Bringing a kitchen design to life

This article takes you on a journey from an initial client meeting where we look at their architects plan, through the notes and ideas we discuss in the design consultation right through to the finished design.

It starts with a plan and a chat about their ideas

Bringing a kitchen idea to life is one of the most satisfying parts of the the work we do. It’s where the creativity comes in.

The process usually starts either with a set of architectural drawings, showing a plan and perhaps some elevations. Or, if we are lucky, a site visit where we can see the space for ourselves.

The next part is all about talking. It’s a conversation about what the client wants from the kitchen space, both in terms of functionality and also, just as importantly, how they want the space to look and feel.

There is often a lot of reading between the lines needed. To the client it can sometimes seem like we are asking some pretty strange questions. Things like, do you want to be able to see a tv while you cook? Or, do you have kids and pets? Or even, are you the type of person who likes (even obsesses over) keeping things looking clean and tidy.

The process is very organic. It involves looking at pictures, getting some “ooh I like that” or some “hmm, that’s not for me” For a skilled designer the idea is to get a clear sense of what the client likes, even if they don’t yet know what that is.

And when it’s finished, the designer usually has a page or two of sketches and notes and in their mind, a clear idea of the kitchen they are going to design.

Then we model the space on our software

For many clients this is the first time their space really comes to life. Looking at architects plans and elevations can be confusing for people. It can be hard to imagine what the space will really be like. When we create the space on our software this really brings things to life. 2D becomes 3D an suddenly people get a sense of what their kitchen space will actually be like.

This is the fun part

With the space created in our software it’s then a case of working through the design process. Ultimately, this is a very careful mix of balancing form with function but to start with it’s all about playing with the space to achieve the key elements the client wants and needs.

In this deign the list of must haves was as follows…

• Venting Induction hob
• Full height Fridge
• Full height Freezer
• Full size Oven
• Micro Combi Oven
• Dishwasher
• Sink
• Boiling Tap
• Bins and recylcing
• Drawers
• Seating at breakfast bar
• Open Industrial Storage Shelves

Once the functionality is dealt with next comes the most exciting part. This is where we try to connect with the real essence of what the client is looking for in terms of the feel of the space. In many ways, this is the make or break of the whole process. Getting the practicalities is one thing, it’s not always easy but it’s the most straightforward part of what we do. The real magic is in bringing to life a kitchen design that really speaks to the individuals personality. Did we read between the lines? Did we successfully understand the way the client wants their space to feel? Perhaps even when they didn’t have that kind of clarity themselves. 

This part of the design process is not something you can very easily teach. It comes from many, many years of experience. To spend an hour with a client, take away a plan and some notes and then bring their kitchen to life never stops being immensely satisfying. 

And this is what we came up with

And what did our client say…

“I’m so loving the vibe of these, thank you so much you’ve definitely got the right feel for what we’re trying to create…”