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Our Process

At Foxstow Kitchens, our process depends on the kind of project you are looking to complete.

Some customers already have a kitchen or cabinetry system in place and simply need made-to-measure components that improve the finish and fit of the existing layout. Others are starting from the beginning and need a fully bespoke design, developed around the room, the brief, and the way the space will be used.

Both routes are carefully managed, but they are not the same. One works within an existing structure. The other begins with the structure itself.

Ways to Work With Foxstow


Slimline Reeded Shaker Kitchen with a View of Garden

Upgrade a Kitchen or Space

Replace standard doors, panels, and components with made-to-measure parts designed for systems such as IKEA, Howdens, and similar.

This route includes both quoted orders and online ordering for straightforward requirements.

Full Bespoke Kitchen or Cabinetry

A complete design and manufacturing service, where the whole space is developed from first principles.

This is the right route for projects that need technical development and a more fully resolved design.

Prefer to order directly? Our online shop is available for straightforward orders.

How Our Process Works


J Groove Kitchen Doors Two Colours IKEA
Route 1

Including online ordering for straightforward projects

1. Create Your Design

Start with an existing system, such as IKEA, Howdens, or a similar cabinet structure.

2. Send Your Design

Share your layout as a link, PDF or drawing, or continue through the online shop if your order is straightforward.

3. Quotation or Self-Selection

We either prepare a quotation based on your requirements, or you select the products directly online.

4. Review & Adjust

Check the details, confirm finishes, and refine any remaining points before the order is approved.

5. Order Confirmation

Once the quote is approved or the online order is placed, the job becomes production-ready.

6. Production Preparation

Our team reviews the order internally to check accuracy before manufacturing begins.

7. Manufacture

Materials are selected and prepared by our experienced team, then produced using precision machinery for consistency and accuracy.

8. Delivery Arrangement

Delivery is scheduled once the order is ready.

9. Delivery

Orders are delivered by Foxstow drivers or sent via pallet service, depending on the requirements of the job.

Oak In Frame Shaker Kitchen and an Open Shelf
Route 2

1. Concept Design & Development

Every project begins with a conversation. We take time to understand the space, how it needs to work, and what you would like to achieve. Where architects, interior designers, or builders are involved, we work closely with them to ensure the cabinetry and joinery integrate with the wider project.

From there, we develop the initial concept, exploring layouts, arrangements, storage, and the overall feel of the space. Through discussion and refinement, the design develops, and key decisions can be made before progressing further.

2. Production Design

Once the concept has been approved, we move into the production design stage. The agreed design is translated into a detailed set of manufacturing drawings, defining how the cabinetry, doors, or joinery will be made.

Dimensions, construction details, internal arrangements, hardware, materials, and the interfaces with surrounding elements are carefully considered at this stage. The aim is to resolve the details before manufacture begins.

3. In-House Manufacture & Finishing

Manufacture takes place in our Oxfordshire workshop, where every cabinet, door, and component is produced using a combination of skilled craftsmanship and precision machinery.
Materials are selected and prepared for the requirements of the individual project, with careful attention given to accuracy, consistency, and the finished quality of each piece.

4. Delivery & Installation

As the project progresses towards completion, delivery is coordinated with the client or wider project team.

Where required, we can provide installation through our experienced fitters or work alongside your chosen installer, supplying the drawings and technical information needed to support the fitting process.

Online Ordering


Online ordering is part of the bolt-on route and is intended for straightforward projects where the required decisions have already been made.

It is best suited to:

  • Simple layouts
  • Smaller projects, such as wardrobes
  • Confident repeat customers
  • Orders where the specification is already clear

It is not the recommended route for projects that need full design input or early-stage development.

Choosing the Right Approach


Bolt-On Approach

This route is best suited to customers who already have a layout in place and are comfortable working within an existing system.

It allows the appearance of a kitchen or cabinet run to be upgraded while retaining the original cabinet structure.

It is efficient and clearly defined, but it remains limited by the underlying system.


Online Ordering

This is a simplified version of the bolt-on route.

It works best when the project is straightforward, and the customer is confident in the dimensions, finishes and specifications.

It relies on accurate information from the start.


Bespoke Approach

This is a fundamentally different process.

The space is designed from the outset, taking into account layout, proportion, storage, and use as a complete scheme.

Every element is resolved in relation to the room, which allows for a more integrated and considered result.

Why Not Just Use IKEA or Howdens Carcasses?


This can be a suitable approach where the layout is already fixed, and the aim is to improve the external appearance.

However, the underlying structure remains unchanged. Cabinet sizes and internal layouts are dictated by the original system.

A bespoke approach removes these constraints. The space is designed around how it will be used, with cabinetry sized and positioned accordingly.

The difference is not only visual. It changes how the space functions.

The Foxstow Approach


At Foxstow, craftsmanship is defined by decision-making.

Our experienced professionals select and prepare materials with an understanding of timber, movement, machining, and long-term performance. Those decisions matter before any component reaches the machine.
Precision machinery then carries out the work with consistency and accuracy. The balance between judgement and control underpins everything we make.

The bolt-on route refines what already exists.
The bespoke route defines it from the outset.

Contact Us

Not Sure Which Route Is Right for You?


If you already have a design, the bolt-on route may be the best place to start.
If you want to develop a full design, the bespoke process will give you the right framework.
If you simply want to place a straightforward order, online ordering is available for suitable projects.

Explore the route that fits your project.