Overseas kitchens: your questions answered

At Humphrey Munson, we are known for designing and making beautifully crafted, classically inspired English kitchens and cabinetry, created by hand in our workshops in Essex, England. While our roots are firmly grounded in British craftsmanship and architectural heritage our furniture and accessories have increasingly found their way into homes across the world.

Over the last 10 years, we have delivered projects throughout the Channel Islands, Europe, the US, Africa and Australia, refining our approach to ensure that designing and installing a Humphrey Munson kitchen overseas feels every bit as considered and seamless as working with clients closer to home.

With international commissions becoming an ever more important part of what we do, we often find ourselves answering similar questions about how the process works, from design and manufacturing to shipping and installation, so we thought it might be helpful to share some of those answers here.

Below, we answer some of the questions we are most often asked by clients considering commissioning a Humphrey Munson kitchen or cabinetry project outside the UK.

Can Humphrey Munson design and supply kitchens overseas?

Yes, absolutely. Designing and supplying bespoke kitchens and cabinetry for international homes forms an important part of our work. We regularly collaborate with clients, architects and contractors around the world, delivering handmade cabinetry and accessories designed and manufactured in England.

Our approach remains the same regardless of location. Every project is guided by thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship and close collaboration. We work remotely throughout the design process, using video consultations and detailed presentations, allowing us to develop and refine designs with clients wherever they are based.

Our cabinetry is handmade in our Essex workshops before being carefully prepared for shipping and installation overseas.

How does the design process work if we are based abroad?

The design journey begins in much the same way as any Humphrey Munson project, with a detailed consultation where we take time to understand your home, lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

Initial design consultations are typically carried out via video call and usually last around one to one and a half hours. During this stage, we discuss ideas for layouts, cabinetry styles, finishes and materials and get an understanding of how you use a kitchen.

From there, the design develops collaboratively. We hold further remote meetings to refine layouts, interior configurations, appliance selections and finishing details, working closely with your local contractor and professional team throughout.

The entire process is the same as our projects in the UK it’s just that the meetings take place online, even when working across time zones and continents.

Do we need to visit the UK?

Not necessarily, although many clients enjoy visiting our showrooms in Felsted or Chelsea as part of their overall experience working with HM.

Most overseas projects are designed entirely remotely. Video meetings, detailed drawing packages and material samples shipped out allow us to present the design in depth. Clients often find that this flexible approach fits easily around busy schedules or travel commitments.

How long does an overseas project typically take?

While every project is unique, there are general timeframes we recommend allowing.

For the design phase we usually advise allowing a period of six to eight weeks as this ensures there is adequate time to explore layouts and refine details properly. Once the design is fully approved, cabinetry manufacturing typically takes around twelve weeks from production survey.

Installation time depends on the scale of the project, but as a guide, we suggest allowing approximately four weeks for a kitchen and around one week for each additional room.

Shipping times vary depending on the location, but we work with trusted specialist shipping companies to ensure cabinetry arrives safely and efficiently.

Who measures the kitchen if Humphrey Munson is based in England?

For overseas projects, we work closely with your contractor or site team to complete what is known as a production survey. This allows final dimensions to be confirmed so cabinetry can be manufactured precisely. In the past, some clients have opted to fly their HM project manager over at an additional cost to ensure this process is as smooth as possible.

Either way, our project management team supports the process fully, liaising directly with your site team and providing guidance throughout to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Who installs the kitchen overseas?

Installation is typically carried out by your local contractor’s team, with full guidance and support from Humphrey Munson.

Prior to delivery, we provide detailed installation guides, and one of our Installation Managers remains available throughout installation and finishing to answer technical questions and assist the site team.

Where cabinetry is hand-painted, we recommend final coats are applied on site by experienced decorators to ensure a flawless finish.

Can Humphrey Munson design more than just the kitchen?

Very often, yes.

Many overseas clients commission us to design cabinetry throughout their home, including pantries, utility rooms, boot rooms, dressing rooms, bars and architectural joinery such as wall panelling and skirting.

We also offer guidance on flooring, wall finishes, furniture and accessories, ensuring a holistic and cohesive interior scheme.

Our holistic design approach means every project is led by a Creative Director alongside a Designer and Project Manager, ensuring both aesthetic and technical details are carefully considered.

How is the cabinetry shipped internationally?

Cabinetry is professionally packed and transported by specialist shipping companies who handle logistics and customs documentation. Alternatively, clients may arrange their own shipping collection directly from our Essex headquarters.

We take considerable care in preparing cabinetry for transit to ensure it arrives in perfect condition, ready for installation.

What payments are required during the project?

To begin preliminary design work, a retainer is required, followed by a project commissioning deposit once the project proceeds.

Following design sign-off, an interim payment is made before manufacturing begins, with the final balance due shortly before shipping. These staged payments reflect the bespoke and made-to-order nature of our cabinetry.

Is there a guarantee on overseas projects?

Yes. Once the project has been completed and paid in full, Humphrey Munson provides a lifetime guarantee on workmanship in manufacturing. This reflects our long-standing commitment to quality, durability and responsible craftsmanship.

What makes Humphrey Munson different when working internationally?

Our work is built on partnership. We collaborate closely with clients, architects and contractors, ensuring that every design balances beauty with functionality and architectural integrity.

We deliberately take on a limited number of projects each year, allowing us to give each one the attention it deserves. This careful and considered approach ensures consistency in quality, service and design, wherever in the world the project may be.

What are the next steps if we are considering an overseas project?

The best place to begin is with an initial conversation. This allows us to understand your project, your home and how you live, before guiding you through the design journey.

If you would like to explore working together, our team would be delighted to arrange an introductory consultation. Please contact us here where you can leave your details and upload any relevant drawings.