Faye is joined by Amanda Hughes from Blum to discuss how ageing affects kitchen design. Amanda, an ergonomic expert, talks about how factors such as reduced flexibility, loss of visual acuity, and joint stiffness impact how we interact with our kitchens as we age. She shares insights on designing kitchens that are accessible, sustainable, and future-proof, making them suitable for people of all ages, especially those who wish to remain in their homes for longer.

Key Takeaways

The Age Explorer Suit: Amanda demonstrates the Age Explorer suit, which simulates the physical challenges of ageing, allowing designers to better understand the limitations people face when using a kitchen.

Functionality Over Aesthetics: The key to good kitchen design for all life stages is increasing functionality, accessibility, and visibility, helping to prolong the life of the kitchen and the homeowner’s health.

Understanding Ageing: As we age, mobility, strength, and vision all decline. Simple tasks like bending down to reach items or seeing items in dark cupboards become much more difficult.

Future-Proofing Kitchens: Amanda stresses the importance of designing kitchens with ageing in mind, including using drawers instead of cupboards, lift systems, and accessible storage solutions to reduce strain on the body.

Longevity of Products: A well-designed kitchen not only increases functionality but also improves the overall health and longevity of the homeowner, making it easier for them to remain in their homes as they age.

Key Moments

“If we increase functionality, accessibility, and visibility in our kitchens, we increase the longevity of the kitchen—and the homeowner.”

“Kitchen products need to be sustainable, which means designing for the future, not just the present.”

“The aim is to make the kitchen work with you, not against you.”

About Amanda Hughes

Working with the Blum research and development team, Amanda is an advocate for human centric design, helping to create inspiring spaces that work with the needs of the individual. Involved with the R.S.A design challenge programme, and also a judge for the KBB Innovation Awards, Amanda champions universal, innovative design to improve the quality of our living spaces.

Connect with Amanda: [email protected]

Find out more about Blum: https://www.blum.com/gb/en/

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, Faye Newman sits down with Madison Brown from Craftwood to explore the world of bespoke seating. Recorded live at the HRC Exhibition in London, this episode dives into the design process behind creating custom seating solutions, particularly for kitchens. Madison explains how Craftwood transforms utilitarian furniture into stylish, functional seating that perfectly complements any space. Whether you're looking to add a statement piece to your kitchen or seeking practicality with style, Madison shares insightful tips on choosing the right seating and materials for your home.

Key Takeaways

Tailoring Seating to Your Needs: The size and design of seating should reflect both the space available and the intended use, whether it's for a family or a couple.

Material and Fabric Choices: From classic deep button upholstery to modern fluted designs, choosing the right fabric and style can make a huge impact. Madison shares her advice on selecting materials based on durability, design, and functionality.

Designing Around the Space: Bespoke seating can be adapted to fit even the most awkward spaces, such as curved kitchen islands or bay windows. Craftwood works with the unique architecture of each home to ensure a perfect fit.

Sustainable Design: Craftwood focuses on creating long-lasting pieces that can be refreshed and reupholstered, helping to reduce waste and prolong the life of furniture.

Key Moments

"Kitchens are becoming much more than just places to cook—they're now the heart of the home, and seating is a key part of that."

"We don’t do standard sizes. We work within the space to create something unique for every client."

"Sometimes it’s about finding the right fabric to complement the rest of the design, but we also make sure it’s practical for everyday use."

"We make sure everything is built to last, and if you want to refresh it later, we can reupholster it and give it a new life."

About Craftwood

Craftwood UK specialises in designing, manufacturing, and installing bespoke banquette, booth, and bench seating for commercial, hospitality, and residential sectors nationwide. They collaborate closely with clients to deliver high-quality, tailored seating solutions that enhance any space. 

