What surprised us most about installing kitchens in Spain?
If you’re from the UK, Belgium, Sweden or another country and you’ve bought a home in Spain, chances are high that you’ll want to renovate the kitchen. It sounds easy: pick a design, install it, done. But we’ve worked with hundreds of clients — and most are surprised by a few unexpected things along the way.
Here are some real-life discoveries our clients made (and maybe you will too).
1. Spanish homes aren’t built for modern kitchens
Many clients expect their Spanish home to have standard connections and space like back home. But no — often, we walk into a house where the electricity needs an upgrade, the floor isn’t level, or the plumbing is… creative.
That doesn’t mean you can’t have your dream kitchen. It just means you need a team that knows how to adapt. We’ve fit sleek, high-end designs into homes from the 1970s — it just takes smart planning.
2. Delivery takes time — but for a reason
In northern Europe, people are used to fast service. In Spain, some things take longer. Why? Because most good-quality kitchens are custom-made. Your cabinets, finishes, and materials are not sitting in a warehouse — they’re built for you.
It’s slower, but better. And if you plan ahead, there are no surprises.
3. The sun changes everything
This is something many clients don’t think about: Spanish light is strong. Materials look different in bright sun. Glossy finishes can feel too shiny. Whites may look warmer or colder than expected. That’s why we always show samples in your home, in natural light.
One Belgian client said, “I wanted a white kitchen — until I saw how white it looked here. We went for a soft beige instead, and it was perfect.”
4. You can mix styles — and it works
You don’t have to choose between Spanish charm and northern simplicity. We’ve designed kitchens with rustic wooden beams and handle-less drawers. Or soft clay tiles and sleek black islands.
In fact, the most beautiful kitchens we’ve done combine the best of both worlds.
5. It’s not just a kitchen — it’s a lifestyle upgrade
This may sound like a marketing line, but it’s true: when people move to Spain, they cook more, invite friends more, enjoy their mornings more. That’s why investing in a kitchen here is different. It’s not just about storage and appliances — it’s about how you want to live.
At IQ Kitchens, we’ve seen it all.
The surprises, the delays, the funny stories — and the moment when everything comes together
and the kitchen becomes the heart of your Spanish home.
If you’re starting the process, we’re here to make it simple, honest, and even a bit fun.