Ochtend Flits

Karwei is the second DIY chain owned by Intergamma, alongside Gamma. The two brands share infrastructure and often co-locate, but have different personalities: Gamma is more oriented toward building materials and tradesperson supplies; Karwei tilts toward home decoration, interior finishing, and lifestyle.

In practice, for most DIY projects you'll find what you need at either one. If you have both nearby, Gamma for the structural stuff, Karwei for the finishing.

What's in it

• Paint — strong range, including tinting service for custom colours
• Wallpaper and wall coverings
• Flooring — laminate, vinyl, carpet
• Lighting — a broader selection than Gamma
• Kitchens and bathrooms — showroom displays of complete fitted kitchens and bathroom configurations, which you can order and have delivered
• Tools and fixings — solid selection, though Gamma typically has more depth here
• Garden — plants, outdoor furniture, garden tools, decking materials

Practical notes

• Like Gamma, Karwei has a zaagservice (cutting service for timber and panels) — bring your measurements.
• Tool rental is available at many branches.
• Karwei's kitchen and bathroom design service is a genuine option for fitted renovations — not just display; they will plan and quote.
• Loyalty scheme and app discounts available.

The Intergamma family

Gamma and Karwei together have around 150+ stores across the Netherlands. Between them and Praxis (a competitor) and the larger-format Hornbach stores, most Dutch towns have at least one serious DIY shop within reasonable distance. Hornbach tends to stock larger volumes and a broader professional range; Gamma and Karwei are more accessible for the average weekend klusser.