Find out more: https://www.craftwood-uk.com/

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, we welcome Charlie Smallbone, the founder of Smallbone and Devizes and now the MD of Ledbury Studio. Charlie takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from his early days of buying and selling antiques to his evolution into designing bespoke, luxurious kitchens. With decades of experience, Charlie shares how Ledbury Studio stands out in the industry by creating kitchens that are as functional as they are stylish.

Key Takeaways

A truly bespoke kitchen design starts with understanding your client’s lifestyle, whether it’s for entertaining, family life, or a love for cooking.

Materials like quartzite and marble are popular choices for countertops, but it’s essential to understand their maintenance needs. While marble offers timeless beauty, quartzite offers durability and easy maintenance.

The importance of continuity in design: Charlie talks about how integrating metal and wood in the kitchen must be done carefully, as materials expand and contract at different rates.

Working with a highly skilled design team helps to ensure that no two kitchens are ever the same. Ledbury Studio prides itself on offering personalised, innovative designs that push boundaries.

Best Moments

"A kitchen's got to work, so we focus on a functional design that fits the client's needs and lifestyle."

"What excites us is working with clients and the journey of developing a design, building it, and installing it in their home."

About the Guest

Charlie Smallbone is the founder of Smallbone and Devizes and now the MD of Ledbury Studio, a bespoke kitchen design firm based in Notting Hill. With over 40 years of experience, Charlie combines innovation and craftsmanship, creating kitchens that blend functionality with exceptional style. Ledbury Studio is renowned for its unique approach, offering tailored solutions that incorporate the latest materials and technologies to suit each client’s individual lifestyle and needs. Find out more: https://www.ledburystudio.com/

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes listeners through a stunning open-plan kitchen design, sharing insights on layout, style, and functionality. She discusses how to balance storage, aesthetics, and practicality while working with extensions and open spaces. From cabinetry choices to the perfect island layout, Faye breaks down key design decisions to help homeowners create a timeless, well-structured kitchen that suits their lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

Balancing Space in Open-Plan Designs – Ensure the kitchen, dining, and living areas feel connected without overcrowding any section.

Smart Storage Solutions – Instead of filling every wall with cabinets, prioritise practical storage options like deep drawers, corner pull-outs, and integrated appliances.

The Perfect Kitchen Island – Islands should enhance social interaction and functionality. Position seating at an angle for better engagement and ensure enough prep space around the hob.

Choosing Cabinetry & Colours – Opt for timeless shaker-style doors with warm neutrals and a bold island shade to add depth and contrast.

Lighting & Finishing Touches – Combine task lighting for cooking areas with ambient lighting in living spaces to create a cohesive atmosphere.

Key Moments

"Storage is important, but too many cabinets can make a space feel overwhelming—focus on usability over quantity."

"A well-planned island isn't just a prep space; it’s a social hub for your kitchen."

"Colour placement matters—choosing a bolder shade for your island can create a stunning focal point."

"Integrating lighting thoughtfully enhances both functionality and ambience in an open-plan space."

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman is joined by Belinda Dangerfield from Urban Garden Space to discuss the growing trend of outdoor kitchens. They explore why outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular in the UK, how to design a space that works year-round, and key considerations for durability, functionality, and entertaining. Whether you're thinking of adding a small barbecue setup or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, this episode is packed with expert insights.

Key Takeaways

The Rise of Outdoor Kitchens: The trend grew post-COVID as people began valuing their outdoor spaces more, appreciating mental health and entertaining benefits.

Key Design Considerations: Unlike indoor kitchens, outdoor kitchens require weatherproofing, strategic placement based on sun path and shelter, and durable materials like stainless steel, sintered stone, or granite.

Choosing the Right Appliances: Options range from built-in grills and wood-fired ovens to kamado cookers and smokers, each offering unique cooking styles and flavour profiles.

Layout & Functionality: Outdoor kitchens can be as simple as a linear run or more complex L-shaped designs, often incorporating bar seating for a social atmosphere.

Year-Round Use: Thoughtful planning, such as adding a pergola or choosing weather-resistant materials, ensures the space can be enjoyed beyond summer months.

