Property: Where to go to get unfitted

Check out second-hand shops and catering specialists for free- standing pieces, but make sure they complement each other and that they will work in your space . It's easy to put up plate racks, hanging rails and shelves with rows of books underneath, and look out for versatile items such as a butcher's block on wheels, corner cupboards and chests with lots of small draws. Don't forget that office furniture can often be adapted for kitchen storage, and add comfy chairs, plants, paintings and attractive lighting for a friendly, lived-in look.

Good books include: The Art of Kitchen Design, by Johnny Grey (Cassell, pounds 18.99); The Kitchen Book, by Sir Terence Conran (Conran Octopus, pounds 17.99).

Stockists: Habitat, 0645 334433 for branches and information; Scottwood, 0115 977 0877 for showrooms; Smallbone of Devizes, Wiltshire, 0171 589 5998 for information; and Zeyko, 0171 288 6123 for branches.

Also contact Johnny Grey & Co, Fyning Copse, Rogate, Petersfield, Hampshire GU31 5DH, tel 01730 8214234. Individually designed kitchens and interior architecture.