportunities to retain customers and offer a service that goes beyond simply selling products.

What is interesting about the modular kitchen is that it also requires a new mindset on the part of the consumer. The kitchen is transforming into a dynamic part of the home. This means that consumers need to make choices about the design and adjustments of their kitchens more often. This is another great role for kitchen specialists: by advising on smart solutions, they can distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive market.

There is also a strong link to the rise of technological innovations in the kitchen. Smart appliances and Internet of Things solutions can be seamlessly integrated into a modular kitchen. Consider, for example, ovens or refrigerators that can easily be added to the existing kitchen configuration without the consumer having to do a complete remodel.

How future-proof is the modular kitchen?

The answer lies largely in the willingness of kitchen retailers and manufacturers to adapt to this trend.
The kitchen industry has traditionally been fairly traditional, but the world around us is changing rapidly. Consumers expect customization, personalization and, above all, flexibility.

Looking at other industries, such as the furniture and automotive industries, we see that modularity has been successful for some time. It would therefore make sense for the kitchen industry to embrace and further develop this trend. The first steps have already been taken, but there is still much room for innovation. Creating kitchen elements that are not only functional but also easy to integrate, upgrade and replace will determine success. The modular kitchen is not hype. It is the standard.