Key Moments

"Outdoor kitchens aren’t just for summer—if designed well, they can be used all year round."

"Your cooking style should dictate your appliance choices, from wood-fired ovens to smokers and grills."

"Placing your kitchen in the right spot, considering the sun’s movement, makes a big difference in usability."

"If you’re thinking about an outdoor kitchen, start planning in winter—lead times for materials can be months long."

About the Guest

Urban Garden Space is led by Design Director, Belinda Dangerfield. Belinda is passionate when it comes to kitchens and her designs have won numerous industry awards. She is also a qualified project manager, which makes it easy to overcome challenges inside of the modern kitchen- as well as outside too. Visit https://urbangardenspace.co.uk/ to find out more.

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman is joined by Will Child from Olive & Barr to explore the heritage, craftsmanship, and design philosophy behind their timeless kitchens. They discuss the evolution of kitchen styles, the enduring appeal of Shaker kitchens, and how clients can personalise their space with thoughtful design details. From colour choices to storage solutions, this episode offers expert insights into creating a kitchen that blends style, functionality, and longevity.

Key Takeaways

Heritage & Growth: Founded by Al Bruce seven years ago, Olive & Barr has grown organically, focusing on quality craftsmanship rather than rapid expansion.

Timeless Shaker Style: The company specialises in in-frame, handcrafted Shaker kitchens, ensuring durability, elegance, and a classic aesthetic.

Customisation & Personalisation: Clients can choose from any paint brand or colour, integrate bespoke details, and select high-quality materials tailored to their lifestyle.

Smart Design Principles: Thoughtful layouts, symmetry, and focal points—like range cookers or open shelving—enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Quality & Sustainability: Kitchens are hand-painted on-site for longevity, using durable materials like oak veneer carcassing and tulipwood frames.

Key Moments

"A well-designed kitchen should last a lifetime—quality materials and craftsmanship are key."

"We don’t follow trends; we focus on timeless design that fits seamlessly into any home."

"Choosing colour should be personal—go with what you love, not just what’s fashionable."

"A kitchen isn't just about looks; it’s about how it works for your daily life."

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes listeners through a detailed kitchen design walkthrough. She shares the journey of transforming a first-time buyer’s kitchen, from layout planning to material selection. Covering essential considerations like storage, aesthetics, and functionality, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone planning a kitchen renovation.

Key Takeaways

Maximising Space on a Budget: Thoughtful design choices, such as maintaining existing gas points and optimising storage, help keep costs down while achieving a high-end look.

Smart Storage Solutions: Features like integrated bins, corner pull-out mechanisms, and deep drawer packs ensure an organised and clutter-free kitchen.

Blending Function and Style: A Scandinavian-inspired design with neutral cabinets, natural wood accents, and a graphite island creates a timeless yet modern aesthetic.

Optimising Workflow: Strategic placement of appliances, including a gas hob on the main wall and an integrated fridge, enhances efficiency in daily use.

Affordable Design Choices: Using square-edged laminate worktops mimics the look of quartz while keeping the budget in check.

Key Moments

"Your kitchen should work for you, focus on how you use the space daily."

"Integrated bins may seem like a small detail, but they make a huge difference in keeping a kitchen tidy."

"Smart layout decisions, like keeping gas points in place, can save significant costs in a renovation."

"Blending natural elements with a muted colour palette creates a warm and inviting kitchen atmosphere."

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman answers the top 10 most frequently asked questions about kitchen islands. From choosing the right size and materials to incorporating appliances and maximising storage, this episode provides expert advice to help you design the perfect island for your space.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the Right Size: Islands should be proportional to the space, allowing at least 1m walkways around them. The typical size ranges from 2.4m to 3m wide.

Material Considerations: Quartz, granite, and ceramics are durable choices, while wood accents can add warmth and texture.

