Question 1

Do I have to come to Chicago to work with you?

Accepted Answer

No. Most of our clients outside Illinois never visit. We work from your plans and photos, present the design over video, and post you the actual finish samples so you can judge the materials at home, under your own lighting. You are welcome at the Lakeview showroom any time, but nothing about your project depends on it.

Question 2

What does a European kitchen from Euroluxe actually cost?

Accepted Answer

Based on the projects we completed this year, a mid-range modern kitchen runs roughly $10,000-$25,000, a high-end kitchen $25,000-$65,000, and a luxury kitchen above $65,000. Where you land depends on the brand, the size of the room, the finishes and how much cabinetry you need — not on where you live. You get a firm, itemised price before you commit to anything.

Question 3

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Design usually takes two to four weeks, depending on how quickly decisions get made. Once you approve the drawings, the factory builds your order in about three weeks. Sea freight from Italy brings the total to roughly 12-14 weeks; air freight cuts it to about four weeks for an extra cost. We give you a delivery window in writing when you order and keep you posted as it firms up.

Question 4

How do I judge finishes and colours from a distance?

Accepted Answer

We post you the real samples — the same door fronts, veneers and lacquers that go into the finished kitchen, not printed chips. Take your time with them, look at them morning and evening, and send them back with the prepaid label when you have decided.

Question 5

Who takes the measurements?

Accepted Answer

Your local California design partner measures on site, and we check the numbers against the drawings before the order goes to the factory.

Question 6

Who installs it in Walnut Creek and East Bay, California?

Accepted Answer

European cabinetry is designed to be fitted by any competent joiner, and it arrives with full installation drawings. Most clients here use their own contractor or a fitter we help them find. Tell us who is doing the work and we will brief them and stay reachable while they are on site.

Question 7

Who is the local design partner, and do I pay them separately?

Accepted Answer

They are independent designers we have worked with and vetted, based in California. On a straightforward cabinetry order there is usually nothing extra to pay — their involvement is part of how we cover the area. If you want a wider interior design scope from them, that is a separate agreement between you and them, and we will say so plainly before you sign anything.

Question 8

What happens if something arrives damaged or wrong?

Accepted Answer

You inspect the delivery with the carrier and note anything visibly damaged on the paperwork — that one step protects the claim. Then send us photos. Replacement parts come direct from the factory under the manufacturer's warranty, and we chase the claim on your behalf. It is uncommon, but it is a long way from Italy and we plan for it.

Question 9

Will my appliances fit?

Accepted Answer

Send us the model numbers early. European cabinetry is built to millimetre dimensions, so American appliances — particularly wide refrigerators and 30-inch ranges — need planning around from the first drawing rather than adjusting for later. We specify the housings around the appliances you actually own or intend to buy.

Question 10

Can you work with my architect, builder or interior designer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it usually goes better when we do. We work directly from their drawings, supply full specifications and elevations for the set, and coordinate on site dimensions and services. If you are the architect or designer, we have a trade programme — see our page for interior designers and architects.

Question 11

Do you only do kitchens?

Accepted Answer

No. Kitchens are the biggest part of what we do, but the same European systems cover wardrobes and walk-in closets, bathroom vanities, interior doors and media walls. Doing several rooms together is worth considering — the finishes match properly and you pay one freight bill instead of three.

Question 12

Is there a minimum project size?

Accepted Answer

No formal minimum, but the economics work best above roughly $10,000. Below that, importing from Italy rarely makes sense once freight is counted, and we will tell you so rather than sell you something that does not add up.

Question 13

What do I need to send to get started?

Accepted Answer

Whatever you already have. A rough sketch with dimensions, photos of the room as it stands now, a few images of kitchens you like, and your appliance list is plenty for a first conversation. If you have architect's drawings, even better. We will tell you what else we need.

Kathy Bate | Kathy Bate Designs

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