Incorporating Appliances: Islands can house various appliances, from sinks and dishwashers to hobs and extractors, depending on access to electrics and plumbing. Remember if these connection points aren’t in place, a new floor will be required.

Storage Optimisation: Deep drawers are often more functional than cabinets and internal storage solutions can maximise space efficiency.

Lighting & Aesthetics: Pendant lighting is a popular choice, and islands can incorporate decorative features like shelving or statement finishes.

Key Moments

"Your island shouldn’t be longer than your kitchen run, it should complement the space, not dominate it."

"Mixing materials can create a stunning contrast, try a statement worktop or wooden seating section for added interest."

"Smart storage solutions like deep drawers or built-in bins can make your island as functional as it is beautiful."

"Lighting sets the tone—whether it’s pendant lights, recessed LED strips, or statement fixtures, choose a style that suits your space."

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Love Your Kitchen episodes mentioned

https://shows.acast.com/love-your-kitchen/episodes/ducted-vs-recirculating-extractor-hoods-which-one-is-right

https://shows.acast.com/love-your-kitchen/episodes/which-worktop-is-right-for-you

https://shows.acast.com/love-your-kitchen/episodes/ways-to-incorporate-texture-onto-your-worktop

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen Podcast, host Faye Newman sits down with George Glasier from Pluck Kitchens, a London-based company known for its sustainable, design-led kitchens. They discuss Pluck’s journey, their commitment to eco-friendly materials, and how their unique approach balances aesthetics with functionality. George shares insights into their design philosophy, the benefits of birch plywood cabinetry, and how thoughtful colour choices create timeless kitchen spaces.

Key Takeaways

Sustainability First: Pluck prioritises eco-friendly materials like birch plywood and high-pressure laminate, avoiding MDF and chipboard for a durable, low-impact design.

Timeless Design Philosophy: Kitchens should be designed to last, avoiding short-term trends and focusing on natural materials, balanced proportions, and thoughtful colour choices.

Custom Craftsmanship: Every Pluck kitchen is designed and built in-house, allowing for complete control over quality, materials, and aesthetic consistency.

Colour with Purpose: Clients are encouraged to choose colours they truly love rather than following trends, ensuring a long-lasting and personal kitchen design.

Holistic Space Planning: Kitchens are part of a wider home environment, so Pluck designs integrate seamlessly with architectural features and surrounding spaces.

Key Moments

"A well-designed kitchen should feel like it’s always been part of the home, not just placed in an empty room."

"Sustainability isn’t just about materials; it’s about designing a kitchen that lasts a lifetime."

"Choosing colour should be a confident decision—when you love it, you won’t feel the need to repaint in six months."

"We don’t follow trends; we create kitchens that feel timeless and work with the character of the space."

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen Podcast, host Faye Newman speaks with Belinda Dangerfield, Managing Director of Qudaus Living, about accessible kitchen design. They discuss how inclusive kitchens can be stylish and functional, breaking down common misconceptions and sharing expert advice on designing for different needs. From wheelchair accessibility to sensory-friendly materials, this episode provides insights into making kitchens work for everyone.

Key Takeaways

Inclusive Kitchen Design: Accessibility doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics—universal design principles allow for stylish, functional spaces tailored to different needs.

Rise-and-Fall Worktops: Adjustable-height worktops improve usability for all household members, with options for manual or motorised systems.

Sensory-Friendly Features: Materials, lighting, and appliances can be chosen to accommodate sensory sensitivities, reducing noise and improving comfort.

Smart Technology for Accessibility: Voice-activated appliances, motion-sensor lighting, and touch-to-open drawers enhance usability and independence.

Key Moments

“Accessibility in kitchen design isn’t just about function—it’s about creating a space that feels like home for everyone.”

“Many accessible kitchen features, like smart lighting and pull-out storage, benefit all users, not just those with disabilities.”

“Designing for future needs ensures that a kitchen remains functional and stylish for years to come.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.